In a distressing turn of events, 44 schools in Bengaluru received bomb threats via anonymous emails, causing widespread panic among students, parents, and school authorities.
The initial wave of threats targeted seven schools, including Napel and Vidyashilpa in Basaveshwar Nagar. Notably, one of the threatened schools is situated opposite the residence of Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar.
Expressing concern, DK Shivakumar stated, “I was watching TV, and the school opposite my house also received a threatening email. I came here to check.”
A senior police official addressed the media, revealing, “The email claimed that explosives had been planted on school premises. Our teams immediately rushed to schools across the city, evacuating all students and staff. While a thorough search is ongoing, it appears to be a hoax message. Parents need not panic; our teams are on the ground.”
Karnataka Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara stressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “We have received information about 44 schools receiving threatening emails. Similar threats occurred last year. We are inspecting schools, taking precautionary measures, and will take strict action against those making threatening calls.”
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reassured the public, saying, “Police will investigate, and security measures have been enhanced. Parents need not panic; a preliminary report from the police department indicates ongoing efforts to address the situation.”
This incident recalls a series of similar hoax calls and messages received by schools in the tech hub last year, with National Public School in the city facing a bomb threat in January this year. Authorities are diligently working to ensure the safety of students and school staff.
The intention behind crafting this email was to target Muslims, as indicated by the attempt to place a needle of suspicion on them. However, the person behind this email made a grave mistake. The substitution of ‘Bismillah’ instead of ‘Insha Allah’ is a clear giveaway. Typically associated with positive actions, the perpetrator included them in the email write-up designed for a sinister plot. Freelance journalist Zubair brought this to light on his Twitter account .
The question arises: Whose conspiracy is this? The Karnataka government and police are expected to have knowledge of this matter. This failed attempt to inject poison into the state through such a hateful conspiracy is a cause for concern. The public hopes that the government will actively seek out those responsible for such despicable schemes and mete out severe legal consequences.
Media reports vary in the number of schools affected, with some claiming 44, others stating 48, and some mentioning 15 schools. Regardless, a heinous plot has been hatched that has left parents of these children in a state of distress. The atmosphere in the community has been tainted by this act of mischief, and people anticipate a thorough investigation and stringent legal actions against the perpetrators.
