Grenade Attack Outside BJP Office in Chandigarh Raises Security Concerns
Chandigarh Explosion Incident
Claim of Responsibility
A few hours after the explosion, Khalistani terrorist Sukhjinder Singh Babbar, linked to Babbar Khalsa International, claimed responsibility for the attack via social media. He stated:
“I, Sukhjinder Singh Babbar, take responsibility for the grenade attack in Chandigarh Sector 37 on April 1, 2026. We wanted to send a message to the Indian system that the conspiracy to eliminate Sikh youth in Punjab will never succeed.”
He further asserted that this act was a response to the ongoing “murder and conspiracy” against Sikh youth in Punjab. His statement also referenced the Ranjit Singh murder case in Gurdaspur and reiterated the demand for Khalistan.
Key Details of the Attack
Five Important Points:
- Method of Attack: CCTV footage shows two suspects; one threw the grenade while the other filmed the incident. The attackers were on a scooter or motorcycle. The explosion was of low intensity, likely involving a Chinese P86 grenade.
- No Casualties: Although there were people present at the BJP office, the explosion occurred outside. Chaos ensued in the vicinity, but there were no significant injuries or damage.
- Active Investigation: Chandigarh police, Punjab police, and the NIA have launched an investigation into the incident. The NIA is examining the case from a terrorism perspective, and efforts to locate the attackers are ongoing.
- BJP's Reaction: The Punjab BJP condemned the attack, labeling it a plot of Khalistani terrorism. The party has called for stringent action from both the central and state governments.
- Context: This incident is considered significant ahead of the Punjab Assembly elections. Security agencies are expressing concerns about potential disruptions by Khalistani elements.
Expert and Police Insights
Expert Opinions:
SSP Kanwardeep Kaur of Chandigarh police described the incident as a “low-intensity explosion.” She mentioned that the investigation is ongoing and a full disclosure will be made soon. Security agencies believe the attack was intended to gain publicity through viral videos on social media.
Both the Chief Minister of Punjab and the central government have expressed concern over the incident. The Home Ministry has initiated high-level monitoring of the situation.
Update: Police have sealed off the area. Raids are ongoing based on CCTV footage and forensic evidence. Sukhjinder Singh Babbar has a history of involvement in Khalistani activities, with several cases registered against him in India.