Indian authorities have launched an investigation under the country’s anti-terrorism and explosives laws after a deadly car explosion near the historic Red Fort in New Delhi killed at least nine people and injured several others on Monday evening.
The blast occurred around 6:52 p.m. near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station, one of the busiest commuter hubs in Old Delhi. Eyewitnesses reported a loud explosion followed by flames engulfing multiple vehicles, including a Hyundai i20, several cars, and auto-rickshaws. Firefighters brought the blaze under control within 30 minutes.
According to Delhi Police, the Hyundai i20 involved in the incident bore Haryana registration plates (HR26 CE 7674). Investigators have detained its registered owner, Mohammad Salman, from Gurugram. Salman told authorities he had sold the vehicle to a man from Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir, whose identity is now the focus of ongoing inquiries.
The Union Home Ministry has directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Delhi Police’s Special Cell to jointly probe the case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Explosives Act, indicating possible links to terrorism.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah were briefed shortly after the explosion. Both leaders called for an exhaustive investigation and assured the public that those responsible will be brought to justice.
In the aftermath, security across the capital and several neighbouring states, including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Maharashtra, has been significantly intensified. Metro stations, airports, and major transit points remain under heightened surveillance, while police in Noida and Ghaziabad have stepped up checks and patrols.
The Red Fort—one of India’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—remains cordoned off as forensic experts examine the scene. The area, which attracts thousands of tourists daily, has been declared a high-security zone until further notice.
Regional and Diplomatic Implications
The explosion has reverberated beyond India’s borders, drawing condolences and support from regional allies. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, offering sympathy to the victims’ families and affirming the Maldives’ solidarity with India.
The incident underscores the importance of regional intelligence cooperation and security preparedness, particularly for countries like the Maldives that share strong tourism, trade, and diplomatic ties with India. With both nations prioritizing stability and counter-terrorism coordination, the Red Fort blast serves as a grim reminder of shared security challenges in South Asia.
Authorities in India continue to piece together evidence from CCTV footage, forensic analysis, and witness statements as the investigation widens under federal supervision.
