Manoranjan Kalia grenade attack: Punjab Police arrest prime accused from Delhi

He added that further investigations are underway to expose the handlers, financiers, and possible foreign connections involved in the case.

The attack occurred on the night of April 7, when a grenade was thrown at Manoranjan Kalia’s residence in Central Town, Jalandhar. The initial investigation suggests the attack was part of a broader conspiracy, allegedly orchestrated by Pakistan-based ISI operatives to destabilize communal harmony in Punjab.

Manpreet Singh, Deputy Commissioner of Police, reached the spot, and forensic teams were called in to assist with the investigation. (Express photo)

Further inquiries revealed the involvement of high-profile criminal elements, including Zeeshan Akhtar, a close aide of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, and Shehzad Bhatti, a gangster backed by the ISI. Authorities are also examining the possible involvement of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), a Pakistan-based extremist group.

Two local aides who allegedly provided logistical support to the main accused have already been arrested. They are Satish alias Kaka alias Lucky, a resident of Bhargo Camp, and Harry, a resident of Garha Road, both from Jalandhar.

Additionally, the investigation uncovered financial links tied to the execution of the attack. A key figure in these transactions, Abhijot, was arrested by Haryana Police following a shootout in Kurukshetra. Punjab Police plans to bring him on a production warrant for further interrogation.

A case was filed under sections 109, 324(3), and 61(2) of the Indian Penal Code and Sections 3, 4, and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act. The FIR dated was filed at division No. 3 police station in Jalandhar.