Delhi schools shaken by bomb threats thrice in a week, educators call for stricter safety protocols & more

Several schools in Delhi recently received bomb threats via email thrice in a week that has left citizens of the country in state of shock.

It was around 6 AM on Saturday, December 14, 2024, when Delhi Fire Services received a phone call about a bomb threat in several schools of the city – the third such incident that has left not just Delhiites but the entire nation in a state of shock. Soon after, dog squads and bomb detection teams thronged into action. Luckily, the team found nothing suspicious, news agency PTI reported.

Delhi police, dog squads and bomb detection teams launched massive inspection drives at schools following the bomb threats. However, nothing suspicious was found, (Image: PTI)

The schools in question include the Delhi Public School, RK Puram, Ryan International School in Vasant Kunj, and Gyan Bharati School in Saket among others.

Notably, the bomb scare was reportedly sent by an email ID identified as “childrenofallah@outlook.com” email id at 1:47 am, as per the PTI report. Prior to this, similar threats were sent in a span of five days.

For instance, about 30 schools received bomb threats over email on Friday, December 13, that triggered multi-agency search of their premises. Likewise, 44 schools received similar threats in their emails on Monday, December 9.

The police had however termed the threats as hoaxes when nothing suspicious was found in the school premises.

An unsettling event for students, teachers, and parents alike

Although fortunately, no untoward incident occurred following the bomb threats, it seems to have left a deep impact on students, teachers and parents. Educators have reiterated on the need for stricter safety protocols at education institutes.

For instance, Geeta Jayanth, the Head of School at Chaman Bhartiya School, said, “As an educator, nothing matters more to me than the safety and well-being of our students. The recent bomb threats targeting schools across India have been deeply unsettling for all of us—students, teachers, and parents alike. It's hard to put into words the fear these threats cause, but it's important to remember that we are not alone in facing these challenges.”

Emphasising the importance of not ignoring the seriousness of such threats and being united, Jayath stated, “We are strengthening our safety protocols, working closely with local authorities, and ensuring that our staff and students know how to respond effectively in case of any emergency.”

She added, “Schools are not just places of learning; they are sanctuaries where students should feel secure, supported, and empowered. We will continue to reassure our students that their safety is our top priority. We will foster an environment where they can still focus on their education and well-being, even amidst uncertainty. Our strength lies in our ability to come together—parents, teachers, students, and the community—to ensure that schools remain safe spaces for growth, learning, and hope."

Echoing similar views, Sona Gombar, School Head at Salwan Montessori School, said, “Bomb threats have become a recurring concern for schools, highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures to ensure safety. The safety of students and staff must be a school’s highest priority when dealing with such threats.”

She added, “Swift and systematic actions are crucial. Schools should establish strong in-house safety protocols, including regular safety drills for evacuation and lockdown scenarios. A non-porous campus design with controlled entry and exit points can minimize risks. All visitors must undergo identity verification, and scanning systems such as metal detectors and CCTV cameras should be strategically placed to monitor high-risk areas.”

Gombar pointed out that enhanced vigilance by the security team, including regular patrolling, is also essential. “Employing trained sniffer dogs as part of the security framework can add an extra layer of defense. These dogs, trained to detect explosives or drugs, can also serve as companions, fostering a sense of safety among students. Schools should collaborate with local law enforcement for timely response and specialized support.” She said.

She also stated that reacting to threats requires calm and precision, adding that communication with students, parents, and staff must be transparent but restrained to prevent panic.

“Education on identifying and reporting suspicious activity should be part of the curriculum. It’s time to act decisively and create safer schools for everyone,” added Gombar.

Student held for sending bomb threat

Meanwhile, on Saturday, a 12-year-old student was held for sending a bomb threat e-mail to his school in south Delhi's Vasant Vihar area, new agency PTI quoted police sources as saying.

The school was among the 30 that received bomb threats over email on Friday.

As per the report, the boy was given counselling and later allowed to go. His parents received a warning. The boy reportedly told police that he sent the mail after seeing media reports about several schools in Delhi getting bomb threats.

(With inputs from PTI)