Punjab: A shocking incident occurred at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab, where gunfire was directed at Sukhbir Singh Badal, the chief of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), as he performed religious duties. The attack took place amidst a gathering of SAD leaders who were engaged in voluntary service as part of a religious punishment mandated by the Sikh clergy. #WATCH | Punjab: Bullets fired at Golden Temple premises in Amritsar where SAD leaders, including party chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, are offering seva under the religious punishments pronounced for them by Sri Akal Takht Sahib, on 2nd December.Details awaited. pic.twitter.com/CFQaoiqLkx— ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2024 The assailant, identified as Narain Singh Chaura, is reported to have a history of militancy and has been evading authorities for years. Chaura, who hails from the Dera Baba Nanak area, attempted to shoot Badal while standing close to him. Fortunately, a nearby volunteer intervened just in time, pushing Chauras hand upward and preventing any harm to Badal. Police swiftly arrested Chaura on the scene, and investigations into his motives are ongoing. Sukhbir Singh Badal: Serving His Sentence Amidst ControversySukhbir Singh Badal was at the Golden Temple fulfilling his role as a sewadar (volunteer) under a tankhah (religious punishment) imposed by the Akal Takht Sahib. This punishment was a consequence of perceived misdeeds during his tenure as Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab from 2007 to 2017. Despite being in a wheelchair due to a fractured leg, Badal donned a blue sewadar uniform and held a spear while managing temple entry.As he engaged in his penance, small boards hung around his neck acknowledged his misdeeds, symbolizing public accountability for past actions. Other senior Akali leaders also participated in this act of humility, with some assigned to wash utensils and clean areas within the temple complex.Political Repercussions: Leaders Voice Concerns Over SecurityThe attack has raised significant alarm regarding the safety and security situation in Punjab. Daljit Singh Cheema, an SAD leader, expressed gratitude for Badals safety while condemning the incident. He remarked, A bullet was fired in his direction... I thank Guru Nanak that he saved his sevak... This is a huge incident what era is Punjab being pushed into Cheema further criticized the Aam Aadmi Party-led government for failing to maintain law and order.Former SAD MP Naresh Gujral also condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address security concerns within the state.A Call for Accountability: Demands for Judicial InquiryIn light of this alarming event, there have been calls for a high-level judicial inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the attack. Cheema stated that without prompt action from authorities, such incidents could continue to threaten public figures and disrupt peace within Punjab.The Sikh clergys decision to impose tankhah on Badal and other leaders reflects an effort to hold them accountable for their governance decisions that have been criticized over the years. This incident not only highlights ongoing tensions within Punjab but also raises questions about political stability and safety in sacred spaces.As investigations continue, the implications of this attack will likely resonate throughout Punjabs political landscape, prompting discussions on security measures and accountability among public officials.
