Ahead of Republic day, Pak terrorists may sneak into India with Afghan IDs, intel agencies have warned
Ahead of Republic Day celebrations on Thursday, Delhi has been brought under ground-to-air security cover following intelligence warnings of a terror attack through air. There have been inputs recently that terror groups like the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba may be planning to charter helicopters to launch an attack on important personalities during the parade.
Intelligence agencies have also cautioned that Pakistan-based terror groups may use Afghan IDs to sneak into India and carry out attacks.
The police are using anti-drone technology to guard against any aerial attack.
Security men will also be posted on tall buildings with anti-aircraft guns.
According to the Press Trust of India, an advisory issued to security agencies states that "it is imperative for the security forces to be familiar with the range of threats for devising appropriate counter means."
Security forces have also been asked to ensure that policemen and security personnel are frisked and checked thoroughly as there is a possibility that terrorists may disguise themselves as security personnel for a suicide attack.
According to the advisory, "terrorists may use uniform of security forces for a fidayeen attack" and there should be adequate arrangements to identify and frisk personnel who are part of the celebrations.
Security agencies have also been warned that some terror outfits are planning attacks using aeroplanes carrying personnel and weapons on board.
All markets have been placed on tight vigil and Delhi Police teams are carrying out security audits along with dog squads.
Leaves of police personnel have been cancelled.
The Special Protection Group, which provides security to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Sonia Gandhi and other top leaders of the country, has asked the Delhi Police to widen its searches and scan all buildings within 2.5 km of Rajpath, the ceremonial road on which the Republic Day parade is held.
SPG Director AK Sinha has reportedly discussed with the Intelligence Bureau chief on posting 'spotters' along the parade route in the capital.
Government buildings and offices in the heart of Delhi are usually shut down a day before the parade for security.