Jharsuguda: On Friday, an email threatening a bomb attack sent to the Jharsuguda district judge’s official account led to heightened security concerns, prompting the evacuation of the district and sessions court facilities along with a thorough search by police and security teams. Following the investigation, officials confirmed the court complex was secure, labeling the threat as likely a hoax.

The email, which reached the district judge’s official address, alleged that 23 bombs had been placed in various locations within the court complex, including the judge’s chambers, and stated they were set to detonate around 1:15 PM. The judge’s office promptly notified the local police.

In response, the Jharsuguda district bar association issued an advisory urging all lawyers, court staff, and litigants to leave the area and assist security personnel during the search. Jharsuguda Superintendent of Police G R Raghavendra reported that the email was received at approximately 8 AM on Thursday. He stated, “Upon receiving the alert, police, assisted by a dog unit and bomb squad, conducted a comprehensive search of the court grounds. No suspicious items were discovered, and the court was confirmed to be entirely safe. At first glance, the email seems to be a hoax.”

Niladri Bihari Panda, secretary of the district bar association, commented, “Given that Jharsuguda is a sensitive area, everyone evacuated while the bomb squad conducted their search. Thus far, nothing suspicious has been identified. Similar bomb threat emails have been reported in other districts across Odisha as well.” Police have initiated a cyber investigation to identify the sender and ascertain the email’s origin.