The brutal attack on Shiv Sena(Punjab)leader Sandeep Thapar allegedly by Nihang Sikhs in Ludhiana has triggered a political slugfest with Opposition criticising the AAP Government there for law order situation in the State.
The condemnation came after Thapar was attacked with swords near the Civil Hospital in Ludhiana on Friday. He sustained serious injuries.
Thapar, known for his vocal stance against Khalistan, was returning from an event at the Samvedna Trust when the attackers, dressed in traditional Nihang attire, intercepted him.
The video footage shows Thapar on a scooter with his security personnel when the attackers surrounded him. Despite his attempts to reason with them, the situation quickly escalated into violence.
With folded hands, Thapar pleaded for mercy, but the attackers mercilessly struck him on the head, causing him to collapse. Even on the ground, he was subjected to further assaults, leaving him in critical condition. Thapar's gunman left the crime scene without any retaliation.
Eyewitnesses immediately rushed Thapar to the Civil Hospital, from where he was later transferred to the Dayanand Medical College and Hospital for further treatment. Hospital sources indicate that he suffered severe injuries to his head, arms, and legs, requiring urgent medical intervention.
The Ludhiana Police have registered a case of attempted murder against the unidentified attackers. Two suspects, identified as Sarabjit Singh and Harjot Singh, were arrested in Fatehgarh Sahib district, while a third, Tehal Singh, is still on the run.
In response to the escalating tensions, political figures from across the spectrum condemned the attack, with accusations levied against the Punjab government for failing to maintain law and order.
Opposition leaders, including Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu, Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur, and BJP Punjab chief Sunil Jakhar, called for immediate action and accountability from Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.
Union Minister of State Ravneet Singh Bittu said "Such a brutal attack on an individual in full public view is condemnable. It has created panic among residents."
