Delhi Steps Up Security Ahead of Independence Day, Posters of 19 Wanted Terrorists Put Up

Posters featuring photographs of 19 wanted terrorists linked to outfits including Indian Mujahideen, Al-Qaeda and Khalistani terror networks have been displayed at multiple locations across the national capital ahead of Independence Day, police said.

The move is part of the annual security exercise conducted before August 15 and is aimed at increasing public awareness and encouraging citizens to assist authorities in identifying and tracking individuals considered a threat to Delhi.

The national capital has been placed on high alert, with security agencies stepping up surveillance at crowded markets, Delhi Metro stations, railway stations, bus terminals, government buildings and other sensitive installations.

The Red Fort, where the main Independence Day celebrations will be held, has been placed under a multi-layered security cover. Around 15,000-20,000 Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel are expected to be deployed for the event, which is likely to draw a large gathering of VIPs, VVIPs and members of the public.

Nearly 1,000 CCTV cameras, including facial recognition-enabled systems, have been installed at the Red Fort and nearby areas. A high-tech control room inside the monument will allow police and technical teams to monitor activity within a radius of more than three kilometres.

Delhi Police are also using technology to identify suspicious and wanted individuals in crowded areas. The Abhigyan application, which contains data on more than one crore criminals, is being used with handheld devices to scan fingerprints. The system provides results within seconds, with alerts generated when a match is found.

Facial recognition system vans equipped with high-resolution cameras have also been deployed at strategic locations. Suspected matches are sent to a control room for verification and further action.

In addition, snipers and anti-drone systems have been deployed at strategic points. Authorities have also restricted kite and drone flying around the Red Fort to prevent possible security breaches during the celebrations.