Amritsar temple grenade attack sparks investigation into possible Pakistan link
What's the story
The Thakurdwara temple in Amritsar's Khandwala area was subject to a grenade attack, also recorded on CCTV camera.
The incident took place at 12:35am on March 15 and caused widespread panic, but no casualties.
The footage shows the two youths riding a flag-bearing motorcycle halting momentarily outside the temple and hurling an object inside the premises before escaping after the blast.
Investigation underway
Police Commissioner hints at possible Pakistan connection
Amritsar Police Commissioner Gurpreet Bhullar hinted at a Pakistan link to the attack.
"Pakistan engages in such mischievous acts from time to time."
Bhullar confirmed the police were informed of the attack at around 2:00am by the temple's priest and senior officials and forensic teams hurried to gather evidence.
He suggested a possible role of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), "Pakistan's ISI lures our youth into creating disturbances in Punjab."
Political reactions
Political leaders express concern over security situation
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann admitted there are continuous attempts to disturb peace in the state, but insisted law and order in Punjab is better than other states.
"There are always many attempts to disturb the peace in Punjab. Drugs, gangsters, and extortion are part of it... The law and order situation in Punjab is good."
However, Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring condemned the incident and demanded immediate action by the AAP-led state government.
Public response
Authorities urge public to remain calm amid investigation
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm as police intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators based on CCTV evidence.
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) condemned the incident as a "serious and sensitive incident" that has hurt religious sentiments.
BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu criticized the Punjab government for failing to prevent such incidents, saying, "Deteriorating law and order in Punjab is a matter of serious concern."