Mastermind of attack on dera chief is in Pakistan, say police

“Those planning the terrorist activities across the border understand the sensitivity of the dera issue. Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh is a soft target for them despite his Z-plus security,” says an official.

Sources add that the the plot was unearthed after the arrest of Amarjit Singh, a Samana resident, by Jalandhar police almost two weeks ago. Amarjit was arrested for possessing explosives and was in constant touch with another Samana resident, Bagicha Singh.

“Jalandhar police shared this vital information with Patiala police, who subsequently arrested Gobind Kaur and Bagicha Singh,” say sources.

Patiala police are now procuring the mobile numbers used by the accused to get in touch with Bakhshish to expose their network.

“We are awaiting the details of the mobile phones that were used,” Investigating Officer Shaminder Pal Singh says.

Jalandhar SSP PK Rai says, “We also know that Bakshish Singh is in Pakistan. We had earlier speculated that he is in India. We are sharing all our information with Patiala police.”

Bagicha Singh, Amarjeet Singh and Gobind Kaur had allegedly procured mobile numbers using fake identity proof. Patiala SP (D) GS Chauhan says a joint probe is being conducted by Patiala and Jalandhar police to nab the persons involved in the case. Regarding fears that some persons may be inside the dera masquerading as devotees, Chauhan says investigations are on, and nothing concrete can be said yet.

Bakhshsish was earlier a member of the dreaded Bhindrawale Tiger Force of Khalistan, and later joined Khalistan Commando Force. He was out on bail since 2003. After an attack on the dera head the same year, he went underground.