A high-intensity explosion near the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi on Monday evening has prompted heightened security measures across several states in India. The blast, which killed at least eight people and injured several others, has led authorities to place Delhi and neighboring states on high alert.
Following the explosion, Delhi has been placed on high alert, with security tightened across key locations. The Railway Protection Force (RPF), in coordination with the Government Railway Police (GRP), has increased security at all Delhi-NCR railway stations, including New Delhi, Old Delhi, Anand Vihar, Hazrat Nizamuddin, and Ghaziabad. RPF personnel have been deployed at entry and exit gates, platforms, and other key points, with dog squads checking passengers and luggage.
Several other states have also been put on high alert, including:
- Uttar Pradesh: Authorities have heightened security at sensitive locations and border areas, increasing patrols and checks across all districts.
- Maharashtra: A high alert has been issued, and security has been stepped up at vital installations in Mumbai and major railway stations. All law enforcement and intelligence agencies have been instructed to stay on high alert.
- Punjab: A red alert has been sounded across all districts in Punjab. Police force has been deployed at sensitive and vulnerable spots, and checking of vehicles and suspicious people has been intensified.
- Haryana: The state has been placed on high alert. People are requested to remain calm and inform '112' (emergency helpline) if any suspicious person or unclaimed object is seen.
- Rajasthan: A statewide alert has been issued to maintain heightened vigilance. Police deployment has been increased at railway stations, bus stands, shopping malls, religious sites, and other high-footfall areas. Bomb Disposal Squads (BDS) have also been asked to remain on high alert.
- Bihar: Security has been ramped up at Patna Junction and other sensitive areas.
- Telangana: Police units across Telangana have been placed on high alert as part of the standard security protocol. City police commissioners and district superintendents of police have been instructed to deploy field units to maintain heightened vigilance.
Additionally, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has issued a high alert across the country, including airports, Delhi Metro, heritage sites, government buildings, and other key installations under its security cover.
The explosion, which occurred around 6:50 PM near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station, involved a Hyundai i20 car. Forensic teams and anti-terror experts are investigating the site. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has also been involved in the investigation. The anti-terror law, UAPA, has been invoked in the FIR, suggesting a possible planned terror attack.
