In the aftermath of the deadly car explosion near Delhi's historic Red Fort on November 10, 2025, investigations are underway, with law enforcement focusing on tracking down vehicles parked near the exploded car and questioning their drivers and owners. The blast, which killed 13 people and injured more than 20, is being treated as a terror attack by the Indian government.
According to the Delhi Police, the explosion occurred at approximately 6:52 p.m. IST, in a car near the Lal Qila metro station gate no. 1. The vehicle, a Hyundai i20, had stopped at a traffic signal when the explosion occurred. The blast triggered a fire that engulfed several nearby cars, motorcycles, and rickshaws. The impact was such that it shattered windows of a Sikh place of worship 500 meters away.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA), India's counter-terrorism force, has taken over the investigation. Preliminary investigations suggest the explosion was caused by a car loaded with ammonium nitrate fuel oil and other explosives. Investigators are exploring all possible angles, including a deliberate terrorist act and a possible suicide attack.
As part of the investigation, police are scrutinizing CCTV footage to trace the final movements of the vehicle involved. Reports indicate the car entered a parking lot in Old Delhi around 3 p.m. on the day of the explosion and remained there for approximately three hours. The driver, who appeared to be wearing a mask, stayed inside the vehicle during this time.
The probe has revealed a potential terror network with links spanning Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Kashmir. The conspiracy may have been hatched inside Al-Falah University, a private institution in Faridabad, with the help of three Kashmiri doctors. Dr. Umar ul Nabi, who died in the blast, has been identified as a key suspect. DNA analysis confirmed that Dr. Nabi triggered the blast. Investigators are looking into the possible involvement of other vehicles, including a red Ford EcoSport and a Maruti Brezza, which may have been modified for attacks. Sources indicate that 32 cars were being readied to carry explosives as part of a larger plot targeting multiple locations.
In the wake of the explosion, security measures have been heightened across India. Major train stations and key installations in Delhi are on high alert. The US Embassy in New Delhi has urged its citizens to avoid crowds near the Red Fort and remain vigilant in tourist areas.
