Security forces are on high alert in the national capital following a serious multi-pronged terror warning ahead of India’s 77th Republic Day. Intelligence agencies have flagged potential threats from a nexus of Khalistani separatist groups and Bangladesh-based terror outfits, prompting massive security sweeps across the region.
The Terror Threat & Gangster Nexus
According to the Intelligence Bureau (IB), handlers based abroad are increasingly using Punjab-based gangsters as “foot soldiers” to carry out radical agendas.
- Geographic Reach: These criminal networks are active across Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
- Key Suspects: Recent “wanted” posters across Delhi Metro stations feature Arshdeep Singh (alias Arsh Dala), chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force, and veteran figures like Ranjeet Singh Neeta (Khalistan Zindabad Force).
- Jihadi Elements: Threats have also been identified from individuals linked to AQIS (al Qaida in Indian Subcontinent) and ISIS modules, including suspects from Sambhal and Northeast Delhi.
Security Measures & “Operation Gang-Bust”
Delhi Police recently concluded one of its largest coordinated crackdowns, “Operation Gang-Bust 2026,” to dismantle the underground networks supporting these threats.
- Massive Crackdown: Over 850 people were detained and 4,000 hideouts raided between January 9 and 11.
- Mock Drills: To test emergency response, North District Police conducted drills at sensitive hubs including:
- Red Fort (Simulated bomb blast near Hathi Gate)
- ISBT Kashmere Gate (Simulated terrorist shooting and hostage rescue)
- Chandni Chowk, Khari Baoli, and Metro Stations
Republic Day 2026: What to Expect
Despite the heightened security, preparations for the grand parade at Kartavya Path are in full swing.
| Feature | Details |
| Chief Guests | António Costa (President of European Council) & Ursula von der Leyen (President of European Commission) |
| Main Theme | “150 Years of Vande Mataram” |
| Sub-Themes | Svatantrata Ka Mantr (Mantra of Freedom) & Samrddhi Ka Mantr (Mantra of Prosperity) |
| Parade Highlights | 30 Tableaux, a first-ever “Battle Array Format” display by the Indian Army, and 2,500 performing artists. |