A series of alarming bomb threat emails triggered a major security scare and forced the evacuation of the Dharwad High Court and adjacent district courts on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. The incident led to the immediate suspension of all judicial proceedings for the day and prompted a massive response from security agencies.
Panic and Precautionary Evacuation
Upon receiving the threatening emails, authorities did not take any chances. Following standard security protocols, the entire court complex located on P B Road in Dharwad was swiftly evacuated. Judges, lawyers, court staff, litigants, and visitors were all moved to safety as a precautionary measure. The decision to evacuate underscores the seriousness with which such threats are treated, even as investigations into their credibility begin.
Heightened Security and Disrupted Proceedings
In the wake of the threats, security was significantly tightened around the court premises. Police and security personnel cordoned off the area, conducted preliminary checks, and increased surveillance. The court proceedings for the day were officially suspended, causing inevitable delays in numerous cases listed for hearings. This disruption highlights the vulnerability of public institutions to such acts of intimidation and the wide-ranging impact they create.
Investigation Underway, Community on Edge
While the immediate threat was addressed through evacuation, the source and motive behind the bomb threat emails remain unknown. Law enforcement agencies have launched a full-scale investigation to trace the origin of the emails. The incident has left the legal community and citizens in Dharwad unsettled, raising concerns over the safety of public spaces. It serves as a stark reminder for the need for robust cyber-forensics to tackle such digital threats aimed at creating public panic.
The events of January 6 have put a spotlight on the security preparedness at vital judicial infrastructure in Karnataka. The coming days will be crucial as investigators work to identify the perpetrators behind this alarming act.
