With just a few days remaining until Republic Day 2026, security agencies are on heightened alert in the national capital following fresh intelligence inputs indicating potential threats around the celebrations. Central intelligence agencies have received a classified report that has prompted a comprehensive review of security arrangements, particularly for Republic Day events and the ‘Beating the Retreat’ ceremony.
According to sources, the nature of the threat has evolved. Instead of conventional weapons such as firearms or RDX, militants are now believed to be focusing on low-cost explosives, drones, and improvised bombs made using chemicals that are easily available online. Intelligence officials say this shift has led to renewed concerns within the administration.
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International terror outfits such as Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State are reportedly circulating ‘Do-It-Yourself’ (DIY) bomb-making videos on social media platforms. The chemicals used in these new forms of improvised explosive devices are said to be readily accessible, making detection and prevention more challenging.
One of the major concerns, officials say, is that such explosives may evade conventional metal detectors and sniffer dogs. Intelligence inputs suggest that militants are increasingly relying on disguise and technology rather than traditional methods. There are apprehensions that attempts could be made to access VVIP zones using fake identity cards, forged passes, or even uniforms resembling those of security personnel.
The security situation has also been impacted by developments linked to ‘Operation Sindoor’. Pakistani militant organisations such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba have reportedly issued threats on social media, calling for retaliation. According to intelligence sources, their stated targets include major economic centres, religious sites, tourist locations, and top VVIPs across the country.
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Officials have also linked the large explosion that occurred near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10 to the White Collar Terror Module of Faridabad. Intelligence agencies believe the blast may have been a test run or rehearsal connected to a larger plot.
In addition to ground-based threats, intelligence inputs indicate the possibility of aerial attacks using drones or remotely operated systems. Reports also suggest that militants have prepared plans to conceal explosives within everyday objects using traditional concealment methods.
In response to these multi-layered threats, Delhi Police and paramilitary forces have been placed on high alert. Security agencies have adopted a zero-tolerance approach to ensure that the Republic Day celebrations proceed without incident. Despite the extensive precautions, security agencies remain cautious as monitoring continues.
