An explosion occurred outside the Thakur Dwar temple in Amritsar’s Khandwala area early Saturday around 2:00 am. CCTV footage captured two suspects arriving on a motorcycle. After a brief wait, one individual hurled an explosive device towards the temple, after which both suspects quickly fled the scene.
Amritsar Commissioner GPS Bhullar suggested the involvement of Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI. “We received information at 2 am and responded immediately. A forensic team was summoned, and CCTV footage was reviewed. Pakistan’s ISI is known to lure our youth into creating disturbances in Punjab,” said Bhullar.
While the blast caused significant damage to the temple’s walls and nearby window panes, no injuries were reported. Forensic teams have collected samples from the site to analyze the materials used. Bhullar assured, “We will trace this case within days and take appropriate action.” He also warned the youth against getting involved in such activities.
Opposition slams AAP government over security
The incident sparked criticism from opposition parties. The Congress, BJP, and Shiromani Akali Dal condemned the attack and accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of failing to maintain law and order in Punjab.
Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu stated, “I strongly condemn the bomb attack on Thakur Dwara temple in Amritsar. The AAP government has failed to check repeated incidents of blasts in the border city. The law and order situation is a serious concern.”
Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring added, “This time, a temple was targeted, and people in Punjab are living in fear. It’s high time the @AAPPunjab government takes action.”
Senior Akali leader Bikram Singh Majithia echoed similar concerns, labelling the incident a “law and order failure.”
CM Bhagwant Mann responds
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann defended his government, asserting that while attempts have been made to disturb Punjab, state police have acted promptly. “Punjab is completely safe in terms of law and order,” Mann stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and brotherhood.
He also highlighted the state’s anti-drug initiatives, noting a 70 per cent reduction in drone movements from across the border following the drive’s launch.
Investigations into the blast and related security concerns are ongoing.
