High Terror Alert in Delhi: Lashkar-e-Taiba Planning Attacks on Religious and Heritage Sites
Security agencies in India’s national capital have sounded a high terror alert after fresh intelligence inputs suggested that the Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) may be planning terror strikes targeting religious places and historic landmarks, particularly around Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk area and near the iconic Red Fort. The warning comes amidst heightened vigilance following previous terror incidents in the city.
🔍 What the Intelligence Inputs Indicate
According to officials cited by multiple news agencies and media outlets:
- LeT is allegedly plotting to use improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in an attack near the Red Fort complex — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s most sensitive security zones.
- Specific intelligence suggests that a temple in the crowded Chandni Chowk market area could be among the potential targets.
- Sources indicated that the group may be seeking to avenge a blast in Islamabad, Pakistan that occurred on February 6 this year, although this motivation continues to be assessed by agencies.
This alert involves both religious and heritage sites, underscoring the potential for attacks to cause mass casualties and wide-scale public fear if not intercepted.
🚓 Security Response in Delhi
In response to the intelligence warning:
- Security forces have been significantly strengthened throughout Old Delhi, particularly around temples and other crowded public areas.
- Paramilitary units, bomb-disposal squads, canine units, and quick reaction teams are reported to be on high alert across the city.
- Surveillance has increased via CCTV monitoring, vehicle checks, and enhanced police patrols at vulnerable points.
- The Delhi Police and central intelligence agencies are working in close coordination to verify the inputs and act swiftly if credible threats are identified.
Officials have urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant but calm, reporting any suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities.
📜 Context: Past Incidents and Regional Security
This terror alert comes in a backdrop marked by recent security incidents:
- In November 2025, a deadly car explosion near the Red Fort metro station killed more than a dozen people and injured others. Investigations highlighted connections with terror networks and raised concerns about security lapses in high-risk zones.
- Historically, Delhi has faced other major terror challenges, including the 2005 Delhi bombings and past attacks linked to extremist groups.
The combination of intelligence warnings and past incidents has prompted authorities to adopt a heightened posture toward counterterrorism and civilian safety. Mingling India’s deep cultural heritage with bustling commercial life, areas like Chandni Chowk require extra vigilance given their symbolic and practical importance.
🛡️ Importance of Public Awareness
While agencies continue to verify and analyze threat data, public awareness and cooperation remain essential. Citizens are advised to:
- Stay alert in crowded places and around religious sites.
- Report any unattended objects, suspicious behavior, or unfamiliar individuals to local police immediately.
- Follow official advisories issued by the Delhi Police or Home Ministry.
Authorities emphasize that the current alert is precautionary, and there’s no confirmed attack yet — but robust preparation is key to preventing any potential tragedy.
