Indian intelligence agencies have issued a high-alert warning ahead of Republic Day (January 26), flagging potential terror threats to Delhi and several other cities, allegedly involving Khalistani terrorist organisations, Bangladesh-based extremist groups, and Punjab-based criminal gangs, officials said.

According to intelligence inputs cited by ANI, Punjab-based gangsters are increasingly acting as “foot soldiers” for Khalistani and radical handlers operating from abroad. These handlers are reportedly using existing criminal networks to carry out targeted attacks, extortion, and destabilisation activities aimed at disrupting internal security.

Gangsters as terror proxies

The alert indicates that these gangs are active across Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, and are gradually forging operational links with Khalistani terror elements. Intelligence sources claim the overlap between organised crime and extremist groups is growing, with criminal gangs being leveraged for logistics, weapons movement, intimidation, and reconnaissance.

HT noted that it could not independently verify the intelligence inputs.

Heightened security in Delhi

Security measures in the national capital are particularly stringent this year, as Republic Day comes months after the Red Fort car blast, which killed more than a dozen people and later exposed a wider terror module.

In response, Delhi Police have stepped up preparedness, especially in North Delhi. The North District Police conducted multiple simulated mock drills at sensitive and high-footfall locations to test coordination, response time, and emergency protocols.

Mock drills at sensitive locations

At least four mock drills were carried out in early January 2026 at locations considered highly vulnerable, including:

• Red Fort
• ISBT Kashmere Gate
• Chandni Chowk
• Khari Baoli
• Sadar Bazar
• Key Metro stations

These sites are crucial due to their historical importance, dense crowds, and transport connectivity.

Republic Day preparations

Despite the heightened alert, preparations for the Republic Day Parade are progressing as scheduled. At least 30 tableauxwill roll down Kartavya Path, showcasing India’s cultural diversity and development under the themes:

• “Svatantrata Ka Mantr – Vande Mataram”
• “Samrddhi Ka Mantr – Aatmanirbhar Bharat”

The event also marks 150 years of “Vande Mataram,” the national song.

Bottom line

Security agencies remain on maximum vigilance, with a focus on disrupting the alleged crime–terror nexus and preventing any attempt to exploit Republic Day celebrations. Authorities have urged citizens to stay alert and report suspicious activity as part of the nationwide security effort.

If you want, I can also:

• break down how the crime–terror nexus typically operates, or
• explain why Republic Day is a high-risk period from a security standpoint.