NPN

New Delhi: A terrorist plot is being hatched to carry out attacks in the capital Delhi and several other cities across the country on Republic Day, January 26th. Following an intelligence alert in this regard, security agencies have become vigilant. An intelligence alert states that Punjab-based gangsters are acting as foot soldiers for Khalistani and other radical handlers, and their activities have increased recently. Intelligence agencies have warned that as Republic Day (January 26th) approaches, Khalistani terrorist organizations and Bangladesh-based terrorist groups may attempt to target Delhi and several other cities in the country. Several cities, including Delhi, could be targeted News agency ANI reported that an intelligence alert has expressed concern over the increased activities of Punjab-based gangsters, who are allegedly working as foot soldiers for Khalistani and radical handlers operating from abroad. The agency quoted intelligence sources as saying, "Ahead of January 26th, intelligence agencies have issued an alert that Khalistani terrorist organizations and Bangladesh-based terrorist groups may attempt to target Delhi and several other cities in the country." Punjab gangsters working as foot soldiers Sources said, "According to the intelligence alert, Punjab-based gangsters are working as foot soldiers for Khalistani and radical handlers operating from abroad. These handlers are allegedly using criminal networks to further their agenda and disrupt internal security." Sources said the alert stated that these gangsters are active in Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, and they are "gradually establishing links with Khalistani terrorist organizations." Tight Security Arrangements in Delhi It is worth noting that security is heightened in some parts of the country around Republic Day every year. This year, security arrangements in Delhi are even tighter for Republic Day, as the event is taking place a few months after the blast near the Red Fort in November last year. More than a dozen people were killed in the car bomb blast in November. This incident later led to the unearthing of a major terrorist module. Delhi Police Conducts Several Mock Drills Ahead of the Republic Day parade on January 26, the North District Police conducted a series of mock drills at sensitive and crowded locations. Four mock drill exercises were conducted during the first fortnight of January 2026 at sensitive locations in North Delhi, including important establishments, historical sites, major markets, and transport hubs, where a large number of people gather daily. ANI reported that these areas include the Red Fort, ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Chandni Chowk, Khari Baoli, Sadar Bazaar, and metro stations, which are considered highly sensitive from a security point of view. At Least 30 Tableaux This Year It is worth mentioning that at least 30 tableaux will be displayed on Kartavya Path during this year's Republic Day parade, showcasing India's rich cultural heritage and developmental achievements. The tableaux will be presented under the themes "'Mantra of Freedom - Vande Mataram' and 'Mantra of Prosperity - Atmanirbhar Bharat'," which also commemorates the 150th anniversary of the national song "Vande Mataram."