Deadly Car Explosion in New Delhi Investigated as Possible Terror Attack

Indian police have launched an investigation under the country’s primary anti-terrorism law following a deadly car explosion near New Delhi’s historic Red Fort that killed at least eight people and injured several others.

The blast, which occurred late Monday at a traffic signal in one of the capital’s busiest tourist areas, is being treated as a high-priority national security concern. Senior police officials, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case, confirmed that authorities have registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, which grants investigators expanded powers to detain suspects.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a scheduled visit to Bhutan when the explosion occurred, vowed a thorough investigation. “The conspirators won’t be spared and all those responsible will be brought to justice,” Modi said, pledging that authorities would “get to the bottom of this conspiracy.”

Preliminary investigations indicate the explosion originated from a Hyundai i20 car that had stopped at a traffic signal. The blast caused significant damage to nearby vehicles, with images from the scene showing shattered windows, twisted metal, and multiple vehicles engulfed in flames.

Delhi police spokesman Sanjay Tyagi told the Associated Press that investigators are “probing all possible angles, including a terror attack, an accidental blast or any kind of failure in the car.” He added that forensic teams are still working to determine whether explosives were used in the incident.

“Final shape of the investigation will be decided after the forensic team gives a final report on use of any explosives,” Tyagi explained.

Of particular interest to investigators is a potential connection to a separate incident in neighboring Haryana state on Monday. Police in Faridabad city, which borders the capital, recovered 360 kilograms (793 pounds) of ammonium nitrate—a chemical commonly used in explosive manufacturing—along with an assault rifle and a pistol before the car explosion occurred.

Home Minister Amit Shah said Monday that “all angles” were being investigated and that footage from security cameras in the area would play a crucial role in the inquiry. He expressed confidence that security agencies would reach a conclusion soon.

The explosion has triggered heightened security measures across India. Major train stations, including in Mumbai and in Uttar Pradesh state, which borders New Delhi, have been placed on alert. The Central Industrial Security Force, responsible for guarding key installations in the capital, including New Delhi’s international airport, metro system, and major government buildings, has also heightened security protocols.

The Red Fort, a 17th-century Mughal-era complex and UNESCO World Heritage site, holds significant symbolic importance in India. Located approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from Parliament, it serves as the backdrop for the Prime Minister’s annual Independence Day address on August 15. The surrounding area is typically crowded with tourists and locals, providing access to the bustling markets of Old Delhi.

No arrests had been made as of Tuesday, and authorities have not yet identified the car’s owner or its occupants, who are believed to have been among those killed in the blast.

The investigation remains ongoing as forensic teams continue to analyze evidence from the explosion site and security forces maintain heightened vigilance across the country’s major cities and transportation hubs.