Indian officials have launched an investigation into a devastating car explosion in New Delhi, categorizing it under the country’s anti-terrorism legislation. The blast, which occurred near the historic Red Fort on Monday evening, resulted in the tragic deaths of eight individuals and left at least 19 others injured, as reported by local police.
Details of the explosion and ongoing investigations
Authorities have registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, which grants law enforcement agencies extensive powers to detain suspects during investigations. Due to the sensitive nature of the case, police officials have requested anonymity while discussing the specifics.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on an official trip to Bhutan, emphasized the government’s commitment to uncovering the details surrounding the blast. He stated,
“The conspirators won’t be spared and all those responsible will be brought to justice.”
The explosion took place just before 7 PM local time, reportedly originating from a Hyundai i20 that had halted at a traffic signal. According to Home Minister Amit Shah, the blast ignited a fire that spread to several nearby vehicles, including autos and rickshaws, causing extensive damage.
Heightened security measures in response to the incident
In the aftermath of the explosion, security measures have been significantly heightened across New Delhi, particularly at the international airport, metro stations, and key government buildings. The government has taken these precautions to ensure public safety following the alarming incident.
Images from the explosion site depict shattered windows and twisted metal debris scattered across the area, with flames still visible from the damaged vehicles. The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a crucial landmark in Indian history, has attracted significant media attention as local footage revealed the chaos and destruction in the vicinity.
Home Minister Shah visited the site and assured the public that
“all angles” were being investigated
. He noted that security agencies would swiftly reach a conclusion, with footage from nearby surveillance cameras expected to play a vital role in the inquiry.
As a prominent tourist attraction and a historic landmark, the Red Fort draws large crowds, particularly as a passageway to the vibrant markets of Old Delhi. The government has stressed its determination to thoroughly investigate the incident and maintain security in this bustling area.