By A Correspondent

New Delhi: In one of the deadliest attacks in recent years, a powerful car explosion near Delhi’s historic Red Fort in the evening hours on Nov. 10, 2025, killed at least nine people and injured 24 others, sending shockwaves through the capital and prompting a nationwide security alert.

The explosion occurred near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station, close to a busy traffic intersection, igniting a massive fire that engulfed several parked vehicles. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as flames shot into the sky, shattered glass littered the street, and sirens filled the air.

Authorities have confirmed that the blast is being treated as a suspected terror attack, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) has been invoked.

Forensic teams and bomb disposal units combed the site late into the night, while the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Delhi Police Special Cell joined the probe.

Investigation Underway: Terror Angle Suspected

India’s Home Minister Amit Shah briefed reporters, confirming that the explosion originated from a Hyundai i20 near a traffic signal close to the Red Fort. “We are exploring all possibilities and conducting a thorough investigation. CCTV footage from nearby cameras will be analysed carefully,” Shah said.

Preliminary intelligence inputs suggest the blast may have been triggered remotely or through an improvised explosive device (IED) hidden inside the vehicle. Security agencies are also probing whether the attack bears any resemblance to past terror incidents linked to cross-border elements.

Delhi on High Alert: Security Tightened Nationwide

Following the explosion, the Union Home Ministry placed Delhi, Mumbai, and major government installations on heightened alert. Additional security has been deployed across metro stations, airports, and crowded markets, while police in other states were instructed to step up vigilance.

The New Delhi International Airport and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation issued separate advisories confirming increased security checks and temporary restrictions near key landmarks.

Global Reactions: World Leaders Condemn Attack

The tragic blast sparked widespread condemnation and solidarity messages from across the globe.

United States: The US Embassy in India expressed “deep sorrow” and issued a security advisory urging American citizens to avoid the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk areas. “Our hearts are with those affected by the terrible explosion in New Delhi,” the embassy said in a statement, adding that it continues to “closely monitor the situation.”

United Kingdom: British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron offered condolences, tweeting, “My thoughts are with all those affected by the explosion near the Red Fort today,” while the UK updated its travel advisory for citizens in India.

France: Ambassador Thierry Mathou extended “deepest condolences” to the victims’ families and wished a “complete recovery to those injured.”

Argentina: Ambassador Mariano Caucino conveyed “condolences on behalf of the people and government of Argentina,” adding that “our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased.”

Sri Lanka: In a message of solidarity, Colombo said it “stands with the people and government of India,” expressing “deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.”

Australia: High Commissioner Philip Green wrote, “Our thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones, and we wish for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

Iran and Morocco also issued statements mourning the loss of lives and praying for the recovery of those injured.

Nation in Mourning, Eyes on Investigation

As Delhi reeled from the attack, citizens and leaders alike have called for calm and resilience. Security has been reinforced around other major monuments, including India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential House), and Parliament House.

While no terror outfit has yet claimed responsibility, early reports suggest investigators are examining possible links to sleeper cells active in northern India.

The blast, which occurred just days before the winter session of Parliament, has once again raised concerns over urban terror preparedness and intelligence coordination.

As forensic experts continue to piece together evidence, the Red Fort, symbol of India’s heritage and sovereignty and the venue for the Independence Day celebrations with the Prime Minister leading the nation, stands as a grim reminder of the capital’s vulnerability.

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