Sukhbir Singh Badal attacked: Suspect was serving as sewadar for two years; motive behind attack under investigation, says police

Police said that his exact reason for attacking Badal would become clear only after a detailed investigation. Pic/PTI

The man accused of attacking Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal at a gurdwara near Nanded in Maharashtra on Thursday had been serving there as a sewadar (volunteer) for around two years, police said, reported the PTI.

The accused, identified as Jaspal Singh, is around 60-62 years old and is originally from Pune, according to Nanded Superintendent of Police Neelabh Rohan.

Badal, a former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister, suffered an injury to his right hand in the attack and received two to three stitches at a hospital. His condition was reported to be stable.

Police said the motive behind the attack has not yet been established.

During preliminary questioning, Jaspal Singh reportedly referred to the drug problem in Punjab. However, investigators said his exact reason for targeting Badal would become clear only after a detailed investigation, according to the PTI.

"We have arrested him and interrogation is underway. We are checking his background," SP Rohan said.

The officer added that police had so far found no gang links or criminal background involving the accused.

Pune resident had been living in Nanded

According to police, Singh holds degrees in commerce and law and lives with his family in Pune. He had reportedly been staying alone in Nanded while serving at the gurdwara, as per the PTI.

Police had earlier identified him as a member of the Nihang order of Sikhs.

The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) is also investigating the incident along with the local police, SP Rohan said, the news agency reported.

Badal attacked inside gurdwara

The attack took place at around 1.45 pm at Gurdwara Mata Sahib Devan Ji Mugat, around 15 km from Nanded city.

Police said that Singh attacked Sukhbir Singh Badal inside the gurdwara. The accused was subsequently arrested.

Badal was taken to hospital following the incident, where he received two to three stitches on his right hand.

Police said that Badal's condition was stable and treatment at a hospital was on going.

Investigators are now examining the accused's background, his activities in Maharashtra's Nanded and the circumstances that led to the attack.

(with PTI inputs)