A supposed Al Qaeda supporter sent a hand written letter to officials that threatened to blow up the Taj Mahal:
Authorities were investigating a handwritten letter received Thursday — purportedly sent by an Al Qaeda supporter — that said the terrorist group planned blasts at the 17th century monument, which drew nearly 2.5 million tourists last year.
“Police are verifying the source of the letter,” said Ashok Kumar, a senior government official in Uttar Pradesh state where the Taj Mahal is located. “The letter could be false but we cannot afford to be complacent. We are not taking any chances and have enhanced security at the Taj.”
Indian authorities had already tightened security at the shrine for Independence Day activities on the 16th after recieving threats. Water bottles are now banned in the shrine and additonal forces are in place at the monument.