Gujarat Govt on High Alert After Bomb Threat Emails Target Schools Before Board Exams

Ahmedabad | Gujarat — Amid growing anxiety triggered by e-mails threatening to blow up several schools across Gujarat — including in Ahmedabad — the state administration has swung into high alert mode just days before crucial board examinations. In a high-level video conference, Gujarat Principal Secretary Sanjeev Kumar reviewed security preparedness with top officials across the state, sending a clear message: exam safety will not be compromised.

The meeting was attended by Ahmedabad City Police Commissioner G.S. Malik, Collector Sujit Kumar, District Education Officer Rohit Chaudhary, along with all police commissioners, collectors, DEOs and Superintendents of Police from various districts. The discussions primarily focused on maintaining law and order and preparing a clear Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) in case a bomb threat is received during ongoing examinations.

With the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Class 10 and 12 exams having commenced this week, and the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board exams set to begin shortly, concerns among parents have intensified.

“What if a bomb threat email arrives while our children are writing their exams?” worried parents have been asking.

Responding to the panic, a senior official said, “The administration is fully prepared. Detailed planning is underway to ensure that students can take their exams without fear. There will be zero tolerance towards any attempt to disrupt academic activities.”

Clear SOP in Case of Threat During Exam

Sources said the VC led by Sanjeev Kumar focused on defining precise roles for police and district officials if a bomb threat is received during exam hours. “Students must not panic. The response will be swift, coordinated and calm,” an official present in the meeting said.

Pre-exam security audits of schools have been made mandatory. Before students enter examination halls, police teams will thoroughly check school premises. Only after clearance will students be allowed to be seated.

“Maintaining an atmosphere of peace is our top priority. Parents should remain worry-free,” another official stated.

Ambulances and Fire Teams on Standby

In addition to police deployment, ambulances will be stationed outside examination centres to address medical emergencies such as dehydration or fainting during exams. Fire brigade teams will also remain on constant alert.

Traditionally, police presence at board exam centres is routine. However, in light of recent threats, security arrangements are being significantly strengthened.

Special Monitoring of Frequently Targeted Schools

Authorities will give additional attention to schools that have repeatedly received threatening emails over the past three months. Institutions like DAV School, which have reportedly received multiple threats, are under closer surveillance.

A senior police officer said, “We are tracking the origin of these emails. Enhanced monitoring and preventive measures are in place, especially for schools that have been repeatedly targeted.”