Delhi Police have for the first time featured wanted AQIS terrorist Mohammed Rehan on public alert posters as part of intensive security preparations ahead of Republic Day on 26 January, amid intelligence warning of a coordinated terror conspiracy.
In an unprecedented step in the lead-up to the 77th Republic Day celebrations, the Delhi Police have plastered public spaces with security alert posters that include for the first time the photograph of Mohammed Rehan, identified as a member of Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) from Delhi.
Rehan, described by police as a wanted terrorist, has been on the radar of both local law enforcement and central intelligence agencies for his alleged links to extremist networks.
Alongside his image, the posters feature other high-profile fugitives, including heads of outlawed groups and alleged masterminds of past violent acts, to enhance public vigilance in transport hubs, markets, and other busy locations across the national capital.
Senior police officials emphasise that this is not a routine step but a targeted awareness strategy, given a fresh wave of intelligence inputs warning of potential terror threats ahead of Republic Day.
“We want citizens to remain alert and report any sightings or information related to these individuals to our dedicated helplines,” a Delhi Police spokesperson said, underscoring the importance of community cooperation in pre-emptive security efforts.
‘Operation 26-26’: Intelligence Warns of Coordinated Threat
The heightened alert comes against a backdrop of intelligence warnings of a possible terror plot codenamed “26-26”, a reference to January 26, the day India marks Republic Day.
According to security sources, this alleged conspiracy could involve a co-ordinated series of attacks across multiple regions to spread fear during national celebrations.
Officials have linked the threat to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) working in conjunction with extremist groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), with the intent of striking symbolic targets, including major religious sites and mass gatherings.
Some reports also highlight chatter from fringe online groups seeking to incite violence or recruit local supporters.
Sources told media that intelligence agencies are carefully monitoring such digital platforms for threats and mobilisation attempts.
While authorities have not publicly confirmed details of specific plots, the “26-26” designation has become shorthand among security circles for the heightened threat perception around the Republic Day period.
In response, police and central forces have intensified surveillance not only in Delhi but also in sensitive sites across other states, including Jammu and Kashmir, where security lines are being reinforced with additional units and monitoring systems.
Multi-Layered Security Measures Underway in Delhi
To ensure the celebrations proceed without incident, the Delhi Police have rolled out a multi-layered, technology-driven security architecture involving tens of thousands of personnel, advanced surveillance networks and civilian engagement.
At the heart of this strategy is a comprehensive CCTV grid enhanced with facial recognition systems deployed across the New Delhi district and the Republic Day parade route on Kartavya Path. These systems are linked to police databases to help identify persons of interest quickly and efficiently.
In an innovative move this year, police personnel will also use AI-equipped “smart goggles” that integrate real-time facial recognition and thermal scanning.
These devices are connected to databases of tens of thousands of criminal and terror-linked profiles, boosting on-ground detection capacity during the parade and surrounding festivities.
Security arrangements extend to airspace monitoring with anti-drone units, sniper teams on high-rise buildings, and stringent access controls at parade enclosures.
Pedestrians and vehicles face multiple security checks before entry, and wide-ranging verification drives are underway at hotels, guest houses and tenanted properties across the city.
While these measures are meant to reassure the public, authorities continue to stress that vigilance remains a shared responsibility. Police have issued advisories urging citizens to report any suspicious activity or information via emergency numbers and official channels.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The deployment of advanced technologies and extensive human resources reflects the state’s legitimate duty to protect its citizens and symbolic national celebrations.
It is understandable that authorities wish to mitigate any credible risk before Republic Day, and the inclusion of a terrorist’s image on public alerts underlines the seriousness with which intelligence agencies are treating potential threats.
Yet, while security preparedness is vital, democracy thrives on trust, openness and respect for civil liberties. Visible measures such as posters prominently featuring wanted individuals may generate unease among communities; it is crucial that such steps are paired with clear communication, safeguards against profiling, and constructive engagement with citizens.
Peace cannot be enforced solely through technology or surveillance-it must be cultivated through empathy, dialogue and inclusive policies that address not just the symptoms but also the deeper roots of radicalisation and exclusion.
