• Source:JND
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Delhi Red Fort Blast Update: A powerful blast near Delhi’s Red Fort on Monday evening caused panic across Old Delhi, leaving at least 13 people dead and several others injured. The explosion took place outside Gate No. 1 of the Lal Qila Metro Station, setting multiple vehicles on fire.

The incident occurred around 6:52 PM, when a slow-moving Hyundai i20 car reportedly stopped at a red light on the stretch connecting Delhi Gate to Kashmere Gate. Moments later, the vehicle exploded, igniting nearby cars. Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha said that two to three people were believed to be inside the vehicle at the time of the blast. The injured were rushed to LNJP Hospital, while police and fire teams immediately cordoned off the area.

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Key Updates On Delhi Blast Investigation

1. NIA Takes Over Investigation

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has handed over the probe to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), considering it a potential act of terror. The NIA will work in coordination with the Delhi Police and other central agencies.

2. Explosion Triggered In Panic, Not Suicide Attack

Initial findings suggest the suspect detonated the explosive device in panic, possibly due to heightened security and recent raids across multiple cities. Reports indicate that the blast was not a suicide attack, as the vehicle did not collide with any object deliberately, as reported by ANI.

3. Composition Of Explosive

Forensic experts have confirmed the use of ammonium nitrate, fuel and detonators in the blast. Investigators said the bomb appeared premature and underdeveloped, limiting its overall impact. No projectiles were recovered from the site.

4. Suspect Identified As Dr Umar Mohammad

The Jagran.com report cited Sources as stating that, the car was driven by Dr Umar Mohammad, associated with Al-Falah University in Faridabad. Investigators believe he entered Delhi from Faridabad with explosives in his vehicle after the seizure of 2,923 kg of explosives by police in an earlier case. Following that seizure, Umar allegedly drove towards Red Fort and detonated the explosive.

5. CCTV Footage Shows Umar Waiting for Hours

CCTV footage reportedly shows Umar arriving at the Red Fort parking lot at 3:19 PM and remaining inside his vehicle for nearly three hours before driving out around 6:22 PM. Investigators believe he was in contact with others during this time. The explosion occurred shortly after.

6. Four Associates Detained In Faridabad

Following the blast, Delhi Police raided Al-Falah University and detained four individuals linked to Dr Umar for questioning. They are likely to be handed over to the NIA for further investigation.

7. Cities On High Alert

In the wake of the explosion, Delhi, Mumbai, Gujarat, Chandigarh, Pune, Bengaluru, Uttar Pradesh and Kolkata have been placed on high alert. Security agencies have intensified checks at major transport hubs, markets and public places.

8. Market Closures And Metro Suspension

As a precaution, Chandni Chowk Market remained closed on Tuesday, according to Market Association President Sanjay Bhargaw. The Lal Qila Metro Station will also remain closed until November 12 amid heightened security.

9. Traffic Diversions In Old Delhi

The Delhi Traffic Police issued an advisory restricting vehicle movement near Red Fort and surrounding routes. Commuters have been urged to avoid the affected stretch between Delhi Gate and Kashmere Gate and use alternate routes.

10. Security Tightened in NCR

In neighbouring Noida, police conducted foot patrols in Sector 62 and other crowded areas. Barricades have been set up, and officers have been directed to stop and inspect suspicious vehicles entering the district.

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11. Compensation For Victims

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for families of those killed in the blast. Financial aid of Rs 5 lakh will be provided to those with permanent disabilities, Rs 2 lakh to seriously injured victims and Rs 20,000 to those with minor injuries.

She added, “This explosion near Red Fort is a deep shock not only to the victims’ families but to all of Delhi. The government stands with them in this hour of grief.”

12. Central Leadership Response

Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level review meeting with top officials from the Intelligence Bureau, NIA, and Delhi Police. In a post on X, he said, “I have instructed officials to hunt down every person involved. Everyone responsible will face the full wrath of our agencies.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences and assured that those behind the blast will not be spared. He stated that agencies are working round the clock to “get to the bottom of this conspiracy.”

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