Amritsar, Punjab: A low-intensity explosion occurred near the iconic Golden Temple in Amritsar on Wednesday evening, causing panic among the locals. Five suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, and investigations are currently underway to ascertain the motive behind the attack.
The explosion, which took place at around 6:30 pm, caused a small fire near the ‘Langar Hall’ of the Golden Temple complex. No injuries have been reported so far, but the incident has triggered security concerns in the region, given the religious and historical significance of the site.
According to the police, the suspects were spotted leaving the site in a car, which was intercepted by the police a few kilometers away from the temple. The five individuals have been taken into custody for questioning, and their backgrounds are being verified.
Initial investigations have suggested that the explosion was caused by a crude bomb, which was placed in a tin can and triggered by a timer. The device was reportedly placed near a boundary wall of the complex, and the blast caused minor damage to the wall and a nearby car.
The incident has sent shockwaves across the country, with political leaders and religious figures condemning the attack and calling for strict action against the perpetrators. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to express his concern over the incident, stating that the “attack on the Golden Temple is reprehensible” and that “the perpetrators will not be spared”.
The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is one of the holiest sites of Sikhism and attracts millions of visitors every year. The site has a tumultuous history, having been attacked and desecrated multiple times in the past, most notably during Operation Blue Star in 1984, when the Indian Army stormed the temple to flush out Sikh militants.
The latest incident has once again raised questions over the security of the site and the need for enhanced measures to protect it from such attacks. The authorities have assured that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure the safety of the visitors and the sanctity of the temple.
In conclusion, the low-intensity explosion near the Golden Temple in Amritsar is a grim reminder of the security challenges faced by religious sites in the country. While the incident has been contained without any casualties, the authorities must take all necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future and bring the perpetrators to justice. The incident has also highlighted the need for increased vigilance and security measures at sensitive sites across the country, to ensure the safety of the citizens and the preservation of the country’s cultural heritage.