Punjab Newsline | Ludhiana/Patiala

Punjab has been put on high alert after a threatening e-mail sent ahead of Independence Day triggered panic among security agencies. The e-mail, received by the Ludhiana District Court, Chandigarh Administration and e-Courts system-related e-mail addresses, allegedly threatened to carry out bomb blasts before August 15 and specifically mentioned Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Governor Gulab Chand Kataria as targets.

According to officials, the e-mail was sent on Monday morning at 8:57 am from the address mianetzy8@gmail.com. The message claimed that the Khalistan National Army (KNA) and Babbar Khalsa (Parmar-Canada faction) had jointly launched an "armed struggle" in Punjab.

Explosions threatened at multiple locations

The e-mail listed several locations and timings for alleged explosions:

  • Ludhiana District Court: 2:11 pm

  • Punjab Vidhan Sabha: 12:11 pm

  • Governor Gulab Chand Kataria: 9:11 pm

The message also contained direct threats against the Aam Aadmi Party government and its ministers, using derogatory language and warning that ministers would be targeted one by one.

Ferozepur named for "biggest blast" on August 15

In an apparent attempt to spread fear among the public, the e-mail warned parents not to send their children to schools or government Independence Day functions on August 15, claiming that bomb blasts would occur at multiple places across Punjab.

The message specifically stated that the "biggest blast" would take place in Ferozepur on Independence Day.

Names mentioned in the threatening letter

The e-mail ended with names of individuals purportedly claiming responsibility on behalf of the organisations:

Khalistan National Army (KNA):

  • Engineer Gurnakh Singh (Rukan Shahwala)

  • Dr. Gurnirvair Singh (Khan Rajada)

Babbar Khalsa (Parmar-Canada faction):

  • Prof. Gurakal Singh PhD (Khemkaran)

  • Prof. Gurangar Singh (Jandiala Guru)

Security agencies are verifying the authenticity of these claims.

Patiala District Court evacuated after bomb threat

In a related development, Patiala District Court was also evacuated on Monday after receiving a bomb threat through e-mail. The alert created panic in the court complex, prompting immediate action by the police and district administration.

Lawyers were asked to vacate their chambers, while litigants, court staff and visitors were moved to safer locations. Police teams, bomb disposal squads and other security personnel conducted an intensive search operation throughout the premises.

Security outside the court complex was significantly strengthened, and officials said all safety protocols were implemented immediately to avoid any risk.

State-wide security alert issued

Following the threats, Punjab Police and intelligence agencies have intensified surveillance at courts, government buildings, the Punjab Assembly, schools and venues hosting Independence Day celebrations. Authorities are also working to trace the origin of the e-mail and identify those responsible.