ISI-Backed Module Behind Punjab BJP Office Grenade Blast; Five Arrested

Punjab Police arrest five over April 1 grenade attack at BJP office in Chandigarh, link plot to Pak ISI and foreign handlers, two key assailants still absconding

The blast triggered panic in the area. (Image: PTI/File)

The Punjab Police on Saturday stated that five suspects were arrested in connection with the April 1 grenade attack outside the state BJP office in Chandigarh. The officials added that two key assailants, who remain on the run, were also identified.

They said the plot was orchestrated with backing from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The breakthrough came through a joint operation by the Counter-Intelligence wing of Punjab Police and Chandigarh Police, which dismantled what authorities described as a wider terror module.

Foreign Links In Portugal, Germany Emerge In Probe

Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said the investigation uncovered links to handlers based abroad, particularly in Portugal and Germany.

Those arrested have been identified as Balvinder Lal alias Shami, Jasveer Singh alias Jassi, Charanjit Singh alias Channi, Rubal Chauhan and Mandeep alias Abhijot Sharma. Police said the two individuals who directly carried out the attack have been identified and efforts were underway to track them down.

IED Attack Outside Punjab BJP Office

Officers recovered one grenade and ammunition during the operation. According to investigators, the network operated through multiple layers, using intermediaries and submodules to execute and conceal the plan.

The April 1 blast occurred when two men on a two-wheeler allegedly hurled an improvised explosive device (IED) outside the BJP office in Sector 37 before fleeing. No injuries were reported, though several vehicles were damaged, triggering panic in the area. Forensic teams later collected evidence from the site, while CCTV footage proved crucial in tracing the suspects.

Shortly after, Khalistani extremist Sukhjinder Singh Babbar claimed responsibility for the attack. Police said the swift action thwarted an “attempt to disrupt peace in Punjab” and added that the probe would continue to target the entire network behind the conspiracy

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