Patna: Security was beefed up in Bodh Gaya in Bihar after two cane bombs of high intensity were found near the Buddhist pilgrimage site on Friday evening, reminding the 2013 serial blasts which partially damaged the sanctum sanctorum of the Mahaboddhi temple.
Bodh Gaya, where Buddha got enlightenment in the 6th century BC, is considered the holiest land for Buddhists across the globe. Millions of Buddhists and tourists visit Bodh Gaya every year to offer prayers in the temple.
According to police, bombs were found from the vicinity of the Kaalchakra ground where Tibetan spiritual guru is currently giving religious discourses and near Mahaboddhi temple, prompting the authorities to tighten security around the area.
Police said the search operations were carried out after a small explosion took place in a kitchen set up at the Kaalchintan ground, causing panic among people who had gathered to hear the Dalai Lama’s discourse.
“We have got significant leads about the people planting the bombs but can’t disclose details at this moment as this could affect our investigation,” Bihar director general of police PK Thakur told the media on Saturday. He claimed the probe was moving in the right direction.
The explosion took place shortly after the Dalai Lama had completed his discourse and retired for the day at the Tibetan monastery. Reports said during the operations, a burst flask was found in the kitchen.
Right now, the Dalai Lama is staying in Bodh Gaya, giving religious discourses. Keeping in view the recovery of cane bombs, the security of Dalai Lama and the Tibetan monetary, his current stay at Bodh Gaya, has been tightened.
Authorities said the vigil had also been intensified in the entire Bodh Gaya and every visitor is being thoroughly checked.
Hollywood actor Richard Gere along with thousands of Buddhist followers too are also present in the town to hear Dalai Lama and offer prayers at the Mahaboddhi temple.
Reports said the recovered bombs have been dumped on the sandy beds of the river Falgu which flows by the town and the entire area has been cordoned off.
The recovery of bombs has brought to memory 2013 serial blasts that had rocked Bodh Gaya. At that time, explosions were reported at some 10 places, including inside the Mahaboddhi temple.
