Nagpur and Pune security agencies were placed on high alert on Wednesday following a threatening email from a self-styled Khalistan National Army, which warned of multiple bomb blasts at key locations including the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters and the Hedgewar Memorial in Nagpur, the Maharashtra Vidhan Bhawan, and the Pune Mayor's office along with civic authority buildings.
Heightened Security Measures
The threat has escalated security concerns across Maharashtra, particularly at sensitive administrative and ideological sites. The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), along with state and central intelligence agencies, has been mobilized to address the situation. A senior security official remarked, "Digital bomb threats, even if hoax, often disrupt public life and administrative functioning."
Details of the Threat Email
The email, sent from the address tamiae793@gmail.com under the name Tamia Edwards, was received at 8:56 am on Wednesday. It was forwarded by the Pune Municipal Corporation's IT support department to top civic body officials and senior police officers, who subsequently alerted the Maharashtra police control room. Sources indicate that the subject line read: "Bomb Blast Pune Mayor MC Office."
The message specified precise targets and timings, including an IED blast at the Pune Mayor's Office at 1:11 pm, Vidhan Bhavan at 3:11 pm, the Sangh headquarters and Hedgewar Bhavan at 3:11 pm, and RSS shakhas in the Nagpur-Pune region at 6:11 am and 9:11 am. The letter claimed that key locations would be targeted between June and September.
The inflammatory content began with the slogan "Nagpur Pune Goonje Ga Khalistan" and referenced the 1984 Operation Bluestar and Operation Woodrose, alleging that Sikh youths were eliminated in armed operations. It concluded with slogans of revenge, identifying the senders as the Khalistan National Army, according to a top intelligence official speaking to TOI.
Security Response and Searches
Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar confirmed that searches and anti-sabotage checks were conducted at three locations. Nagpur Police Chief Ravinder Singal stated that bomb detection and disposal squads carried out searches and anti-sabotage checks at various places, including the Sangh headquarters, Hedgewar memorial, RSS shakhas, and Vidhan Bhavan in Nagpur. An official reported, "No explosive devices have been found at any of the mentioned locations so far."
Investigation Underway
Cyber cells in both cities have initiated a probe to trace the Gmail account and determine whether the threat is a hoax aimed at creating panic or part of a coordinated campaign. Senior officials have appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
