Blast Near Red Fort Leaves Several Dead, Probe Underway

A powerful explosion near the Red Fort in central Delhi on Monday evening left several people dead and many others injured, triggering a high alert across the national capital.

According to officials, the blast occurred around 6.50 p.m. in a parked car near the Red Fort Metro Station on Subhash Marg. The impact of the explosion damaged nearby vehicles and caused a fire, prompting the deployment of seven fire tenders and a large contingent of police and rescue personnel.

Preliminary reports indicated at least eight deaths and over two dozen injuries. The injured have been taken to nearby hospitals, where several are said to be in critical condition. The entire area has been cordoned off, and vehicular movement diverted.

The car, a Hyundai i20 registered in Gurugram, had reportedly changed ownership several times in recent months. Police have detained the last known owner for questioning. Senior officials from the Delhi Police, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and the National Security Guard (NSG) have reached the site.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who visited the location late in the evening, said all possible angles—including a terror link—are being examined. Forensic experts are collecting samples, and CCTV footage from nearby areas is being reviewed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and assured full support for the investigation and relief operations.

Security has been tightened across the city, with alerts issued in neighbouring states including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra. Markets and public spaces around the Red Fort area remained closed late into the night as officials worked to ensure safety.

Police have urged citizens to remain calm and refrain from sharing unverified information on social media while the investigation continues.