The North News
New Delhi, November 10
At least nine people were killed and 20 injured after a powerful explosion ripped through a parked Hyundai i20 car near Delhi’s historic Red Fort on Monday evening, officials said.
The blast, which occurred around 7 p.m., sent shockwaves through the busy area, shattering nearby windows and damaging several cars and auto-rickshaws. Firefighters rushed to the scene with seven fire tenders as emergency teams cordoned off the area and began rescue operations. The cause of the explosion remains unclear, and forensic experts are working to determine the nature of the explosive used.
Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed the fatalities, saying that all possibilities were being explored and every angle would be examined as part of a thorough investigation. “We are exploring all possibilities and will conduct a detailed probe. The findings will be presented to the public,” he said in a late-night statement, adding that a high-level review meeting will be held at the Ministry of Home Affairs on Tuesday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the families of those killed and wished a swift recovery to the injured. “Those affected are being provided all possible assistance,” he said, adding that he had reviewed the situation with Home Minister Amit Shah and senior officials.
In the wake of the blast, a red alert was issued across Punjab, with police instructed to remain on high alert. Security has been intensified at sensitive sites, and vehicle checks have been increased along highways and border districts.
Senior officials said the alert was a precautionary measure amid fears of possible coordinated activity. “We are maintaining a close watch on vulnerable locations and public gatherings,” a Punjab Police spokesperson said.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack, and authorities have not ruled out any motive. Investigators from the Delhi Police Special Cell, National Security Guard (NSG), and National Investigation Agency (NIA) have joined the probe.
The Hyundai i20 car, registered in Gurugram under the name of Mohammad Salman (HR26), had already been sold in Okhla. Police have traced its previous owner and are now expanding the investigation to the buyer in Okhla, top sources said.
