Patna: Security agencies across Bihar were placed on high alert on Tuesday after authorities received email threats claiming that the Bihar Chief Minister’s residence, the Secretariat and four schools in Patna would be targeted in bomb blasts.
Police, bomb disposal squads and dog squads were deployed at all identified locations, while students and staff at the affected schools were evacuated as a precaution. Officials said no suspicious objects had been found during searches at the time of reporting.
Threats to Government Buildings
According to officials, an email sent to the Rural Development Department at 7:57 am claimed that a bomb blast would occur at the Bihar Secretariat at 3:11 pm on July 21, followed by explosions at the Chief Minister’s office and official residence at 9:11 pm.
Following the email, Ravi Kumar, Joint Secretary of the department, lodged a formal complaint with the police.
The threat prompted heightened security at the Secretariat, particularly as the Bihar legislature’s monsoon session is underway. Police teams, bomb disposal units and dog squads conducted thorough searches at the Main Secretariat and the Rural Development Department.
Four Schools Evacuated
Separate email threats were also received by four schools in the Danapur area of Patna, leading to the immediate evacuation of students and staff.
According to officials, the affected institutions include the senior and junior wings of Delhi Public School, Army Public School and Radiant International School.
Police established security cordons around the campuses while bomb disposal squads and dog squads searched the premises. Students were safely handed over to their parents after being evacuated.
Police Investigating Email Source
Authorities said the threatening email was written in English but contained Punjabi phrasing. It referred to Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and alleged that former Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Verma was being hidden in Patna.
The email claimed that supporters of Khalistan intended to locate and kill Verma, while also stating that children were not the intended targets and advising recipients to ensure their safety. It was signed in the name of the “Khalistan National Army” and carried several names at the end.
Police have not independently verified the claims made in the email and have cautioned against drawing conclusions about its authenticity.
Cyber Investigation Underway
Investigators are working to identify the sender and trace the origin of the email. The cyber cell is examining technical evidence to determine where and how the messages were sent.
Danapur ASP Ajit Kumar said police responded immediately after receiving information about the threats by evacuating the schools, securing the premises and deploying bomb disposal and dog squads. He said searches had not uncovered any suspicious objects so far and that the investigation remains ongoing.
Administration Urges Calm
Officials said security has been strengthened around the affected schools and government establishments while investigations continue.
The administration has appealed to parents and the public to remain calm, follow official instructions and avoid circulating unverified information or rumours until the investigation is complete.
