In Delhi Police audit held after Red Fort blast, security lapses flagged at 175 sites, including hotels & malls

Highlighting common lapses, officers said that at most parking areas, staff members were not in uniform, lacked ID cards, and did not use under-vehicle inspection mirrors. At one leading South Delhi mall, officers found no armed guards or baggage scanners, the officer said. “These are pre-emptive steps to ensure that the city remains safe and secure. Cooperation from citizens and business owners is essential at this time,” the officer added.

A senior police officer said that such checks are routinely conducted as part of citywide efforts to strengthen anti-terror preparedness during festive and tourist seasons. However, this round of inspections was prompted by intelligence alerts suggesting possible attempts by extremist groups to disrupt public peace. The citywide audit was conducted by various units of the Special Cell, which have shared the findings with all 15 Deputy Commissioners of Police (DPCs), as well as officers from the Railways and Delhi Metro Police.

Among districts, maximum shortcomings spots were reported from the Southwest district, followed by Northwest district, Southeast district, Metro unit and Outer North district. “District police and units have been directed to immediately brief the owners and managers of these premises to address the identified shortcomings. The Special Cell has also asked all units concerned to take corrective action at the earliest and submit a compliance report for review by senior officers,” a senior police officer said.