On Tuesday (November 11), Indian police announced that they are investigating a fatal car explosion in Delhi under anti-terrorism laws. Prime Minister Modi pledged to bring all those involved to justice.
On Monday evening (November 10), a car explosion occurred near the historic Red Fort, resulting in at least eight deaths and twenty injuries. This is the first such explosion in Delhi since 2011.
Modi arrived in the neighboring country of Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, on Tuesday and expressed, “Today I come to Bhutan with a heavy heart.”
At a public gathering, Modi stated, “The horrifying incident that occurred in Delhi last night has left everyone unsettled. We will thoroughly investigate this conspiracy, and the masterminds behind the case will not be forgiven. All those responsible will face legal sanctions.”
Deputy Commissioner of Police Raja Banthia stated that the Delhi police have filed a case for investigation under anti-terrorism laws, explosives laws, and other criminal laws.
The law in question is the “Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act,” which is India’s primary anti-terrorism legislation used to investigate and prosecute acts involving “terrorism” and threats to national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Banthia told reporters, “The investigation is still in its preliminary stages, and it is too early to make any comments.”
The explosion took place in the bustling market and tourist area of Old Delhi. As of early Tuesday morning, many shops that closed immediately after the explosion have not reopened yet.
Forensic experts are meticulously examining the explosion site. The area has been cordoned off by the police since Monday night.
The Delhi Metro company announced that the Red Fort station has been closed for safety reasons.
Police reported that a slow-moving car stopped at a traffic signal before the explosion occurred before 7 pm local time, damaging surrounding vehicles severely.
Due to the explosion happening in the congested streets near the Old Delhi metro station, the scene left behind multiple casualties and car wrecks.
Those believed to have been inside the vehicles are presumed deceased. The police are currently trying to ascertain the identity of the vehicle owner.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated that security agencies are swiftly conducting a thorough investigation into the case, and the results will be disclosed soon.
The Red Fort is a magnificent 17th-century structure from the Mughal era, blending Persian and Indian architectural styles, attracting visitors throughout the year.
On India’s Independence Day on August 15 every year, the Prime Minister also delivers a speech to the nation from the Red Fort.
At the time of the incident, Modi was en route to Bhutan to attend the seventy-year-old birthday celebration of the country’s fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
(This article referenced reports from Reuters)