Wed Dec 04 11:50:34 UTC 2024: ## Akali Dal Leader Escapes Assassination Attempt at Golden Temple

AMRITSAR, PUNJAB – Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Wednesday morning outside the Golden Temple. A man identified as Narain Singh Chaura, allegedly a former militant with a criminal history, fired a shot at Badal while the leader was performing community service (“sewadar”) as part of a religious penance.

The incident, captured on video, shows Chaura firing the weapon before being immediately apprehended by bystanders. A quick-thinking “sewadar” standing near Badal deflected the bullet, preventing serious injury.

Badal, who is currently serving a religious punishment imposed by Sikh clergy for past actions of the Akali Dal government, was performing duties at the Guru Ram Das Dwar entrance in a wheelchair due to a fractured leg. Other Akali leaders, including Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, also underwent similar penance.

SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema expressed shock and concern over the incident, questioning the state of security in Punjab. Police have taken Chaura into custody and are investigating the motive behind the attack. Badal escaped unharmed.

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