“Risking your life to save someone's life is not easy…”: Sukhbir Badal Thanks Punjab Police for Saving His Life in Golden Temple Assassination Attack

Sukhbir Singh Badal, leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal, on Friday, expressed deep gratitude to two Punjab Police personnel who saved his life during an assassination attempt on December 4.

The SAD leader shared his appreciation for their actions on X, posting pictures of ASIs Jasbir Singh and Hira Singh, members of his security detail. "Risking your life to save someone's life is not an easy thing. ASI Jasveer Singh and ASI Hira Singh have been a part of our family since the days of Sabah. My family and I cannot repay the courage and loyalty shown by them yesterday. May God bless them with long life, good health, and all happiness,” wrote Badal.

The dramatic event unfolded near the Golden Temple, where Sukhbir Badal narrowly escaped an assassination attempt when Narain Singh Chaura, a former Khalistani militant, fired at him at close range. The attack was foiled when police officers quickly subdued Chaura. Amritsar Police Commissioner Bhullar confirmed that investigations were underway to explore all possible angles, including whether any organization was involved or if the attack was aimed at gaining sympathy.

The incident was captured on camera by media present at the Golden Temple, where Badal was performing a religious penance as part of his tankhah (atonement) for actions during his tenure as Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab from 2007 to 2017. Chaura, the former militant behind the attack, was remanded to three-day police custody on Thursday.

Preliminary police investigations suggest that Chaura acted alone and was "self-motivated." However, authorities have not ruled out the possibility of a broader conspiracy. Chaura, who has over 30 terror-related cases against him, allegedly targeted Badal in response to the Akal Takht’s verdict in the Bargari sacrilege case. The weapon used in the attempt, a 9mm pistol, had no identifiable marks, and investigators are working to determine whether Chaura brought it into the shrine or acquired it elsewhere.

The assassination attempt has sparked strong reactions from political leaders. The Congress criticized the Punjab government for failing to ensure proper security, while the BJP condemned the incident as a "complete breakdown of law and order."​