Bomb Threats Cause Alarm for Airlines in India
On October 16, the Ministry of Home Affairs in India requested a report from the Ministry of Civil Aviation regarding a series of bomb threats targeting airlines across the country. Over the past 48 hours, at least 13 bomb threats were reported on both domestic and international flights, all of which were hoaxes.
Government Response
A senior official confirmed that the Ministry of Home Affairs has instructed the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Central Industrial Security Force, Bureau of Civil Aviation, National Investigation Agency, and Intelligence Bureau to compile a report on these threats. The central intelligence agency is overseeing the investigation to determine if these threats are part of a larger conspiracy against the Indian aviation sector.
Security Measures
Cyber units have been alerted to monitor and track social media accounts posting threats, many of which are operated from outside the country. These accounts are being suspended as they are identified.
Recent Incidents
On Wednesday, two flights received bomb threats. Akasa Air flight QP 1335, traveling from Delhi to Bengaluru, was diverted back to Delhi for security checks. The flight carried 174 passengers, 3 infants, and 7 crew members. Akasa Air’s Emergency Response teams are closely monitoring the situation.
Similarly, Indigo flight 6E 651, flying from Mumbai to Delhi, was redirected to Ahmedabad due to a security alert. The aircraft was isolated, and all passengers were safely disembarked. Both airlines emphasized their commitment to passenger safety.
Doubts Revealed
Ministry of Home Affairs -: The Ministry of Home Affairs is a part of the Indian government responsible for internal security and domestic policy. They handle issues like law and order, police, and border management.
Ministry of Civil Aviation -: The Ministry of Civil Aviation is a part of the Indian government that manages the country’s aviation sector. They oversee airlines, airports, and air travel safety.
Hoaxes -: A hoax is a false alarm or a trick. In this context, it means that the bomb threats were not real and were meant to cause panic.
Central intelligence agency -: In India, the central intelligence agency refers to organizations like the Intelligence Bureau (IB) that gather information to protect the country from threats.
Cyber units -: Cyber units are special teams that work to protect against threats on the internet. They monitor online activities to prevent cybercrimes and threats.
Akasa Air -: Akasa Air is a new airline in India that started operations recently. It offers domestic flights within the country.
Indigo -: Indigo is one of the largest and most popular airlines in India. It provides both domestic and international flights.