Centre feels threat of "lone wolf" attack is real, country on high alert

All states and Union territories have been asked to remain on alert concerning threats of a “lone wolf” attack. The central security establishment feels the threat by an Islamic State-inspired element is real.

"The fact that French President Francois Hollande is the chief guest for Republic Day parade this year, may encourage elements under ISIS influence to indulge in a one-off attack to attract global attention," a source told TNN. Incidentally, Paris saw terror attacks by ISIS in November last year, leading Hollande to order retaliatory air strikes in ISIS territory.

"If there are indeed hardened ISIS sympathizers in India, there is a good chance that they might try to protest against Hollande's visit by indulging in a lone-wolf strike. Though this might not directly threaten Hollande's security, such an attack anywhere in the country could generate much interest in the west," the source told TNN.

A "lone wolf" terrorist is one who indulges in violence in support of some group, movement or ideology but works alone, outside of any command structure and without material assistance from any group.

(Image credits: Reuters)