​2 Blasts near Golden Temple in 30 Hrs: Could Be over Money Dispute; Terror Angle Not Ruled Out, Says Intel Source | Exclusive

The explosions near Punjab’s Golden Temple within a span of 30 hours could be a result of a commercial dispute, a top intelligence source told CNN-News18.

One person was injured in a low-intensity explosion that took place on a heritage street near the Golden Temple on Monday morning, close to the spot where a blast was reported on May 6 (Saturday).

One person was injured and glass facades of some buildings were damaged in the blast on May 6.

“It is possibly a commercial dispute. Low-intensity blasts have been reported at the same place. But we are not ruling out terror angle,” said the source.

“Data from the area has been picked up about the two blasts within 30 hours and agencies are getting the details,” he added.

POLICESPEAK

“No detonator has been found and it appears that the explosive was kept in a container,” Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said, adding that it is too early to say whether the blast was someone’s “mischief” or there’s a terror angle to it.

Police and forensic teams reached the spot soon after the explosion and security was stepped up in the area. “The explosive was very crudely made and assembled. Though no shrapnel was used, there was a loud sound,” he said.

The officer said the two explosions in the area are being “scientifically investigated”. “Our forensic team is present on the spot,” he said.

The absence of a triggering mechanism means it is a crude device. It appears that the explosive was kept in a container, Yadav said on Monday’s blast. “At this moment, we are not ruling out anything… It could be someone’s mischief, but it is too early to say whether it is a mischief, or there is a terror angle to it.”

‘MAINTAIN PEACE AND HARMONY’

The DGP said the CCTV footage is being scanned and details are being sought from eyewitnesses. “I want to assure the people that everything is normal and we will maintain peace and harmony. People should not believe rumours. Punjab Police is there to keep the state safe and secure,” he said.

Amritsar Police Commissioner Naunihal Singh said a case has been registered in connection with the two blasts. “We have stepped up security in the area,” he said.

The spot where the explosion took place has been cordoned off.

CROWDED AREA

The heritage street leading to the Golden Temple witnesses heavy footfall every day. Thousands of devotees walk through the street, dotted with shops and food joints, to reach the Golden Temple.

Jasbir Singh Patti, a daily visitor to the Golden Temple for the last 20 years, said the explosions have created panic among devotees and the police should thoroughly investigate these incidents.

With PTI Inputs

Read all the Latest India News and Karnataka Elections 2023 updates here