Entry & exits checks come up in cities; Maha deploys force one amid threats to Jewish sites

As the tension between Israel and Palestine escalates, the security of Israel linked entities in India has been beefed up. The Delhi police is securing the embassy, diplomats and Chabad House in Paharganj in the national capital while police in other states have been asked to enhance security measures at places visited by Israeli tourists including Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Mumbai, and Pushkar in Rajasthan.

The Chabad Houses in Manali, Dharamshala and Mumbai have been given "peripheral security" while private business entities working in India have been provided adequate security personnel. "Many Israeli nationals have returned to their countries following the attack by Palestine," said a senior North Block official. It may be recalled that an Israeli diplomat was attacked in 2012 which was later probed by the special cell of the Delhi police. The probe by Delhi cops linked the attack to Iranian Revolutionary Corps (IRGC).

A detailed review was held by central agencies to identify places and those who could be under threat. The agencies alerted some states and Union Territories to ensure the safety of Israelis residing in the country. Authorities in Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh and Goa were asked to ensure security to Israeli diplomats, staff and tourists. Maharashtra police has increased security and has deployed Force 1, the state's commando unit, at synagogues and localities having a sizable Jewish population. Security has been upped in Mumbai, which witnessed the deadly 26/11 attack when the Chabbad House was one of the targets. "Given the current conflict and the 26/11 anniversary next month, security near Nariman House in Colaba and synagogues in south and central Mumbai have been tightened with Force 1 commandos and combat vehicles," said an official privy to the development.


In Navi Mumbai, security has been beefed up in Belapur, Koparkhairane and Nehru areas which have a sizable Jewish population. Checks on entry and exit points of all major cities have been increased. This includes public transport, including train, bus and metro stations, which witnesses high footfall.