The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, responsible for the construction and management of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, received a bomb threat via email on Tuesday, triggering an immediate response from local and central security agencies. The chilling message, which warned the trust to “increase your security,” has put law enforcement on high alert, especially as the temple continues to witness high footfall from devotees across the country.
According to officials, the email was received at the trust’s official address in the early hours of the morning. The sender, whose identity remains unverified, threatened that explosives had been planted near the Ram Mandir complex and advised the trust to bolster its security arrangements. The trust, without delay, informed the Ayodhya police and Uttar Pradesh’s anti-terror squad (ATS), prompting a swift deployment of bomb detection and disposal squads in and around the temple premises.
Heightened Security in the Temple Town
Following the alert, security was significantly ramped up in the entire Ram Janmabhoomi complex. A multi-layered security cordon has been established around the temple, with sniffer dogs, metal detectors, and bomb squads combing through every corner of the area. Entry and exit points to the city and temple complex have been closely monitored, and frisking protocols have been intensified.
Devotees visiting the temple were temporarily restricted during the initial phase of the security sweep. However, normal darshan resumed later in the day with additional surveillance and tighter crowd control. The district administration has assured that the threat is being taken seriously and that the safety of pilgrims and temple staff remains their top priority.
Investigation Underway
The Uttar Pradesh Police, in coordination with cybercrime experts, has launched an investigation to trace the source of the threatening email. Officials revealed that the email was sent from an IP address routed through a foreign server, indicating the possibility of either a prank or an attempt to sow panic.
A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including criminal intimidation and issuing threats to cause public alarm. Police sources have not ruled out the possibility of involvement by anti-social or extremist elements, given the sensitive history surrounding the Ram Mandir and its political and religious significance.
“We are analyzing digital trails and working closely with central agencies. Nothing will be taken lightly when it comes to the security of a religious site of this magnitude,” said a senior police officer involved in the probe.
Trust Issues Statement
Reacting to the incident, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust issued a brief statement urging devotees to remain calm and continue visiting the temple without fear. The trust also expressed full confidence in the law enforcement agencies and thanked them for their prompt response.
“This is a temple of national pride and devotion. Attempts to create fear among devotees will not succeed. We are cooperating fully with the police and have increased internal security measures as a precaution,” the statement read.
Political Reactions and Public Sentiment
The bomb threat has elicited strong reactions from across the political spectrum. Leaders from various parties condemned the act and demanded strict action against the perpetrators. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held a high-level meeting with senior police and intelligence officials, instructing them to leave no stone unturned in ensuring the temple’s security.
BJP leaders called it a “cowardly attempt” to disturb peace and devotion at one of India’s holiest sites. Meanwhile, opposition leaders also urged the government to remain vigilant and avoid communal polarization while handling the matter sensitively.
Across Ayodhya, the news of the threat sparked both anxiety and resolve among residents and devotees. While many expressed concern over safety, others emphasized that such threats would not deter them from visiting the temple.
As the Ram Mandir nears completion and prepares for its grand inauguration later this year, the recent bomb threat serves as a stark reminder of the security challenges surrounding high-profile religious sites in India. With investigations underway and security intensified, authorities remain committed to ensuring that faith and peace in Ayodhya are not disrupted by fear or provocation.