A wave of bomb threats sent shockwaves through India’s aviation industry on Monday, October 14th, disrupting flight operations and raising serious security concerns. The first incident involved an Air India flight bound for New York from Mumbai. The aircraft was diverted to Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport shortly after takeoff, following a bomb threat.
With 239 passengers and crew members on board, the flight was subjected to rigorous security protocols to ensure the safety of all. The diversion came just two days after the murder of NCP leader and former Maharashtra Minister Baba Siddique, allegedly at the hands of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The timing of the threats added to the already tense atmosphere.
Social media users reacted swiftly to the news, expressing their anxieties and concerns. Some shared humorous memes, while others voiced their worries about the increasing threats to security and safety.
Later in the day, two more bomb threats surfaced, targeting IndiGo flights. An IndiGo flight destined for Muscat from Mumbai received a bomb threat just minutes before takeoff. The aircraft was immediately grounded and moved to an isolated bay for thorough security checks.
In a statement, IndiGo confirmed the incident and assured passengers that all standard operating procedures were being followed to ensure their safety.
Adding to the unsettling day, a third IndiGo flight, scheduled to depart for Jeddah from Mumbai, also received a bomb threat. The series of bomb threats did not stop there. A fake bomb blast threat was issued via Twitter for the Mumbai-Hawra Mail, causing the train to be halted at Jalgaon for a security check.
The threats, while causing immense disruption, also highlighted the vulnerability of crucial transportation systems and raised critical questions about the effectiveness of security measures. Authorities are actively investigating all the incidents and taking necessary steps to ensure the safety of passengers and the public.
