Damaged vehicle of Balbir Singh after it was attacked by an opposing faction
PATIALA, Punjab (KP) --Nihang Balbir Singh, Jathedar of one faction of Budha Dal, escaped an attack on his life this past Tuesday. The incident occurred when Balbir Singh was traveling to Muktsar Sahib Maghi celebrations. His vehicle was attacked in Bathinda this past Tuesday by a group of armed persons. In less than two years, this has been the second attack on the dal of Baba Balbir Singh, who was nominated as the Jathedar by his faction during the final days of Baba Santa Singh Nihung.
Earlier in September 2007, a violent clash took place between the groups of Baba Balbir Singh and Baba Udhay Singh when the latter group supposedly tried to abduct the old aged Baba Santa Singh, Jathedar of Budha Dal. All those killed in the incident were related to Baba Balbir Singh. Baba Aasa Singh, the father, Jagdish Singh and Karamjit Singh, brothers, and Bhajan Singh, the nephew of Baba Balbir Singh were reported to be visiting the Nihang Dera at the time of the clash.
Speaking after escaping the attack unhurt, Baba Balbir Singh alleged that he has been receiving threats from his opponents ever since being nominated as the Jathedar of Budha Dal. He blamed Baba Surjit Singh who is at large for the recent attack and alleged that the police had done nothing to punish the culprits. He termed the attack as uncalled for and lowly.
According to the local Bathinda Police, the attackers fired gunshots at the vehicle while they were hiding behind trees and bushes alongside the road. Baba Balbir Singh was accompanied by a gunman who was seated in the same vehicle. In exchanging shots with the attackers, he was injured and later admitted to the local hospital at Talwandi Sabo.
According to close sources, the police has also admitted that Baba Surjeet Singh could be behind the recent attack. Baba Balbir Singh has openly condemned the Punjab Police for showing a lack of interest in safeguarding Panthic groups and individuals. He alleged that his plea for z-plus security remains pending at court while other individuals who are engaged in criminal activities are being protected by the police.
After the attack in 2007, Baba Balbir Singh had alleged that local police were well informed about impending violence, but they had showed no interest whatsoever. Even when four members of Baba Balbir Singh's family were shot dead, it took the police over half an hour to reach the spot and in turn, the culprits found enough time to escape.
