Deadly Red Fort blast triggers national security probe
A deadly car explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10 killed nine people and injured at least 24, sending shockwaves across the capital. The blast occurred at 6:52 pm near Gate 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station, setting multiple vehicles on fire and shattering windows in nearby shops.
Officials confirmed that the explosion originated from a Hyundai i20 that had been parked in the vicinity for nearly three hours. Following forensic analysis, authorities invoked the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and began a full-scale anti-terror investigation.
Leaving for Bhutan, where I will attend various programmes. This visit comes at a time when Bhutan is marking the 70th birthday of His Majesty the Fourth King. I will be holding talks with His Majesty the King of Bhutan, His Majesty the Fourth King and Prime Minister Tshering…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 11, 2025
Suspect linked to J&K terror module
Preliminary investigation has linked the vehicle to a doctor from Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir, who was allegedly connected to a wider terror network. The same module was earlier linked to a major explosives seizure in Faridabad, where over 3,000 kg of ammonium nitrate was recovered last week. (India Today)
A senior Delhi Police official said the blast appeared to be a “coordinated act of terror” and confirmed that multiple agencies—including the NIA, IB, and Delhi Police’s Special Cell—are now jointly handling the case.
In the aftermath of the explosion, a high alert was declared across the National Capital Region (NCR), and increased security checks were ordered at railway stations, airports, and tourist sites.
Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a late-night emergency meeting with top intelligence and security officials. A multi-agency task force has been established to trace possible foreign links to the attack.
Modi proceeds with Bhutan visit amid ongoing probe
Despite the tense domestic situation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for a pre-scheduled two-day state visit to Bhutan on Tuesday morning. His visit focuses on strengthening regional cooperation, inaugurating major infrastructure projects, and marking the 70th birthday celebrations of Bhutan’s Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
In Thimphu, Modi was received by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. The visit includes the inauguration of the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project—a flagship energy venture symbolising India-Bhutan cooperation in clean energy.
Speaking ahead of his visit, Modi said the trip aims to “strengthen the age-old ties of friendship, trust, and partnership between our two nations.”
The Punatsangchhu-II project, which faced years of delay due to geological challenges, will now supply surplus electricity to India while boosting Bhutan’s economy. It is expected to generate around ₹5,000 crore annually in export revenue for the Himalayan kingdom.
Diplomacy and security: A balancing act
The timing of the Prime Minister’s visit, just a day after the Red Fort blast, has drawn attention to India’s dual focus on regional diplomacy and national security.
While Delhi’s security agencies remain on high alert, the government has underscored that India’s international commitments will continue unhindered. Officials accompanying Modi stated that “the Prime Minister has been briefed continuously on the investigation.”
Bhutan remains one of India’s closest allies in South Asia. The two nations share a unique friendship anchored in energy, trade, and security cooperation. India remains Bhutan’s top trade partner, accounting for over 70 % of its imports and exports.
During the visit, Modi and Bhutanese leaders are expected to discuss enhanced connectivity through road and digital infrastructure, as well as collaboration in hydropower and climate resilience.
What lies ahead
Back in Delhi, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is expected to take over the Red Fort blast case within the week. Forensic experts are examining explosive residues, with early indications suggesting a mix of ammonium nitrate and RDX.
The Delhi Police have also detained multiple individuals linked to the Faridabad explosives haul. Investigators are exploring whether the Red Fort blast was meant to coincide with other planned attacks that were foiled earlier this month.
Meanwhile, in Bhutan, Modi will attend several high-level meetings and cultural events before returning to New Delhi on 12 November.
The juxtaposition of a national security crisis and a key diplomatic engagement demonstrates India’s resolve to maintain stability at home while deepening strategic ties abroad—a message that resonates both regionally and globally.