National
Republic Day 2026: Intelligence Alert Warns of Terror Threats; Delhi Security Tightened with Mock Drills
Intelligence agencies have issued a high-priority alert ahead of India’s 77th Republic Day, warning of potential attempts by proscribed Khalistani outfits and Bangladesh-based terror organizations to target the National Capital and other major cities. The alert, released today by the Intelligence Bureau (IB), highlights a worrying “gangster-terror nexus” where local criminal networks are being leveraged as foot soldiers for foreign-based handlers.
According to the latest intelligence inputs, radical handlers operating from abroad are increasingly using Punjab-based gangsters to carry out reconnaissance and logistics for potential attacks. These criminal networks, currently active across Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, are reportedly establishing deep operational links with Khalistani extremist elements.
Security officials noted that these local “foot soldiers” provide a layer of deniability for international handlers, making the threat more difficult to track. In response, special cells of the Delhi Police and state anti-terror squads have been put on high alert to monitor known associates of major inter-state gangs.
To ensure the highest level of readiness, the North District Police has concluded a series of four major simulated mock drills during the first fortnight of January. These exercises were designed to test the response time and coordination of various stakeholders, including the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), fire services, and medical teams.
Despite the security concerns, preparations for the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path are in full swing. This year’s celebration is particularly historic as it marks the 150th anniversary of the national song, Vande Mataram. The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that at least 30 tableaux will participate, themed around “Svatantrata Ka Mantr – Vande Mataram” and “Samrddhi Ka Mantr – Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
In a unique tribute, a series of iconic paintings from 1923 illustrating the verses of the song will be displayed along the parade route. The event will culminate in a grand flypast featuring 29 aircraft and the unveiling of a massive Vande Mataram banner at the conclusion of the ceremony.
Adding to the diplomatic significance of the event, India has invited European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as the Chief Guests for 2026. Their visit, scheduled from January 25 to 27, will include co-chairing the 16th India-EU Summit.
The presence of the top leadership from the European Union underscores the deepening strategic partnership between New Delhi and Brussels, particularly in areas of defense, green energy, and maritime security. Security for the foreign dignitaries has been upgraded to a multi-layered ring involving the Special Protection Group (SPG) and specialized NSG commandos.