Republic Day 2026: Masked or disguised, AI will spot you! Delhi police’s smart glasses

Ahead of the 2026 Republic Day celebrations, Delhi Police is stepping up security with the help of advanced technology. For the first time, the police will use AI-enabled smart glasses and facial recognition systems to strengthen surveillance and improve threat detection across the national capital.

The move is part of an upgraded security plan to ensure a safe and smooth Republic Day parade, which attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Technology takes centre stage

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Additional Commissioner of Police Devesh Kumar Mahala said that the Delhi Police is making full use of technology-based solutions from a security point of view. According to him, all CCTV cameras deployed during the event will be equipped with video analytics and Facial Recognition Systems (FRS), ANI reported.

These systems will help the police identify suspects more accurately and quickly. “There are various types of video analytics, and we will utilise them. This time, we are also using specially developed cameras and wearable glasses,” Mahala said.

First-time use of smart glasses

This Republic Day parade will mark the first time Delhi Police personnel use smart wearable glasses during duty. Selected officers will wear these smart glasses while patrolling along the parade route.

The smart glasses come with a built-in camera and are connected to a mobile application. They scan faces in real time and match them with a database of around 65,000 criminals. If a person with a criminal record is detected, the system sends an instant alert to the police officer.

Can identify disguised suspects

Explaining the advanced features, Mahala said the system uses multiple algorithms that allow it to identify wanted individuals even if they try to hide their identity.

“If someone is wearing makeup, a mask, a cap, or has changed their beard or hairstyle, the system can still recognise them,” he said. The technology can match faces using old photographs taken many years ago or recent images.

The database has been trained to identify people regardless of age, facial hair, hair length, or even cuts and marks on the face.

Apart from facial recognition, the smart glasses also have thermal scanning features. This will help police detect concealed weapons or suspicious objects that people might be carrying during the event.

This feature adds another layer of safety, especially in large gatherings where manual checks may not catch everything.

Focus on data security

Mahala stressed that data security is a top priority. The smart glasses and FRS cameras work on standalone systems and are not connected to the internet.

Each device carries its own encrypted database, which is stored locally on mobile phones connected to the glasses. This ensures controlled use and prevents misuse or data leaks.

Delhi Police has implemented total physical security measures through their technology systems together with their security personnel deployment. The New Delhi district will receive a deployment of 10,000 police officers for patrol duty.

More than 3,000 CCTV cameras have been installed across key locations, and over 30 control rooms have been established to provide ongoing operational surveillance.

Multi-layer checks for the public and vehicles

The authorities will implement three security checkpoints, which will monitor all pedestrians who attempt to enter the parade area. All vehicles that enter secure areas will undergo the same inspection process.

The Republic Day celebration security measures protect all attendees who will be present at the event from potential threats to their safety.

A tech-driven Republic Day

With the use of AI smart glasses, facial recognition systems, thermal scanning, and strong on-ground deployment, Delhi Police is aiming for a highly secure and technology-driven Republic Day 2026.

The combination of human vigilance and advanced tools is expected to significantly enhance public safety during one of the country’s most important national events