by Rahul Kumar
Gaya: Following a bomb threat to the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, security has been heightened and the area is on high alert. The threat, sent by Jharkhand gangster Prince Khan, prompted Gaya police and security agencies to intensify their efforts to safeguard the temple and its surroundings.
The Mahabodhi Temple has seen increased security checks, with personnel closely monitoring everyone entering or exiting the temple. Devotees are undergoing thorough checks before being allowed access. The entire Bodhgaya area is also under heightened surveillance as police continue their investigation.
The threat, which was received in the form of a letter, claims that Prince Khan plans to blow up the temple. Khan, who has been on the run since 2021, is wanted for the murder of a land dealer. Despite the issuance of red and blue corner notices and a bounty of ₹30 lakh, Khan remains elusive. Investigations indicate that his mobile location was traced to Dubai, and Gaya police recently visited his residence in Wasseypur, Dhanbad, but he was not found.
Senior Superintendent of Police Ashish Bharti and other officers, including City SP Prerna Kumar, are overseeing the investigation. Bharti mentioned that while the threat seems to stem from a mischievous element, the police are thoroughly investigating all leads.
This is not the first time Mahabodhi Temple has been targeted; past terrorist plots in 2013 and 2019 aimed to disrupt peace but were thwarted by security forces. Authorities are determined to ensure the safety of the temple and its visitors. A case has been registered, and further actions are underway to apprehend those responsible for the threat.
