Terror Alert in Delhi: Red Fort, Chandni Chowk Temple on LeT Radar After Fresh Intel Warning
New Delhi, February 21: A high-level intelligence alert has put the national capital on edge after inputs warned of a possible terror threat near the iconic Red Fort, with sources indicating that terrorists may target a temple in the busy Chandni Chowk area.
According to intelligence sources, key religious sites and crowded zones around the Red Fort and parts of Chandni Chowk are under heightened surveillance amid fears of a potential strike by Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
Temple in Chandni Chowk on Target?
Sources suggest that the terror group could be planning an improvised explosive device (IED) attack, with a temple in the Chandni Chowk area emerging as a possible target. Security agencies have intensified vigil across sensitive locations, particularly in Old Delhi, which witnesses heavy footfall from devotees, traders, and tourists every day.
“Blast alert in front of the Red Fort in Delhi. Terrorists may target a temple in Chandni Chowk. Lashkar-e-Taiba is plotting an IED attack. They are planning a major terrorist attack in India to avenge the February 6 mosque blast in Islamabad, Pakistan. Major temples in the country can be targeted,” intelligence sources said.
The alert has prompted Delhi Police and central security agencies to increase deployment in and around major religious and heritage sites. CCTV surveillance is being closely monitored, and anti-sabotage checks have been stepped up in crowded marketplaces and near Metro stations.
Alleged Revenge Plot Linked to Islamabad Blast
Intelligence inputs indicate that the terror outfit may be attempting to avenge the February 6 explosion at a mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan. Sources claim the group is allegedly planning a “major strike” in India, with prominent temples and symbolic landmarks potentially on its radar.
Officials have not issued a public advisory yet, but behind the scenes, security drills and coordination meetings are underway to prevent any untoward incident. Bomb disposal squads and quick reaction teams have reportedly been placed on standby.
Shadow of November 2025 Red Fort Blast
The latest alert comes against the backdrop of the deadly car explosion near the Red Fort on November 10, 2025, which killed 12 people and left several others injured. The blast occurred near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station when a car laden with explosives detonated, triggering fires in multiple nearby vehicles and causing widespread panic.
The case is currently being investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). On February 13, a Special NIA court at Patiala House Court granted a 45-day extension to conclude the probe into the November 2025 Delhi blast case.
The NIA had sought a 90-day extension to complete its investigation. Meanwhile, the court has extended the judicial custody of seven accused until March 13 as investigators continue to piece together the conspiracy behind the attack.
Security Tightened Across Religious Sites
Following the fresh intelligence warning, security has been tightened not just in Delhi but also at prominent temples across the country. Authorities are leaving nothing to chance, given the symbolic importance of religious places and the potential for mass casualties in densely populated areas like Chandni Chowk.
Senior officials are said to be reviewing threat assessments and coordinating with state police units to ensure preventive measures are in place. Random vehicle checks, frisking of visitors, and surveillance of suspicious movements have been intensified.
While officials have urged citizens to remain calm, they have also appealed for heightened vigilance. People have been advised to report any unattended objects or suspicious activity to the nearest police station immediately.
As the capital remains on alert, security agencies are racing against time to verify the intelligence inputs and neutralise any possible threat before it materialises. Further developments are awaited as investigations continue and agencies monitor the situation closely. (Agencies)
