In the wake of the deadly car explosion near Delhi's Red Fort that killed at least 13 people and injured more than 20, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has denounced the incident as a "conspiracy" and vowed to bring those responsible to justice. The blast, which occurred on Monday evening around 6:52 PM near the Red Fort Metro Station, has triggered a high alert in the capital and across major cities in India.
"The conspirators behind this will not be spared," Modi declared while addressing a public meeting in Bhutan on Tuesday. "Our agencies will get to the bottom of this conspiracy. All those responsible will be brought to justice," he asserted, switching to English to ensure his message resonated globally. He also conveyed his condolences to the affected families, stating that the entire nation stands with them.
Initial investigations suggest the explosion may have been a terror attack. The blast involved a white Hyundai i20 car and damaged several other vehicles in the busy area. Preliminary reports indicate that the car was laden with ammonium nitrate, which triggered a fire after the explosion. CCTV footage showed a masked man driving the car before the explosion.
Law enforcement officials are investigating the incident under India's Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), a law primarily used to address terrorism-related activities. The investigation has been handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Forensic teams have collected evidence from the blast site, and senior government officials have pledged to find those responsible.
Adding a layer of complexity, the explosion occurred hours after Jammu and Kashmir Police recovered a large quantity of explosives in Faridabad, Haryana. Raids in Faridabad led to the seizure of nearly 3,000 kg of explosives, along with assault rifles and other arms. Investigators are exploring potential links between the blast and a terror module operating out of Faridabad. Some reports suggest the occupant of the exploded vehicle was Dr. Umar, from Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir. The police have detained multiple individuals, including doctors, for questioning.
The incident has drawn strong reactions from political leaders and the international community. Home Minister Amit Shah has promised to "hunt down each and every culprit behind this incident". Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced financial assistance for the families of the deceased and injured. Political parties have called for a thorough investigation. Messages of condemnation have poured in from across the world, including from deposed Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
As the investigation unfolds, security measures have been heightened across Delhi and other major cities. The Delhi Metro and other key sites are under strict vigil. The incident raises concerns about potential escalation of regional tensions, particularly given past incidents and accusations between India and Pakistan.
