Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann condemned the recent blast at Thakurdwara Temple in Khandwala, Amritsar, and reiterated that there have been multiple attempts to disrupt the peace in the state. Speaking about the incident, Mann emphasized that these acts are part of a broader attempt to portray Punjab as a disturbed state.
He highlighted that various elements like drugs, gangsters, and extortion are being used to create instability, but assured that the law and order situation in Punjab remains strong. He further pointed out that while other states had to resort to lathi charges during Holi processions, such incidents do not occur in Punjab, demonstrating the state’s peaceful atmosphere.
The blast occurred late Friday night when two bike-borne men allegedly threw an explosive at the temple. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Punjab Police are investigating the matter, with Amritsar Commissioner GPS Bhullar stating that the police are working on tracing the culprits and have identified the involvement of Pakistan’s ISI in encouraging youth to create unrest in Punjab.
In a separate incident, an exchange of fire took place during a joint operation by CIA Moga and CIA Malout while attempting to arrest suspects involved in the murder of Mangat Ram, a Shiv Sena member from Moga. The suspects, who opened fire on the police, were injured during the exchange and were taken to the hospital for treatment. The investigation into both incidents is ongoing.
