Forensic teams scour the site near the historic Red Fort as authorities place several states on high alert; investigation is in a “preliminary stage,” say police.
NEW DELHI, [Current Date] – Indian authorities are investigating a deadly car explosion in the heart of Delhi under the country’s stringent anti-terrorism legislation, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The blast, which killed at least eight people and injured 20 others on Monday evening, marks the first major explosion in the capital in over a decade.
The incident occurred near the iconic Red Fort when a slow-moving car stopped at a traffic signal and exploded around 7 p.m., leaving a scene of devastation on a congested street. The powerful blast mangled vehicles and bodies, sending shockwaves through the heavily guarded city of over 30 million people.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Raja Banthia confirmed that a case has been registered under the UAPA, along with the Explosives Act and other criminal laws. “Investigation is at a preliminary stage and any comment on it will be too premature,” Banthia stated.
Forensic Search for Clues
The blast site, located in a busy market and tourist area in Delhi’s old quarters, remained sealed off on Tuesday. Forensic experts were seen meticulously scouring the area for evidence, while traffic restrictions were imposed in the vicinity. Most nearby shops, which had shut immediately after the explosion, remained closed.
Police are working to trace the owner of the vehicle and have not yet released information on its occupants, who are presumed to be among the dead.
High Alert and National Response
In the aftermath, several states and key facilities across India were placed on high alert. Federal Home Minister Amit Shah assured that “all angles” were being investigated and that security agencies would reach a conclusion soon.
The attack has drawn national attention due to its location near the Red Fort, a 17th-century monument from which Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation every Independence Day. Despite the crisis, Prime Minister Modi proceeded with a scheduled visit to Bhutan on Tuesday.
The incident is a grim reminder of the security challenges facing the capital. In April, an attack in Jammu and Kashmir led to a military confrontation with Pakistan, underscoring the region’s persistent tensions.
As the investigation continues, relatives of the victims gathered at the nearby Lok Nayak Hospital, grappling with the uncertainty and loss. “We at least know that my cousin is here, whether he is injured or not or the extent of his injury, we don’t know anything,” said one distressed relative who wished to remain anonymous.
