Sukhbir Singh Badal Attacked Near Mata Sahib Gurdwara in Nanded, Attacker Arrested
Former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal sustained a hand injury after being attacked with a sharp-edged weapon on Thursday near Mata Sahib Gurdwara in Nanded. Following the assault, Badal was rushed to a private hospital in Nanded for medical treatment. Both Badal and his security personnel are currently reported to be out of danger and in stable condition.
A police officer identified as Santosh Kendre, who was serving as part of Badal’s security detail, was also injured while intervening during the violent encounter. Kendre was provided medical care and remains in stable condition.
The police arrested the assailant on the spot immediately following the incident. According to details shared by a senior official, the attacker has been identified as Jaspal Singh, who is originally from Pune. Singh holds B.Com and LLB degrees and had been serving as a sevadar, or volunteer, at the gurdwara for the past two years. Reports further stated that Singh became a Nihang a few years ago.
During the commotion of the attack, the assailant’s turban came off. Keeping in mind the deep significance of the turban within Sikh tradition, people who were present at the scene first helped Singh re-tie his turban before police personnel took him away into custody. Visuals capturing the moment have since gone viral across social media platforms.
Following his arrest by the police, Singh reportedly stated during questioning that he attacked Badal because he held the former Deputy Chief Minister responsible for the drug menace in Punjab. However, the police department has not yet officially confirmed the motive behind the attack. Superintendent of Police Rohan Neelabh stated that Singh is undergoing further questioning by law enforcement to conclusively determine his motive.
In the aftermath of the incident, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ordered an inquiry into the matter. Chief Minister Fadnavis has sought complete information and details regarding the attack from the Nanded Superintendent of Police as the investigation proceeds.
