A powerful explosion in a Hyundai i20 car near Gate No. 1 of Delhi’s Red Fort Metro Station on Monday evening claimed at least eight lives and left several others injured. The blast occurred around 6:52 p.m. when the vehicle was halted at a traffic signal. The impact of the explosion shattered nearby glass panes and caused panic among commuters and pedestrians. The injured were immediately rushed to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital, where medical teams continue to treat those in critical condition. Authorities have described the incident as one of the most serious security breaches in recent years in the capital.
In response to the tragedy, Delhi has been placed under a heightened state of alert. Security has been reinforced across key installations including the Delhi Metro, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) offices, government buildings, and Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. The alert has also been extended to Mumbai, where police have intensified surveillance at transport hubs and crowded public areas to prevent any potential threats. Officials have advised residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
The explosion prompted immediate concern from the international community. The United States Embassy in India issued a security advisory urging American citizens to avoid the Red Fort area and other crowded locations in Delhi. The embassy advised citizens to stay informed through local media and comply with directions issued by Indian authorities. Similar advisories are expected from other diplomatic missions as the investigation progresses.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families. She emphasized the nation’s collective grief and wished a swift recovery for the injured. In a statement, she said, “I convey my heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives in the blast that has taken place in Delhi. I pray for the quick recovery of those injured.”
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also described the incident as “extremely painful and deeply concerning.” She assured that all necessary assistance was being provided to the victims and their families. The Chief Minister confirmed that multiple investigative agencies—including the Delhi Police, National Security Guard (NSG), National Investigation Agency (NIA), and Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL)—were jointly conducting a detailed probe to determine the cause and motive behind the explosion. She appealed to residents to refrain from spreading unverified information and to maintain calm during the ongoing investigation.
Police officials have traced the car involved in the explosion to a registration number from Haryana. The owner of the vehicle has been detained for questioning as authorities attempt to piece together how the explosives were placed inside the car. Initial forensic reports are expected soon and will be crucial in identifying the type of explosive material used.
Investigators are currently examining surveillance footage from the vicinity of Red Fort Metro Station and nearby traffic intersections. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud blast followed by smoke and chaos, with several vehicles damaged in the vicinity. Experts are exploring whether the explosion was accidental or an intentional act of violence.
As the investigation intensifies, Delhi remains under tight security. The city’s police force and central agencies are coordinating efforts to prevent further incidents. Officials have urged the public to stay cautious but avoid panic, emphasizing that maintaining peace and order is vital during such times. The government has also assured full transparency in the probe, pledging that those responsible for the Red Fort car blast will be brought to justice.
