NIA Takes Over Delhi Red Fort Blast investigation; 12 Dead, Security Tightened Across Capital

New Delhi: The investigation into the Delhi Red Fort blast has been officially handed over from the Delhi Police to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). NIA officials have begun inspections in and around the Red Fort area.

The decision was made during a high-level security review meeting held at the residence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday morning. The meeting was attended by the Union Home Secretary, Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Delhi Police Commissioner, and NIA Director General.

The Delhi Police had earlier registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Explosives Act, along with relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), at the Kotwali Police Station. The FIR confirmed that a bomb explosion had occurred. Police are conducting raids at multiple locations, and security checks have been intensified at airports, railway stations, and bus terminals across the national capital, which remains on high alert.

Details of the Blast

On Monday evening, a white Hyundai i20 car exploded near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort, at the Subhash Marg traffic signal. So far, 12 people have died, of whom seven have been identified by their relatives. Reports suggest that the explosion was a suicide attack, and that three of the deceased are suspected to be the attackers. Over 25 people were injured, with several in critical condition.

Intelligence and Security Concerns

The incident has raised serious questions about security lapses, especially since intelligence agencies had warned of a possible terrorist attack following Operation Sindoor. The explosion occurred just hours after seven people linked to the terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed were arrested in connection with the seizure of explosives in Faridabad.

Police sources had earlier revealed that those arrested were part of a “white-collar terror network” operating from foreign countries, including Pakistan.

In light of the Red Fort blast, Home Minister Amit Shah has called for another security review meeting at 3 PM. Meanwhile, two more individuals have been arrested in Faridabad for possession of explosives.