India
oi-Swastika Sruti
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president and former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal was injured in a knife attack inside Gurdwara Mata Sahib Devan Ji Mugat in Maharashtra’s Nanded on Thursday. The accused, identified as Jaspal Singh, was immediately overpowered by security personnel and arrested by the police.
Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal sustained a knife injury on his right hand during an attack by Jaspal Singh inside Gurdwara Mata Sahib Devan Ji Mugat in Nanded, Maharashtra, on Thursday; the accused’s background is under investigation.
While Badal escaped with injuries to his right hand, the incident has put the spotlight on the man behind the attack and what investigators know about him so far.
Who Is Jaspal Singh?
The Officials stated that Jaspal Singh is a 62 year old resident of Pune, Maharashtra. He previously worked as a lawyer in Pune Court and from the last two years he had been serving at Gurdwara Mata Sahib Devan Ji Mugat, the same shrine where the attack took place.
Police are now examining his background, recent activities and possible reasons behind the assault.
How Did the Attack Happen?
The attack occurred at around 1:45 pm when Sukhbir was returning from steps in Gurdwara after offering prayers.
According to Nanded Police, Jaspal Singh allegedly approached Badal and attacked him with a kirpan, the traditional ceremonial sword carried by initiated Sikhs.
Badal suffered injuries to his right hand, while Santosh Kendre, a police officer assigned to his security detail, was also injured while trying to stop the attacker.
Security personnel quickly restrained Jaspal Singh and handed him over to the police.
What Did the Accused Tell Police?
During preliminary questioning, Jaspal Singh reportedly gave a brief response when asked why he carried out the attack.
According to the police, he said:
“Just felt like doing this.”
Was There Any Prior Link With Sukhbir Badal?
So far, police have not confirmed any personal connection between Jaspal Singh and Sukhbir Singh Badal.
Officials are examining whether the accused acted alone or if there was any larger conspiracy behind the incident.
His mobile phone, background and recent movements are also expected to be scrutinised as part of the investigation.
It must be noted that Sukhbir Badal is out of danger now where doctors treated the injury on his right hand with two to three stitches.
