Series of hoax bomb threats target schools, courts in Gujarat, opposition slams govt

A series of bomb threat emails sent to schools, courts and even the state Vidhan Sabha and other institutions across Gujarat has triggered panic among the public, even as authorities face questions over their ability to trace those responsible and curb the recurring incidents.

Over the past few years, anonymous emails, suspected to be sent by cybercriminals, have repeatedly triggered panic, particularly in cities such as Ahmedabad. 

The latest incidents have heightened fears among students, parents, and the general public, with several schools forced to suspend classes due to such threats.

Despite claims of modernisation and technological upgrades within the state’s cyber policing framework, the perpetrators behind these emails have largely remained untraced. Critics argue that the continued incidents point to gaps in enforcement and coordination.

The issue has also taken a political turn, with opposition leaders questioning the effectiveness of the Gujarat Police and the state Home Department. They have asked why those responsible have not been apprehended despite the availability of advanced tools and increased budgetary allocations.

Concerns have been heightened as similar threats have also been reported in court premises, further widening the scope of disruption and anxiety.

Opposition MLAs have alleged that the government has focused more on optics, such as high-level meetings, rather than delivering concrete results. They have also criticised Harsh Sanghavi, accusing him of prioritising political engagements, including campaigning for local body elections, over addressing public safety concerns.