Hoax Bomb Threats to Airlines Now Cognizable Offense

Hoax bomb threat calls will become a cognizable offense, announced Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu. This decision follows a surge in hoax calls that disrupted flight operations nationwide. Perpetrators will be added to the airlines’ no-fly lists, and discussions to amend existing laws are underway.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu confirmed that hoax bomb threat calls to airlines will now be classified as a cognizable offense. This significant decision comes after several airlines faced multiple hoax calls recently, disrupting flight operations across the country. The Minister highlighted that the situation is sensitive and requires immediate attention.

Naidu stated at a press conference, “We have conducted multiple meetings on this issue and concluded that amendments to the rules and regulations are necessary.” He further explained that these changes aim to bolster the efforts against such threats. Once apprehended, individuals responsible for these hoax calls will be placed on the airlines’ no-fly lists.

The Aviation Ministry is actively coordinating with other government departments to enhance existing laws. “We have the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Civil Aviation Act, and we are working on amending this act,” Naidu said. He also pointed out the need for modifications to the Aircraft Security Rules.

The Minister added, “We are trying to assess the situation. It is a very sensitive situation.” Over 75 airlines reported receiving threat messages recently, either written in lavatories or disseminated via social media. On a single day, more than 30 flights received these alarming messages. Airlines affected include prominent carriers such as Air India, IndiGo, Akasa Air, Vistara, SpiceJet, Star Air, and Alliance Air.

Investigations revealed that common phrases were used in these false threats, including “bombs,” “blood will spread everywhere,” “explosive devices,” and “this is not a joke.” The phrase “bomb rakhwa dia hai,” meaning “a bomb has been placed,” was also noted. A 17-year-old boy from Chhattisgarh has been arrested for his involvement in some of these calls, but the majority of the threats remain untraced.

In light of these incidents, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) convened a meeting with CEOs and representatives of various airlines in New Delhi on Saturday. The aim was to discuss strategies to address this alarming trend effectively.

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