The latest grenade attacks in Punjab have unleashed new fears of a violent past, sending a long shadow over the region’s hard-won peace. Security agencies are already on high alert as fears heighten about the re-emergence of militancy driven by political instability, foreign interference, and local grievances.
The state authorities are probing the suspicion of cross-border activism and sleeper cells in the state, while intelligence inputs indicate an increased nexus between criminal groups and radicalized elements. The pattern of such attacks has raised concerns over the tenuousness of the security environment in the border state, particularly in the run-up to future political events.
Punjab has experienced a relative phase of peace since the violent insurgency years of the 1980s and 90s, but recent events suggest efforts to revive separatist feelings. Authorities caution that even sporadic attacks can serve to spread fear and upset civic harmony, especially through social media manipulation.
Citizens and political leaders have issued a call for vigilance, solidarity, and a strong clampdown on the individuals attempting to destabilize the area. Attention now turns to how local administration, national security, and citizens react to these hotspots prior to them getting further out of hand.
