Seven bomb threats in 4 months — No arrests yet; Tourism and public confidence at risk
Munish Sood
MANDI: The serene hill state of Himachal Pradesh, known for its peace and natural beauty, is grappling with an unsettling trend: repeated bomb threats targeting key government buildings. In the past four months alone, seven such threats have been reported across the state, creating a climate of fear and uncertainty, especially during the peak tourist season.
Series of hoax threats shakes hill state
The latest alert came today when an email claimed that suicide bombers had infiltrated the premises of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. The bomb disposal squad and police conducted a four-hour search operation, which eventually turned up nothing suspicious.
This incident follows a disturbing pattern:
• May 26, 2025: Shimla Secretariat received a threatening email, the sixth hoax in just over a month.
• May 2, 2025: A similar threat was sent to officials in Kullu.
• April 16–25, 2025: Bomb threats were issued to the Deputy Commissioners’ offices in Mandi, Chamba, Hamirpur, and Kullu.
• Earlier incidents: Previous threats included suspicious emails warning of explosive devices and targeted attacks on public offices and officials.
Each time, bomb squads and canine units were deployed, only to find no explosives—raising serious concerns about the misuse of emergency response resources.
Sources remain untraced; no arrests so far
All the threats have reportedly been made through emails. Despite intensified efforts by the Himachal Pradesh Cyber Cell and Intelligence Bureau, the origin of the emails remains unknown. No individual or organization has been apprehended so far.
Preliminary analysis of similar cases nationwide indicates that several threats have been traced back to foreign IP addresses—including countries such as Hungary, Cyprus, and Russia—often using encrypted or anonymous email servers. However, in Himachal’s case, investigators are still working on identifying whether these are coordinated acts or the work of lone actors trying to create panic.
Tourism season under cloud
These repeated threats couldn’t have come at a worse time. With Himachal’s tourism season typically peaking between April and June, the state’s image as a safe and peaceful destination is at stake. Not only do these threats undermine public trust, but they also risk deterring thousands of domestic and international visitors.
Security concerns could also affect local livelihoods that depend on tourism, hospitality, and public events during this critical economic period.
Broader picture: Emerging national pattern
Himachal Pradesh isn’t alone. Several Indian states have reported similar anonymous bomb threats to airports, schools, and public buildings in recent months. These threats, often hoaxes, have forced law enforcement to treat each case seriously—resulting in heightened security, disruptions, and resource strain.
Urgent need for cyber vigilance
The increasing frequency of such threats in Himachal demands stronger cyber forensic capabilities and interstate coordination. Quick identification of threat sources, public transparency, and clear communication are essential in balancing vigilance with public calm.
While no actual explosives have been found so far, the psychological impact of these recurring incidents could be lasting—unless authorities respond with speed, clarity, and technological precision.
