Punjab had intel 5 days before Pathankot strike

PATHANKOT: Punjab Police were aware about the possibility of a terror attack around New Year's eve following an intelligence alert from the home ministry, raising questions on their preparedness and reaction to disclosures by Gurdaspur SP Salwinder Singh who was briefiy kidnapped by the terrorists.

TOI has accessed the copy of an intelligence note prepared by additional director general of police, law and order, Hardeep Dhillon. "Please refer to this office mail dated December 27 about the alert issued by the intelligence wing of Punjab that LeT is planning to carry out a spectacular attack in India possibly around New Year celebrations," the note said.

"The attack may be carried out by nearly 15 well trained terrorists, who may have already entered India. Targets include National level political personalities, government establishments, Parliament, Army headquarters, and key installations. In view of above, personal attention be paid towards bus stands, hotels, railway stations," it added.