Punjab witnessed tense moments after two explosions took place near Border Security Force (BSF) installations in Jalandhar and Amritsar, triggering a major political controversy and a high-level security investigation. While no casualties were reported in either incident, the blasts have sparked serious concerns over the security situation in the border state.
The controversy intensified after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav presented completely different explanations for the attacks. While the Chief Minister alleged a political conspiracy involving the BJP, the state’s top police officer suggested the incidents could be linked to Pakistan-backed elements trying to destabilize Punjab.
The first explosion occurred near the BSF headquarters at BSF Chowk in Jalandhar. According to eyewitnesses, a parked scooter suddenly exploded in a busy area, creating panic among residents and passersby. Flames erupted immediately after the blast, and debris was scattered across the road. CCTV footage reportedly captured the exact moment of the explosion, showing people running for safety.
A few hours later, another explosion took place in the Khasa area of Amritsar outside an Army camp located near BSF installations. Preliminary reports suggest that motorcycle-borne attackers may have hurled a grenade near the site. The area lies close to the Attari-Wagah international border, increasing concerns about possible cross-border involvement.
Following the incidents, Punjab Police, intelligence agencies, and forensic teams launched an extensive investigation. Security has been tightened across Punjab, especially in sensitive border areas. Officials are examining CCTV footage, questioning witnesses, and collecting forensic evidence from both blast sites.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann stirred controversy by linking the incidents to political developments. He claimed that “such incidents happen wherever the BJP wants to contest elections” and suggested the explosions were part of preparations for the upcoming Punjab elections. His remarks were reportedly linked to a recent social media post by the BJP’s Punjab unit that read “Next Punjab” after the party’s strong performance in Bengal.
Mann’s allegations immediately triggered sharp reactions from opposition parties. BJP leaders criticized the Chief Minister for politicizing a serious security issue. Senior BJP leader Ashwani Sharma demanded Mann’s resignation and accused him of making irresponsible statements instead of focusing on maintaining law and order in the border state.
Congress leaders also criticized the Chief Minister’s remarks. Congress MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa described Mann’s attempt to blame the BJP as “amateur politics” and urged the government to focus on the investigation rather than political accusations.
Meanwhile, Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav took a completely different stand. He warned that certain elements linked to Pakistan’s ISI were trying to create a false narrative that Punjab was unstable. According to him, the blasts appeared to involve Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), possibly timed or wired. He also said claims made by the Khalistan Liberation Army were being verified as part of the investigation.
The DGP emphasized that only a small group of anti-national elements were involved and said authorities were determined to prevent any attempt to disturb peace in the state. He confirmed that police and Army personnel reached the blast sites immediately after receiving information and that all possible angles were being investigated.
Officials in both Jalandhar and Amritsar stated that it was still too early to draw final conclusions about the motive behind the attacks. Investigators continue to examine forensic evidence and CCTV footage while questioning individuals connected to the incidents.
The twin blasts have not only raised security concerns but also triggered a major political debate ahead of the Punjab elections, with accusations and counter-accusations dominating the state’s political landscape.
