Heightened Security at Mahabodhi Temple Following Bomb Threat
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Patna, Dec 12 (NationPress) Security protocols at the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Bodh Gaya, have been significantly enhanced after the temple's administration received a letter threatening to blow it up, as stated by an official on Wednesday.
The temple administration promptly notified the district police in Gaya about the threat.
Manoj Kumar Singh, the Station House Officer (SHO) of the Bodh Gaya Police Station, verified the incident and mentioned that investigations are currently underway to ascertain the source of the letter.
"The Mahabodhi management was alerted to the threat two days ago and immediately informed the district police. We are actively working to trace the sender’s location," Singh told IANS.
In reaction to the threat, security around the temple grounds has been considerably enhanced. Sources indicate that the threatening letter was allegedly issued in the name of ISIS.
However, senior police officials are avoiding public comments on the matter as investigations continue.
Furthermore, sources have indicated that a notorious gangster from Jharkhand named Prince Khan, hailing from the Dhanbad district, may have been implicated in the incident. Further updates are awaited as the police persist in their inquiry.
The investigation into the threat against the Mahabodhi Temple has escalated, with a police team from Bodh Gaya traveling to Dhanbad, Jharkhand, on Tuesday. The team continued their inquiry on Wednesday by visiting Prince Khan's residence in Bank More, Wasepur, Dhanbad.
Preliminary reports suggest that Prince Khan is allegedly hiding in Dubai, prompting authorities to investigate whether he is directly accountable for the threatening letter or if another party is involved.
Police from both Bihar and Jharkhand are collaborating to uncover the facts, with central agencies also on alert due to the potential involvement of ISIS.
The gravity of the threat is highlighted by the temple’s history of being targeted. The Mahabodhi Temple has experienced two previous attacks in 2013 and 2018. Thanks to strong security measures, both incidents were thwarted without major repercussions. Nevertheless, the UNESCO World Heritage Site remains a potential target, raising concerns about its security.
The ongoing investigation aims to identify and capture those responsible for the threat while ensuring the safety of the temple and its visitors.
