The security has been intensified at Uttarakhand court complexes after a series of bomb threat emails, and security measures have been in place, which led authorities to implement what officials termed a foolproof security plan. The relocation will turn the sensitive judicial premises into virtually invulnerable areas, where the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and other special units will be stationed in order to guarantee safety.
The police sources said that several courts, such as the High Court and the district courts, have, in the recent past, received anonymous threat emails threatening possible explosions within the court premises. Even though the preliminary investigations failed to identify any potential threats, the authorities are taking the threats seriously to eliminate any possible danger to the judges, lawyers, litigants and employees.
In reaction, the Uttarakhand police Headquarters gave orders to substantially increase the level of security in all court complexes in the state. Other police units, including Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Quick Response Team (QRTs), have been deployed at important places. The ATS has also been implemented to track and evaluate any potential terror-related angle in the backdrop of the threats.
There has been an increase in security checks at the entry and exit points. Visitors are also expected to be frisked heavily, and baggage scanning machines are also compulsory in various court premises. Security agencies have limited illegal access, reinforced it with CCTV cameras and placed more barricades around restricted areas.
According to senior police officials, the aim is to make sure that the courts will be able to carry on their operations with no interruption, although the utmost care must be taken. “We are not taking any chances. All threats are under serious consideration, and extensive precautions are already taken in order to protect the courts of law, an official added.
Cyber and intelligence teams are, in the meantime, researching the source of the threat emails. There are initial indications that the emails might have been passed through international servers, and thus, tracking down the individuals who sent the emails becomes difficult. The central agencies are also aiding in the investigation to help in finding the culprits and whether the threats were part of a bigger conspiracy.
The judiciary is an important institution in maintaining law and order, and any move to attack court complexes is considered a big challenge to the security of the people. By implementing the ATS and increasing police presence on the ground, the police will be trying to allay the fears of the citizens and law professionals that all attempts are made to ensure the premises are secured.
In the meantime, there are court proceedings under increased vigilance since the security agencies are putting high alert to avert any untoward event.
