Delhi warned of imminent attacks

US, UK and Australia issue advisories; Police step up security

Not taking any chances, the Delhi Police, who were told to be on “full alert,” stepped up security to the markets, including Connaught Place, Greater Kailash and Chandni Chowk, which are “attractive targets” for terrorist groups. Besides these places, security has been beefed up at Karol Bagh, Sarojini Nagar market and Lajpat Nagar market.

Greater Kailash and Chandni Chowk had been targets of attacks not long ago. These popular markets betrayed no sense of panic as one could see people thronging these happening places in groups. The shopkeepers continued their brisk sales as usual.  The US, in its Warden Message updated on Saturday, said “there are increased indications that terrorists are planning imminent attacks in New Delhi.”

The advisory, primarily intended for American citizens in India, said it provides updated information related to the April 21, 2010, Warden Message and additional information related to the Travel Alert issued for India on April 16, 2010.

In its advisory, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office  said: “At this time there are increased indications that terrorists are planning attacks in New Delhi. “You should be particularly conscious of security considerations in the vicinity of key government installations and tourist sites.”

The Australian advisory said: “Reliable reporting indicates that terrorists may be planning to attack markets in New Delhi, including those frequented by foreigners. Such attacks could occur at any time from April 22.”

It “strongly” advised Australians to avoid all markets in New Delhi until further notice and exercise “high degree of caution.”  These countries have been issuing such advisories in the past also, but this time they have talked about an “imminent” threat about terrorist strikes in Delhi.