Indian intelligence agencies have issued a high-level security alert warning of possible terror threats to Delhi and several other cities ahead of Republic Day on January 26. The alert indicates that Khalistani terrorist organisations and Bangladesh-based extremist groups may attempt attacks during the national celebrations.
According to intelligence inputs, Punjab-based gangsters are increasingly being used as operational foot soldiers by Khalistani and radical handlers operating from outside India. These handlers are allegedly leveraging organised criminal networks to advance extremist agendas and destabilise internal security.
The alert further states that such gangster networks are active across multiple states, including Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, and are gradually establishing links with Khalistani terrorist elements.
Security measures are traditionally heightened across the country in the lead-up to Republic Day. However, arrangements in Delhi have been significantly strengthened this year, coming months after a deadly blast near the Red Fort that exposed a large terror module.
In preparation for the Republic Day parade, North District Police in Delhi have conducted multiple simulated mock drills at vulnerable and high-footfall locations to assess preparedness and response times. Four mock drills were carried out in the first half of January at sensitive sites such as historical monuments, transport hubs, markets and key installations.
Locations covered during these exercises included the Red Fort, ISBT Kashmere Gate, Chandni Chowk, Khari Baoli, Sadar Bazar and several metro stations, all considered high-risk zones from a security standpoint.
Meanwhile, preparations for the Republic Day parade are underway, with at least 30 tableaux set to roll down Kartavya Path. The displays will highlight India&rsquo;s cultural heritage and developmental milestones under the themes &ldquo;Svatantrata Ka Mantr&nbsp; - Vande Mataram&rdquo; and &ldquo;Samrddhi Ka Mantr - Atmanirbhar Bharat,&rdquo; marking 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram.

Agencies warn of Khalistani and Bangladesh-based terror plots ahead of Jan 26

Republic Day Alert Over Terror Threats

Agencies warn of Khalistani and Bangladesh-based terror plots ahead of Jan 26

January 17, 2026 | 15:38 IST