A major security scare gripped Bihar on Thursday after a bomb threat was issued to Patna Civil Court. An email warning that explosives would be detonated inside the court premises triggered chaos, forcing judges, lawyers, and staff to leave immediately. The entire complex was evacuated, and a thorough search operation was launched by the police.
Panic at Patna Civil Court
The threat came in the form of an email sent on August 28 by an unidentified individual. The message claimed that four RDX IED explosives would be detonated inside the court on August 29. As soon as the email surfaced, authorities took no chances and ordered an immediate evacuation of the premises.
Court officials, upon instructions from the registrar, alerted public prosecutor Rakesh Kumar, who directed all lawyers to vacate the court. Within minutes, courtrooms were deserted as everyone rushed outside in fear of a possible explosion. The sudden exodus reflected the intensity of the threat and the seriousness with which it was handled.
Police Response and Search Operations
Patna police quickly arrived at the scene and cordoned off the court complex. Security personnel began combing operations, inspecting every corner of the building for suspicious objects. Bomb disposal squads were called in to ensure no device had been planted.
Although no explosives were found in the initial sweep, officials stated that searches would continue until the premises were completely cleared. Police sources confirmed that cyber experts are now tracking the origins of the threatening email.
Connection to Terror Alert in Bihar
The bomb threat to Patna Civil Court came just a day after intelligence inputs warned about possible infiltration of Pakistani terrorists into Bihar. Reports indicated that three Jaish-e-Mohammed operatives had entered the state through Nepal. Their photographs were released by police, and a bounty of Rs 50,000 each was announced for their capture.
With Bihar already on high alert due to these inputs, the timing of the bomb threat heightened fears of a coordinated terror plan. Authorities in districts bordering Nepal, including West Champaran, East Champaran, Purnea, Kishanganj, Katihar, Araria, Supaul, and Bhagalpur, were instructed to enforce strict surveillance.
Judicial System on Edge
The evacuation of Patna Civil Court has raised fresh concerns about the security of judicial institutions in Bihar. Courts are not only places of legal proceedings but also symbols of governance and justice, making them potential targets for extremist threats.
Lawyers present during the incident described scenes of panic as news of the email spread. Many rushed out leaving behind documents and personal belongings, fearing an imminent blast. Judges too were seen exiting swiftly, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Cyber Investigation Underway
The email threat is now under investigation by Bihar’s cybercrime unit. Experts are analyzing digital footprints to trace the source. Authorities are trying to determine whether the email was sent from within India or across the border.
Police officials stated that while such threats are sometimes hoaxes, given the heightened terror alert in Bihar, every possibility is being treated seriously. Investigators are also exploring whether the threat has links to the recently reported infiltration of Jaish operatives.
Heightened Security Across Bihar
Following the incident, additional security measures have been implemented not only in Patna but across the state. Sensitive installations, courts, government offices, and public places have been placed under strict watch.
Search operations have intensified in vulnerable areas, particularly in the Terai belt and districts sharing borders with Nepal. Security personnel have been instructed to maintain round-the-clock vigilance to prevent any untoward incidents.
Public Fear and Reactions
The threat has unsettled residents of Patna, with many expressing concern about safety in the capital. Regular visitors to the civil court voiced fear that such incidents could escalate into real attacks if not prevented in time.
Legal professionals have demanded better security arrangements within court complexes, including modern scanning equipment, increased police presence, and emergency evacuation plans.
Bihar’s Broader Security Challenge
The incident has highlighted the growing security challenges Bihar faces due to its porous border with Nepal. Intelligence agencies have repeatedly warned that terror operatives exploit this border to enter India.
With the recent reports of Jaish operatives in the state, law enforcement agencies are under immense pressure to ensure that Bihar does not become a soft target for cross-border terrorism.
Government Response
State government officials assured that the situation is under control and that strict action will be taken against those responsible for the email threat. They reiterated that public safety remains the top priority and that law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to neutralize any threats.
The government has also urged citizens to remain calm, stay alert, and report any suspicious activity immediately to the authorities.
The bomb threat to Patna Civil Court has brought Bihar’s security concerns into sharp focus. While no explosives were found during the initial search, the seriousness of the email cannot be underestimated given the concurrent terror alert.
With Jaish operatives reportedly in the state, police and intelligence agencies are working round the clock to safeguard public institutions and ensure law and order. The incident is a reminder of the fragile security environment in regions with porous international borders.
For now, investigations continue, and Bihar waits anxiously for clarity on whether this was a false alarm or a genuine warning of a larger threat.
