The Indian government has described the deadly car explosion that rocked a busy area of New Delhi on Monday as a “terror incident”, vowing to swiftly bring those responsible to justice.
At least eight people were killed and 20 others injured when a car exploded near a metro station close to the historic Red Fort, one of the capital’s most iconic landmarks and a major tourist hub. The blast occurred around 18:52 local time (13:52 GMT), Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha told reporters.
According to police, the explosion came from a Hyundai i20 that was moving through traffic and carrying three people at the time. The vehicle reportedly stopped at a red light before it blew up, damaging several nearby cars and spreading panic in the crowded area.
In a late-night security meeting on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cabinet formally condemned the attack and labelled it an act of terrorism.
In its resolution, the cabinet said: “The country has witnessed a heinous terror incident, perpetrated by anti-national forces, through a car explosion. The cabinet directs that the investigation into the incident be pursued with the utmost urgency and professionalism so that the perpetrators, their collaborators, and their sponsors are identified and brought to justice without delay.”
The statement further described the blast as a “dastardly and cowardly act that has led to the loss of innocent lives” and reaffirmed India’s “unwavering commitment” to a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism.
Authorities have yet to name any suspects or announce any arrests. Police, forensic experts and central security agencies are jointly investigating the scene, sifting through debris for clues and reviewing CCTV footage from the area.
Home Minister Amit Shah said investigators were “exploring all possibilities” and pledged a thorough probe. “All options will be investigated immediately and we will present the results to the public,” he said.
In the immediate aftermath of the explosion, Delhi Police declared a high alert across the capital. Neighbouring states quickly followed suit, including the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, home to the Taj Mahal and several densely populated urban centres.
Prime Minister Modi sent his condolences to the families of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi called the news “extremely heartbreaking” and urged the government to ensure the safety of citizens.
The Red Fort, built in the 17th Century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a focal point of India’s national life. Each year, the prime minister delivers the Independence Day address from its ramparts—making Monday’s attack, so close to the monument, all the more alarming for many residents and security officials.
