Unveiling the Truth: Bathinda Blasts Linked to Mishandled Explosives by Radicalised Individual

The mystery surrounding the low-intensity blasts that rattled Bathinda in May has finally been unravelled by the relentless efforts of the Punjab Police. In a significant breakthrough, authorities have concluded that the two incidents were not a deliberate act of terrorism, but rather the tragic consequence of an allegedly radicalised individual, Dilbagh Singh alias Bagga, mishandling improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during a dangerous experimentation process.

The blasts, which occurred on May 22 and May 24 near an Army cantonment and a thermal plant respectively, initially sparked concerns of a broader terror plot.

However, a meticulous investigation spearheaded by the Counter Intelligence Wing and Bathinda Police, delving into call records, social media activity, and local intelligence, painted a different, albeit equally alarming, picture.

According to police revelations, Dilbagh Singh, a resident of Haryana’s Ferozepur village, was the central figure.

His journey into this perilous path began with involvement in drug trafficking, a common gateway exploited by nefarious elements. It was through this connection that he was allegedly radicalised by Pakistan-based handlers, particularly one identified as Sanaullah, operating via social media platforms.

Singh was reportedly tasked with carrying out "disruptive activities" within Punjab, transforming from a mere drug courier to an individual dabbling in explosives.

The investigation revealed that Singh, under the influence of his handlers, was actively experimenting with creating IEDs using readily available, locally sourced chemicals.

These crude devices were constructed from substances like urea, sugar, kerosene, and battery cells. The police contend that the blasts were unintentional, occurring while Singh was either testing or otherwise mishandling these volatile mixtures. One of the devices, for instance, exploded while he was allegedly trying to activate it, leading to a loud bang that initially perplexed investigators.

This startling revelation underscores the growing threat of online radicalisation, where individuals can be groomed from afar to engage in dangerous activities, often without fully comprehending the lethal consequences of their actions.

The case of Dilbagh Singh serves as a stark reminder of how easily vulnerable individuals can be manipulated into becoming instruments of destabilisation.

In connection with the case, police have not only apprehended Dilbagh Singh but also Kamalpreet Singh, who allegedly assisted Bagga in procuring the necessary chemicals for the explosives.

Furthermore, two juveniles have also been taken into custody for their suspected involvement, highlighting the disturbing reach of such radicalisation efforts even among younger populations. The detailed investigation included forensic analysis and technical surveillance, which provided crucial evidence to piece together the events.

While the immediate fear of a deliberate, large-scale terror attack has been mitigated, the findings expose a deeply troubling undercurrent of cross-border manipulation and the proliferation of radical ideologies.

Punjab Police remain vigilant, continuing their efforts to dismantle such networks and prevent similar incidents, emphasizing the need for public awareness against online radicalisation and the illicit trade of dangerous substances.