ALBAWABA- A powerful explosion ripped through a parked car near Delhi’s historic Red Fort late Monday, killing at least eight people and injuring 24 others in one of the deadliest incidents to hit the Indian capital in recent years.
The blast triggered panic in the crowded Chandni Chowk district, a bustling market and major tourist area.
The explosion occurred outside Gate 1 of the Chandni Chowk Metro Station, just meters from the UNESCO-listed Red Fort. Witnesses described a sudden fireball and shattered glass as debris flew across the area, engulfing nearby vehicles in flames.
Police and rescue teams rushed to the scene, evacuating victims to nearby hospitals; officials said four remain in critical condition with severe burns and shrapnel wounds.
Authorities have not confirmed the cause of the blast.
Investigators from Delhi Police and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) are examining whether an improvised explosive device (IED) was used, though they have not ruled out a gas cylinder or vehicle malfunction. Forensic experts combed the site through the night, and CCTV footage is being reviewed for clues.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was briefed by Home Minister Amit Shah, who condemned the attack and vowed “swift justice.” Security has been tightened across the capital, with additional patrols deployed around major landmarks ahead of the Diwali festival.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed that the explosion occurred around 7 p.m. near the Subhash Marg traffic signal by the Red Fort Metro Station, when a Hyundai i20 car suddenly blew up, injuring several pedestrians and damaging nearby vehicles. He said preliminary reports indicate that some fatalities have been recorded.
“Within ten minutes of receiving the report, teams from the Delhi Crime Branch and Special Branch reached the site,” Shah stated, adding that the National Security Guard (NSG), National Investigation Agency (NIA), and Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) have launched a joint probe. “All nearby CCTV footage is being examined. I have spoken to the Delhi Police Commissioner and the head of the Special Branch, both of whom are at the scene,” he added.
Shah said investigators are “exploring all possibilities” and pledged a transparent inquiry. “Every angle will be thoroughly investigated, and the findings will be shared with the public,” he assured, noting that he would visit the blast site and the hospital to meet the injured.
Built in 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the Red Fort stands as one of India’s most iconic monuments, symbolizing both imperial grandeur and national identity. It was from its ramparts that Jawaharlal Nehru declared India’s independence in 1947—a tradition continued by every prime minister since.
