What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
In recent weeks, India has witnessed a disturbing surge in hoax bomb threats targeting its airlines. This wave of false alarms has disrupted air travel and posed significant challenges to the nation’s security apparatus. The gravity of these threats cannot be understated, as they have the potential to cause widespread panic, economic losses, and strain on security resources.
The aviation sector is a critical component of India’s infrastructure, facilitating both domestic and international travel. The recent spate of bomb threats has led to multiple flight diversions, emergency landings, and extensive security checks. For instance, on a single day, seven flights, including those operated by IndiGo, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet, were subjected to bomb threats, causing significant delays and inconvenience to passengers. These incidents not only disrupt the schedules of thousands of travellers but also incur substantial financial costs for airlines and airports.
Moreover, the psychological impact on passengers cannot be ignored. The fear and anxiety induced by such threats can deter people from flying, affecting overall confidence in air travel. The aviation industry, already reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, cannot afford another blow to its recovery efforts.
A notable aspect of these threats is their dissemination through social media platforms. The use of VPNs and anonymous accounts to issue threats makes it challenging for authorities to trace the culprits. For example, the account @schizobomber777 was responsible for multiple threats before being suspended. This highlights the need for stricter regulations and monitoring of social media to prevent the misuse of these platforms for malicious purposes.
In response to the escalating threats, the Indian government has taken several measures to enhance aviation security. The deployment of additional air marshals, the formation of assessment committees, and the comprehensive review of security protocols are steps in the right direction. However, these measures must be complemented by robust intelligence gathering and international cooperation to effectively counter the threat.
The involvement of multiple agencies, including the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and Intelligence Bureau, underscores the seriousness with which the government is addressing the issue. The coordinated efforts to analyze patterns and trace the origins of these threats are crucial in preventing future incidents.
The legal framework to deal with hoax threats must be stringent enough to deter potential offenders. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, provides severe punishments for those making false bomb threats, including imprisonment and fines. Sections 351 and 353 of the Act, along with Section 66F of the Information Technology Act, address the spread of false information and cyber terrorism. Ensuring swift and decisive action against perpetrators will send a strong message that such acts will not be tolerated.
