Hyderabad is now officially under the terror radar, as informed to the state government by the Intelligence Bureau (IB). Terror camps have identified over 150 places in Hyderabad as targets and resources for manpower, especially in the Old City. The Hyderabad police, getting into action, have set up heavy security between Shah Ali Banda and
Mecca Masjid in the Old City, among other places that invite a conglomeration of people, such as the
Charminar.
Section 144 (which prevents an assembly of 5 or more people) has been imposed in the Old City, starting from Tuesday. Police authorities say that checks are being carried out, vehicles stopped and people probed as a matter of procedure.
The IB, in its report to the state government, suggested that Gujaratis and Maharashtrians within the Old City were being targeted, considering the stance and history the governments of those states have towards terrorism.
The police have held various meetings over the week with locals belonging to these communities. The police have also requested the general public in the city to be wary of outsiders and highly vigilant over suspicious activities of those around them as well as any unclaimed belongings.
In the wake of the approaching anniversary of the Mecca Masjid blasts that occurred in the city on 18 May 2007, tension is slowly building up over the anticipation of another attack to mark the anniversary. Last year too, on this day, a home guard was killed and a policeman injured after 2 unidentified individuals opened fire at them as the policemen stood at a bus stand in Faluknama.