An explosion involving a car near the Red Fort in Delhi has resulted in the deaths of eight individuals and injuries to 19 others, according to authorities. Delhi City police spokesperson Sanjay Tyagi confirmed the fatalities, while the deputy fire chief reported the number of injured.
The incident occurred at approximately 18:52 local time (13:52 GMT). Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha stated that a slow-moving Hyundai i20 vehicle stopped at a red light before exploding, causing damage to nearby vehicles.
Police are investigating the cause of the explosion, exploring all possibilities. Federal Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed the vehicle type and stated that teams from India's National Security Guard, National Investigation Agency, and forensic experts are involved in the investigation. Minister Shah visited the explosion site and a nearby hospital.
The blast site is located near a metro station in the vicinity of the Red Fort, a 17th-century Mughal fortress and significant monument in Delhi. Following the event, high alerts have been issued for Mumbai, India's financial capital, and the neighboring state of Uttar Pradesh.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent condolences to those affected by the incident. In Uttar Pradesh, security measures are being increased at religious sites, vulnerable districts, and border areas, as confirmed by senior police official Amitabh Yash.