Delhi Rocked by Devastating Car Explosion Near Red Fort
A powerful car explosion shook central Delhi on Monday evening, claiming at least eight lives and leaving 24 people injured in one of the most significant security incidents in the capital recently. The blast occurred near Gate 1 of the historic Red Fort Metro station, sending shockwaves through the area and prompting immediate emergency response.
Timeline and Impact of the Tragedy
The explosion took place at precisely 6:52 pm on November 10 near the Red Fort crossing. According to officials, the blast originated from a moving vehicle identified as a Hyundai i20, which was completely mangled in the incident. Several surrounding vehicles caught fire and sustained significant damage due to the intensity of the explosion.
Emergency services rushed to the scene immediately, transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. The latest official update confirms eight fatalities and 24 injured individuals, with medical teams working around the clock to provide treatment to those affected.
Political and Celebrity Reactions Pour In
Prominent political figures and Bollywood celebrities expressed their shock and condolences following the tragic incident. Actor-turned-politician Vijay, leader of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam party, took to social media platform X to share his grief.
"Deeply shocked and saddened by the news of the car explosion near Red Fort Metro, Delhi that has claimed precious lives," Vijay wrote. "My heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. Wishing speedy recovery to all those injured."
Bollywood actress Raveena Tandon described the news as "horrible" and extended condolences to bereaved families. Actor Sonu Sood expressed that his "heart reaches out to everyone impacted by today's tragic blast" and called for supporting victims and committing to peace.
Investigation and Official Statements
Delhi Police officials have been cautious in characterizing the incident, ruling out initial speculations about it being a bomb blast. A police official explained, "An explosion happened in a moving car on the road. There is no crater at the spot. Therefore, we cannot say if it was a bomb blast."
The official further noted that no pellet or splinter injuries have been reported, which are typically common in bomb blasts. The vehicle, identified as a Maruti Suzuki Eeco car, had two to three occupants and has been completely destroyed. Forensic teams are currently collecting samples from the site to determine the exact cause of the explosion.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the nation through social media, stating he was "pained beyond words by the loss of lives in a blast in Delhi." Shah confirmed that he has visited the blast site and met with injured victims in the hospital.
"My deepest condolences to those who have lost their loved ones," the Home Minister tweeted. "Top agencies are investigating the incident with full intensity, and will go in-depth into the incident."
As investigations continue, Delhi Police has detained the owner of the vehicle that exploded. The incident has raised security concerns in the capital, with authorities maintaining high alert across the city while the probe into the exact cause of the explosion continues.
