In a major breakthrough ahead of Independence Day, the Punjab Police successfully thwarted a Pakistan-backed terror plot by recovering a powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Tarn Taran district. The explosive was linked to the proscribed Khalistani terror outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and was allegedly smuggled into India with support from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
The recovery was made by the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) of Punjab Police, under the leadership of DGP Gaurav Yadav, who confirmed that the IED was intended to cause mass disruption and potential casualties during the upcoming national celebrations. The explosive device was found buried in an agricultural field in Naushera Pannuan village, and has since been safely neutralized by the Bomb Disposal Squad.
Pak-Origin Explosive, Brought in by Drones
According to officials, the IED was of Pakistani origin, with investigators suspecting it was air-dropped via drone across the border — a tactic increasingly employed by terror outfits to smuggle arms and explosives. The police are also probing the role of local handlers who may have been tasked with retrieving the device and executing the planned attacks.
Early investigations point toward the involvement of Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda and Lakhbir Singh alias Landa, two BKI operatives currently believed to be operating from Pakistan. Both are designated terrorists with known links to the ISI, and have previously masterminded several terror attempts in Punjab using cross-border smuggling routes.
IED Meant for Mass Casualties During Independence Day
The timing of the plot has raised serious concerns. Officials believe the device was to be used during Independence Day celebrations across the state, potentially targeting crowded areas such as public rallies, religious gatherings, or government functions.
“This is a serious threat that has been successfully neutralized. Our teams acted swiftly on intelligence inputs, and with the support of local police units, the explosive was safely recovered and disposed of,” said DGP Yadav. He further added that forensic teams are examining the device to determine its precise composition and origin.
Terror Case Registered, Probe Underway
Punjab Police have registered a case under several provisions of the Explosive Substances Act, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Investigations are underway to identify local sleeper cells or individuals who were in contact with the handlers across the border.
The arrest of any local operatives could provide critical information regarding the extent of the network’s activities within Indian territory. DGP Yadav emphasized that no stone will be left unturned in dismantling such modules. “We have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism and are working closely with central agencies to eliminate such threats,” he said.
Pattern of ISI-Backed Plots in Punjab
This is not the first time a cross-border plot has been unearthed in Punjab. In recent years, law enforcement agencies have uncovered several Pakistani drone drops, with arms, explosives, and narcotics being sent across the border. Many of these operations have links to Khalistani separatist groups, which continue to receive covert support from Pakistan.
Intelligence agencies have repeatedly warned about the revival of Khalistani terror groups with foreign funding and logistical support. The growing use of drones and encrypted communication methods poses fresh challenges to security agencies, particularly ahead of national events.
Public Urged to Stay Vigilant
As Punjab gears up for Independence Day celebrations, security has been heightened across key locations, including railway stations, religious sites, and public venues. The public has been urged to report any suspicious activity to authorities.
The Punjab Police’s swift action has drawn praise from across the security establishment, reinforcing the importance of vigilance and intelligence coordination in combating modern terror threats.