Delhi, as the national capital of India, remains a key target for terror organizations due to its political, economic, and cultural significance. In recent years, the threat of terror attacks in the city has grown, necessitating heightened security measures. The Delhi Police, in collaboration with central agencies such as the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), and military intelligence, have implemented several preventive measures to ensure the safety of its residents. This article explores the proactive steps taken by the Delhi Police to safeguard the city from potential terror attacks.
The Terror Threat Landscape in Delhi: Delhi, being a global metropolis and the center of political power, is always on high alert due to its strategic importance. Terror groups, both domestic and international, often eye the city for attacks aimed at destabilizing the country or sending political messages. The recent rise in radicalization and sleeper cells operating in urban centers has made the threat more complex.
The 2001 Indian Parliament attack, the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and other terror-related incidents in the past have left the city’s law enforcement agencies well aware of the risks. Over the years, the nature of terror threats has evolved, and the methods used by attackers have become more sophisticated, making it essential for the Delhi Police to adapt and stay ahead of these threats.
Preventive Strategies and Measures:
- Intelligence Gathering and Coordination: The backbone of Delhi’s counter-terrorism efforts lies in its intelligence network. The Delhi Police, in collaboration with national intelligence agencies like the IB, NIA, and RAW, have significantly improved intelligence-sharing mechanisms. A robust system of surveillance, undercover operations, and human intelligence has helped in preemptively identifying and neutralizing potential threats.
Joint task forces involving Delhi Police, NIA, and other central agencies conduct regular raids based on actionable intelligence to dismantle terror networks operating within the city.
- Increased Police Patrolling and Security Checkpoints: To ensure visible deterrence, Delhi Police have increased patrolling in key locations, including sensitive sites such as government buildings, embassies, transportation hubs (airports, metro stations, railway stations), and public places like markets and malls. Random checks, frisking, and bag scanning have been made routine at these locations. Police personnel, equipped with bomb detection kits and metal detectors, are also deployed at strategic locations to prevent terrorist attacks.
- Surveillance and Monitoring: Advanced technology has become an essential tool in combating terrorism. The Delhi Police have enhanced the city’s surveillance infrastructure, with the installation of over 10,000 CCTV cameras at key locations. This helps monitor suspicious activities and can assist in identifying suspects quickly. Facial recognition systems and AI-driven surveillance software are also being deployed to track suspects in real time.
- Counter-Terrorism Units: The Delhi Police’s Special Cell, an elite counter-terrorism and organized crime unit, is responsible for tackling terror-related threats. The Special Cell works on gathering intelligence, infiltrating terror cells, and neutralizing potential threats before they can act. This specialized unit has successfully thwarted several terror plots in the past, including foiling plans related to bomb attacks and high-profile assassinations.
Additionally, the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has been given enhanced capabilities to conduct investigations, raids, and operations targeting terror networks.
- Public Awareness and Community Engagement: A significant part of preventing terrorism lies in engaging with the public. Delhi Police have taken steps to educate citizens about the signs of radicalization, sleeper cells, and suspicious activities. Awareness programs, workshops, and community policing initiatives have been conducted to foster a relationship of trust between the police and the public. This helps in getting actionable tips from the public and creating a more informed, vigilant community.
Programs aimed at counter-radicalization have also been rolled out in various communities, focusing on engaging youth and preventing them from being drawn into terror activities.
