Authorities in the national capital swiftly responded to and neutralized a potential security scare on Tuesday after bomb threats were made against two prominent locations in central Delhi. The threats, targeting the Indian Women's Press Corps (IWPC) and the bustling Shankar Market, were later declared a hoax following exhaustive searches by security forces.
Swift Police Action Follows Threatening Emails
The incident unfolded when the Delhi Police received information about threatening emails sent to the Indian Women's Press Corps, an organization for women journalists located on Windsor Place. The email, received around 1:30 PM on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, claimed that explosives had been placed on the premises. Almost simultaneously, a similar threat was reported from the popular Shankar Market area in the Connaught Place shopping district.
Acting immediately on the alerts, teams from the Delhi Police, along with bomb detection and disposal squads, rushed to both locations. The areas were swiftly cordoned off as a standard precautionary measure. Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Pranav Tayal confirmed the rapid deployment and subsequent investigation.
Thorough Searches Confirm No Danger
At the IWPC building, security personnel conducted a meticulous floor-by-floor search. The operation was thorough, leaving no section unchecked. After a comprehensive sweep that lasted for a considerable time, the police confirmed that no suspicious item or explosive device was found. A similar exercise was carried out at Shankar Market, with the same result.
"Both calls were found to be hoax," stated DCP Pranav Tayal, putting to rest any lingering concerns. The all-clear was given after the searches concluded with negative findings. The quick and professional response ensured minimal disruption, although the initial alert caused a brief period of heightened tension in the central Delhi vicinity.
Investigation Launched to Trace Origin of Hoax
With the immediate threat neutralized, the focus has now shifted to uncovering the source of the false alarms. The Delhi Police have registered a case and initiated a detailed investigation to trace the origin of the threatening emails. Forensic analysis of the digital trail is expected to be a key component of the probe.
Hoax bomb threats are a serious offense, causing unnecessary panic and diverting critical security resources from real emergencies. Authorities are treating the matter with utmost seriousness to identify and apprehend the perpetrator. Such incidents also highlight the challenges faced by security agencies in metropolitan centers like Delhi, where they must balance rapid response with thorough verification.
The Indian Women's Press Corps, which has a long-standing history as a safe space and forum for women in media, resumed its normal operations following the police clearance. Shankar Market, a hub for clothing and fabric shops, also returned to its usual bustling activity. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of robust security protocols and public vigilance, even when threats ultimately prove to be non-credible.
