The Delhi Police department has significantly increased security across the national capital ahead of Hanuman Jayanti on April 2, 2026. This move follows the recent arrest of Shabbir Ahmed Lone, a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) handler who was reportedly targeting religious sites in the city. Additional forces have been deployed on sensitive routes and at prominent temples to ensure the safety of devotees and the general public during the festivities.
New Rules and Restrictions for Hanuman Jayanti Processions
To maintain order and prevent any security breaches, the authorities have implemented strict guidelines for all religious processions. Organizers are required to follow these mandates to avoid legal action or cancellation of permissions. The police have emphasized that surveillance will be handled via drones and CCTV cameras along the approved routes.
- Participant Limit: A maximum of 500 people are allowed in any single procession.
- Strict Ban on Weapons: Carrying weapons, lathis, or any hazardous objects is strictly prohibited.
- Fixed Routes: All processions must strictly adhere to pre-approved routes and specific timings.
- Prohibited Actions: No provocative slogans or speeches that could disturb communal harmony are allowed.
- Mandatory Volunteers: Organizers must deploy volunteers to assist the police in crowd management.
Terror Plot Foiled and Security Measures Enhanced
The Delhi Police Special Cell arrested Shabbir Ahmed Lone, also known as Raja, from the Ghazipur area. Investigations revealed that the handler had conducted reconnaissance of the Kalkaji Temple and Gauri Shankar Temple. Following this discovery, security at these historic sites has been tightened with multi-layered protection. The police are monitoring the situation closely in areas like Jahangirpuri to prevent any repeat of past incidents.
| Security Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrested Individual | Shabbir Ahmed Lone (LeT Handler) |
| Targeted Locations | Gauri Shankar Temple, Kalkaji Temple |
| Force Deployment | Delhi Police, Rapid Action Force (RAF) |
| Monitoring Tools | Drones, CCTV, Multi-layered barricading |
| Special Cell Action | 5-day police custody for the accused |