Bomb Threats Target Airlines Over Eight Days: Government Holds Emergency Meeting
Bomb Threats Target Airlines: In light of bomb threats received by airlines over the past eight days, the Centre organized a virtual meeting on Wednesday with airline officials and representatives from social media platforms. The meeting, chaired by Joint Secretary Sanket S Bhondve, included officials from Air India and Vistara. The focus was on addressing the wave of hoaxes that have disrupted flights and heightened security concerns.
Social Media Platform X Under Scrutiny
The Union Ministry of Electronics and IT criticized social media platform X (formerly Twitter), where most of these hoaxes had spread. The government urged X to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based solutions to block accounts responsible for posting threatening messages. The ministry stressed the need for social media companies to take immediate action to prevent further panic caused by such anonymous threats.
New Laws and Stricter Penalties in Development
In response to the ongoing bomb threats, the Centre announced plans to introduce new laws targeting individuals responsible for such incidents. These laws may include adding offenders to the no-fly list and revising aircraft security regulations to ensure stricter penalties for those issuing bomb threats. The government aims to create a more robust legal framework to deter future hoaxes and maintain public safety.
Delhi Police Register Eight FIRs for Over 90 Threats
The Delhi Police have taken action by registering eight separate First Information Reports (FIRs) in connection with bomb threats made against over 90 domestic and international flights in the past week. Flights operated by Akasa, Air India, IndiGo, and Vistara, among others, were targeted. A senior police officer stated that the threats were made through anonymous posts on X, which have now been suspended. The investigation is still underway to identify those behind the hoaxes.
80 Bomb Threats in Less Than 24 Hours: Airlines Face Huge Losses
In less than 24 hours, around 80 domestic and international flights received bomb threats, all of which turned out to be false alarms. These incidents caused massive disruptions across airlines, with an estimated financial loss of Rs. 600 crore, according to former airline officials. On Tuesday alone, around 50 flights were affected, including 13 from IndiGo, 13 from Air India, 12 from Akasa Air, and 11 from Vistara. Thousands of passengers were affected, and security agencies were on high alert, working tirelessly to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Government and Airlines Continue to Tackle Threats
The government, airlines, and law enforcement agencies are working together to tackle these bomb threats and minimize the disruptions caused.
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As the investigation progresses, the Centre is taking steps to strengthen airline security and prevent future incidents through technological advancements and new regulations. The authorities are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all passengers.
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