Major Security Shutdown in Delhi After Deadly Blast
Delhi's historic Red Fort and the adjacent Lal Qila Metro Station have been shut down today following the devastating car explosion that rocked the capital on November 10. The blast, which occurred near the iconic monument, has claimed eight lives and left numerous others injured, sending shockwaves across the nation.
In response to the security threat, authorities have implemented a three-day closure of the Red Fort, which will remain inaccessible to visitors until November 13. The decision was formally announced by Delhi Police through an official notice dated November 11.
High-Level Security Review Underway
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to conduct a crucial security review meeting at 11:00 am today at his residence. The high-level gathering will include virtual participation from the DGP of Jammu and Kashmir, along with physical attendance by Home Secretary Govind Mohan, the Director of the Intelligence Bureau, the Director General of the National Investigation Agency, the Delhi Police Commissioner, and other senior security officials.
In an interview with ANI, Home Minister Shah disclosed critical details about the incident, confirming that the explosion originated from a Hyundai i20 car at the Subhash Marg traffic signal. The blast occurred at approximately 7:00 pm on Monday, causing extensive damage to both life and property in the vicinity of the historic Red Fort.
Investigation Intensifies with Multiple Detentions
Delhi Police has launched extensive search operations across multiple locations, conducting overnight raids at hotels in Paharganj, Daryaganj, and surrounding areas. During these operations, four individuals have been detained as part of the investigation into the blast.
Investigation teams have been meticulously examining CCTV footage from numerous key locations including:
- Badarpur border
- Red Fort's Sunheri Masjid parking area
- Outer Ring Road
- Kashmere Gate-Red Fort route
- Nearby toll plazas
According to investigative sources, the suspect vehicle entered Delhi from Haryana via the Badarpur border. Based on the CCTV evidence collected so far, approximately 13 people are being questioned by authorities.
Deputy Commissioner of Police for North Delhi, Raja Banthia, stated that the Forensic Science Laboratory team is collecting explosion traces from the crime scene. "As of now, the investigation is going on. We cannot comment on anything conclusively... FSL is lifting the traces of explosions... We are examining the scene of the crime," Banthia told ANI.
Contrary to earlier media reports suggesting three to four occupants in the i20 car, Delhi Police sources now indicate that CCTV footage shows the suspect was alone at the time of the incident. Investigators are currently tracing the vehicle's route toward Daryaganj, with more than 100 CCTV clips under examination to establish the complete movement pattern of the vehicle.
The Delhi Police has registered a case under various sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Explosives Act, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), indicating the serious nature of the investigation.
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation confirmed the security measures through a post on X, stating: "Lal Qila Metro Station is closed due to security reasons. All other stations are functional as normal." The closure reflects the heightened security alert in the area as investigations continue to unfold.
