Bomb Threat Sparks 1 Panic in Dharwad High Court, Gadag and Bagalkot Courts

A wave of panic gripped the judicial establishments in northern Karnataka on Monday as bomb threats were reported at the High Court in Dharwad and the District Courts in Gadag and Bagalkot. Court officials, staff, lawyers, and visitors were immediately evacuated following the alarming notices, prompting a swift response from law enforcement and bomb disposal squads. The incident caused widespread fear, disrupted ongoing hearings, and brought normal court proceedings to a halt for several hours, highlighting the vulnerabilities of public institutions to security threats.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of tension and confusion as court staff hurriedly guided litigants and visitors to designated evacuation points. Many citizens reported feeling anxious and frightened as the announcements came over the public address system, prompting families and individuals to leave personal belongings behind in the rush. Lawyers present at the High Court in Dharwad praised the efficiency of the evacuation, noting that despite the initial panic, staff remained composed and ensured that no one was harmed during the process.

In Gadag, local residents who had accompanied litigants to the District Court expressed relief at the swift action taken by authorities. Several elderly visitors and persons with disabilities were assisted by volunteers and security personnel, highlighting the inclusive nature of the emergency response. Court staff coordinated with local police to ensure that evacuation routes were clear, minimizing the risk of crowding or accidents during the hurried movement of people out of the buildings.

Bomb disposal teams conducted a meticulous search of every floor, courtroom, and office space in all three judicial complexes. Explosives detection dogs were used to sweep the premises, while bomb disposal experts employed specialized equipment to inspect suspicious objects and mail deliveries. While no actual threat was discovered, authorities emphasized that these steps are critical in building confidence among the public and ensuring that even potential hazards are taken seriously.

Officials indicated that lessons learned from the incident would lead to improved future preparedness. Discussions are underway to enhance training for court staff in emergency response, including first aid, crowd management, and coordination with law enforcement. Authorities also plan to install additional surveillance cameras, improve communication systems, and conduct regular mock drills to test the effectiveness of evacuation procedures and emergency coordination between police and judicial authorities.

Local civic bodies and community organizations praised the prompt response of authorities but urged continued vigilance. Residents noted that maintaining calm, following official instructions, and avoiding speculation are essential during such situations. The incident has also sparked discussions on broader security reforms, including tighter screening of visitors, improved threat detection mechanisms, and the establishment of rapid-response task forces for public institutions across Karnataka.

According to officials, the threat was received in the form of a telephonic call and an email, both indicating the possible presence of explosive devices within the premises. Court authorities, prioritising the safety of staff and visitors, immediately evacuated all sections of the High Court in Dharwad, as well as the district judiciary complexes in Gadag and Bagalkot. Lawyers and litigants expressed shock at the sudden evacuation, with many describing scenes of confusion as staff guided people to safety zones.

Law enforcement agencies, including local police and the Karnataka State Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad, were rushed to all three locations. Sniffer dogs, metal detectors, and bomb disposal robots were deployed to conduct thorough searches of courtrooms, corridors, and parking areas. Traffic around the judicial complexes was temporarily restricted to prevent any obstruction and to ensure smooth access for emergency response teams. Officials emphasised that no explosive devices were found, but the comprehensive sweep continued to ensure complete safety.

The High Court registrar confirmed that all ongoing hearings were suspended, and cases were rescheduled to later dates. Judges and court staff were kept under precautionary measures until the premises were declared secure. “Our priority is to ensure the safety of every individual in the building. We have coordinated with law enforcement agencies to conduct a meticulous inspection before allowing normal functioning to resume,” said a senior court official in Dharwad.

Law Enforcement Response and Investigation

Police sources revealed that the telephonic and electronic threats are being treated as serious, and an investigation has been initiated to trace their origin. Cybercrime experts are analyzing the emails, while local police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify any suspicious activity near the affected judicial complexes. Authorities are also questioning individuals who may have inadvertently or deliberately facilitated the threat.

Security officials emphasised that the quick evacuation was critical in preventing potential casualties and maintaining public order. Special squads from the Karnataka State Police were stationed at strategic locations to monitor the surroundings, while additional personnel were deployed to guard entry and exit points. Law enforcement maintained that the high alert was necessary given the sensitive nature of judicial institutions and the potential for widespread panic if a threat is perceived as real.

Investigators are exploring multiple angles, including the possibility of the threat being a hoax designed to disrupt court proceedings or create fear among the public. “Even if it turns out to be a false alarm, it highlights the need for heightened vigilance and advanced preparedness in handling such situations,” a police spokesperson said. Authorities are also liaising with intelligence agencies to determine whether the threat has any larger implications beyond the immediate district courts.

Impact on Judicial Proceedings and Public Reaction

The bomb threat caused significant disruption to court schedules in all three districts. Lawyers, litigants, and staff faced delays, with some hearings postponed for several days. Court employees were instructed to remain on standby for emergency duties, while legal representatives were asked to coordinate with respective court registrars regarding rescheduling. Judges emphasised the importance of remaining calm and ensuring that all safety protocols are followed meticulously.

Members of the public who were present during the evacuation expressed anxiety and frustration at the sudden disruption. “We were waiting for our hearing when suddenly we were told to evacuate. Everyone was running and unsure what was happening. It was a terrifying experience,” said a litigant from Gadag. Lawyers present in Bagalkot noted that while the evacuation was necessary, clear communication and guidance from court staff helped avoid panic among the public.

Authorities also issued public advisories urging citizens not to spread rumours or unverified information regarding the threat. Social media platforms witnessed a flurry of posts about the alleged bomb, prompting police to caution against speculation, which could exacerbate fear. Officials reiterated that public cooperation is crucial in managing such emergencies effectively.

Security Measures and Preventive Steps

In response to the incident, the judiciary in Dharwad, Gadag, and Bagalkot has strengthened security protocols. Entry points have been reinforced with metal detectors and frisking procedures, while CCTV coverage is being enhanced to monitor all critical areas. Court staff have been trained in evacuation drills, and emergency communication systems have been updated to ensure rapid dissemination of information in case of future threats.

Law enforcement agencies indicated that similar protocols could be extended to other district courts in the State to prevent disruptions. Officers highlighted that constant vigilance, periodic drills, and coordination between judicial authorities and police are key to safeguarding both personnel and visitors. Measures also include random security audits, deployment of additional guards during high-profile cases, and heightened surveillance during sensitive hearings.

Officials emphasised that while no explosives were found during the inspection, the incident serves as a reminder of potential vulnerabilities in public spaces. Authorities encouraged citizens, lawyers, and staff to report suspicious activities immediately, adhere to evacuation instructions, and maintain calm during security alerts. These preventive measures aim to build a culture of preparedness and resilience in Karnataka’s judicial institutions.

Political and Administrative Reactions

The bomb threat has drawn reactions from political and administrative circles, with leaders urging calm and commending the prompt action by law enforcement. The Chief Minister’s office released a statement lauding the coordination between judicial authorities and police, underscoring the importance of citizen safety in all circumstances. Political parties, while expressing concern, emphasised that speculation should be avoided until investigations provide clear facts.

District collectors in Dharwad, Gadag, and Bagalkot convened emergency meetings with law enforcement and court officials to review security protocols and ensure that ongoing operations would not compromise safety. Administrative officials highlighted the need for a comprehensive review of threat response mechanisms, including integration of technology, rapid communication channels, and contingency planning for mass evacuations.

Security experts noted that judicial complexes are high-risk zones given the sensitive nature of cases and the presence of large numbers of people. They recommended adopting state-of-the-art surveillance systems, bomb detection technology, and continuous training of security personnel to respond swiftly to threats. Experts emphasised that even hoax threats must be treated seriously to prevent casualties and maintain public confidence in institutional safety.

Conclusion: Vigilance, Preparedness, and Public Cooperation

The bomb threat in Dharwad, Gadag, and Bagalkot underscores the need for heightened vigilance in public institutions. While the threat was ultimately unfounded, the swift evacuation and comprehensive inspection by law enforcement ensured that no harm came to staff, lawyers, or visitors. Authorities reiterated the importance of public cooperation, adherence to emergency protocols, and avoidance of misinformation.

The incident also highlights the role of technology, coordination, and training in preventing potential disasters in sensitive locations. Moving forward, the judiciary and law enforcement agencies are likely to adopt more rigorous preventive measures, ensuring that Karnataka’s judicial institutions remain secure and capable of functioning uninterrupted even in the face of threats. Citizens and officials alike are reminded that vigilance, preparedness, and calm are the strongest tools in responding to such emergencies.

Follow: Karnataka Government