New Delhi on high alert

In the aftermath of the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, that claimed at least 26 lives, Delhi has been placed under a high-security alert, with intensified across key locations in the Capital.

The massacre, carried out by terrorists at the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam in Anantnag district, is being described as the deadliest in the Valley since the 2019 Pulwama attack. Most of the victims were tourists, further intensifying concerns about national security and soft targets.

One of the immediate responses has been a heightened security presence outside the Pakistan High Commission in Delhi, where paramilitary forces have joined Delhi Police in guarding the premises.

“We have deployed a strong contingent of security personnel outside the Pakistan High Commission. No breach of law and order will be tolerated,” a senior police official said.

A city-wide security operation has launched, covering tourist landmarks including the Red Fort, India Gate, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Bangla Sahib Gurdwara, Lotus Temple, Akshardham, Lodhi Garden, Jama Masjid, Delhi Haat (INA), National Museum, Jantar Mantar, Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Rajghat, and Safdarjung Tomb.

Surveillance has also been increased at Metro stations, railway terminals, malls, bus depots and public marketplaces.

Metal detectors and barricades have been installed at key entry points, while foot patrolling teams and officers in civvies have been deployed across commercial zones.

“We’ve also set up special Delhi Police help desks inside multiple Metro stations. All personnel have been directed to remain extra vigilant, especially at border checkpoints with Uttar Pradesh and Haryana,” the official added.

Security has also been strengthened at commercial hubs such as including Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Lajpat Nagar, Sarojini Nagar, and Rajouri Garden with random checks, increased patrolling and CCTV monitoring. “We’ve intensified presence at all transport nodes and shopping zones to ensure public safety,” said another senior police officer.

The high alert comes amid the ongoing official visit of US Vice-President JD Vance, prompting further tightening of security protocols. Officials confirmed that preparations for the diplomatic visit have been integrated with the broader counterterrorism response.

Senior police officers, including zonal deputy commissioners, have been instructed to remain on the ground and maintain monitoring of their jurisdictions. “ This is not just about responding to one attack, we are preemptively working to prevent any further incidents,” an official said.

Delhi