Did a Bomb Threat Email Disrupt Proceedings at Bombay HC?
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Synopsis
On September 19, the Bombay High Court's proceedings remained unaffected by a bomb threat email, later confirmed as a hoax. This incident marks the second hoax in a week, raising concerns about security protocols. Explore how the court and police responded to ensure safety while continuing vital legal proceedings.
Key Takeaways
- Bomb threat email received by Bombay HC was a hoax.
- Police conducted a thorough search operation.
- This incident marks the second hoax threat in a week.
- The court's proceedings were unaffected by the threat.
- Supreme Court issued new guidelines on photography in secure areas.
Mumbai, Sep 19 (NationPress) The Bombay High Court continued its proceedings as scheduled on Friday, despite receiving an email early in the morning warning of a potential bomb threat at the court’s official address.
The police later confirmed that the threat was a hoax.
This incident marked the second hoax bomb threat the High Court had encountered within the week, according to police reports.
The email threat arrived just a day after a bench led by Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhad examined an appeal aimed at overturning the acquittal of all seven defendants, including former BJP MP Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, in the 2008 Malegaon blast case.
Immediately after the threat email was received, an office employee notified senior administrative officials. The alert was promptly communicated to the Mumbai Police, who deployed their Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) and canine unit.
A comprehensive search operation was initiated across the entire campus in South Mumbai to identify any potential explosives. Fortunately, the BDDS team reported no suspicious findings, as confirmed by a Mumbai Police official.
In addition to the courtrooms, the bomb squad thoroughly examined the judges' parking lot and the waiting areas for litigants, stated the police.
Areas such as the High Court’s registry, library, and advocate chambers were also scrutinized for any explosives, according to police reports.
Previously, on September 12, the Bombay HC received a bomb threat mere moments after a similar email was sent to the Delhi High Court. Both threats were subsequently identified as hoaxes following temporary suspensions of proceedings to ensure safety.
On the same day, the Supreme Court enforced a ban on photography and videography using mobile devices within its high-security zone in New Delhi.
A circular issued by the Supreme Court empowered security personnel to deny entry to any individual, staff member, advocate, or others attempting to take photographs or record videos within the high-security area.
The circular also outlined that media personnel should conduct interviews and live broadcasts at designated locations near the lawn in the lower-security zone.
“Any violations of the guidelines by media personnel may result in restricted access to the High Security Zone of the Supreme Court for a duration of one month,” the circular specified.
Point of View
It's crucial to approach the recent bomb threat at the Bombay High Court with a balanced lens. While the incident raised immediate safety concerns, it also highlighted the robust response protocols in place by law enforcement. The quick identification of the hoax serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by such threats in today's world, necessitating constant vigilance and preparedness.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the bomb threat email about?
The email warned of a potential bomb explosion at the Bombay High Court, which was later deemed a hoax by the police.
How did the Bombay High Court respond to the threat?
The court continued its proceedings as usual while the Mumbai Police conducted a thorough search of the premises.
Is this the first bomb threat received by the Bombay High Court?
No, this was the second hoax bomb threat received by the High Court within the same week.
What measures did the police take in response to the threat?
The Mumbai Police deployed their Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad and conducted a comprehensive search of the court premises.
What is the significance of the Supreme Court's recent circular?
The circular prohibits photography and videography in high-security zones to maintain the integrity and security of court proceedings.
