Posters Naming 19 Wanted Terrorists Displayed Across Delhi as Security Intensifies Ahead of Independence Day

Delhi has been placed under a heightened security alert ahead of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15, 2026, with posters featuring 19 wanted terrorists displayed at several locations across the national capital. Security agencies have also strengthened surveillance around the Red Fort and other sensitive areas as part of a comprehensive security operation.

The posters, which carry photographs and details of the wanted individuals, are linked to groups including the Indian Mujahideen, Al-Qaeda and Khalistani extremist networks. Delhi Police have appealed to citizens to provide any credible information that could assist in locating the suspects. Authorities have assured informants that their identities will be kept confidential, while rewards may be offered for actionable information. Among those named on the posters are Riyaz Bhatkal, Iqbal Bhatkal, Mohammed Sharjeel Akhtar, Abu Sufian, Syed Mohammed Arshiyan, Ranjit Singh alias Neeta, Paramjit Singh Pamma, Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dalla, Harvinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda, Wadhawa Singh Babbar and Gurmeet Singh Bagga.

The Red Fort, where the main Independence Day ceremony will take place, has been placed under a multi-layered security arrangement. Around 15,000 to 20,000 Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel are expected to be deployed for the event, which will be attended by senior officials, VIPs and VVIPs. Nearly 1,000 CCTV cameras, including facial-recognition systems, have been installed in and around the monument. A specialised control room inside the Red Fort will monitor activity within an area extending approximately three kilometres from the venue.

Security checks have also been intensified at crowded markets, Delhi Metro stations, railway stations, bus terminals, government buildings and other sensitive installations. Police personnel are using the Abhigyan application, which reportedly contains a database of more than one crore criminals, to conduct fingerprint-based checks with handheld devices. A red alert indicates a possible criminal-record match, while a green signal indicates no match.

Facial-recognition vans equipped with high-resolution cameras have also been positioned at strategic locations. These vehicles can scan faces in crowded areas and compare them with information available in police databases. Authorities have further strengthened aerial security by deploying anti-drone systems and positioning snipers at elevated vantage points. Restrictions have been imposed on drones, kite flying, paragliders, hot-air balloons and micro-light aircraft around the Red Fort to prevent unauthorised aerial activity. Power distribution companies have separately warned residents against flying kites near electrical lines because of the risks associated with manjha.

Intelligence agencies are maintaining close watch on possible threats from Pakistan-based terrorist organisations and Khalistani extremist networks, while also preparing for the possibility of sudden protests or other disruptions. Quick Reaction Teams, rooftop deployments, anti-sabotage inspections and coordinated surveillance are being used as part of the wider security grid.

The heightened security measures are also expected to affect travel across the capital. Additional checks at railway stations and Metro stations may lead to longer queues, while restrictions on heavy vehicles are being enforced around the full-dress rehearsal and Independence Day. Passengers travelling through Delhi airport have been advised to arrive early because of enhanced security screening.

The extensive arrangements underline the authorities' focus on protecting the national capital during the Independence Day celebrations. By combining a large deployment of security personnel, modern surveillance systems and public cooperation, agencies are seeking to prevent potential threats and ensure the event at the Red Fort proceeds safely and smoothly.