Golden Temple Bomb Scare: Police Detain BTech Graduate From Faridabad

A 24-year-old software engineer from Faridabad, Haryana, named Shubham Dubey, was detained on July 18, 2025, in connection with a series of email bomb threats targeting the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab. The sacred Sikh shrine received six threatening emails between July 14 and July 18, raising widespread alarm and triggering a massive security response.

Timeline and Nature of Threats

The first threatening email was sent on July 14, 2025, to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), warning of a bomb attack at the Golden Temple. Over the next few days, five more emails were sent, intensifying the concern.

The emails allegedly referenced politically charged issues, including those related to southern Indian states, suggesting a deliberate attempt to stir tension. Apart from the SGPC, the threats were also sent to the Punjab Chief Minister's office and the Amritsar Member of Parliament.

Investigation and Arrest

Punjab Police's cybercrime division, supported by central intelligence agencies, launched a swift investigation. Cyber-forensic tracing led them to Shubham Dubey, whose laptop and mobile devices were confiscated for further analysis.

Police believe Dubey sent the emails to instigate fear and draw public attention, though he has no previous criminal record. He holds a BTech degree and has previously worked for several tech companies. While currently detained for questioning, a formal arrest is pending further forensic evaluation.

Security Reinforcement at the Golden Temple

In response to the threats, Amritsar Police in collaboration with the SGPC have implemented heightened security protocols around the Golden Temple. The measures include:

• Deployment of bomb disposal squads
• Presence of SWAT, SOG, and anti-riot units
• Supervision by a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP)-rank officer
• A dedicated SGPC task force to coordinate safety

Authorities have assured that investigations are progressing thoroughly and that devotees should remain calm. The Punjab government emphasized that public safety and the sanctity of the shrine are paramount.

Political and Religious Response

SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami expressed concern over whether the emails were the result of a lone individual's mental instability or part of a wider conspiracy.

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann convened high-level security reviews. Leaders from opposition parties have also weighed in, demanding greater accountability and vigilance, citing the extreme seriousness of threats directed at such a vital religious landmark.

With PTI Inputs