The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a security alert across the country based on a potential terror strike information by a Pakistan-based militant group, four days before the New Year festivities begin. The alert is specific for all locations that Lashkar agent David Coleman Headley recced. Information Bureau has picked up human intelligence which suggests that Taj Hotel could be attacked, following which security at all Taj Hotels, specially Mumbai’s Taj Mahal hotel has been tightened.
The ministry official says more police patrols and strict security checks have been ordered in India’s financial capital, Mumbai, and several other cities following credible reports that a banned militant group was planning a terror attack over the New Year weekend.
The Home Ministry advisory came after a specific alert issued for Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Intelligence reports had suggested that terrorists from across the border have entered India with plans to attack Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Both Mumbai and Gujarat police have been asked to be vigilant. In Karnataka also, the threat of terror is raising concern.
Para military forces have been stationed in coastal Karnataka as inputs suggest terrorist could enter the state taking the sea route. Security forces in Goa too have been asked to be vigilant in the wake of the film festival and the rush of foreign tourists coming in for the New Year. People are advised to be vigilant and stay away from crowded places like markets and tourist places.