The Union Home Ministry has warned seven States including the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, Punjab and Haryana to remain on ‘high alert’ to ward off any terrorist attack ahead of the upcoming Republic Day celebrations on 26th January.

The 68th Republic Day is to be observed with traditional fervor and gaiety across the country with Delhi leading the pack with its colour annual ceremonial R-Day Parade on the sprawling Rajpath for which rehearsals have already commenced. President would hoist the national flag at Rajpath while Governors and Lieutenant Governors would do so in all States and Union Territories.

In a communiqué sent to the Directors-General of Police of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, the Ministry has warned these States to remain on ‘high alert’ as there was a strong possibility of terrorists targeting the R-Day celebrations in these States mainly to attract attention if not for anything else.

It urged the States/UTs to ensure that land and air are well protected to ward off terrorist attacks. In Delhi, flying of light/small range aircraft in and around Delhi has been banned from 06:00 a.m. till 09:00 p.m. on 26th January. Even unmanned Drone aircraft won’t be allowed to fly over Delhi’s Rajpath, Rashtrapat Bhawan, Vijay Chowk and over India Gate.