Patna: Security measures at the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bodh Gaya, have been heightened following the receipt of a bomb threat. The temple management notified local police immediately upon receiving a threatening letter, which indicated plans to detonate explosives at the site.
Manoj Kumar Singh, the Station House Officer at Bodh Gaya Police Station, confirmed that investigations are underway to trace the source of the letter. The threat was received two days ago, and the police are actively working to determine its origins.
Reports suggest that the letter may have been sent in the name of ISIS. However, police officials are maintaining discretion and not releasing further details as the investigation continues. There are allegations that a notorious gangster from Jharkhand, identified as Prince Khan from Dhanbad, may be connected to the threat. A police team from Bodh Gaya is currently investigating in Dhanbad and has visited Khan’s residence, with initial findings indicating that he might be hiding in Dubai. Authorities are exploring whether he is directly involved in the threat or if others are responsible.
To ensure public safety, security around the temple has been significantly bolstered. Previous incidents of targeted attacks on the Mahabodhi Temple in 2013 and 2018 highlight ongoing concerns, but robust security measures prevented major consequences in those cases. The current investigation involves police collaboration between Bihar and Jharkhand, along with increased vigilance from central agencies due to the potential ISIS connection, aiming to identify those responsible for the threat and ensure the safety of the temple and its visitors.