Authorities in India have launched a high-profile investigation under the country’s anti-terrorism law following a deadly car explosion in New Delhi on Monday, which killed at least 12 people and injured around 20 others. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as part of a conspiracy and promised that all responsible individuals would be brought to justice.

The blast occurred near the historic Red Fort, one of India’s most iconic landmarks, shaking residents and tourists and prompting heightened security across the capital and surrounding regions.

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Anti-Terror Measures and Investigation

The case has been registered under India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), granting authorities broader investigative powers, including the ability to detain suspects for extended periods. The National Investigation Agency (NIA), India’s main anti-terrorism force, is leading the probe.

Officials have yet to confirm the exact cause of the explosion, though preliminary reports indicate that the blast originated from a Hyundai i20 vehicle parked near a busy metro station.

“I assure everyone that the agencies will get to the bottom of the entire conspiracy,” PM Modi stated during a state visit to Bhutan.
“All those involved will be brought to justice.”

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Blast Triggers Nationwide Security Alert

Journalists on the ground reported that the explosion “shaken the sense of security” of residents in Delhi. Security forces deployed in the city have increased patrols in sensitive areas, including the Red Fort, and tightened city borders.

States such as Rajasthan and Odisha have also ramped up their security measures in response to the blast.

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Faridabad Link Under Investigation

Indian authorities are investigating a possible connection between the blast and a suspected terror cell in Faridabad, an industrial district in Haryana located just 30 km from the Red Fort. Hours before the explosion, police reportedly seized a large cache of explosives in Faridabad and arrested two doctors from Indian-administered Kashmir, including one linked to Faridabad.

CCTV footage and toll plaza data were used to trace the route of the car from Faridabad to Delhi, showing the vehicle’s movements before it detonated near the Red Fort.

• Vehicle first seen outside Asian Hospital, Faridabad
• Entered Delhi at 8:13 am (02:43 GMT)
• Parked near the Red Fort at 3:19 pm (09:49 GMT)
• Left parking area at 6:22 pm (12:52 GMT) and exploded 24 minutes later

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National Response and Security Implications

Monday’s explosion is the first major security incident in India since the April Pahalgam shooting attack in Kashmir, which killed 26 people and escalated tensions with Pakistan.

The blast has intensified India’s anti-terror vigilance nationwide, highlighting vulnerabilities in public spaces near critical landmarks. Authorities continue to urge citizens to report suspicious activity and remain vigilant as the investigation unfolds.