Centre Sanctions 5,300 Additional CAPF Personnel For Delhi's R-Day Security Amid Terror Threat Inputs

The Union government has sanctioned the deployment of 53 additional companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) in Delhi to bolster security and maintain law and order during the Republic Day celebrations in 2026. These forces will be deployed in a phased manner and will be over and above the CAPF companies already stationed in the national capital, including those moved in after the recent Delhi blast.

Already a large number of CAPF troops are deployed in Delhi. Officials also said that in the coming days, more troops are likely to be moved for Delhi considering the sensitivity of the situation.

The sanctioned deployment includes companies from the CRPF, BSF, SSB, CISF and ITBP. In total, the 53 companies translate to roughly 5,300–5,500

additional personnel, significantly reinforcing Delhi Police’s security grid during the high-alert period.

Officials said the additional CAPFs will be tasked with securing Republic Day-related events, including the Republic Day Parade, Prime Minister’s NCC Rally, Beating Retreat ceremony, and Martyrdom Day of Mahatma Gandhi. Some companies will also continue beyond January 26 to ensure security cover during post-Republic Day engagements and controlled drawdown of forces.

According to government sources, the decision follows fresh intelligence inputs indicating heightened threat perceptions around Republic Day events. The security grid has flagged risks from terror modules and lone-wolf actors, possible attempts at high-impact attacks on crowded public events, processions and iconic installations, as well as emerging threats such as drone-based surveillance or sabotage.

Cyber-enabled misinformation campaigns and attempts to incite disturbances during national events have also been assessed as potential challenges.

The intelligence assessment suggests that hostile elements may seek to exploit large public gatherings, VIP movements and symbolic national events to create panic or disrupt celebrations. As a result, multi-layered security arrangements, area domination, intensified checks, and close coordination between central forces and Delhi Police are being planned.

Officials said the additional CAPF presence will strengthen perimeter security, crowd management, anti-sabotage checks and quick reaction capabilities during key events, including the Republic Day parade and associated national functions, ensuring a robust security posture across the capital during the sensitive period.