By Tension gripped the national capital on Monday evening after a powerful explosion occurred near the historic Red Fort, one of Delhi’s most visited landmarks. The blast, which took place close to a crowded marketplace, sent shockwaves through the city and triggered a massive security response.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has called for a high-level emergency meeting to review the situation, while police have detained four individuals for questioning in connection with the incident. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Delhi Police’s Special Cell are jointly probing the matter.
The Incident
The explosion occurred around 7:10 p.m. near the Red Fort’s Lahori Gate, just as evening crowds were gathering in nearby lanes filled with tourists and vendors. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud noise followed by smoke and panic, prompting people to flee the area.
Local shopkeeper Rafiq Ahmed, who witnessed the incident, said,
Initial reports suggest that the explosion was of medium intensity, damaging a few vehicles and shattering glass windows in nearby shops. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether it was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) or a gas cylinder explosion, pending forensic examination.
Immediate Security Response
Soon after the blast, Delhi Police, fire tenders, bomb disposal squads, and forensic teams rushed to the site. The entire area around the Red Fort was sealed off, and all entry and exit points were closed for several hours.
Sniffer dogs were deployed to detect any additional explosives, while the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) tightened security around other heritage monuments and government buildings.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (North District) R.P. Meena confirmed that four individuals have been detained for questioning based on preliminary CCTV footage and local intelligence inputs. Their identities have not been disclosed yet, but sources suggest they may have been seen near the site shortly before the explosion.
Amit Shah’s Emergency Meeting
Home Minister Amit Shah is set to chair a high-level security meeting late Monday night with top officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Delhi Police, and the National Security Guard (NSG).
The meeting aims to assess the security lapse, review preliminary investigation reports, and formulate a coordinated response.
Sources in the MHA revealed that special instructions have been issued to all metro cities and border states to maintain heightened vigilance. Security alerts have been sounded in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Punjab, given their proximity to the national capital.
Investigation Underway
The Special Cell of Delhi Police has taken charge of the investigation, supported by NIA and forensic experts. Initial observations indicate the use of a timed or remotely-triggered device, but officials are cautious about confirming details until lab reports are available.
Forensic teams have collected metal fragments, circuit wires, and traces of ammonium nitrate from the blast site. The material has been sent to the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) for analysis.
A senior police officer said,
Police Detain Four for Questioning
The four individuals taken into custody are reportedly residents of Delhi and nearby regions. They were tracked through surveillance footage showing suspicious movement near the blast site.
While officials have not disclosed their identities, sources suggest at least one of them may have prior police records related to minor criminal offenses.
The suspects are currently being interrogated at an undisclosed location by joint teams from Delhi Police’s Special Cell and the Intelligence Bureau.
Officials emphasized that it is too early to establish a motive or confirm any organized group’s involvement.
Security Heightened Nationwide
Following the blast, security across Delhi has been significantly increased. Additional barricades have been installed near India Gate, Parliament House, metro stations, and major shopping centers.
Patrolling has been intensified in Old Delhi areas like Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, and Daryaganj — all within close proximity to the Red Fort.
Police forces in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai have also been put on alert mode, with instructions to tighten security at airports, railway stations, and religious places.
The Railways Protection Force (RPF) and airport security agencies have been briefed to maintain strict surveillance and random checks on baggage and passengers.
Political and Public Reactions
Political leaders across parties have condemned the incident and urged calm.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed about the situation and is in constant touch with the Home Ministry and Delhi Police officials.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed concern over the explosion, saying,
Public response on social media was a mix of shock and concern, with citizens urging each other to avoid spreading rumors and rely on official updates.
Historical and Symbolic Importance of Red Fort
The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not just an architectural marvel but a symbol of India’s national identity. It is the venue from which the Prime Minister delivers the Independence Day address every year.
Any security breach near such a location raises immediate national alarm, prompting swift response from intelligence and security agencies.
Experts emphasized that the blast underscores the need to review urban security mechanisms, especially in areas of cultural and strategic importance.
Conclusion
As investigations continue, the explosion near Red Fort has once again highlighted the constant challenges of urban security in India’s capital.
With four individuals detained and a nationwide alert in place, authorities are leaving no stone unturned to determine the cause and prevent any recurrence.
The upcoming high-level security meeting chaired by Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to set the course for a comprehensive probe and strengthen coordination among law enforcement agencies.
For now, Delhi remains on edge — watchful, alert, and hopeful that the truth behind the Red Fort blast will soon come to light, restoring a sense of safety and calm to the nation’s heart.
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