Bomb Threats Prompt Evacuation of Multiple Schools in Delhi

Multiple schools in Delhi were evacuated on Monday following bomb threats received via email, prompting the deployment of explosive detection and disposal teams. This incident is part of a growing trend of such threats affecting educational institutions in the Indian capital.

Tania Joshi, the principal of The Indian School, reported that they were alerted to the threat just as routine classes commenced. The police, along with parents, were informed, leading to the prompt evacuation of both the school and its surrounding areas. Joshi stated, "The bomb disposal squad and dog squad responded swiftly to the situation. The local police, along with ambulance and fire brigade teams, were also present." She further explained that authorities later deemed the premises safe and allowed normal school activities to resume, although parents were given the option to collect their children.

Namita Singhal, principal of Venkateshwar School in Rohini, echoed similar precautionary measures. She noted that bomb threats had become an unfortunate norm, emphasising their adherence to established protocols with thorough checks conducted by bomb disposal units. She highlighted, "Over the past one-and-a-half years, bomb threats have unfortunately become routine. We followed all the prescribed protocols, and the bomb disposal squad is thoroughly checking the entire school premises."

This follows a pattern observed in previous incidents; on October 28 of the previous year, over 200 schools in Delhi received bomb threats via email, which were later found to be hoaxes. In that case, a 17-year-old student was identified as having sent numerous threatening emails but was never caught. In fact, more than 500 schools in Delhi have faced similar bomb threats in 2024 alone.

The ongoing trend of bomb threats has raised serious concerns among parents and educators regarding the safety of school environments. Schools have been urged to enhance their security protocols in light of these repeated incidents, ensuring a prepared response should such threats arise in the future.