New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday moved to secure forensic evidence and gather information from the sites of recent blasts in Punjab. The agency will assist state authorities in investigating the incidents, sources said.
According to sources, NIA teams are en route to blast sites in Jalandhar and Amritsar, where they are expected to arrive shortly to support the Punjab Police and collect key evidence.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Raj Kumar expressed suspicion over the timing of the incidents, alleging a possible conspiracy linked to upcoming elections in the state. He questioned both the central and state governments’ ability to control the situation.
Leader of Opposition in the Punjab Assembly and senior Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa said that back-to-back blasts in Jalandhar and Amritsar cannot be dismissed as coincidence. He urged the state government to act swiftly and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
Bajwa also warned that the incidents could worsen public anxiety in a state already facing challenges like unemployment and lack of opportunities, stressing that maintaining law and order must be the top priority.
On the ground, Amritsar Police have restricted public movement in certain areas following a blast reported in Khasa near the cantonment area. Assistant Sub-Inspector Karam Singh said roads have been closed for surveillance and investigation.
Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring also raised concerns, calling the incidents “deeply alarming” and demanding accountability from both the state and central governments.
The blast in Khasa occurred around 10:50 pm on Tuesday, prompting a swift response from police and security agencies. No casualties were reported.
According to Amritsar SP Aditya S. Warrier, police teams, along with army officials, rushed to the site soon after receiving information about the explosion. The Bomb Disposal Squad conducted checks, while the Forensic Science Laboratory team collected samples for analysis.
Preliminary investigations are underway to determine the nature and cause of the blasts, with further details awaited.