Punjab twin blasts: NIA steps in as Khalistani group claims responsibility, CM Mann blames BJP

Twin low-intensity blasts in Punjab late on May 5 have triggered a multi-agency investigation, with security agencies probing possible extremist links as political parties trade accusations.

The incidents occurred within hours of each other on May 5 night in Jalandhar and Amritsar, both locations linked to high-security installations. According to initial reports, the first explosion took place near a Border Security Force (BSF) facility in Jalandhar, where a parked scooter exploded or caught fire, triggering panic in the area.

A second blast was reported near a military or cantonment area in Amritsar, further escalating concerns. Authorities described both incidents as low-intensity explosions, but their proximity to security establishments raised the stakes significantly.

What investigators have found so far

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has stepped in to assist Punjab Police, signalling the seriousness of the case and the possibility of a broader security angle. Teams have been deployed to both sites to collect forensic evidence and reconstruct the sequence of events.

CCTV footage from the Jalandhar site has emerged as a key lead, reportedly showing an unidentified man fleeing moments after the explosion. Investigators are analysing the footage as part of efforts to identify suspects and determine whether the blasts were coordinated.

Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav has indicated that the blasts may involve improvised explosive devices (IEDs), with preliminary assessments pointing to a possible attempt to disturb peace in the state.

Security has been tightened across Punjab, with increased surveillance, road checks, and deployment of forces at sensitive

Khalistan-linked claim

Adding a layer of complexity, a Khalistan-linked group has claimed responsibility for the blasts, though authorities are yet to independently verify the authenticity of the claim.

Such claims are being treated cautiously, as officials examine whether the incidents are part of a larger network or an isolated attempt to create panic. Past incidents in Punjab have seen similar claims surface on social media, sometimes exaggerated or misleading.

Investigators are also probing possible external links, including the role of Pakistan-based elements, with officials suggesting the blasts could be part of a broader design to destabilise the region.

CCTV captures key lead

A crucial lead has emerged from CCTV footage in Jalandhar, which reportedly shows a man running away from the site shortly after the explosion.

Investigators are analysing the footage to identify the individual and determine whether the act was planned or part of a coordinated attempt.

NIA steps in, IED angle probed

The National Investigation Agency has stepped in to assist Punjab Police, indicating the seriousness of the case. Forensic teams are examining whether improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were used.

Officials are working to establish whether the two incidents are linked and whether there is a broader network behind them.

AAP government vs BJP

Even as investigations continue, the blasts have triggered a sharp political confrontation.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has directly blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the incidents are part of the party’s strategy ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. He described the blasts as an attempt to create fear and influence the political climate.

The BJP has rejected these allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated. The exchange has intensified the political atmosphere in the state, with opposition parties questioning the government’s handling of law and order.

The timing of the blasts within a politically sensitive period has amplified their significance, with both security and electoral narratives now intersecting.

Punjab has witnessed intermittent security concerns in recent years, including sporadic blast incidents and claims by pro-Khalistan groups. While large-scale insurgency is not present, intelligence agencies have repeatedly flagged attempts to revive extremist networks through small-scale attacks and propaganda.

The latest incidents fit into this pattern of low-intensity disruptions that aim to create fear, attract attention, and test security responses without triggering major casualties.