Bathinda (Gurpreet Singh) Police in Bathinda have detained two individuals iin connection with the petrol bomb attack on a local homoeopathic clinic earlier this week, claiming significant progress in a case that has drawn attention from both state and central agencies.
Officials said the attack was allegedly carried out by three people. While two suspects have been arrested, law enforcement teams are continuing efforts to locate the third accused, who remains absconding.
The development came shortly after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) stepped into the case and conducted a visit to the clinic to gather preliminary information. The agency’s involvement has underscored the importance of the investigation, although authorities have yet to disclose whether the case has any broader security dimensions.
The targeted clinic belongs to Dr Tarsem Garg, a well-known figure in Bathinda who has been associated with several public service and civic organisations over the years. Investigators are currently examining all possible angles to determine the motive behind the attack.
The incident occurred late Monday evening when unidentified persons allegedly threw a petrol-filled explosive device into the clinic’s outer area. The resulting fire caused damage to property within the premises, including a parked scooter and decorative plants. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
According to initial findings, staff members present at the location reacted promptly and managed to prevent the fire from spreading further. Emergency responders and police teams later reached the site, while forensic experts collected samples and evidence for analysis.
The investigation took another turn after family members reported receiving a suspicious phone call from an international number shortly after the attack. The caller allegedly identified himself as Shahzad Bhatti, a figure believed to be based in Pakistan. Authorities are verifying the details of the communication and assessing whether it has any relevance to the incident.
Police have not publicly disclosed the identities of the arrested suspects but said questioning is underway. Investigators are analysing electronic devices, call records and other evidence to establish how the attack was planned and whether additional individuals were involved.
The case has generated considerable interest because the attack took place in a busy part of the city and occurred on a day when Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was present in Bathinda for official engagements. However, officials have not suggested any connection between the two events.
Sources indicate that investigators are focusing on reconstructing the sequence of events leading up to the attack. CCTV footage from nearby locations and statements from witnesses are being reviewed as part of the effort to build a comprehensive case.
Police officials have expressed confidence that the remaining suspect will be arrested soon. They also stated that the investigation remains open and that further developments may emerge as interrogations continue.
With both state police and central agencies examining the matter, authorities are aiming to determine not only who carried out the attack but also whether there was a larger network or motive behind the act.
