Man dies in explosion near Amritsar's Naushera, Khalistani terror link suspected

Security forces have cordoned off the area, and a forensic team collected evidence at the scene.

A powerful explosion near the Majitha Road Bypass area in Amritsar on Tuesday morning, around 9:30 am, resulted in the death of a man suspected to be involved in terrorist activities.

According to initial reports, the man, believed to be a scrap dealer, was reportedly handling explosive material when it detonated accidentally, causing severe injuries, including the loss of both arms.

Residents, startled by the blast, immediately alerted the police, who responded swiftly and launched an investigation.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Maninder Singh said, “The man was retrieving explosive material when the blast happened, possibly due to mishandling. He is likely linked to a terror outfit. The foot soldier came here to retrieve the explosive material.”

Police suspect the individual’s involvement with Babbar Khalsa International, a banned Khalistani militant outfit active in Punjab, reportedly supported by Pakistan’s ISI.

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Satinder Singh added, “Babbar Khalsa and ISI are active in Punjab, and most likely, he was a member of Babbar Khalsa. The investigation is ongoing.”

The explosion took place near Naushera village in Amritsar’s rural district.

Security forces have cordoned off the area, and a forensic team collected evidence at the scene.

The injured man was rushed to a hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.