Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Member of Parliament Harsimrat Kaur Badal has formally approached Union Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting a high-level investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the recent assassination attempt on SAD Chief Sukhbir Singh Badal. In her detailed correspondence, she highlighted the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that the attack, which took place in Nanded, Maharashtra, warrants a probe by a central agency due to its potential broader implications. Harsimrat Kaur pointed out that this isn't the first time such an attempt has been made, noting that another life-threatening attack took place in 2024. She described the occurrence of two assassination attempts as extremely worrying and suggested that these incidents might be part of a deeper inter-state or international conspiracy that requires a thorough investigation by a central agency.
The Three Key Points of the Demand
In a post on her social media account, Harsimrat Kaur Badal outlined three critical reasons why an NIA probe is necessary, while firstly, she noted that both attacks occurred within the premises of holy Gurdwaras while a devoted Sikh was engaged in religious service. This timing and location, she argued, suggest a deliberate attempt to strike at a sensitive moment, while secondly, she stated that the Punjab Police and the Punjab government have many questions to answer, as there appears to be a clear and discernible pattern between the two attacks. Thirdly, she expressed the belief that the objective behind these repeated attacks is to tarnish the image of Punjab globally and to defame the Sikh community. Given the gravity, the pattern, and the circumstances of these attacks, she insisted that only an in-depth investigation by the NIA could uncover the truth.
Details of the Nanded Attack
The attack took place on the outskirts of Nanded, Maharashtra, inside a Gurdwara on a Thursday. A member of the Nihang community reportedly attacked Sukhbir Singh Badal using a Kirpan. During the struggle, the SAD Chief sustained injuries to his right hand. Following the incident, the attacker was promptly arrested by the authorities. Harsimrat Kaur Badal has characterized this event as a well-planned political conspiracy. She further stated that whoever is behind such an act can't be considered a true Sikh, emphasizing the planned nature of the violence.
Emotional Address at Khanna
The former Union Minister became visibly emotional while speaking at an event in Khanna, Punjab. The program was held in memory of Karnail Singh Isru, a leader of the Goa Liberation Movement. During her speech, Harsimrat Kaur Badal mentioned the attack on her husband and shared how difficult the last 48 hours had been for her and her family. She apologized to the audience for her emotional state, explaining that Sukhbir Singh Badal was originally supposed to attend the event. She lamented the situation, asking the crowd to look at what had happened to him, which prevented his presence at the memorial service.