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SAD Chief Sukhbir Singh Badal Attacked by Nihang in Nanded
हिंदी में पढ़ें: इस खबर को हिंदी में पढ़ें
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president and former Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, Sukhbir Singh Badal, was attacked on Thursday afternoon in Nanded, Maharashtra. An individual dressed in Nihang attire assaulted him with a sharp-edged weapon resembling a Kirpan. Badal sustained injuries to his right hand, while a member of his security personnel was also injured during the altercation. Medical authorities treating him at a local hospital confirmed that his condition is stable.
The incident took place around 11:00 AM near the premises of Mata Sahib Kaur Gurdwara and Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib. Badal was visiting Nanded on a personal pilgrimage accompanied by his wife, former Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal. He had offered prayers at Takht Sri Hazur Sahib shortly before the assault occurred.
How the Attack Unfolded
According to preliminary information released by the police, an individual or group dressed in Nihang attire approached Badal and suddenly launched an attack with a sharp weapon. Initial reports and eyewitness accounts indicate that a brief verbal altercation took place between the parties right before the assault. Security personnel on duty intervened promptly, overpowering and detaining the suspect at the scene.
Badal was rushed immediately to Yashosai Hospital in Nanded. Upon arriving at the medical facility, his right hand was wrapped in a saffron cloth. He walked inside the hospital unassisted. Both hospital administration and police officials confirmed that his condition is fully stable and he did not suffer any life-threatening injuries.
Security Detail Injured & High-Level Probe Ordered
A member of Badal's security detail was also injured while attempting to protect him during the attack. Media reports identified the injured officer as Inspector Santosh Kendre. Taking serious note of the incident, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis sought a detailed report from the Nanded Superintendent of Police and ordered a comprehensive investigation into the security breach.
Second Major Attack Following December 2024 Incident
This marks the second major attack targeting Sukhbir Singh Badal in recent years. On December 4, 2024, an armed assailant fired a gunshot at him near the main entrance of the Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib) in Amritsar. At that time, Badal was performing religious penance (*tankhah*) as a volunteer guard following a decree issued by the Akal Takht.
The gunman in the 2024 incident was identified as Narayan Singh Chaura, a former operative linked to Babbar Khalsa International. He fired at close range, but an alert plainclothes police officer deflected his arm upward, causing the bullet to strike a wall. That incident was captured on security cameras. The fresh attack in Nanded has once again raised questions regarding security arrangements for Badal, who holds Z-plus security cover.
Political Condemnation & Call for Harmony
Leaders across the Shiromani Akali Dal condemned the attack in strong terms. SAD spokesperson Arshdeep Singh Kler issued a statement reassuring that Sukhbir Singh Badal remains in high spirits (*Chardi Kala*). Political leaders from various parties across the spectrum expressed deep concern over the breach and demanded strict action against the culprits.
News of the incident spread rapidly across Punjab, prompting several Sikh organizations and political leaders to appeal for calm and public harmony. Nanded holds immense religious significance for Sikhs worldwide, as Takht Sri Hazur Sahib is the sacred pilgrimage site associated with the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Police Investigation & Political Context
Nanded Police are currently interrogating the suspect to ascertain the exact motive behind the assault. Police officials stated that it is currently unclear whether the attack stemmed from a personal altercation or involved a larger conspiracy. A detailed background check of the accused is underway.
Security measures around Yashosai Hospital and major religious sites in Nanded have been heightened. Sukhbir Singh Badal is a prominent political figure in Punjab, son of former Chief Minister late Parkash Singh Badal, and leads the Shiromani Akali Dal. In recent months, he has been actively involved in state politics concerning law and order and governance issues.
The assault comes as political parties in Punjab gradually begin preparations for the 2027 State Assembly elections. Analysts view the incident as a critical reminder regarding security protocols and social harmony. Police agencies in both Maharashtra and Punjab remain on alert.