The Delhi Police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the car explosion near the Red Fort that occurred on Monday evening, focusing on three key factors: the suspect's three-hour stay in the area prior to the blast, potential connections to a network based in Faridabad, and the specifics of the explosive device used. The blast, which occurred at a traffic signal near the Red Fort metro station, resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries.
According to Delhi Police sources, CCTV footage reveals that a white Hyundai i20 car was parked in the vicinity of the Red Fort for approximately three hours before the explosion. The vehicle arrived around 3:19 PM and remained in the parking area until about 6:48 PM, leaving the area when there was significant pedestrian traffic. Authorities are meticulously analyzing over 100 CCTV clips to trace the complete route of the vehicle, aiming to determine its origin, how it arrived at the Red Fort parking area, and its subsequent path towards the traffic signal where the explosion took place. The police have indicated that the suspect appeared to be alone in the footage, and the route towards Daryaganj is currently under scrutiny.
Initial investigations suggest a possible terror angle, with some sources indicating it could have been a suicide attack. This theory emerged after the busting of a module in Faridabad, potentially prompting the suspect to act. In connection to this, huge caches of IED (Improvised Explosive Device) materials were seized, hinting at a broader terror network. The car used in the explosion had been bought and sold multiple times, further complicating the investigation.
The Delhi Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), along with sections of the Explosives Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). As part of heightened security measures, Gate Nos. 1 and 4 of the Lal Qila Metro Station have been closed to the public due to ongoing security operations.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that all possibilities are being considered as the investigation progresses. Teams from the Delhi Police, National Investigation Agency (NIA), National Security Guard (NSG), and forensic experts are collaborating to determine the exact details of the blast. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was briefed on the situation and has promised a thorough investigation.
Medical Superintendent of LNJP Hospital reported that many people were brought to the hospital. Several people died before reaching the hospital, some are seriously injured, and others are in stable condition. Helpline numbers have been issued for those seeking assistance or information.
