Former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister and Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal narrowly escaped an assassination attempt at the Golden Temple when Khalistani militant Narain Singh Chaura attempted to open fire on him. Badal and former Cabinet colleague Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa were at the temple undergoing tankhah (religious punishment) as sewadars (volunteers) while seated in wheelchairs.
The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. when Chaura, armed with a pistol, approached Sukhbir but was intercepted by plainclothes security personnel before he could fully execute the attack. A bullet was fired into the air during the scuffle. Amritsar Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar credited the swift response of the security team in neutralizing the threat, ensuring no injuries occurred. Chaura was arrested on the spot.
Akali leader Daljit Singh Cheema condemned the incident as a “major security lapse” and demanded a judicial inquiry. While commending the swift action of the police, Cheema criticized the government, questioning why Chaura—who had reportedly been seen near the temple for two days—was not apprehended earlier.
Chaura has a history of criminal activities and is implicated in over 30 cases, including charges under the Explosives Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in various districts, such as Amritsar, Tarn Taran, and Ropar.
Authorities are investigating the conspiracy behind the incident as security measures at the revered Golden Temple come under scrutiny.
