AMRITSAR– For the third consecutive day, the Golden Temple—Sikhism’s holiest shrine, also known as Harmandir Sahib—received a bomb threat on Wednesday, prompting heightened security measures and an extensive search operation by the Border Security Force’s bomb squad and Punjab Police.
The latest threat came via email to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), warning of explosives, specifically RDX-filled pipes, being planted within the temple complex.
Following the threat, security agencies were placed on high alert. A full sweep of the complex was conducted, with increased police presence and ongoing surveillance efforts that have been in place since the first threat on July 14.
Hundreds of devotees visit the Golden Temple daily to offer prayers. SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami condemned the threats, stating, “Darbar Sahib is a sacred place and has faced attacks in the past, yet it has always remained in high spirits.”
“Repeated bomb threats and emails since July 14 appear to be intended solely to spread panic among the devotees,” he said, suggesting the possibility of a larger conspiracy and calling for a thorough investigation.
The SGPC has responded by strengthening internal security with the deployment of its additional task force. Dhami added, “This is a place where everyone bows before the Guru Granth Sahib—regardless of caste or background. All are welcome to come and pay their respects.”
Commissioner of Police Gurpreet Singh Bhullar urged the public to remain calm, assuring that authorities are actively investigating. “The cyber cell is assisting us in tracking the source of these bomb threat emails, and we’re confident the case will be solved soon,” he said. “Security at the Golden Temple has been significantly increased, with bomb disposal squads and senior officers stationed to ensure foolproof safety.”
In light of the ongoing threats, police and intelligence agencies have also tightened security at other religious sites across the region. (Source: IANS)
