Security stepped up after intel input flags ‘terror threat’

Security was tightened across Delhi on Saturday, including at a temple in the Chandni Chowk area, following intelligence inputs suggesting a possible terror threat, a senior police officer said.

Security agencies issued an alert after Central intelligence agencies indicated that Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has allegedly kept “prominent religious places in India on its target list”.

The alert from the intelligence agencies read, “According to a recent input, Lashkar-e-Taiba is planning IED (Improvised Explosive Device) attacks across big cities in India, including at a temple in Chandni Chowk area of Old Delhi, to avenge the attack at a mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan, on February 6.”

The alert comes three months after a high-intensity car blast killed at least 13 people and injured several others in the Red Fort area.

Religious sites on alert

Security has been stepped up near key heritage structures, religious sites and high footfall areas like railway stations, airport terminals and bus terminals, the officer said.

According to sources, a similar intel input was received around January 26 when the country was preparing to celebrate its 77th Republic Day.

“We have been receiving intelligence inputs about possible attacks by the LeT and are constantly monitoring the situation,” said the officer.

The police officer said that on February 11, the Punjab police arrested one person and seized an IED along with a pistol and ammunition, possibly intended for use in several cities in India. “Investigation has revealed that he was in touch with Pakistan-based handlers,” the officer added.