High Alert in Meerut Ahead of PM Visit: 13 Suspected Kashmiris Detained, Two Missing

Meerut, February 21, 2026: Security agencies in Meerut have intensified surveillance and verification measures ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit on Sunday for the inauguration of the Namo Bharat train.

In a significant development, 13 suspected Kashmiri youths have been taken into custody for questioning, while two others are reportedly missing. The move comes amid heightened security arrangements in the city prior to the high-profile event.

Initial Detention and Release

According to reports, around 15 youths were seen moving around Sadar Sarrafa Bazaar and nearby localities on Friday, allegedly seeking donations. Local traders grew suspicious of their activities and alerted the police. Some of the youths were reportedly confronted by shopkeepers, leading to tension in the area.

Police from Sadar police station took the individuals into custody and brought them in for questioning. After recording their names, addresses, and mobile numbers, they were initially released on the responsibility of local residents.

MLA Raises Security Concerns

The issue escalated when Cantonment MLA Amit Agarwal reached the police station and questioned why the individuals had been released without thorough verification, especially ahead of the Prime Minister’s visit. He raised concerns with senior police officials regarding possible security lapses and demanded accountability.

Following the intervention and considering the seriousness of the upcoming event, senior officials reportedly reprimanded local police authorities and ordered immediate re-verification.

13 Taken Back Into Custody

Late Friday night, police detained 13 individuals again — eight from Lisari Gate police station area and five from Lohia Nagar. Two other associates are currently untraceable, and efforts are underway to locate them.

SP City Ayush Vikram Singh stated that digital verification of the detained individuals is being conducted through official applications. Authorities have also contacted Jammu and Kashmir Police and Military Intelligence for background checks.

Multi-Agency Verification Underway

Intelligence agencies and military intelligence teams are jointly interrogating the detainees to verify their identities and intent. Officials emphasized that the action is purely precautionary, given the high-security nature of the Prime Minister’s visit.

With the city on high alert, additional security personnel have been deployed across sensitive areas. Authorities reiterated that any suspicious movement will be thoroughly investigated to ensure foolproof arrangements for the upcoming event.