Security agencies intensified checks in Delhi and the NCR after intelligence inputs warned of a possible coordinated terrorist attack ahead of Republic Day, reportedly code-named “26-26”. Authorities stepped up monitoring and deployed additional measures at key locations as part of heightened threat preparedness.
Security agencies in Delhi heightened alert levels after intelligence inputs warned of a coordinated terror threat around Republic Day, with reports referring to a codename ‘26-26’ and possible targeting of high-footfall locations.
Security agencies in Delhi stepped up vigilance after an intelligence warning flagged the possibility of a coordinated terror attack around Republic Day, with authorities intensifying monitoring and putting additional measures in place across the capital and key locations.
India’s 77th Republic Day programme at Kartavya Path in New Delhi carried a strong political message of unity and national capability. With the EU’s top leaders attending as chief guests and an India–EU summit due on 27 January 2026, the parade’s themes of ‘unity in diversity’ and military readiness were closely watched for what they signalled at home and abroad.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said a “successful India” makes the world more stable, prosperous and secure after attending India’s Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi. Von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa were chief guests at the parade, ahead of the EU–India Summit scheduled for 27 January 2026.
On 26 January 2026, Republic Day messages from across the political spectrum focused on constitutional ideals and democratic safeguards, with leaders and parties using the day’s symbolism to reiterate commitments to equality, unity and the protection of constitutional values.
The Election Commission of India launched ECINET, a unified digital platform intended to bring together more than 40 election-related applications and portals. Announced at the India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management, the initiative aims to streamline election administration and improve access to key services for stakeholders.
The Union government has announced the schedule for Parliament’s Budget Session 2026, starting 28 January and continuing in two phases until 2 April, with a break after 13 February and resumption on 9 March. The session will open with the President’s address to a joint sitting of both Houses.
An intelligence input cited by India Today claims a suspected ‘26-26’ conspiracy linked to Pakistan’s ISI and terror groups, prompting heightened security and a Delhi Police wanted notice carrying a photo of an alleged AQIS operative.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticised the Election Commission on National Voters’ Day, accusing it of acting under BJP influence and calling a voter-roll exercise an “NRC-like” trial. The TMC alleged the EC has not published a “logical discrepancy” list by a deadline it cited, warning of potential disenfranchisement ahead of state polls.
The Election Commission is observing the 16th National Voters’ Day on January 25, 2026, with the theme ‘My India, My Vote’. President Droupadi Murmu is set to present Best Electoral Practices Awards, while the event highlights voter participation, election management and awareness initiatives.
On National Voters’ Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged eligible young Indians to register as voters as soon as they turn 18, calling participation in elections central to strengthening democracy. His message focused on welcoming first-time voters and boosting civic engagement.