Delhi is on high alert following intelligence reports indicating potential terrorist attacks planned by the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) group. The threat focuses on religious sites, with a temple in the Chandni Chowk area, near the Red Fort, identified as a potential target, officials said .
Revenge Motive Linked to Islamabad Blast
The alleged motive behind the planned attacks is retaliation for a suicide bombing that occurred on , at a Shia mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan. The blast claimed at least 31 lives. Intelligence sources suggest LeT is seeking to “avenge” the attack.
Pakistan has suggested external involvement in the Islamabad bombing, a claim India has dismissed as “baseless and pointless.” In a statement earlier this month, India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated, “This proves unfortunate that, instead of seriously addressing the problems plaguing its social fabric, Pakistan should choose to delude itself by blaming others for its home-grown ills.”
IED Threat and Heightened Security Measures
Intelligence sources have indicated that the potential attack involves the use of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). Initial intelligence regarding potential threats was received prior to Republic Day celebrations, but new, specific intelligence received on suggests an imminent plot.
In response, security has been significantly increased around key religious and heritage sites in Delhi. Central agencies and Delhi Police are coordinating closely to monitor vulnerable locations. Surveillance has been intensified through CCTV monitoring, stringent vehicle checks, and increased personnel deployment. Bomb disposal squads, dog squads, and quick reaction teams have been placed on standby at strategic locations.
A Deputy Commissioner of Police-rank officer, accompanied by trained commandos, was deployed at the Gauri Shankar temple in Chandni Chowk during Mahashivratri celebrations as part of the heightened security measures. Officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Recent Security Concerns in Delhi
This latest high alert follows a series of security incidents in the capital. On , a car explosion near Gate 1 of the Red Fort metro station killed over 10 people and exposed a “massive terror module.”
In January , intelligence agencies also flagged threats from Khalistani and Bangladesh-based terror outfits. According to reports, “Punjab-based gangsters are increasingly acting as foot soldiers for Khalistani and radical handlers operating from abroad.” These handlers are allegedly using criminal networks to disrupt internal security, with activity reported across Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
One police officer noted that while intelligence is being verified, the city remains under constant watch, particularly given the AI Summit hosted in Delhi this week.
The current alert underscores the ongoing security challenges facing India, particularly in the context of regional geopolitical tensions and the persistent threat of cross-border terrorism. The focus on religious sites reflects a broader concern about attempts to incite communal unrest and destabilize the country. The coordinated response from central agencies and Delhi Police demonstrates a commitment to proactive security measures, but also highlights the need for continued vigilance and intelligence gathering.
The alleged link between the planned attacks and the Islamabad mosque bombing adds a complex layer to the situation. While India has rejected Pakistan’s claims of external involvement in the Islamabad attack, the stated motive of revenge raises concerns about potential escalation and further attempts to exploit regional vulnerabilities. The situation remains fluid, and security agencies are continuing to assess the threat level and refine their response strategies.
