New Delhi, August 11: Security agencies have stepped up vigilance across India following intelligence inputs about a possible ISI-backed attack ahead of Independence Day.
Officials said Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) could attempt infiltration or attacks around August 15. Security agencies are closely monitoring the borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh.
According to intelligence officials, the ISI may try to exploit the heightened security focus on Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir during Independence Day celebrations.
ISI Threat Prompts Security Alert Across Borders
An Intelligence Bureau official said security agencies were alert to the possibility of an attempt on Independence Day or in the days leading up to it.
Officials believe one possible strategy could involve pushing terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir. Attempts to facilitate infiltration through the Bangladesh border are also being monitored.
Security agencies are also keeping an eye on tier-two cities, where security arrangements may be less extensive than in major metropolitan areas.
Officials said intelligence intercepts indicate that Pakistan’s security establishment is under pressure because of developments in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Baluchistan.
They believe the ISI could seek to create a major diversion through an attack in India.
Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir and Delhi remain among the key areas under heightened surveillance. However, officials have also warned that terrorists could attempt to strike at less expected locations.
Security agencies are also examining the possibility of deliberate false alarms. Officials said misleading intelligence inputs could be used to divert security resources while an actual attack is planned elsewhere.
BSF launches Operation Alert
The western border has received additional attention following intelligence inputs about possible infiltration and smuggling attempts.
The Border Security Force launched Operation Alert on August 10. The exercise will continue until August 17 and involves senior BSF officers.
Officials said surveillance and patrolling have been intensified along sensitive stretches of the Pakistan border.
At the same time, the Centre is strengthening intelligence gathering along the Bangladesh border.
Nearly 40 Subsidiary Intelligence Bureau units are being planned across border districts in West Bengal. Officials said the expansion will provide a more permanent intelligence presence in vulnerable areas.
The move is aimed at improving real-time intelligence collection and coordination with security agencies.
Officials said infiltration, smuggling and extremist activities remain persistent concerns along the Bangladesh border.
With Independence Day approaching, agencies are maintaining heightened vigilance across sensitive border areas and major cities to prevent any security threat.
