kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Panic has gripped the city after authorities received a bomb threat targeting the iconic Victoria Memorial, Kolkata, one of the most famous historical and tourist destinations in eastern India. Reports suggest that the memorial administration received an alarming email and a written threat claiming that the monument would be blown up with explosives. There were also indications that the threat was circulated through social media platforms, further intensifying public concern.

The authorities immediately informed the police station at Hastings, prompting swift security action. A large contingent of police personnel has been deployed around the memorial premises. Specialized teams including bomb disposal experts and dog squads have started thorough inspection operations to ensure public safety. Visitors and tourists have been advised to avoid crowded movement around the site until the security check is completed.

The threat has created anxiety because the memorial is located close to the area where political activity has recently been taking place. The distance between the memorial and the protest venue at Dharmatala Metro Channel is approximately three kilometres, leading officials to remain highly cautious about any potential security risk.

The Kolkata police have not yet confirmed the identity of the sender behind the threat email or letter. Investigators are examining digital footprints, social media activity and communication records in order to trace the source of the warning. Authorities have urged the public not to panic and have assured that the security arrangements are strong.

The bomb threat has revived memories of previous nationwide intimidation attempts, where several important government facilities and public service centres were threatened with RDX-based attacks. In recent incidents, security alerts had forced temporary closure of major postal and passport service offices across the country.

The arrest of a suspect from the border region of North 24 Parganas in connection with similar threats has drawn attention. Investigators are checking whether there is any link between that case and the present warning regarding the memorial.

Tourists and local residents remain anxious as security agencies continue their search operation around the historic monument, hoping to restore normalcy soon.