Indian Police Launch Terror Probe into Delhi Blast That Killed 12 Near Red Fort

Indian authorities have opened a terrorism investigation into a deadly explosion that killed at least 12 people near the historic Red Fort in New Delhi. The blast occurred on Monday evening at around 6:52 p.m. local time, prompting heightened security across the country.

According to state-run Doordarshan News, police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Explosives Act, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Delhi Police officials said the investigation remains in its early stages.

“It is a very preliminary stage and any comment on that would be too premature,” Raja Banthia, a senior Delhi police official, said.

The explosion took place near the Red Fort, a major Mughal-era landmark and tourist attraction. Authorities have since closed the site to visitors until November 13.

The Press Trust of India reported that the death toll climbed to 12 on Tuesday, with several others injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on a two-day visit to Bhutan, spoke with Home Minister Amit Shah to review the situation. He vowed that those responsible would be apprehended.

“Our agencies will get to the bottom of this conspiracy. The conspirators behind this will not be spared. All those responsible will be brought to justice,” Modi said.

Security forces have since increased surveillance and patrols across key public locations. The Central Industrial Security Force confirmed that areas including Delhi Metro stations, government buildings, the Red Fort perimeter, and the Delhi airport have been placed on high alert.

Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha stated that the blast appeared to have been triggered after a slow-moving vehicle stopped at a traffic light, igniting a fire that spread to nearby vehicles.

Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to determine the motive and identify the individuals behind the attack.