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A wave of bomb threats targeting Indian airlines has gripped the nation, disrupting air travel and raising serious concerns about aviation security. Over the past week, more than 170 flights operated by Indian carriers have received bomb threats, prompting a swift response from authorities and a growing sense of unease among passengers.
The Indian government has directly pointed the finger at microblogging site X, formerly known as Twitter, for its role in facilitating the spread of these hoaxes. The Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology condemned the platform for allowing the dissemination of alarming rumors, which have significantly disrupted air travel. This condemnation highlights the growing concern over the potential misuse of social media platforms to create panic and chaos.
In response to the escalating crisis, authorities are exploring innovative solutions, including AI-based measures to identify and block accounts that spread bomb threats. Officials have suggested that social media platforms should proactively implement these measures to prevent the spread of such harmful content, rather than waiting for security agencies to intervene. This proactive approach aims to curb the proliferation of false alarms and ensure a safer and more reliable air travel experience.
The government is also considering legislative actions to address the issue of bomb threats. These measures could include placing offenders on a no-fly list and amending the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against Safety of Civil Aviation Act (SUASCA), 1982. The proposed amendments would enable authorities to arrest and investigate individuals suspected of making bomb threats without requiring a court order, particularly when an aircraft is on the ground.
The Delhi Police have already filed eight FIRs related to the bomb threats, which have affected over 90 domestic and international flights. The threats were traced back to anonymous posts on X, with three accounts identified as responsible for the messages. The investigation revealed that these accounts may have been set up using VPNs or dark web browsers, highlighting the challenges in identifying and holding perpetrators accountable.
While authorities grapple with these threats, security measures at airports have been significantly tightened, including increased CCTV monitoring and thorough checks at checkpoints. The situation has caused considerable anxiety among passengers and heightened the pressure on security agencies. Several flights have been diverted due to the threats, further disrupting travel plans and adding to the public's sense of insecurity.
The ongoing crisis underscores the need for a multi-pronged approach to combatting threats to aviation security. This includes enhanced security measures at airports, proactive efforts by social media platforms to curb the spread of misinformation, and legislative measures to deter and punish those who engage in such activities. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in the aviation sector and the importance of constant vigilance and collaboration between authorities and the public to ensure the safety and security of air travel.
Source: Airline bomb threats: Centre pulls up X for hoax spread, proposes AI-based solution