Enhanced Security at Red Fort for Guru Tegh Bahadur's 350th Death Anniversary Following Recent Blast

Security measures have been extensively reinforced throughout the Red Fort complex. (File)

New Delhi:

The Red Fort is preparing to host a significant event marking the 350th death anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, coming just weeks after a blast occurred near the premises. Delhi Police have intensified security protocols as they anticipate approximately 50,000 participants, officials announced on Thursday.

From November 23 to 25, the Delhi government will organize a kirtan darbar, which is expected to attract numerous high-profile dignitaries.

According to DSGMC Secretary Jasmain Singh Noni, President Droupadi Murmu and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are anticipated to attend the commemoration.

The recent explosion, attributed to a "suicide bomber," followed the dismantling of a sophisticated "white-collar" terror network operating across Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, resulting in 15 fatalities.

Despite lingering effects from the blast, the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) has initiated the event beginning Thursday.

Security arrangements surrounding the Red Fort have been dramatically enhanced.

Authorities have deployed 25 additional CCTV cameras along routes leading to the monument, while the DSGMC has installed between 250 and 300 cameras to ensure continuous surveillance, officials reported.

A comprehensive security framework involving CISF, Delhi Police, bomb detection teams, and additional agencies has been established to thoroughly screen all visitors.

Despite recent security concerns, visitors expressed their determination to participate in the commemorative ceremonies.

"We are a brave and devout community. These attacks cannot undermine our faith. When our Guru showed no fear, who are we to be afraid?" remarked Paramjeet Singh Chadha, 71, who visited the Red Fort on Wednesday.

Another attendee, Amrit Singh, 60, mentioned that her family felt protected due to the bolstered security measures.

"This anniversary holds tremendous importance for us. We never considered not attending," she stated.

The DSGMC secretary emphasized that preparations continued uninterrupted despite the blast.

"Even following the incident, work proceeded without pause because this honors our Guru. Delhi Police have guaranteed maximum security. We've installed 250 to 300 CCTV cameras around the Red Fort to maintain vigilance," he explained.

He added that while some individuals initially hesitated to travel to Delhi, organizers provided reassurances, and now they expect over 50,000 attendees.

Meanwhile, Delhi Police officers are making public announcements throughout the Chandni Chowk district, advising residents to remain alert, verify tenant identities, record auto-rickshaw numbers, and avoid accepting food from unknown individuals.