A serious bomb threat targeting the Himachal Pradesh Secretariat has sent shockwaves across the state, coming just a day after a similar threat was issued to the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Mandi. The threatening email claimed an RDX explosion would take place at 11:30 AM on Thursday. As a precaution, the security apparatus in the state capital Shimla has been significantly heightened, and bomb detection squads have launched a detailed search operation inside the Secretariat premises.
The threat email bears an uncanny resemblance to the one sent to the Mandi administration on Wednesday, with similar language and mentions of a powerful RDX blast. Authorities immediately initiated a high-alert protocol. Certain sections of the Secretariat were vacated as early as Wednesday morning, and intensive room-by-room inspections were conducted. A trained bomb detection dog named Dora has been deployed to aid the search operation.
Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena confirmed that the bomb threat email mentioned both RDX and terrorist Tahawwur Rana. He revealed that the email also referenced a past incident in Tamil Nadu, raising serious concerns about its authenticity and potential links to larger networks. “The threat mentioned a blast at 11:30 AM. My office was also evacuated as part of the precautionary measures. However, nothing suspicious was found during the night-long search. There is no need to panic, but we are not taking anything lightly,” Saxena stated.
Saxena also noted that the matter is being jointly investigated by state police and central intelligence agencies. Discussions have taken place with the Director General of Police (DGP), and national-level security agencies have been contacted to trace the origin of the email. Authorities suspect that the email may have been sent using a proxy server, complicating the tracing process.
Adding weight to the situation, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu personally visited the Secretariat to assess the situation and review security measures. His presence highlighted the seriousness with which the government is handling this threat.
Earlier on Wednesday, a similar bomb threat created panic in Mandi. The DC office, SP office, and court complex were all evacuated after receiving a threatening email. However, an exhaustive search revealed no explosives. The two incidents, happening within 24 hours, have raised red flags across Himachal Pradesh, prompting a reassessment of security arrangements in all key government installations.
The Himachal Pradesh police have increased patrolling and surveillance in Shimla and nearby areas. Entry points to the Secretariat are now being monitored with additional security personnel and baggage scanners. Emergency response teams remain on standby, and a contingency plan has been activated in case of any untoward incident.
According to Himachal News, the email’s content and timing have created considerable concern among the state’s administrative leadership. Officials are working around the clock to verify the credibility of the threat and to ensure that no lapses occur in public safety. So far, no concrete evidence of explosives has been discovered, but authorities continue to treat the situation with utmost seriousness.
Residents have been advised to stay calm but vigilant, and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station. While this may turn out to be a hoax, officials are ensuring that every precaution is taken.
This incident has once again brought the focus on the growing trend of digital threats and the need for stronger cyber intelligence and surveillance. The government’s swift action and coordination with central agencies reflect a proactive approach to dealing with modern security challenges in Himachal Pradesh.
