PM Modi Calls Sukhbir Badal's Wife After Attack, She Says 'Deeply Touched'
New Delhi: Harsimrat Kaur Badal, wife of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal, said she was 'deeply touched' after Prime Minister Narendra Modi called her to enquire about the well-being of her husband, who was attacked on Wednesday outside the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
In a post on social media, Harsimrat Kaur, a former Union minister, said the Prime Minister's call reflected his personal concern. 'I am deeply touched by the kind call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji enquiring about the health and well-being of my husband Sukhbir Singh Badal,' she wrote. She also expressed gratitude to the security personnel who acted swiftly to foil the attack.
The incident took place when Sukhbir Singh Badal, a former Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, was performing 'sewa' (voluntary service) as part of the 'tonight duty' at the Golden Temple. A man allegedly tried to fire at him from close range but was overpowered by security personnel present at the scene. The attacker has been identified as Narain Singh Chaura, a resident of Punjab.
Visuals from the spot showed Sukhbir Singh Badal, who was in a wheelchair, being rushed inside by his security detail after the attempted attack. He was later declared safe. The Punjab Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the matter.
The attack drew condemnation from political leaders across the spectrum. Chief Minister of Punjab Bhagwant Mann termed it a 'cowardly act' and ordered a high-level inquiry. Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Punjab's Director General of Police and sought a detailed report, assuring all possible assistance to the state government.
Sukhbir Singh Badal's father and SAD patron Parkash Singh Badal expressed relief over his son's safety. In a statement, the party said that such acts of violence would not deter them from their commitment to public service.
The Prime Minister's call to Harsimrat Kaur Badal comes amid heightened security concerns for leaders in the region. The incident has also raised questions about security arrangements at religious sites, which are considered high-risk areas due to the movement of a large number of devotees.
Harsimrat Kaur Badal, who represented the Bathinda constituency in Lok Sabha, thanked the Prime Minister for his gesture. 'His concern for our family's safety is a reflection of his sensitivity towards all citizens,' she said. She also appreciated the quick response of the security personnel and the SGPC (Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee) staff.
The attack has once again brought into focus the political tensions in Punjab, where the ruling Aam Aadmi Party and the opposition SAD have been at loggerheads over various issues. However, leaders have urged restraint and called for a peaceful resolution of differences.
As investigations continue, the police have said that the accused is being questioned to determine if he acted alone or had any accomplices. Security has been beefed up at the Golden Temple and other sensitive locations in the state.
The incident serves as a reminder of the need for robust security protocols, even for leaders performing religious duties. Sukhbir Singh Badal has been serving as the 'jailed' (caretaker) of the Akal Takht, following a religious penalty imposed by the Sikh clergy.
Meanwhile, messages of support have poured in for Sukhbir Singh Badal from various leaders and members of the public. Many have praised his composure and the swift action of those who prevented a major tragedy.
The Prime Minister's call, as conveyed by Harsimrat Kaur, reflects the importance of political leaders standing together in times of crisis, transcending party lines for the sake of national security and communal harmony.
