Asisguard Under Scrutiny for Alleged Links to Golden Temple Drone Attack
The Madhya Pradesh government has launched an investigation into Turkish defense firm Asisguard after reports emerged linking its drones to a failed kamikaze-style attack on the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The company is currently engaged in key contracts involving digital systems for metro projects in Bhopal and Indore.
Turkish Drone Firm Linked to Golden Temple Incident
Security agencies have reportedly identified Asisguard’s Songar drones as the type used by Pakistan in its latest attempted attack on Indian soil. These drones, known for their combat capability, were allegedly deployed in a wave of 300–400 incursions across 36 Indian sites. The Golden Temple was among the intended targets.
Forensic investigations suggest that a kamikaze drone recovered in the vicinity bore signature features of Asisguard-manufactured models. The Songar drone, in particular, is capable of mounting automatic weapons, grenade launchers, and even jamming payloads—indicating a possible offensive objective behind its deployment.
Madhya Pradesh Government Orders Probe
In response, Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya has ordered a full review of Asisguard’s ₹230 crore contract for metro infrastructure in the state. Speaking to reporters, he said, “Nation first. There is no place for anti-India mentality.” He added that the government would not hesitate to cancel the firm’s ongoing projects if any credible evidence of national security risks emerges.
Asisguard had been contracted to install digital systems and command infrastructure in both the Bhopal and Indore metro lines, projects considered vital to the state’s smart urban development strategy.
Metro Contracts May Be Terminated
Officials confirmed that the Home and Urban Development departments are jointly assessing whether to suspend or terminate the agreement with Asisguard. The state government has requested a preliminary report within the week. If links to any anti-India activity are proven, the Turkish firm could face a ban from participating in future infrastructure bids in India.
This incident follows closely on the heels of the Centre’s decision to revoke security clearance for another Turkish company, Celebi Aviation, over concerns tied to its proximity with anti-India elements.
Broader Pattern of Scrutiny
The spotlight on Asisguard signals a broader national policy shift toward greater scrutiny of foreign firms, especially those from countries seen to support adversarial actions against India. With rising geopolitical tensions and increasing drone threats, authorities are now pushing for tighter vetting of overseas contractors involved in sectors like defense, aviation, telecom, and transport infrastructure.
The Golden Temple drone plot has further highlighted the vulnerabilities that hostile actors can exploit through third-party partnerships.
