Delhi Red Fort Blast Kills 13: CM Announces Compensation, NIA Takes Over Investigation, India’s Security Tightened | Top Updates
Delhi Red Fort Blast Update: At least 13 people were killed and several more were wounded in a strong explosion that occurred Monday night close to Delhi’s Red Fort, causing fear across Old Delhi. Several cars were set on fire when the explosion occurred at Lal Qila Metro Station’s Gate No. 1.
A slow-moving Hyundai i20 allegedly stopped at a red light on the road between Delhi Gate and Kashmere Gate at about 6:52 PM. Shortly after, the automobile exploded, setting neighboring vehicles on fire. Two to three persons were reportedly inside the car when the explosion occurred, according to Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha. Police and fire crews quickly sealed off the area while the wounded were taken to LNJP Hospital.
Important Developments Regarding the Delhi Blast Investigation
1. The NIA Takes Over the Investigation
Considering it a possible act of terrorism, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has turned the investigation over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The Delhi Police and other federal agencies would collaborate with the NIA.
2. Panic-Related Explosion, Not Suicide Attack
According to preliminary investigations, the suspect may have exploded the explosive device in a panic as a result of increased security and recent operations in many locations. According to ANI, the car did not intentionally crash with any object, indicating that the explosion was not a suicide act.
3. Explosive Composition
The usage of gasoline, detonators, and ammonium nitrate in the explosion has been verified by forensic specialists. According to investigators, the bomb’s total effect was limited by its early and immature appearance. There were no projectiles found at the location.
4. Dr. Umar Mohammad was identified as the suspect.
According to sources quoted in the Jagran.com story, Dr. Umar Mohammad, who works at Al-Falah University in Faridabad, was the driver of the vehicle. After police seized 2,923 kg of explosives in a previous case, investigators suspect he brought explosives into Delhi from Faridabad in his car. Umar is accused of driving in the direction of Red Fort after that seizure and setting off the device.
5. Umar Can Be Seen Waiting for Hours on CCTV
According to CCTV, Umar arrived in the Red Fort parking lot at 3:19 PM, stayed in his car for about three hours, and then left at 6:22 PM. Investigators think he communicated with other people throughout this period. Not long after, there was an explosion.
6. In Faridabad, Four Associates Are Arrested
Four people connected to Dr. Umar were taken into custody for interrogation by Delhi Police when they stormed Al-Falah University after the explosion. They will probably be turned over to the NIA for further examination.
7. High-Alert Cities
Delhi, Mumbai, Gujarat, Chandigarh, Pune, Bengaluru, Uttar Pradesh, and Kolkata have all been put on high alert after the blast. Security forces have increased their inspections at busy transportation hubs, marketplaces, and public areas.
8. Metro Suspension and Market Closures
Sanjay Bhargaw, president of the Market Association, said that Chandni Chowk Market was closed on Tuesday as a precaution. Due to increased security, the Lal Qila Metro Station will also be closed until November 12.
9. Old Delhi Traffic Diversions
An advise limiting vehicle movement around Red Fort and nearby highways was issued by the Delhi Traffic Police. It is advised that commuters use other routes instead of the impacted section between Delhi Gate and Kashmere Gate.
10. NCR Security Tightened
Police patrolled on foot through Sector 62 and other congested districts in nearby Noida. Officers have been instructed to stop and check any suspicious cars entering the area, and barricades have been erected.
11. Victims’ Compensation
Rekha Gupta, the chief minister of Delhi, awarded Rs 10 lakh as compensation for the relatives of the explosion victims. Those with lifelong impairments would get Rs 5 lakh in financial assistance, victims with catastrophic injuries will receive Rs 2 lakh, while those with minor injuries will receive Rs 20,000.
“This explosion near Red Fort is a deep shock not only to the families of the victims but to all of Delhi,” she said. The government is supporting them throughout this difficult time.
12. Response of Central Leadership
A high-level review meeting with senior representatives from the Delhi Police, NIA, and Intelligence Bureau was presided over by Home Minister Amit Shah. “I have directed officials to find all those involved,” he said in a post on X. Our authorities will fully punish those who are at fault.
In addition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent his sympathies and promised that the perpetrators of the explosion would not escape punishment. In order to “get to the bottom of this conspiracy,” he said, authorities are working around the clock.