A devastating explosion rocked the Majitha Road Bypass area of Amritsar on Tuesday morning, claiming the life of a man identified as a suspected terrorist connected to the banned Babbar Khalsa outfit, according to official sources. The blast occurred around 9:30 AM, prompting a swift response from law enforcement and initiating a comprehensive investigation.
Initially, authorities speculated that the explosion could have stemmed from the mishandling of explosive materials by a scrap dealer. The victim sustained severe injuries, including the loss of both arms, and was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Local residents, alarmed by the loud explosion, swiftly contacted the police, who soon cordoned off the affected area and began a forensic examination. Eyewitnesses recounted the chaotic scene, with metal fragments littering the ground and emergency teams arriving promptly to assess the situation.
At first, the police assessments suggested a lack of ties to gangster or terrorist activities. However, further investigations and intelligence reports led officials to reevaluate the situation. A government spokesperson later confirmed to ANI that the deceased individual is now being regarded as a suspected terrorist, leading counter-terror units to take over the investigation.
The incident has heightened security concerns in Punjab, a region with a complex history involving pro-Khalistan groups. Investigators are now probing whether the explosive device was intended for a more extensive terror plot or if the detonation was accidental during its fabrication. The unfolding investigation underscores the continuing challenges faced by authorities in managing security threats in the region.