Republic Day security: Delhi deploys 30,000 police, expands AI-led surveillance and facial recognition
With Republic Day celebrations underway, Delhi Police rolled out one of its most layered security plans in recent years—30,000 personnel, thousands of CCTV cameras with facial recognition and video analytics, and AI-enabled eyewear for officers on the ground. The measures reflect both threat perceptions and a growing reliance on tech-led policing for large events.
NEW DELHI, January 26, 2026 — Delhi Police said it deployed more than 30,000 personnel across the capital for Republic Day security, with around 10,000 assigned to the New Delhi district that includes the parade route and high-security zones. The arrangement, described as multi-layered, included barricading, multiple levels of checking and frisking, and strict access control around Kartavya Path and nearby areas. ([moneycontrol.com](https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/republic-day-2026-delhi-police-deploys-30-000-personnel-ai-surveillance-frs-cameras-in-place-13790307.html?utm_source=openai))
What stood out in this year’s security narrative was the technology overlay. According to the report, more than 3,000 CCTV cameras equipped with advanced video analytics and Facial Recognition System (FRS) capability were installed across key areas, with live feeds monitored through multiple control rooms. The report also said personnel on the ground were issued India-made AI glasses integrated with facial recognition and analytics, intended to help identify suspects in real time by matching faces against police databases. ([moneycontrol.com](https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/republic-day-2026-delhi-police-deploys-30-000-personnel-ai-surveillance-frs-cameras-in-place-13790307.html?utm_source=openai))
Authorities described these tools as part of a broader push to reduce response time and improve detection in crowded environments, especially during high-footfall national events. The report also said mobile surveillance vehicles with FRS tech were placed at strategic points, and that rooftop deployment—including sniper teams—formed part of the larger protective grid. Alongside tech, police cited traditional measures such as route surveys, anti-sabotage checks, and intensified vigilance at markets, terminals and stations. ([moneycontrol.com](https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/republic-day-2026-delhi-police-deploys-30-000-personnel-ai-surveillance-frs-cameras-in-place-13790307.html?utm_source=openai))
The political dimension of Republic Day security is always implicit: the event is a national symbol, a mass gathering, and a high-visibility stage for the state. The expanding use of facial recognition and AI-linked tools also brings a second debate into the open—how to balance crowd safety with oversight, governance and accountability in surveillance-heavy public spaces. ([moneycontrol.com](https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/republic-day-2026-delhi-police-deploys-30-000-personnel-ai-surveillance-frs-cameras-in-place-13790307.html?utm_source=openai))
- Deployment: 30,000+ personnel citywide; ~10,000 in New Delhi district
- Surveillance: 3,000+ CCTV cameras with analytics and FRS
- Field tech: AI-enabled glasses linked to police databases
- Ground measures: checking, access control, route surveys, anti-sabotage checks
Bottom line: Republic Day 2026 security in Delhi reflected a dual reality—persistent threat sensitivity around major events, and a fast-moving shift towards AI-assisted policing. How consistently, transparently and proportionately these tools are used will shape public trust long after the parade route is cleared. ([moneycontrol.com](https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/republic-day-2026-delhi-police-deploys-30-000-personnel-ai-surveillance-frs-cameras-in-place-13790307.html?utm_source=openai))