Sukhbir Singh Badal Continues Guard Duty After Attack, Increased Security in Place

Sukhbir Singh Badal: In a shocking turn of events, Former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal survived an assassination attempt while serving as a guard at the Golden Temple in Amritsar on Wednesday. The former deputy chief minister was serving a religious sentence issued by the Akal Takht, and while he was on that duty, an assailant identified as former militant Narain Singh Chaura tried to fire at him.

However, Chaura was overpowered by security personnel within no time before he could execute his attack. The failed assassination attempt has raised grave concerns about the safety of Badal, who enjoys Z-plus security.

Following the attack, Badal resumed his duty at the Takht Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib on Thursday, where he is supposed to stay for two days as part of his religious sentence. Despite the threat to his life, the SAD leader continued with the task at hand, signaling his commitment to fulfilling his religious obligation.

The security around Badal has been increased manifold following the attack. While on Wednesday, plainclothes personnel were seen scattered all over the Golden Temple complex, on Thursday, the deployment was more organized and robust. Armed personnel in uniform surrounded Badal while he sat near the entrance of Takht Kesgarh Sahib to ensure his safety.

The events were part of a religious judgment by the Akal Takht against Badal, sentenced to perform guard duty, an act of atonement. The judgment came as a result of his political career and controversies that accompanied his rule in Punjab. However, when an attempt was made to attack him, he remained firm on honoring his sentence, and hence his guard duty became a gesture of resolute determination.

Security forces are now investigating the motives behind the attack and are making sure that no further breaches happen. Chaura, who was taken into custody immediately, is likely to appear in court soon. Authorities have taken extra security measures for Badal, who continues his religious service, as the increased security measures indicate the seriousness of the threat.

While Badal’s faith in his duties is unquestionable, the attack has raised alarms about the safety of political leaders in Punjab, especially those with high-profile careers like Badal's. For now, all eyes remain on the ongoing investigations and the future of Punjab's security apparatus, particularly as it relates to high-profile individuals under threat.