PM, Parliament targets of LeT: Intelligence reports

Days after India and Pakistan agreed to revive the peace process, Pakistan-based militant groups seem to be itching for action, if intelligence reports are anything to go by. Indian intelligence agencies have issued alerts about possible attacks at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Parliament building, Indian Army headquarters at South Block and nuclear facilities across the country by the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) during New Year.

According to intelligence agencies, at least 20 terrorists may have entered the country from across the border to carry out suicide strikes at the biggest targets possible. On December 29, the Centre had asked all states to be extra vigilant to thwart any terrorist attack. The security forces have been asked to beef up security particularly at popular tourist destinations, during the New Year festivities. Intelligence agencies have issued a country-wide advisory asking all states to deploy additional forces in crowded places to prevent terrorists’ attacks. Police forces of major cities had been asked to be extra vigilant during the upcoming New Year celebrations, according to unnamed intelligence officials.

The warning was issued after intelligence inputs suggested that Pakistan-based terror groups may launch an attack. They also warned that there is a threat of lone-wolf attacks by those radicalised and inspired by the Islamic State.

If LeT succeeds in carrying out a terror attack in India, it would be a big blow to the latest initiative by the leaders of the two countries to revive the dialogue process and normalize relations. Such an attack will raise questions about Pakistan’s commitment to combat terror groups that are either supported or funded by to carry out attacks in India.

The recent surprise visit of Mr Modi to Lahore to meet his counterpart Nawaz Sharif has kindled hopes about better relations between the estranged neighbours, but the dialogue process remain vulnerable to the designs of Pakistan-based terror groups.

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