New Delhi: A high alert has been issued in Delhi, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand and other states following a car explosion near the Red Fort in Delhi, which resulted in 8 fatalities and 24 injuries. The blast occurred near the Red Fort Metro Station's Gate No. 1 on Monday evening, causing a fire that engulfed several nearby vehicles.
The Delhi Fire Services received a call about the explosion around 7 p.m.. The cause of the blast is currently unknown and is being investigated by security agencies, including the Delhi Police Special Cell. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and National Security Guard (NSG) teams have also arrived on the scene. The area has been sealed off, and authorities are inspecting CCTV cameras in the vicinity.
Eyewitnesses reported a powerful explosion followed by a chaotic scene. Videos circulating from the Chandni Chowk Traders' Association showed the scale of the explosion, with visuals of damaged vehicles and what appeared to be human remains. According to fire department officials, six cars, two e-rickshaws, and one autorickshaw were destroyed in the fire.
The injured were immediately taken to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital. According to the hospital's medical superintendent, eight people were declared dead upon arrival.
In response to the incident, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand have heightened security measures. Uttar Pradesh ADG Law and Order Amitabh Yash stated that the Director General of Police (DGP) has instructed senior officials to increase security at sensitive religious sites, districts, and border areas. Patrols and checks have been increased across all districts in Uttar Pradesh. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis convened a meeting with senior police officials to review the state's security preparedness and reiterated the need for heightened vigilance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed on the situation and has spoken with Home Minister Amit Shah. Shah visited the site of the blast and the hospital where the injured are being treated. He expressed his condolences and assured that top agencies are thoroughly investigating the incident to determine its cause.
Opposition leaders have condemned the incident and called for accountability. Railway stations have also been put on precautionary alert. The Chandni Chowk market in Delhi will remain closed.
