Bomb Threats to Red Fort & Delhi Secretariat, Probe Launched

February 23, 2026

Authorities in New Delhi launched a probe on February 23, 2026, after reported bomb threats targeting the Red Fort and the Delhi Secretariat, both high-security and symbolic landmarks in the national capital. The threats allegedly linked to Khalistani groups prompted immediate action by Delhi Police and other security agencies, who began extensive investigations and heightened security measures around the sensitive sites.

The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and venue of India’s Independence Day address, and the Delhi Secretariat, which houses key government offices, were both alerted over unspecified explosive warnings that have not yet been independently verified as genuine. Police confirmed that search operations and security sweeps are ongoing at the Assembly and nearby vicinities as part of the preliminary investigation.

Details of the Reported Threat

According to initial reports, the bomb threat information was received through communications that mentioned Khalistani groups Sikh separatist organizations historically linked with militancy in India’s Punjab region though authorities have not yet publicly detailed how the threat was delivered or authenticated.

While security agencies continue to examine the source and credibility of the threat, detailed forensic analysis and digital tracing are underway to identify the sender or network behind the message. Police have appealed to the public to remain calm and report any suspicious activity, stressing that investigations are in the early stages.

Heightened Security in Context of Ongoing Alerts

The recent threat comes amid sustained security concerns in Delhi and other major Indian cities following several high-profile threat alerts earlier this month involving suspected terror plots and hoax messages. Just days earlier, intelligence agencies issued a terror warning suggesting potential danger near the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk areas, reportedly linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and possible IED attacks, although these inputs were still under verification.

In addition to the Red Fort and Delhi Secretariat alert, bomb threat emails have also been received by schools in the capital on the same day, including Army Public School, Dhaula Kuan and Air Force Bal Bharati School, Lodhi Road. These triggered evacuation and thorough checks by Delhi Police, the bomb disposal squad, dog squads and fire services although nothing suspicious was found so far in those locations.

Security analysts say that even unverified or hoax threats can strain response systems and cause public alarm, especially when they coincide with real intelligence about plots targeting heritage sites and crowded areas.

Potential Khalistani Link and Background

“Khalistani groups” refers broadly to militant Sikh separatist organizations who historically sought an independent Sikh homeland called Khalistan. These groups such as the Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) and related factions have been banned in India and designated as terrorist organizations because of their involvement in violence and bombings during the insurgency period in the 1980s and 1990s.

Over the decades, authorities have continued to monitor overseas networks and propaganda channels associated with Khalistani extremists, largely centered in parts of the UK, Canada and Pakistan. While there have been isolated claims of threats by various fringe entities in recent years, sustained links between these claims and actual attacks inside India remain rare.

At this stage, the Delhi Police have not publicly confirmed which specific organization is behind the current threat or whether it has direct ties to any known Khalistani group. Investigation teams are working to establish the veracity of the message and its origin.

Public Alert and Ongoing Investigation

On receipt of the warning, security forces have fortified vulnerable areas around the Red Fort, Delhi Secretariat, key government buildings, market zones and historic precincts. Surveillance has been intensified with additional CCTV monitoring, vehicle checks, and deployment of rapid response units in strategic locations.

Police have urged citizens to maintain vigilance and cooperate with authorities if they observe anything out of the ordinary. The probe is active, with investigators examining digital evidence, communication logs, and other intelligence inputs to either corroborate or dismiss the threat.

Delhi Police have stressed that the situation remains under control and that enhanced measures are precautionary to ensure public safety amid a dynamic security environment.