A powerful explosion rocked the area near Delhi’s Red Fort on Monday evening, killing at least nine people and injuring over two dozen others. The blast, which occurred around 6:52 p.m. near the Red Fort Metro Station, has triggered a massive security alert across multiple states, with central agencies suspecting a possible terror link.

How the Incident Unfolded

According to officials, a slow-moving car came to a halt at a red light near Gate No.1 of the Red Fort Metro Station before erupting into flames. The impact damaged several nearby vehicles and caused chaos among commuters and pedestrians.

Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha said, “At around 6:52 pm, a vehicle stopped at the red light. An explosion took place in that vehicle, damaging nearby cars. Forensic teams, NIA, and other agencies are on site. Some people have died, and others are injured. The situation is being closely monitored.” 

Authorities have registered a case under sections 16 and 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), along with relevant provisions of the Explosives Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Kotwali Police Station. The Delhi Police and National Investigation Agency (NIA) are conducting a joint probe, with raids underway across the national capital and NCR.

Government Response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the situation late Monday night and discussed updates with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who stated that “all possibilities are being explored, and the investigation will leave no angle unchecked.”

Traffic diversions have been implemented around the Red Fort area, and the metro station near the site has been temporarily closed. Security has been tightened at Indira Gandhi International Airport, railway stations, and major metro interchanges across the city.

Nationwide Security Measures: States on High Alert

Delhi-NCR

Security has been ramped up across the capital region. The CISF has placed the Delhi Metro and key government installations under heightened alert, while sniffer dog units and bomb disposal teams continue to comb the area for clues.

Uttar Pradesh

All 75 districts have been placed on alert. ADG (Law & Order) Amitabh Yash confirmed to ANI that police patrols, especially in border towns and religious centers, have been intensified following an order from Lucknow.

Jammu & Kashmir (Katra)

Security checks have been stepped up in Katra, a key pilgrimage hub. Police and paramilitary forces are inspecting vehicles with sniffer dogs and bomb squads to ensure the safety of pilgrims and tourists.

Haryana

A statewide alert has been issued by DGP O.P. Singh, who urged citizens to stay calm and immediately report suspicious objects or individuals by dialing 112. Security personnel have been deployed in markets and transit hubs.

Uttarakhand

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami directed security forces to tighten checks at interstate borders and maintain surveillance at temples, tourist sites, and transport terminals.

Andhra Pradesh

In Tirumala, police presence has been increased significantly, with vehicles being thoroughly inspected near bus stands and parking zones.

Maharashtra

Mumbai Police have placed all major transport hubs, malls, and crowded areas under watch. A senior officer told PTI that all district and zone commanders have been told “to remain vigilant and report even minor disturbances.”

Telangana

In Hyderabad, Warangal, and Karimnagar, police have stepped up patrols in markets and metro areas. Top officials are supervising security arrangements directly, according to PTI reports.

Bihar

DGP Vinay Kumar confirmed that the entire state has been placed on “high security alert.” Police units have intensified checks on highways, railway stations, and major public spaces.

Kerala

Additional DGP (Law & Order) H. Venkatesh told The Hindu that police presence has been scaled up around airports, Kochi Metro, and coastal zones, with additional patrols on major routes.

West Bengal

In Kolkata, police have raised surveillance at the airport, metro stations, and busy city intersections. Special teams are conducting random vehicle inspections.

Karnataka

Bengaluru Police have increased vigilance citywide, particularly in IT corridors and public gathering spots. All DCPs have been instructed to enhance patrolling in sensitive areas.