A concerning security lapse has occurred at the Red Fort in Delhi, just days before India's Independence Day celebrations on August 15th. During a mock drill intended to test and improve security measures, a "dummy terrorist" successfully breached the Red Fort's defenses, marking the third such incident in recent days.

The individual, a member of the Delhi Police's Special Cell, was able to enter the Red Fort carrying mock explosives and reach the children's enclosure without being stopped. This raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the security protocols in place at the historic site, which is the venue for the annual Independence Day ceremony and a symbol of national pride. Shockingly, the "dummy operative" even took selfies and recorded videos in the presence of security personnel before leaving the premises.

While Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Raja Banthia stated that these drills are routine and conducted to identify and rectify any shortcomings, the repeated breaches indicate a systemic problem. Banthia also mentioned that numerous successful drills have been conducted where mock operatives were apprehended. An officer stated that out of several attempts, many dummy suspects were caught. However, this latest incident, coupled with previous lapses, casts a shadow over the security arrangements.

A senior Delhi Police officer revealed that the individual gained entry to the Red Fort on Friday evening by scaling the wall near a petrol pump on Nishad Raj Road. After entering the premises, the individual was able to loiter in the high-security seating zone for a considerable amount of time before exiting. The Special Cell later sent photographs and videos of the breach to the police headquarters, prompting corrective measures. The Prime Minister's Security Unit was also notified, as per protocol.

In response to an earlier security breach, seven Delhi Police personnel, including constables and a head constable, were suspended for failing to detect a dummy bomb during a security drill. During the drill, a Special Cell team disguised as civilians entered the Red Fort with a dummy explosive device, which went unnoticed by the on-duty security personnel. Authorities have initiated a reassessment of the security framework and plan to implement a more robust plan. The suspended officers will also face a departmental inquiry.

These incidents have prompted a series of measures aimed at bolstering security at the Red Fort ahead of Independence Day. Delhi Police have declared the Red Fort a 'No-Fly Zone' from August 2 to August 16, prohibiting the use of para-gliders, UAVs, drones, hot air balloons, and other aerial devices. Additionally, the Delhi Police Dog Squad has been trained to use silent alerts, such as wagging their tails, instead of barking, to minimize the risk of triggering explosive devices.

Just days before Independence Day, authorities arrested five individuals near the Red Fort for allegedly attempting to enter the premises without valid authorization. The individuals were found to be living in India illegally and working as daily-wage laborers.

While the Delhi Police have taken steps to enhance security, the repeated breaches raise concerns about the overall preparedness and effectiveness of the security apparatus at the Red Fort. With Independence Day fast approaching, it is crucial that authorities address these vulnerabilities and implement comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and security of the event. The nation expects nothing less than a flawless security arrangement to safeguard the celebrations and uphold the sanctity of this historic monument.