NEW DELHI (AP) – Authorities in India are conducting an investigation into a deadly car explosion that occurred near the historic Red Fort in New Delhi, resulting in the deaths of at least eight individuals and injuries to several others. The explosion took place on Monday evening around 7 p.m. local time, as a Hyundai i20 car was idling at a traffic signal when it suddenly detonated. According to Home Minister Amit Shah, the blast not only destroyed the vehicle but also ignited a fire that spread to nearby cars and rickshaws.
Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha confirmed that the explosion originated from a slow-moving vehicle that had come to a stop at a red light. He stated, “An explosion happened in that vehicle, and due to the explosion, nearby vehicles were also damaged.” Witnesses described a horrific scene with shattered windows, twisted metal, and flames engulfing the area. Om Prakash Gupta, who resides nearby, recounted hearing the explosion and rushing outside with his children to witness vehicles ablaze and body parts scattered across the street.
Emergency services transported the injured to a local government hospital for treatment. Despite the rapid response from authorities, the cause of the explosion remains undetermined. An investigation is currently underway, with the National Investigation Agency (NIA), India’s federal anti-terrorism unit, leading the inquiry alongside forensic experts. Home Minister Shah emphasized that “all angles” are being examined, and security agencies are working diligently to draw conclusions based on evidence, including surveillance footage from nearby cameras.
In light of the incident, security measures have been heightened in various locations across India. Major train stations, including those in metropolitan areas such as Mumbai and the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, have been placed on alert, while personnel responsible for guarding key infrastructure in the capital have also been deployed to maintain heightened vigilance. The United States Embassy in New Delhi has advised its citizens to steer clear of crowds near the Red Fort and remain cautious in tourist zones.
The Red Fort, a prominent tourist attraction and a former imperial palace from the Mughal era, is situated approximately six kilometers (3.7 miles) from the Indian Parliament. It serves as a significant location where the Prime Minister of India traditionally delivers the annual Independence Day speech each August 15. The surrounding area of the Red Fort is usually bustling, functioning as a primary route to the lively markets of Old Delhi.
As investigations progress, authorities are working to ascertain the motives behind the attack and whether it was linked to any organized terrorist activity. The situation continues to evolve as police and security officials work tirelessly to ensure the safety of citizens and tourists alike in a region marked by its rich history and cultural significance.
