Himachal Pradesh News
Shimla News : Unattended Suitcase Triggers Security Scare at Shimla’s Ridge; Anti-Bomb Squad Finds No Threat
A brief security scare gripped Shimla’s historic Ridge Ground on Republic Day after an unattended suitcase was spotted near the venue hours after the state-level celebrations, prompting swift action by police and the anti-bomb squad. The situation was later declared safe, with authorities confirming it to be a case of misunderstanding.
A brief security scare gripped Shimla’s historic Ridge Ground on Republic Day after an unattended suitcase was spotted near the venue hours after the state-level celebrations, prompting swift action by police and the anti-bomb squad. The situation was later declared safe, with authorities confirming it to be a case of misunderstanding.
The incident occurred on a day when security was already heightened following a bomb threat email received during the Republic Day parade. Around 5:30 pm, nearly four hours after the ceremony concluded peacefully, officials monitoring CCTV cameras noticed a suspicious suitcase lying unattended at the Ridge.
Given that the Ridge is classified as a highly sensitive location, the district control room immediately alerted security personnel. The area was promptly cordoned off and the anti-bomb squad was rushed to the spot as a precautionary measure.
After conducting a thorough inspection, the bomb disposal team found no explosives or suspicious material inside the suitcase.
Further investigation revealed that the bag belonged to a group of IIT alumni who were visiting Shimla as tourists. During questioning, one of them admitted that due to a misunderstanding, he assumed the suitcase was with his friends, while it had actually been left behind at the Ridge. The group later returned to retrieve it.
Police summoned the youths to the Sadar police station, verified their identities and documents, and, finding no foul play, released them.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sanjeev Gandhi said the incident highlights the administration’s strict vigilance at sensitive public locations. He added that continuous surveillance even after the event helped authorities detect the suspicious object in time.
Despite heavy snowfall and road closures in several parts of the city, security arrangements remained robust, ensuring that any potential risk was neutralised swiftly.
Officials reiterated that public cooperation and alertness are crucial to maintaining safety during large gatherings.
