A significant security lapse at Delhi's Red Fort has resulted in the suspension of seven police personnel. The officers, including constables and head constables, were responsible for security at the historic monument. The suspension follows a security drill where a dummy bomb went undetected.
As part of routine security checks ahead of Independence Day, a special cell team planted a dummy bomb within the Red Fort premises. The drill aimed to assess the alertness and preparedness of security staff. However, the personnel deployed for security failed to detect the dummy explosive, leading to immediate disciplinary action. The team carrying the dummy device successfully bypassed security checks at the Red Fort's main gate. This failure to detect the object raised serious concerns about the alertness of the personnel on duty.
The authorities are reviewing all security arrangements and plan to implement an improved and revised plan. The seven suspended policemen will also be subjected to a departmental inquiry.
In addition to the security lapse during the drill, police arrested five individuals of Bangladeshi origin for attempting to enter the Red Fort. The individuals, aged between 20 and 25, were found to be illegal immigrants working as laborers in Delhi. Bangladeshi documents were recovered from them, and an investigation is underway to probe their activities. Authorities are questioning them, but so far, the investigation has not revealed any terror links. The five individuals will be handed over to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) and deported to Bangladesh.
The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds immense national significance, especially leading up to Independence Day. Every year, the Prime Minister addresses the nation from its ramparts on August 15th. In preparation for the Independence Day celebrations, security measures are being ramped up across the national capital. These measures include a two-layered ring security system comprising officers from the rank of Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCP), snipers, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) commandos, drones, and 700 AI-enabled CCTV cameras with facial recognition. An Under Vehicle Surveillance System is also being implemented. Large-scale mock emergency exercises, hotel inspections, and increased patrolling are also underway.
Following "Operation Sindoor," security agencies, intelligence agencies, and Defence Ministry officials are holding detailed discussions regarding possible security breaches through unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This year’s Independence Day celebrations will feature enhanced aerial monitoring and a complete ban on the usage of 'Made In China' surveillance equipment in and around the Red Fort.
