July 18, 2025:
Tension gripped India’s tech capital on Thursday morning as 40 private schools across Bengaluru were targeted with bomb threats via email, triggering panic among students, staff, and parents. Schools in key areas such as Rajarajeshwari Nagar (RR Nagar), Kengeri, and other prominent localities were among those affected.
The emails, sent to the official IDs of the institutions, warned of explosive devices planted on campuses, prompting immediate evacuations and deployment of security forces. While initial panic spread quickly, authorities reacted with speed and precision to mitigate the potential threat.
Responding to the alerts, Bengaluru City Police launched a citywide security operation. Bomb Disposal Squads, dog squads, and forensic experts were rushed to the sites. School buildings, buses, playgrounds, and surrounding areas were thoroughly scanned. Students and faculty were escorted out safely and assembled at secure points as per standard emergency protocols.
Commissioner of Police B Dayananda confirmed that all affected schools were being thoroughly inspected. “We are not taking any chances. Each threat is being handled with utmost seriousness. Investigations are ongoing to trace the origin of the emails,” he said.
Parents rushed to campuses upon hearing the news, causing traffic snarls and widespread concern. However, school authorities maintained calm, ensuring orderly evacuations and communication with families.
Karnataka’s Home Minister, G Parameshwara, addressed the media shortly after the events unfolded. “Several schools have received bomb threats through email today. We have activated all emergency measures and police teams are working round the clock. Cybercrime experts are also involved in identifying the source,” he stated.
He urged the public not to panic and to cooperate with law enforcement. “We are taking this very seriously. At this stage, we cannot confirm whether the threat is credible or a hoax, but we are treating it as real until proven otherwise,” he added.
Preliminary assessments by the bomb squads have so far found no explosive devices, suggesting the possibility of a coordinated hoax. However, officials are not ruling out any motives, including attempts to disrupt academic activities or spread fear.
Cybersecurity teams are now analyzing email headers and digital footprints to trace the perpetrators. “We are working with national agencies to trace the origin of these emails. Anyone responsible for this will face strict legal consequences,” a senior officer from the Cybercrime Division said.
This incident follows similar threats that targeted schools in Delhi earlier this year, raising concerns about a pattern of disruptive intimidation aimed at educational institutions.
While classes remain suspended in some of the affected schools, the Education Department has assured that learning will resume once campuses are declared completely safe.
As Bengaluru recovers from the shock, questions are being raised about digital security in educational institutions and the psychological impact of such threats on students and families.
Police have urged citizens to remain alert and report any suspicious activities. Further updates will follow as investigations continue.
