North News
Chandigarh, December 5
Fresh CCTV footage has added fuel to the controversy surrounding the attack on former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal, showing Narayan Singh, the accused, meeting Harpal Singh, a senior security official assigned to Badal. The footage, dated December 3, reveals Harpal Singh shaking hands and conversing with Narayan Singh Chaura a day before the attack. The encounter has drawn sharp criticism, with calls for a judicial inquiry into potential security lapses.
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia termed the incident an intelligence failure, alleging the attacker was a sponsored hitman linked to Pakistan’s ISI. Sharing video evidence, Majithia claimed the attack was an orchestrated attempt to eliminate moderate Akali leadership and disrupt peace in Punjab by inciting communal discord.
“We demand a high court-monitored probe to uncover the full conspiracy behind this murderous attack,” Majithia said, reiterating SAD’s call for accountability.
Police stated that adequate security arrangements were in place, ensuring Sukhbir Singh Badal was properly covered. “Narayan Singh Chaura (the assailant) was present here yesterday and again today. He first paid obeisance to the Guru,” an officer said, adding, “No,” when asked if anyone was injured by the bullet.
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Wednesday while performing penance at the Golden Temple, one of Sikhism’s holiest sites. The attacker, identified as Narayan Singh Chaura, a former militant, reportedly attempted to shoot Badal at around 9:30 am. The situation was defused when a security officer intervened, causing the shot to fire into the air.
The incident, captured on video, has raised serious concerns about security protocols at the revered site. Amritsar Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar praised the officer’s quick action, saying, “The situation was contained swiftly, and Chaura has been arrested without further incident.”
