Babri Masjid anniversary threat to planes

NEW DELHI: Aviation may be the next target of a high profile terror attack. According to highly placed sources, the aviation ministry has got intelligence inputs that an airport or an airliner may be targeted by terrorists on December 6 ��� the 16th anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition.

The information led to a flurry of activity. First, the aviation ministry���s top brass went into a huddle with the Indian Air Force chief. This was followed by a ministry meeting headed by aviation secretary M Madhavan Nambiar along with DGCA chief Naseem Zaidi, commissioner of civil aviation security R Sahi, CISF IG (Airports) M S Bali and senior ministry officials.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, which frames air security guidelines, has taken the unprecedented step of ordering ladder-point security checks on all flights. Under this heightened security system, passengers are also frisked just before they climb the plane or board the bus to the aircraft.

AIR SCARE

Aviation ministry has got intel inputs that an airport or airliner may be targeted by terrorists on Dec 6 ��� the 16th anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition.

Top ministry officials discuss security measures with IAF chief. Later, hold internal meeting to assess threat.

Ladder-point security check ordered for all flights. Flyers to be frisked before they either climb plane ladder or before they board bus to aircraft.