Maharashtra Ramps Up Security Following Twin Security Threats
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has placed state police and security agencies on high alert following Monday's devastating explosion near Delhi's Red Fort Metro Station that claimed eight lives. The security directive comes shortly after authorities recovered 360 kg of suspected ammonium nitrate from Faridabad in Haryana, triggering widespread security concerns across northern and western India.
Security Review Meetings and Directives
According to the Maharashtra Home Department, Chief Minister Fadnavis conducted two high-level security review meetings on Monday. The first meeting was convened after the recovery of explosive materials in Faridabad, while the second emergency session followed the deadly blast in Delhi.
A senior government official revealed: "After the recovery of 360 kg of possible ammonium nitrate from Haryana's Faridabad, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis held a meeting with all senior police officials at Varsha this afternoon and reviewed the overall security situation. Now, after the incident in Delhi, he has once again instructed the police to remain vigilant. All agencies have been directed to remain alert."
The state government has issued specific instructions to strengthen patrols, monitor transit routes and sensitive installations, and enhance intelligence coordination with central agencies to prevent any potential security breaches.
Delhi Blast: Tragedy at Red Fort Metro Station
The explosion occurred near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station on Monday evening, creating scenes of chaos and devastation. Hospital officials at Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital confirmed that eight people died before reaching medical facilities, while seven others sustained injuries - three of them in critical condition.
Delhi Police officials remained cautious in their initial statements, noting: "As of now, I can't tell you anything. Investigation is being done."
Multiple central security agencies, including teams from the CRPF, NSG, NIA, and Forensic Science Laboratory, have begun thorough examinations of the blast site to determine the cause and nature of the explosion.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer A.K. Malik reported: "We responded immediately, and seven units were sent to the spot. At 7:29 pm, the fire was brought under control. All our teams are present at the spot."
Eyewitness Accounts of the Aftermath
Local residents and witnesses described harrowing scenes following the explosion. One shocked witness recounted: "When we saw someone's hand on the road, we were absolutely shocked. I can't explain it in words..."
Another eyewitness added to the grim picture: "When we came near, we saw body parts spread on the road. No one could figure out what happened. Several cars have been damaged."
Faridabad Explosives Recovery Connection
Earlier on Monday, Jammu and Kashmir Police made a significant breakthrough by recovering approximately 360 kg of inflammable material and ammunition from Faridabad. During this operation, authorities arrested two suspects identified as Dr Muzammil and Aadil Rather.
While officials have not confirmed a direct link between the Faridabad seizure and the Delhi blast, the proximity of these two security incidents has prompted enhanced national security coordination and intelligence sharing among states.
A DIG CRPF official commented: "It is too early to say anything. I am just going to the site..." indicating that investigations are in preliminary stages.
The consecutive security threats have put multiple states on edge, with Maharashtra taking proactive measures to prevent any similar incidents within its borders while supporting national investigation efforts.
