Grenade Attack Targets BJP Leader Manoranjan Kalia’s Residence in Jalandhar
In the early hours of April 8, 2025, a grenade was thrown at the residence of former Punjab minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Manoranjan Kalia in Jalandhar. The explosion damaged a glass partition at the entrance and affected a car and motorcycle parked outside. Fortunately, Kalia and his family were inside at the time and escaped unhurt.
Details of the Incident
At approximately 1:00 am, CCTV footage captured an individual arriving on an e-rickshaw, approaching Kalia’s residence, and hurling the grenade before fleeing the scene. Initially, Kalia mistook the blast for a transformer explosion or thunder. It was only later that he learned of the grenade attack.
Investigations and Official Responses
Jalandhar Police Commissioner Dhanpreet Kaur Randhawa confirmed that an FIR has been filed, and investigations are underway. Forensic teams are analyzing the site, and CCTV footage is being reviewed to identify the assailant. Enhanced security measures have been implemented at key locations, including bus stands and railway stations.
Political Reactions
Opposition leaders have condemned the attack, highlighting concerns over Punjab’s law and order situation. Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa described the incident as indicative of escalating violence under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s administration. Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia also criticized the government’s handling of security, pointing out that the attack occurred just meters from a police station.
Recent History of Grenade Incidents
This incident marks the first grenade attack targeting a politician’s residence in Punjab. Since November of the previous year, there have been over a dozen grenade attacks on police stations, places of worship, and even a YouTuber’s residence in Jalandhar. The recurrence of such incidents has raised alarms about the state’s security situation.
The authorities are continuing their investigations to uncover the motives behind this attack and to enhance security measures across the state.
