A series of bomb threats through emails targeted seven courts in West Bengal, including the prestigious Calcutta High Court, causing alarm among judges and lawyers. In response to the threats, a high-level meeting was promptly convened by the state administration at the State Secretariat. West Bengal Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty assured the public that security in the courts is the state government’s responsibility and urged against giving in to rumors.
The West Bengal Cyber Crime Branch has initiated an investigation to identify the sender of the threatening emails. Chief Secretary Chakraborty emphasized that judges would receive necessary protection to carry out their duties without disruption, particularly the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) work. She debunked rumors of bombs planted in various courts across the state, emphasizing the government’s vigilance and the ongoing search for the email sender to dispel unfounded fears.
West Bengal Director General of Police (DGP) Piyush Pandey, addressing the press conference alongside Chief Secretary Chakraborty, affirmed the state’s readiness to handle such threats effectively. Kolkata Police Commissioner Supratim Sarkar highlighted the active role of the police’s Cyber Cell in tracing the origins of the emails, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. Investigations revealed a consistent pattern in the emails received across different court locations, all deemed as fake.
Amidst the chaos caused by the bomb threats, judicial activities were suspended immediately for security reasons, with court premises evacuated promptly. Security forces, including bomb squads and dog units, conducted thorough searches in response to the threats. Despite extensive searches, no explosives were found in any of the court premises, ensuring the situation remains under control. The state administration convened an emergency meeting to address the gravity of the threats and enhance security measures across all court facilities.
