Devastating explosion near Delhi’s landmark
A tragic explosion in a white Hyundai i20 near the historic Red Fort metro station in New Delhi killed at least nine people and injured 20 or more on Monday evening.
The blast occurred around 6.52 pm at a traffic signal, and the vehicle caught fire along with multiple nearby vehicles.
In response, the Delhi Police invoked sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and a full terror investigation has been launched.
Investigation & security measures underway
Investigators traced the car’s registration to Haryana and detained the registered owner for questioning.
CCTV footage shows the car parked in a lot near the Red Fort for over three hours before the explosion.
Following the blast, high-alert status was declared across Delhi, nearby states such as Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, and major cities including Mumbai and Bengaluru.
Agencies are analysing forensic samples to determine the nature of the blast and confirm links to any terror modules.
Human toll and impact on the area
Eyewitnesses described scenes of horror: mangled bodies, burning cars and heavy smoke in a busy area near one of Delhi’s key tourist and historic sites.
The blast damaged at least six cars, two e-rickshaws and an auto-rickshaw, according to fire-service officials.
Key public spaces including the Red Fort have been temporarily closed; the Archaeological Survey of India announced closure of the monument for three days as a security precaution.
Political responses and next steps
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, called a high-level meeting and visited the blast site, pledging to investigate all angles.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressed condolences and said that the government is extending full support to the victims’ families and the investigation.
Security forces emphasised that the cause of the blast has not yet been confirmed, and they are examining links to a terror module and explosives recently seized in neighbouring Faridabad.