Delhi on High Alert Over Alleged Lashkar-e-Taiba Plot Targeting Religious Sites
Prime Vista News
New Delhi: Security agencies in Delhi have heightened alert levels following intelligence inputs suggesting a possible Lashkar-e-Taiba plot targeting religious places, including areas near Red Fort and Chandni Chowk, in response to a recent mosque blast in Islamabad.
Security agencies in the national capital have intensified vigilance following intelligence inputs suggesting a potential terror threat linked to Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). According to official sources, the suspected plot may involve attacks on religious establishments in Delhi, including areas near the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk, allegedly as retaliation for a recent mosque blast in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Senior officials within Delhi Police, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed to Prime Vista News that the first set of intelligence inputs was received ahead of the Republic Day celebrations. These inputs indicated possible targeting of religious places in the city, prompting authorities to issue a high alert and enhance security measures across sensitive locations.
Subsequent intelligence alerts reportedly emerged following a suicide bombing at a Shia mosque in Islamabad on February 6, which claimed at least 31 lives and left several others injured. Sources indicated that the militant outfit may be seeking to “avenge” the incident by planning a major strike in India.
Possible IED Threat Near Chandni Chowk
Specific intelligence inputs later suggested that an improvised explosive device (IED) attack could be under consideration, with a temple in the Chandni Chowk area mentioned as a potential target. Officials stated that areas surrounding the Red Fort—frequently flagged in security assessments due to their symbolic and strategic significance—were also included in the threat perception.
According to intelligence briefings accessed by Prime Vista News, the suspected plan involved targeting prominent religious sites during periods of high footfall. While authorities emphasised that the information was being continuously verified, preventive measures were immediately put in place as a precaution.
Security Heightened Ahead of Mahashivratri
With Mahashivratri approaching at the time of the alerts, Delhi Police’s Special Cell convened multiple high-level meetings to assess the threat and coordinate countermeasures. Security was significantly strengthened at major Lord Shiva temples and other religious venues expected to host large gatherings during the festival.
On February 15, a senior officer of Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) rank, accompanied by trained commandos and Special Cell personnel, was deployed in and around the Gauri Shankar Temple in Chandni Chowk as part of the enhanced security protocol.
Officials said similar precautions were extended to other sensitive religious and public locations across the city.
Ongoing Vigil Despite Inputs Being Deemed Inconsequential
While officials later assessed the intelligence inputs as inconsequential, heightened security arrangements remain in force. Authorities cited the ongoing international events and the city’s profile as a frequent subject of threat perceptions in intelligence reports.
“Delhi continues to remain on high alert due to its prominence and symbolic value. Even when specific inputs are assessed as non-actionable, precautionary measures are maintained,” a senior police officer told Prime Vista News.
Security agencies have increased surveillance through extensive CCTV monitoring, intensified vehicle checks, and deployment of additional personnel at vulnerable points. Bomb disposal squads, dog squads, and quick reaction teams have also been placed on standby at strategic locations, officials confirmed.
Coordination Between Central and Local Agencies
Central intelligence agencies and Delhi Police units are maintaining close coordination to monitor developments. Officials said threat assessments are being continuously reviewed, and response mechanisms remain activated to address any potential risks swiftly.
Authorities reiterated that public safety remains the top priority and urged citizens to remain vigilant while avoiding panic.
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Earlier Terror Alerts Ahead of Republic Day
The latest alert comes weeks after intelligence agencies issued warnings in January regarding possible threats to Delhi and other major cities ahead of Republic Day. Those alerts had pointed to potential involvement of Khalistani extremist groups and Bangladesh-based terror outfits, with concerns that criminal networks could be exploited to carry out attacks.
According to intelligence assessments cited by Prime Vista News, Punjab-based gangsters were allegedly being used as operatives by radical handlers operating from abroad, with activities reported across Delhi-NCR, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
Authorities Stress Vigilance, Not Alarm
Officials emphasised that while intelligence inputs are taken seriously, not all alerts translate into confirmed threats. The public has been advised to cooperate with security checks and report any suspicious activity to authorities.
Delhi Police reiterated that robust mechanisms are in place to ensure safety across the capital, particularly in crowded areas and around religious institutions.
