Massive security alert triggered after explosives recovered during sanitisation drive ahead of Prime Minister’s visit to Art of Living event
A major security alert was triggered in Bengaluru on Sunday after at least two gelatin sticks were recovered near a venue where Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to attend an event, Karnataka Police said.
The explosives were found during a mandatory sanitisation and security sweep conducted ahead of the Prime Minister’s visit to the Art of Living Centre in Bengaluru.
According to police, the gelatin sticks were discovered on the side of a footpath nearly three kilometres from the event venue, setting off immediate alarm among security agencies overseeing the VVIP movement.
Following the discovery, bomb disposal and detection squads were rushed to the location to secure the explosives and carry out an extensive secondary search operation in the surrounding areas.
Security around the Prime Minister’s visit was immediately intensified, with officials implementing additional multi-layer checks and surveillance measures.
Police said one person has been detained in connection with the incident and is currently being questioned.
Investigators are now probing whether the gelatin sticks were accidentally left behind due to construction-related activity or deliberately placed ahead of PM Modi’s visit.
“Further investigation is underway to track the origin of these sticks and the motive behind their presence near the venue,” a senior police official said.
The recovery sparked a coordinated response involving local police, intelligence agencies and special security units tasked with protecting the Prime Minister during high-profile public events.
Despite the scare, PM Modi attended the programme organised to mark the 45th foundation day celebrations of the Art of Living Foundation.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister praised the organisation’s contribution to spirituality, social service and national transformation.
He also highlighted Bengaluru’s role as both a global technology hub and a centre for India’s spiritual and cultural consciousness.
“Many spiritual movements in India have ultimately expressed themselves through service to humanity. I am happy that this spirit of service is reflected in every effort of The Art of Living,” PM Modi said during the event.
The investigation into the recovered explosives remains ongoing.
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