As India proudly celebrated its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, with parades, cultural displays, and global guests at Kartavya Path, security forces remained on high alert across the country. Intelligence agencies issued warnings of possible terrorist threats aimed at disrupting national celebrations, prompting intensified measures in Delhi, NCR, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, and other sensitive regions.
No confirmed terrorist attack occurred, but the precautionary high alert underscored the ongoing vigilance against cross-border and domestic terror networks. Reports highlighted inputs suggesting plots by Pakistan-based groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), backed by ISI, potentially involving Punjab-based gangsters. A cryptic online code “26-26” — interpreted as a nod to January 26 — sparked concerns and led to widespread security mobilization.
Intelligence Flags Multiple Threats
Security sources pointed to coordinated threats, including possible drone attacks along borders, IEDs, and strikes on high-profile sites. Specific alerts mentioned risks to religious places like Ayodhya’s Ram Temple and Jammu’s Raghunath Temple. Khalistani outfits and Bangladesh-linked groups were also flagged in earlier inputs, adding layers to the multi-front challenge.
Delhi Police and paramilitary forces ramped up deployments, with additional checkpoints, frisking, CCTV monitoring, and drone surveillance. Borders saw heightened LoC vigilance, while cities enforced strict protocols at public venues, airports, and railways. Authorities urged citizens to report suspicious activity and avoid rumors.
Delhi: Security has been tightened across the national capital on the occasion of Republic Day. In Shahdara district, police have set up barricades and are conducting security checks on the road from Geeta Colony to Red Fort.
— IANS (@ians_india) January 26, 2026
The “26-26” chatter, spotted on suspicious online pages, triggered swift action. Economic Times and Times of India reported intelligence linking it to potential Republic Day strikes, with NDTV sources detailing ISI-Jaish coordination for attacks on or before January 26.
Foiled Plots and Heightened Vigilance
In the lead-up, agencies intercepted multiple terror-related attempts. Rajasthan police seized nearly 10,000 kg of ammonium nitrate and explosives in Nagaur. Punjab arrests targeted BKI terrorists, while Jammu & Kashmir saw ongoing counter-ops in snow-bound areas. Drone sightings along the India-Pakistan border in Kathua added to border alerts.
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These preemptive actions — from explosive seizures to arrests — demonstrated proactive security. No major incident disrupted the celebrations, allowing the nation to focus on pride, unity, and the grand parade featuring military might and cultural tableaux.
A Nation United in Vigilance
The high alert served as a reminder of persistent threats from cross-border terrorism, even as India showcased resilience and strength. With enhanced coordination between agencies, real-time intel sharing, and public cooperation, forces ensured safety during the national event.
Citizens across the country joined in celebrations while staying alert. Social media buzzed with patriotic messages alongside appreciation for security personnel’s tireless efforts.
As Republic Day 2026 concludes successfully, the focus shifts to sustained vigilance. India’s security apparatus proved effective once again — no terror plot succeeded in overshadowing the spirit of the nation. Jai Hind!
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