Amritsar witnessed two shocking incidents within hours, triggering nationwide concern over security in Punjab.
A violent attack at the Golden Temple was followed by an explosion at the Thakur Dwara Temple, raising fears of instability in the border state.
The first attack took place at the revered Golden Temple complex, where a man armed with an iron rod went on a rampage near the community kitchen. Five people, including two sewadars of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), sustained injuries.
Panic spread as the attacker struck devotees before being overpowered by the crowd. He was later identified as Zulfan, a resident of Haryana. Police revealed that his accomplice had surveyed the area before the attack. The SGPC filed a complaint, demanding strict action against the assailants.
While the city was still reeling from the shock of the Golden Temple violence, another horrifying incident unfolded. Late Friday night, an explosion rocked the Thakur Dwara Temple in Amritsar’s Khandwala area.
CCTV footage captured two individuals arriving on a motorcycle, throwing an explosive at the temple, and fleeing the scene. The blast shattered windows and damaged the temple’s walls, sparking fears of a larger conspiracy.
Amritsar Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar confirmed that forensic teams had been deployed to investigate the blast. He suggested possible links to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), warning against attempts to destabilize Punjab.
The attack led to strong political reactions. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) called it a “serious and sensitive” matter that hurt religious sentiments and demanded a judicial probe.
BJP leader Ranveet Singh Bittu blamed the Aam Aadmi Party government for failing to prevent repeated security breaches in the state.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann acknowledged ongoing attempts to disturb peace but insisted that Punjab’s law and order situation remained stable compared to other states. Despite reassurances, fear continues to grip the region.
With authorities scrambling to investigate both attacks, the incidents have left Punjab on high alert, and the nation questioning the growing threats to security.