New Delhi, India – November 11, 2025 – A devastating car explosion shook New Delhi on Monday evening, killing at least eight people and injuring several others near the historic Red Fort, authorities confirmed. The blast, which occurred at a busy traffic signal in the Old Delhi area, has triggered a major anti-terrorism investigation and heightened security across the capital.

What Happened at the Red Fort

According to senior police officials, a Hyundai i20 car stopped at a red light was the source of the explosion. The blast ignited fires that spread to nearby cars and rickshaws, causing widespread damage. Police and emergency responders quickly cordoned off the area as crowds gathered near the site.

Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha said: “A slow-moving vehicle stopped at a red light. An explosion happened in that vehicle, and due to the explosion, nearby vehicles were also damaged.”

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and devastation. Local resident Om Prakash Gupta told the Associated Press: “I rushed out with my children and saw several vehicles on fire, body parts all over.”

Casualties and Medical Response

At least eight individuals were confirmed dead immediately after the blast, with additional reports suggesting the toll could rise. Many injured were transported to nearby government hospitals, where medical staff worked urgently to treat victims. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide support to affected families.

Government Reaction and Investigation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a scheduled visit to Bhutan, vowed swift action, stating: “The conspirators won’t be spared, and all those responsible will be brought to justice. Investigators will get to the bottom of this conspiracy.”

Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed that investigators were exploring “all angles” and emphasized that forensic footage from cameras in the area would be critical in determining the cause. The National Investigation Agency (NIA), India’s federal anti-terrorism body, is leading the investigation alongside forensic experts.

Heightened Security Measures

Following the explosion, authorities placed key train stations, airports, and government buildings across India on high alert. Security forces guarding major installations in New Delhi, including the metro system, were instructed to strengthen vigilance.

The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi also issued a warning to citizens, urging them to avoid crowds near the Red Fort and exercise caution in tourist-heavy areas.

Red Fort: A Symbolic Location

The Red Fort, a sprawling 17th-century Mughal-era complex, is not only a major tourist attraction but also a site of national significance. Indian prime ministers traditionally deliver their Independence Day speeches from the fort’s ramparts, making it a highly symbolic and high-profile location. The surrounding Old Delhi area is densely populated and serves as a key route to local bazaars, amplifying the potential impact of attacks in the vicinity.

Current Status and Ongoing Investigation

Authorities continue to collect forensic evidence from the scene and review surveillance footage. While the exact cause of the blast has not yet been confirmed, officials are treating the incident seriously, and the investigation is ongoing under India’s anti-terrorism laws.

Security forces remain on high alert across Delhi, and the public has been advised to remain vigilant in crowded areas and report suspicious activity to authorities.