Security Concerns Rise After Second Shrine Attack

LUDHIANA — Heightened anxiety grips Punjab's Ludhiana district following a second consecutive firing incident targeting a local gurudwara within a span of 48 hours. The latest assault occurred early Wednesday morning at Gurdwara Manji Sahib, located in the Rajowal Kalan village under the Raikot area.

According to local authorities, two masked individuals entered the shrine's premises at approximately 3:00 AM. The suspects drew pistols and directed multiple gunshots at the residential room of the head preacher, Baba Baldev Singh. The bullets struck the exterior walls and heavily impacted the room's doorway, with one projectile piercing the glass panel before the assailants fled the scene.

Narrow Escape for Head Preacher

Investigators confirmed that Baba Baldev Singh was away from his quarters during the attack, having stepped out for his routine early morning ritual bath. Police officials noted that his absence averted potential casualties.

Devotees and local residents have expressed deep alarm over the brazen nature of the attack, questioning the adequacy of security measures at religious establishments across the region.

Pattern of Targeted Incidents

Wednesday's shooting follows a remarkably similar incident reported just a day prior. On Monday night, an armed attack took place near Gurdwara Sahib Bhagat Dhanna Ji in the district, where a masked assailant fired shots and left a threatening note aimed at the shrine's head, Baba Amarjit Singh, and a prominent local political worker.

Local law enforcement agencies are actively investigating whether any operational link exists between the two attacks.

Ongoing Police Investigation

Teams from the Sadar Sudhar police station swiftly arrived at Gurdwara Manji Sahib to secure the area and gather forensic evidence.

SHO Rajvarinderpal Singh stated that investigators are exploring all possible angles. Law enforcement personnel are currently scanning high-resolution closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage from the gurudwara complex and surrounding access routes in an effort to identify the masked perpetrators and establish a concrete motive behind the shootings.

As of press time, no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains strictly active.