IS sympathisers in India might strike during R-Day celebrations: Intel inputs

After receiving inputs that Indian IS sympathizers in the country might become active during Republic Day as French President Francois Hollande is the chief guest, Delhi Police are on high alert and a tight vigil is being maintained on the outsiders living or visiting Delhi. 

“Following the recent terror attacks in Pathankot and Indian consulate in Afghanistan, the intelligence agencies have been giving constant inputs about threats from IS sympathisers to target Republic Day celebrations in the national Capital. French president Francois Hollande who is the chief guest this year is also a target,” a source added.

Even though a multi-layered security system has been arranged, surprise checks are being conducted namely in hotels and scrutiny of the visitors’ book and CCTV cameras installed in the hotel premises are also being checked. It is worth mentioning that the maximum number of IS sympathisers hail from South India and Jammu & Kashmir, the IB report says.

“There were many cases where Indians were found sympathising with IS and following their ideologies. These vulnerable Indians, including NRIs, have become active in the recent past and suspicious activities are raising eyebrows,” the source added.

“After Paris attacks, the movement of the French president has become very sensitive. And a sudden increase in the IS sympathisers living in India has become a threat. Not only this, the recent arrest of Al-Qaeda operatives in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) by Delhi Police Special Cell also reveals tie-ups between ISIS and the Al-Qaeda,” he said.

According to the source, the intelligence agencies have also shared inputs that a fidayeen attack may also take place during the Republic Day celebration. On Thursday, an inter-state meeting was also conducted at the police headquarters for better coordination of security during the French president’s visit.