Late on May 9, a low-intensity explosion occurred near the Golden Temple in Amritsar, the third explosion in five days. The blast site was nearly two kilometers from Heritage Street, a popular tourist spot in the city, and one person was injured. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Punjab Police collected forensic samples from the site of the blast and are investigating the incident.
Following the incident, the Punjab Police arrested five people in connection with the explosions, claiming to have solved the cases. The Director General of Punjab Police confirmed that the explosive in the previous two blasts on Heritage Street in Amritsar was packed with two health drink cans. Preliminary reports suggest that no triggering mechanism was used in the explosion.
The explosion on May 6 caused damage to the glass facades of some buildings and injured one person. The explosive used in the blast was crudely made, and no shrapnel was used. Similarly, the second blast on May 10 also used a crude explosive device without any detonator, and the explosive was kept in a container. The police said that it appeared that the explosions were intended to create panic, but the motive behind the attacks is still unclear.
The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is a revered Sikh shrine and is one of the most visited tourist sites in India. The recent explosions near the temple have raised concerns about security measures in the area. The Punjab Chief Minister has directed the police to ensure the safety and security of the people and places of worship in the state.
The incidents have also prompted a review of security measures in other parts of the country, with reports of increased vigilance at other important religious sites. The Home Ministry has asked all states to review their security arrangements and take necessary steps to prevent any untoward incidents.
The explosions have also sparked widespread condemnation, with politicians and religious leaders expressing their shock and concern. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex religious body of the Sikhs, has urged the central government to take immediate steps to ensure the safety of the Golden Temple and other religious sites.
