Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal was attacked with a sharp-edged weapon at Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded, Maharashtra, on 13 August 2025, while he was present at the sacred site to pay obeisance with his family. The accused, identified as a Nihang Sikh, reportedly used a kirpan in the assault. Badal is stated to be out of danger and is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in Nanded.

Punjab BJP Calls for Impartial Investigation

Punjab Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Kewal Singh Dhillon on Thursday condemned the attack and demanded a thorough, impartial probe with strict legal action against those responsible. Dhillon described the incident as 'deeply unfortunate and concerning,' stressing that violence has no place in any democracy and that the sanctity of religious spaces must be upheld without exception.

'Political differences are one thing, but violence or an attack of this nature is extremely unfortunate,' Dhillon said. He also prayed for Badal's speedy recovery and urged all Punjabis and the sangat (congregation) to maintain peace, communal harmony, and mutual respect, and to refrain from any provocative action.

The Sacred Site and Its Significance

Dhillon underscored the gravity of the location, noting that the sacred land of Sri Hazur Sahib 'gives the message of peace, service, meditation and Sarbat Da Bhala — the welfare of all.' He said an act of violence at such a revered Sikh shrine is 'deeply distressing for the entire Sikh community and all peace-loving people.'

Second Attack on Badal Within Months

This is not the first time Badal has been targeted. On 4 December 2024, the former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister was attacked while performing Sewadar duties at the gate of the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Senior SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema told reporters that the latest attack represented 'a massive intelligence and security failure.'

'Had the attack in Amritsar been properly investigated at the time, perhaps this second attack would not have happened. The consequence is that he has been subjected to another major attack now,' Cheema said.

Political Reactions and What Comes Next

The attack has drawn condemnation across party lines, with leaders calling for accountability from security agencies. Cheema's remarks pointedly question whether authorities adequately followed up on the December 2024 Amritsar incident. With Badal recovering and the accused in custody, investigators will face scrutiny over how a weapon was carried onto the premises of one of Sikhism's holiest shrines. A credible probe into the security lapses at both sites is now widely expected.