Lutyens' zone in New Delhi — home to India's high and mighty, political leaders, senior bureaucrats, the army and judiciary — is on high alert.
As per recent intelligence inputs received by security forces, there is a strong possibility of aerial attacks in the VVIP area.
This has put security agencies on their toes. Highly-placed sources confirmed the information. "Antisocial or terrorist elements may pose a threat to the safety of these constitutional authorities, VVIPs, senior government functionaries and other dignitaries in Lutyens' Delhi."
"They could use mediums like paraglide, parasail, para-motor, unmanned aerial vehicles (drones etc.)/remotely piloted aircraft, aero model, micro light aircraft hang-glider or hot air balloon," the source added quoting one of the intel inputs.
Notably, in July, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had asked security agencies to protect and evacuate 89 VIPs in Lutyens' Delhi in case of an aerial or chemical attack and to prepare a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) which will re-align the 'VIP 89' area. VIP-89 is a demarcated virtual circle that covers all residential and important offices like Prime Minister's Office, Rashtrapati Bhawan, etc.
Keeping in mind the intel input and preparedness after MHA's order, speedy measures have been taken by Delhi Police. Senior police official of New Delhi district said: "To prevent any untoward incident the use of a flying object like paraglide, parasail, para-motor, unmanned aerial vehicles (drone etc.)/remotely piloted aircraft, aero model, micro light aircraft, hot air balloon etc. has been restricted."
