Radical Trail Uncovered: From Campaigner to Rail Blast Suspect in Punjab

Chandigarh- In a significant development in the Patiala rail blast case, investigators have traced the roots of the deceased suspect, Jagroop Singh, to a region historically associated with militancy and radical activity. The 39-year-old, who died in a premature explosion while allegedly attempting to sabotage a railway track near Bathonia village on the Rajpura–Shambhu line, is now at the centre of a wider probe into extremist networks operating in Punjab.

Jagroop Singh, a resident of Panjwar Khurd village in Tarn Taran district, was identified through forensic evidence, including a SIM card recovered from the blast site. Once described as a local youth with no strong religious leanings, Singh reportedly underwent a gradual transformation over the past eight years, adopting the identity of a Nihang and becoming associated with radical elements. During the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he actively campaigned for jailed Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh and his organisation, Waris Punjab De.

Panjwar, located near the India–Pakistan border, has long been considered a historic base of militancy and was once referred to as the “capital of Khalistan.” It has been linked to the Khalistan Commando Force, with former chiefs Labh Singh Panjwar and Paramjit Singh Panjwar hailing from the area. Following the blast, police teams conducted raids in the village and detained the suspect’s brother, Satnam Singh, for questioning.

The investigation has now expanded to examine connections with a radical outfit identified as Chalda Vaheer Chakarwarti, Attariye. Authorities allege that the group functioned as a recruitment and logistics network, radicalising youth and coordinating activities with handlers based in Malaysia and Pakistan. The alleged kingpin, Pardeep Singh Khalsa, is believed to have played a key role in maintaining these international links.

Officials say the Patiala blast is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern, noting a similar attack on railway infrastructure in the Sirhind area earlier this year. Security agencies are now working to determine whether Panjwar served as a logistical hub for cross-border operations and to identify other individuals involved in the network.

The case has raised fresh concerns over the resurgence of radical elements and the use of local networks to facilitate sabotage attempts targeting critical infrastructure. Investigations remain ongoing, with authorities focusing on dismantling the wider module and preventing further attacks.