Has the Golden Temple Received Its Third Bomb Threat?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Golden Temple faces bomb threats for three consecutive days.
- Security measures have been significantly intensified.
- SGPC emphasizes the communal spirit of respect and unity.
- Authorities are investigating the origins of the threats.
- Visitors are encouraged to remain calm and assured of their safety.
Amritsar, July 16 (NationPress) The revered Sikh shrine, Harmandir Sahib, widely recognized as the Golden Temple, was subjected to a bomb threat for the third day in a row on Wednesday. In response, security measures have been intensified, with search operations initiated by the Border Security Force’s bomb squad alongside local police forces.
An alarming email directed to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) indicated potential blasts involving RDX-filled pipes.
The message suggested that explosives such as RDX would be concealed within pipes to instigate explosions inside the Golden Temple complex.
Following this notification, security personnel heightened their vigilance, conducting thorough scans of the entire site. For the past two days, police presence has significantly increased, with intensive checks and surveillance being executed.
Every day, hundreds of devotees visit to offer their prayers at the Golden Temple. SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami remarked that Darbar Sahib “is a sacred site that has encountered attacks in the past but has always emerged resilient.”
“Since July 14, a series of bomb threats and emails have been directed to the SGPC, seemingly aimed at inciting fear among the visitors coming to pay their respects here,” he added.
Dhami also pointed out the possibility of a conspiracy and called for an investigation into these bomb threats.
“The SGPC has enhanced security measures by deploying an additional task force. I want to stress that anyone who visits here pays homage to the Guru Granth Sahib and is not questioned about their caste or background. Everyone is welcome to pay their respects,” he stated.
Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar reassured the public, saying, “There is no need for alarm. Our cyber cell is assisting us with these bomb threat emails, and we are confident we will solve this case promptly. Security has been fortified at the Golden Temple, and a bomb disposal squad has been stationed here. Senior officials have been assigned to ensure comprehensive security.”
In the meantime, security around the Golden Temple and other religious sites has been escalated in light of the threats. Both police and intelligence agencies are maintaining a heightened state of alert.