A powerful explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10 has left at least 13 people dead and several others injured, triggering a nationwide security alert. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has officially taken over the probe and formed teams amid strong suspicion of a terror link.
Explosion Near Heritage Site
According to Delhi Police, the blast occurred when a Hyundai i20 car exploded close to the Red Fort’s main road. The vehicle was completely destroyed, and debris was scattered across the area. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud bang followed by thick smoke billowing from the site.
Forensic teams and bomb disposal squads were immediately deployed. Initial assessments suggest that an improvised explosive device (IED) may have been used, although investigators believe the explosion happened prematurely before the device was fully assembled.
Suspect Identified as Pulwama Doctor
Officials identified the car’s driver as Umar un-Nabi, a resident of Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir. Early findings link him to a terror module that was recently busted in Faridabad, where raids had taken place just a day before the Red Fort incident.
Investigators suspect Umar may have triggered the blast accidentally while transporting the explosive device. His remains are among those being analyzed for confirmation.
Security Tightened Across NCR
Following the explosion, security has been heightened across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). Police have set up barricades at all major entry points, including Ghazipur, Singhu, Tikri, and Badarpur borders. Vehicle checks are ongoing at metro stations, markets, and railway stations.
Sniffer dogs, metal detectors, and anti-sabotage squads have been deployed in high-footfall areas. Officials have urged the public to stay alert and report any suspicious activity.
Families Struggle to Identify Victims
Due to the intensity of the blast, many victims suffered severe burns, complicating identification efforts. Families have identified some of the deceased through clothing and personal belongings. Emotional scenes unfolded at the mortuary as relatives gathered seeking information.
International Reaction
Condolences have poured in from across the world. Iran’s foreign ministry expressed sympathy to the victims’ families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. India’s Home Minister is expected to chair a high-level review meeting with intelligence and security officials later today.
Investigation Continues
The NIA has formed a special team to analyze forensic evidence, digital trails, and possible terror links. Preliminary evidence indicates coordination with networks operating outside Delhi. Officials say further details will be released once lab results are finalized. Delhi remains under maximum security alert as investigations continue.
