In a joint operation with Counter Intelligence, Jalandhar, the Punjab Police have foiled a terror plot by a module of the banned outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) ahead of Republic Day celebrations.
As per reports, four operatives were arrested from Garhshankar, Hoshiarpur. The accused were identified as Diljot Singh Saini, Harman alias Harry, Ajay alias Mehra, and Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Kandola.
Punjab Police officials said they recovered one Improvised Explosive Device (IED) containing 2.5 kg of RDX, along with two pistols and cartridges, from the four operatives.
Police added that the module was being directed by USA-based BKI handlers. Preliminary investigations indicate that the IED was intended for a targeted terror attack during the upcoming Republic Day celebrations.
An FIR has been registered at Garhshankar police station under relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Explosive Substances Act. “Further investigation is underway,” authorities said.
In a post on X, Punjab Police DGP said, “In a major breakthrough against Pakistan’s ISI-backed terror network, Hoshiarpur Police in a joint operation with Counter Intelligence, Jalandhar busts a terror module of the banned outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and recovers one IED (2.5 kg RDX) and two pistols along with cartridges from four operatives.”
He added, “The module was being operated by USA-based BKI handlers. Preliminary investigations reveal that the recovered #IED was intended for a targeted terror attack in view of the upcoming Republic Day celebrations.”
The DGP further said the Punjab Police “remains steadfast in its resolve to dismantle transnational terror and organised crime networks sponsored by Pakistan’s ISI and to maintain peace, security, and harmony in Punjab.”
Earlier on January 21, intelligence agencies made a major revelation ahead of Republic Day, warning of a possible coordinated terror strike code-named ‘Operation 26-26’.
A high alert was issued across Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir amid inputs suggesting terrorist attacks could be carried out on or before January 26.
Security forces in the national capital were placed on heightened alert on Wednesday after intelligence agencies flagged the threat of a synchronised strike timed with Republic Day celebrations.
According to sources, potential targets include prominent religious sites such as the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and the Raghunath Temple in Jammu, along with other temples and cities.
Sources told NDTV that the plot is allegedly being orchestrated by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) through the terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed, with logistical support from Punjab-based gangsters. Jaish-e-Mohammed was responsible for the car bomb explosion outside the Red Fort in November, which killed 15 people.
In response, security agencies have intensified preventive measures. Posters of wanted individuals have been put up across Delhi and the National Capital Region, particularly at key entry and exit points such as railway stations and bus terminals.