Punjab Police Dismantles ISI-Backed Terror Module Behind Grenade Attack on BJP Leader’s House
Punjab Police Unravels ISI-Backed Terror Plot: Two Arrested in Grenade Attack on BJP Leader’s Residence
Chandigarh, April 8, 2025 – In a remarkable display of efficiency, the Punjab Police have solved the grenade attack case on BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia’s residence in Jalandhar within 12 hours. The investigation has uncovered a cross-border terror nexus involving Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), leading to the arrest of two individuals and the recovery of an e-rickshaw used in the crime.
Rapid Response and Investigation
The incident occurred during the night of April 7-8, when a grenade exploded outside Manoranjan Kalia’s residence in Central Town, Jalandhar. No casualties were reported. Special Director General of Police (DGP) Law and Order, Arpit Shukla, announced that preliminary investigations revealed the involvement of a Pakistan-based ISI-sponsored terror module.
The plot was allegedly masterminded by Zeeshan Akhtar, a close associate of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and Pakistan-based ISI operative Shahzad Bhatti. Shukla noted that the arrested individuals had been operating under the guidance of these foreign-based handlers, aiming to disrupt communal harmony in Punjab.
Arrests and Recoveries
The arrested individuals have been identified as Gurjeet Singh from Dande, Amritsar, and Baljit Singh from Chhapa, Tarn Taran. During the investigation, police recovered 1.4 kilograms of heroin, one hand grenade, and two pistols from their possession. Additionally, an e-rickshaw used to transport the grenade to the crime scene was seized.
Commissioner of Police Dhanpreet Kaur stated that the case is being investigated in coordination with central intelligence agencies to trace the entire terror network and ensure strict action against all conspirators.
Uncovering the Terror Nexus
The investigation has revealed a complex network involving cross-border terrorism and narcotics smuggling. The arrested individuals are believed to have been operating under the direction of handlers based in Pakistan, with the intent to destabilize the region through coordinated attacks.
Special DGP Arpit Shukla emphasized that the timely intervention of the Punjab Police has prevented further escalation of terrorist activities in the state. He assured that efforts would continue to dismantle such terror modules and maintain peace and security in Punjab.
Legal Proceedings
An FIR (No. 27 dated April 8, 2025) has been registered at Police Station Division No. 3, Jalandhar, under sections 109, 324(3), and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and sections 3, 4, and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act. These charges pertain to conspiracy, attempted harm using explosive devices, and involvement with terrorist organizations.
Commitment to State Security
This operation aligns with the directives of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, who has prioritized making Punjab a safe and secure state. The Punjab Police remain committed to taking decisive action against any threats to the state’s peace and security.