Delhi was put on high alert on Saturday, February 21, after receiving specific intelligence inputs about a possible terror attack by the Pakistan-based banned terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Why is Delhi on high alert?
According to senior police officials, new intelligence was received on Saturday, indicating a possible attack in the national capital. Initial threat inputs had reportedly emerged before Republic Day celebrations and were evaluated then. But the new inputs are believed to have more specific information, which has led to increased vigilance in the sensitive areas.
Temple near Red Fort under focus
A temple in Chandni Chowk has been identified as a possible target. This area is close to the historic Red Fort and has huge footfall throughout the day. The security arrangement in and around the area has been increased, with extra vigilance in religious and historical sites in the city.
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Islamabad blast ‘revenge’ angle
According to sources quoted by news agencies, the suspected terror attack could be a revenge attack by the terror outfit for the February 6 suicide bombing at a Shia mosque in Islamabad, which killed at least 31 people.
Pakistan had earlier hinted at external involvement in the Islamabad blast, a claim India rejected in an official statement, calling the allegations baseless. “It is unfortunate that, instead of seriously addressing the problems plaguing its social fabric, Pakistan chooses to delude itself by blaming others for its homegrown ills. India rejects any and every such allegation, which is as baseless as it is pointless”, Hindustan Times reported.
Possible IED threat
Security agencies have indicated that the possible plot may rely on an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). It is important to note that the tips are being verified, and security has been heightened at major places. The CCTV network has been expanded, and vehicle checks have been made more stringent. Bomb disposal squads, dog squads, and quick reaction teams are on standby.
Also Read | Red Fort on radar again? Delhi Police intensifies vigil amid Mahashivratri celebrations
During the recent Mahashivratri festival, a Deputy Commissioner of Police-ranking officer, along with trained commandos, was present at vulnerable spots in Chandni Chowk.
Recent security backdrop
The latest alert has been sounded a few months after a deadly car explosion occurred near Gate 1 of the Red Fort metro station on November 10, 2025. In January, intelligence agencies had also sounded an alert about possible threats from the Khalistani and Bangladesh-based outfits.
Officials said the capital remains under constant watch, especially amid ongoing high-profile events in the city. "Bomb disposal squads, dog squads and quick reaction teams have also been placed on standby at strategic locations," PTI quoted officials as saying.
