Punjab Blast Row: Mann’s BJP Charge Triggers Political Firestorm
Opposition slams CM over remarks as probe points to possible ISI link
- Bhagwant Mann blames BJP for twin blasts
- Police suspect role of Pakistan’s ISI in incidents
- BJP, Congress call CM’s remarks “irresponsible”
- Blasts reported in Amritsar and Jalandhar
GG News Bureau
Chandigarh, 6th May: A political controversy has erupted after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of being linked to twin low-intensity blasts in the state, drawing sharp criticism from both BJP and Congress leaders.
The blasts occurred late Tuesday night—one near the Border Security Force headquarters in Jalandhar around 8 pm and another near the army cantonment in Amritsar’s Khasa area around 11 pm. No major casualties were reported.
Preliminary investigations by Punjab Police have indicated possible involvement of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), though officials said the probe is ongoing.
Amid this, Mann alleged that the incidents were part of the BJP’s strategy ahead of elections. “BJP gets votes by spreading fear and violence. They should stop such tactics. Punjab stands for peace,” he said, also claiming that the “Bengal formula” would not work in the state.
The remarks triggered strong reactions across the political spectrum. BJP leader Manoj Tiwari termed the statement “irresponsible” and questioned the state government’s handling of law and order.
Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar also criticised Mann, saying that while security agencies pointed to external involvement, the Chief Minister was politicising the issue.
Congress leaders too joined the criticism. MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa accused the AAP government of deflecting from security lapses, stressing that law and order is a state subject.
Meanwhile, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Cheema backed Mann’s stance, alleging that violence often accompanies BJP’s political campaigns.
Security has been heightened in sensitive areas as investigations continue, with authorities working to identify those responsible for the blasts.
The episode has intensified political tensions in Punjab, with the focus now shifting to both security preparedness and accountability amid rising allegations and counter-allegations.
