New Delhi, Feb 21: Security has been intensified across key religious and heritage locations in Delhi, including areas around the Red Fort and parts of Chandni Chowk, following intelligence inputs indicating a possible terror threat, officials said on Saturday.
Security agencies issued an alert over a suspected explosion threat near the Red Fort, a high-security tourist zone, after central intelligence inputs suggested that Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has allegedly included prominent religious places in India on its target list. Sources indicated that a temple in the Chandni Chowk area could be among potential targets.
While the inputs are still being verified and assessed, security has been stepped up around sensitive religious sites and crowded public areas, officials added. Intelligence agencies further indicated that LeT may attempt an Improvised Explosive Device (IED)-based attack, reportedly linked to efforts to avenge the February 6 blast at a mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Central agencies and Delhi Police are maintaining close coordination, with surveillance intensified through CCTV monitoring, vehicle checks and additional deployment at vulnerable points. Bomb disposal squads, dog squads and quick reaction teams have been placed on standby at strategic locations.
The alert comes in the backdrop of the November 10, 2025 car explosion near the historic Red Fort that killed at least 13 people and injured more than 20, when an explosives-laden vehicle detonated near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort metro station, igniting nearby vehicles and triggering panic in the densely populated area.
Security agencies have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or activity to police or emergency services, stressing there is no cause for panic as the measures are precautionary. Further intelligence gathering and verification of inputs are underway, officials said. (Agencies)
