High alert in Delhi after intelligence warns of LeT plot targeting old Delhi

Security agencies have issued a high alert in India’s capital city following intelligence inputs warning of a possible terror plot by Pakistan-based outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) targeting crowded religious and heritage locations in Old Delhi, as per reports.

An intelligence note indicated that terrorists may attempt an improvised explosive device (IED) attack in areas around the Red Fort and temples located in the densely populated Chandni Chowk locality.

According to sources, the suspected plot is linked to a retaliatory attempt following a recent blast at a mosque in Islamabad on February 6, with LeT operatives allegedly seeking to carry out a major strike in India. Intelligence agencies have cautioned that prominent temples across the country could remain potential targets.

As per reports, the Delhi Police and central security agencies have intensified surveillance across sensitive zones, particularly in Old Delhi. Additional personnel have been deployed, vehicle checks have been stepped up, and anti-sabotage inspections have been initiated near religious sites and tourist hubs.

The latest alert comes nearly three months after the November 10, 2025, car bombing near the Red Fort, one of the deadliest terror incidents in the capital in recent years.

The explosion, triggered by an explosives-laden Hyundai i20 near the Red Fort Metro Station, killed at least 12 people and injured over 20 others, while setting multiple vehicles ablaze. Investigators later confirmed that ammonium nitrate-based explosives were used in the blast.

Probe agencies identified the vehicle’s driver as Umar Mohammad, alias Umar Un Nabi, a doctor associated with Al-Falah University in Faridabad. DNA analysis of human remains recovered from the wreckage confirmed his presence inside the vehicle at the time of the explosion, with investigators linking him to a wider terror module operating out of neighbouring Haryana.

According to investigators, the blast occurred hours after security agencies recovered nearly 2,900 kg of explosives in Faridabad and arrested key module members, including associates identified as Dr Muzammil and Dr Adil Rather. 

Reports citing sources said Umar allegedly detonated the vehicle prematurely near the Red Fort amid mounting pressure from the crackdown on the network.