Security Alert in Delhi After Intelligence Warns of Possible Lashkar Plot Targeting Temples Near Red Fort

Security agencies have issued a high alert in the national capital after receiving intelligence inputs about a possible terror plot by Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba. According to sources, the group may be planning attacks on crowded religious and heritage places in Delhi.

Sources said that specific intelligence inputs pointed to a possible target in the Chandni Chowk area. A temple in Chandni Chowk is believed to be among the potential targets. The inputs suggest that terrorists could be planning to use an improvised explosive device (IED) in and around sensitive locations, including areas close to the Red Fort.

Officials said the suspected plan may be linked to an attempt by the terror group to avenge the February 6 blast at a mosque in Islamabad. However, they also made it clear that the intelligence inputs are still under verification and investigations are ongoing.

Following the alert, security has been increased across Old Delhi, especially around temples in the Chandni Chowk area. Paramilitary forces have been deployed to maintain round-the-clock watch. Personnel are monitoring temple premises from elevated positions as well as from ground level to ensure full coverage of the area.

Teams from the Delhi Police have also been stationed across the locality. They are regulating movement, conducting regular checks, and ensuring stronger security arrangements in and around religious places. Barricades have been placed in key spots, and vehicles entering the area are being inspected carefully.

The latest alert comes nearly three months after a deadly car bombing near the Red Fort on November 10, 2025. The explosion took place near the Red Fort Metro Station and left at least 12 people dead. More than 20 others were injured in what was described as one of the deadliest terror incidents in the capital in recent years. The blast also set several nearby vehicles on fire, causing panic and chaos in the crowded area.

Investigators later confirmed that the explosion was caused by ammonium nitrate-based explosives. The car used in the attack was a Hyundai i20 packed with explosives.

Probe agencies identified the driver of the vehicle as Umar Mohammad, also known as Umar Un Nabi. He was a doctor associated with Al-Falah University. DNA tests conducted on human remains recovered from the wreckage confirmed that he was inside the vehicle at the time of the explosion.

Investigators linked him to a larger terror module operating out of neighbouring Faridabad in Haryana. According to television reports quoting investigators, the blast happened just hours after security agencies recovered nearly 2,900 kilograms of explosives in Faridabad. During the crackdown, key members of the module were arrested.

Those arrested included associates identified as Dr Muzammiland Dr Adil Rather. Sources said that Umar allegedly detonated the vehicle earlier than planned near the Red Fort as pressure increased due to the arrests and seizure of explosives.

Officials believe the premature explosion may have been triggered because the terror network was under intense scrutiny following the recovery of explosives and the detention of its members. The investigation into the larger module is still ongoing.

In view of the fresh intelligence warning, authorities are not taking any chances. Security forces are on alert mode across key religious and tourist locations in Delhi. Surveillance has been increased, and intelligence agencies are closely monitoring suspicious movements.

Officials have urged the public to remain calm but vigilant. They have advised people to report any suspicious objects or activities to the police immediately. The focus remains on preventing any possible attack and ensuring the safety of residents and visitors in the national capital.