Mumbai, March 12 (NationPress) In response to a bomb threat received via email at Vidhan Bhavan during the ongoing budget session, a search operation has been initiated. Maharashtra Legislative Council Chairman Ram Shinde stated that the threat encompasses more than just the Vidhan Bhavan.

As per Chairman Ram Shinde, an email was dispatched to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) at 6:57 a.m. The message specifically warned of bomb and missile attacks during the current Budget Session, identifying four prominent targets in Mumbai: Vidhan Bhavan (State Legislature), Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), Bombay High Court, and Mumbai Metro.

The Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) along with Dog Squads were promptly deployed to conduct a thorough search of the area. Security personnel and the Home Department issued immediate directives upon detecting the email, as detailed by Chairman Ram Shinde.

"Security officials are implementing all necessary safety measures, and an investigation is currently in progress. It’s premature to divulge further details at this stage. Complete information will be available once the investigation wraps up," he remarked.

Initial reports indicate that the email threatening the Legislature, Metro, and Stock Exchange may be linked to Khalistani protesters, with the sender explicitly mentioning the use of missiles and bombs against these locations, as per police sources.

While the search operations temporarily halted access at the gates, police and security agencies are diligently working to trace the origin of the email and ensure the safety of these essential landmarks during the critical legislative session.

A rush of panic ensued at the Vidhan Bhavan premises this morning following the bomb threat, which prompted the police to launch an extensive search operation across the entire complex.

Initially, staff members were prevented from entering; however, after extensive identity verification and security screenings, they were eventually allowed back in. Following the receipt of the threatening email, the Mumbai Police and security agencies acted swiftly to secure the premises.

According to police sources, all staff and citizens were immediately evacuated from the building for safety.

"Employees and officials are currently being kept outside the gates. The police have confirmed that no one will be allowed entry until the search operation concludes completely. Bomb Detection and Disposal Squads (BDDS) and canine units have been dispatched to inspect every corner of the complex for any suspicious items," police sources added.

The cyber police are engaged in tracing the origin of the anonymous email to identify its sender. This incident is particularly sensitive as the state is conducting its Budget Session, a time when key figures like the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Ministers, Cabinet Ministers, and other high-profile VIPs are often present on-site.