Bomb threat email triggers evacuation at DU colleges

Two prominent Delhi University colleges, Ramjas College and Miranda House, were evacuated on Monday morning after receiving a bomb threat email that warned of multiple explosions on campus. According to officials, the threatening email was sent to the official email addresses of the college principals at around 8.17 am. The message raised alarm by claiming that a series of blasts would take place later in the day, around 12.50 pm.

The sender also alleged that as many as 13 bombs filled with toxic gases had been planted within the college premises. The nature of the threat caused immediate concern over the safety of students, faculty, and staff.

A senior police officer confirmed that Ramjas College and Miranda House were the institutions mentioned in the threat. Interestingly, while the body of the email did not clearly elaborate on the bomb threat, the subject line carried a direct warning about possible explosions. Authorities acted swiftly after the email was flagged. Police teams, along with Bomb Disposal Teams and Dog Squads, were rushed to both campuses to carry out thorough checks. “No chances were taken in such a situation. Immediate precautionary steps were initiated to ensure safety,” a police officer said.

Evacuation of both campuses began soon after the threat was received. Students, teaching staff, and other employees were asked to leave the premises in an orderly manner. They were moved to safe locations while security teams began their search operations.

Officials said the evacuation was carried out promptly to minimise any potential risk. College authorities also coordinated closely with the police to ensure that the process remained calm and controlled. Search operations were conducted across key areas of both campuses. Teams scanned classrooms, administrative blocks, open spaces, and other facilities to check for any suspicious objects or devices.

The deployment of specialised units such as Bomb Disposal Teams and Dog Squads was part of standard protocol in handling such threats. Officials said these teams are trained to detect explosives and assess risks in sensitive situations. Students present on campus at the time described a tense atmosphere as the evacuation unfolded.

“We were asked to leave immediately. There was confusion at first, but the authorities handled it quickly,” said a student from one of the colleges. Another student said the situation caused panic initially, but added that instructions were clear. “We were told to move out calmly. Security personnel were guiding everyone,” the student said.

Police officials said the focus remained on ensuring safety and verifying the credibility of the threat. No suspicious object had been reported at the time of the initial searches, but checks were continuing as a precaution.

Such threat emails are treated with seriousness, officials said, even when their authenticity is uncertain. Standard operating procedures require immediate response, including evacuation and detailed inspection of the premises. Authorities are also expected to investigate the origin of the email. Efforts will be made to trace the sender and determine whether the threat was genuine or a hoax.

The incident disrupted normal academic activities at both colleges for the day. Classes were suspended as security agencies continued their operations. The episode highlights the sensitivity of educational institutions to security threats and the importance of swift response mechanisms to ensure public safety.