A political storm has intensified in Punjab after recent explosions triggered a sharp exchange between the BJP and the state government led by Bhagwant Mann.
BJP Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha launched a direct attack on the Chief Minister over his comments on Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), calling them “extremely serious” and “pro-Pakistan.”
Chadha questioned Mann’s intent, stating, “Why is he giving a clean chit to the ISI? Is he under someone’s influence? Did someone instruct him?” He added that such remarks from a democratically elected leader were both inappropriate and alarming.
Escalating his criticism, Chadha termed the comments “directly anti-India” and urged the Chief Minister to focus on governance and security rather than political messaging. He emphasised the need to strengthen law and order, identify those responsible for the blasts, and ensure a conclusive investigation.
Blasts Trigger Political Face-Off
The controversy follows twin low-intensity explosions reported on May 5 near sensitive installations in Jalandhar and Amritsar, incidents that have heightened security concerns in the region.
Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav indicated a possible link to ISI-backed attempts aimed at destabilising the state, particularly around sensitive timelines.
Mann Downplays, Blames BJP
National Probe Underway
As the issue gains national attention, central agencies have stepped in. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has joined the probe, with forensic teams analysing evidence and CCTV footage that reportedly captured a suspect fleeing one of the blast sites.
Additionally, a Khalistan-linked group has reportedly claimed responsibility for the Jalandhar explosion, adding another layer of concern to the ongoing investigation.
