A series of alarming bomb threat emails sent on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, triggered widespread panic and led to the immediate evacuation of the Karnataka High Court bench in Dharwad and district courts in Gadag and Bagalkot. The threats caused a major security scare, bringing judicial proceedings across these key locations to an abrupt halt for the day.
Security Protocols Activated, Premises Cleared
Upon receiving the threatening emails, authorities did not take any chances. Security protocols were swiftly activated at all three court complexes. The primary focus was on the Dharwad bench of the Karnataka High Court, where the premises were completely evacuated as a precautionary measure. Court officials, lawyers, litigants, and staff were all asked to leave the buildings immediately to ensure their safety.
Similar actions were taken simultaneously at the district court complexes in Gadag and Bagalkot. Police and bomb disposal squads were rushed to the scenes to conduct thorough sweeps of the buildings and surrounding areas. The coordinated response highlighted the seriousness with which the threats were treated.
Judicial Work Grinds to a Halt
The immediate consequence of the security alert was the suspension of all court work. Proceedings at the Dharwad High Court bench, along with those in Gadag and Bagalkot district courts, were officially suspended for the remainder of Tuesday, January 6, 2026. This disruption affected numerous scheduled hearings, case arguments, and official court functions, causing significant inconvenience to the legal fraternity and the public seeking justice.
While the search operations were underway, the areas around the court complexes were cordoned off. Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation to trace the origin of the bomb threat emails. Forensic analysis of the electronic messages is expected to be a key part of the probe to identify the individuals or groups responsible for causing the panic and disrupting the functioning of the judiciary.
Ongoing Investigation and Heightened Vigilance
As of now, no explosive devices have been found at any of the three locations following the intensive searches. However, the incident has raised serious concerns about the security of vital judicial infrastructure in the region. Law enforcement agencies are maintaining a heightened state of vigilance around other sensitive installations as well.
The bomb threat scare in North Karnataka underscores the evolving challenges faced by public institutions. It serves as a stark reminder for the need for robust cyber-security measures to prevent the misuse of digital communication for creating terror and chaos. The investigation continues, with officials determined to bring the perpetrators to justice.
