On Monday evening (November 10), a car explosion near the Red Fort in New Delhi left at least 13 people dead and more than 20 injured, marking the first such attack in the capital since 2011.
A First in Over a Decade
Delhi, home to over 30 million residents, had not seen a blast of this scale within its heavily guarded streets for more than 14 years.
Modi Speaks from Bhutan
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who arrived in Thimphu today for a scheduled visit to Bhutan, said he was deeply disturbed by the incident and pledged that conspirators would not be spared.
Investigation Under the Unlawful Activities Act
Deputy Commissioner of Police Raja Banthia confirmed that investigators are probing the incident under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, along with explosives and other criminal laws. He noted that the investigation is at an early stage.
Aftermath and Security Measures
In the bustling Old Delhi market near the metro station, most shops remained closed today as forensic teams combed through the wreckage. Security has been tightened across the capital, with the Red Fort metro station shut temporarily for checks.
The Red Fort, a symbol of India's independence and the site for the prime minister's annual Independence Day address, was undamaged, but the blast rattled a crowded street lined with vehicles and pedestrians.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh promised a swift, transparent investigation, with findings to be released soon.
This tragedy has unsettled India's political and cultural heart, sparking questions about the capital's security and the motives behind the attack as investigations continue.
Reference(s):
India's Modi vows action against those behind Delhi car blast
cgtn.com
