Dummy Bomb Drill at Red Fort Exposes Major Security Lapse
In a serious breach of security ahead of India’s 79th Independence Day celebrations, seven Delhi Police personnel have been suspended after failing to detect a dummy bomb during a security drill conducted at the Red Fort. The incident has raised concerns over the preparedness of the security forces tasked with guarding one of the most sensitive locations in the national capital.
According to Delhi Police officials, the Special Cell conducted a covert security drill on Saturday in which team members, dressed in civilian clothes, managed to enter the Red Fort premises carrying a dummy bomb. The police officers posted on duty failed to detect the device, leading to the immediate suspension of the negligent personnel.
The suspended officers include constables and head constables who were specifically assigned to the Red Fort’s security detail. The suspension order was issued citing “gross negligence” in handling critical duties, especially during a high-alert period.
Daily Security Drills Ahead of August 15
The Delhi Police has been conducting daily drills and mock exercises as part of its intensified security arrangements in preparation for Independence Day. The Red Fort, from where the Prime Minister traditionally addresses the nation after hoisting the national flag, is one of the most heavily guarded areas in the city during this period.
“This drill was a part of our standard security protocol to test ground readiness,” a senior officer told ANI. “The Special Cell deliberately attempted to breach the perimeter security by posing as civilians and succeeded in placing a dummy bomb undetected. The lapse has been taken very seriously.”
Comprehensive Security Measures Now in Place
Following the breach, security has been tightened around the Red Fort and its adjoining areas, which have been declared a high-security zone. A multi-layered security plan has been rolled out, involving both manpower and technology.
For the first time, five different types of surveillance cameras are being deployed to cover all entry and exit points, surrounding rooftops, and public movement. Among these are advanced headcount cameras capable of monitoring crowd density and flagging unusual objects or behavior in real time. These systems are expected to aid in real-time decision-making and rapid response in the event of any threat.
Additionally, vehicle scanning systems, facial recognition software, and drone surveillance have also been introduced to bolster security infrastructure ahead of the August 15 event.
Residents’ Census and Restricted Movement
As part of the broader security plan, Delhi Police has also initiated a full-scale census of residents living in and around the Red Fort area. Authorities are verifying identities, checking tenant records, and ensuring no suspicious individuals are residing nearby. Access to the area is being heavily monitored, with barricades, checkpoints, and random frisking becoming more common.
Unrelated Arrest of Illegal Immigrants Raises Alarm
In a separate incident that further highlights the sensitivity of the security situation, five Bangladeshi nationals were arrested on Monday after attempting to forcibly enter the Red Fort. The arrested individuals, aged between 20 and 25, reportedly worked as laborers in Delhi. According to police, they were found with Bangladeshi documents and are currently under investigation.
The police are probing whether the group had any ulterior motives or if the intrusion was unrelated to the upcoming Independence Day event. So far, no links to terrorist organizations have been confirmed.
Authorities Urge Vigilance Ahead of National Event
With just days remaining for the Independence Day ceremony, Delhi Police has urged all personnel to remain on high alert. The incident has served as a wake-up call for the force, pushing senior officers to review protocols and reinforce accountability.
Security agencies have also appealed to citizens to report any suspicious activity and cooperate with law enforcement as they work to ensure a safe and secure celebration on August 15.
