A massive explosion rocked Delhi’s Red Fort area earlier this evening, claiming at least 8 lives and injuring over 15 others in what authorities describe as a car blast near Lal Qila Metro Station Gate No. 1. The incident, reported around 7 PM at Subhash Marg signal, has triggered a multi-agency probe, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah en route to the site and emphasizing a thorough investigation into “all possible angles.”
Nationwide security alerts are in effect, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed condolences while reviewing the situation.
What Happened?
The blast originated from a Hyundai i20 car (HR-26 registration, owned by Nadeem Khan, under scrutiny), which erupted in a fireball, damaging nearby vehicles and scattering debris across the busy evening traffic.
Eyewitnesses described horrific scenes: “Body torn into pieces, hand lying on the road,” with shattered glass and flames engulfing the area, causing immediate panic among commuters.
Delhi Fire Services responded swiftly, with initial calls logging the explosion at Gate No. 1 of the metro station.
Casualties and Response
Death toll: 8 confirmed dead so far (some reports suggest up to 10), including pedestrians and commuters caught in the blast radius. Families of the victims are being assisted by local authorities.
Injuries: At least 15-24 people wounded, many with severe burns and shrapnel injuries; hospitals in the area are on high alert.
Rescue operations concluded hours ago, but forensic teams remain on-site sifting through wreckage.
Official Statements
Union Home Minister Amit Shah: Confirmed the blast occurred in the i20 car and stated, “We are taking all possibilities into account… NSG, NIA, and FSL are investigating. CCTV footage is under review.” He briefed PM Modi and is heading to Delhi for a firsthand assessment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: “Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones… May the injured recover at the earliest. Reviewed the situation with Home Minister Amit Shah Ji.
No immediate claim of responsibility; speculation on social media points to possible terror links, but officials urge calm.
Investigation and Security Measures
Agencies Involved: National Security Guard (NSG) has deployed bomb-disposal units at the site; National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) leading the probe.
Vehicle Details: The i20’s owner, Nadeem Khan, is being questioned; traces of explosives suspected but unconfirmed.
Nationwide Alerts: CISF has issued high alerts for airports, metros, heritage sites, and government buildings. States like Uttar Pradesh (red alert), Haryana, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Kerala, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bihar are on heightened vigilance. Chandni Chowk market to remain closed Tuesday.9cc0c9e1de80