The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday expressed profound sorrow and grief over the tragic deaths of 13 people in the car explosion that occurred near the historic Red Fort in Delhi on Monday evening. Chief Justice of India Bhushan R Gavai conveyed condolences on behalf of the judiciary and the wider legal fraternity, reaffirming the Court’s solidarity with the victims and their families during this difficult time.

The message was delivered during a full court reference held to honour senior advocates Sharat S Javali and Jagdish Chandra Gupta, who had recently passed away. While the primary purpose of the reference was to pay respects to these eminent legal figures, the Chief Justice took the opportunity to acknowledge the nation’s grief over the Red Fort incident. “We all are also deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives caused by the car blast that occurred in Delhi on the evening of 10th November 2025,” CJI Gavai said. He added that the Supreme Court, the judiciary, and the legal fraternity stand in solidarity with the bereaved, offering their heartfelt condolences to families who suffered unimaginable loss.

The statement from the Supreme Court underscored the judiciary’s commitment to the rule of law, justice, and the protection of citizens’ rights. “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who are grieving, as well as with those who are injured or otherwise affected. No words can truly ease the pain of such loss, yet we hope that the collective compassion and solidarity of the nation will offer some comfort in this hour of sorrow,” the statement read. It further added, “We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to uphold the rule of law, ensure justice, and safeguard the dignity of every citizen. May the departed souls rest in eternal peace. May courage and solace reach the bereaved families and all those who mourn this irreparable loss.”

The explosion occurred on Monday evening, around peak traffic hours, when a white Hyundai i20 moving on Netaji Subhash Marg near the Red Fort reportedly detonated a high-intensity explosive device. The blast killed 13 people, including all three occupants of the car, and injured 21 others. The incident created widespread panic, causing severe damage to nearby vehicles and shattering glass panes at the Red Fort Metro station, which is located close to the site of the explosion. Eyewitnesses described the moment of the blast as horrifying, with a sudden fireball erupting on the road and windows in nearby vehicles and buildings rattling violently.

Investigations by police and counter-terrorism agencies are ongoing, with officials working meticulously to establish the cause and chain of events leading up to the explosion. Preliminary findings suggest that the car had been parked for nearly two hours at the Sunehri Masjid parking lot, adjacent to the Red Fort, before re-entering traffic and exploding moments later. CCTV footage obtained from the surrounding areas has helped investigators piece together the car’s route.

According to officials reviewing the footage, the vehicle was first seen driving from Daryaganj Market toward the Red Fort parking area around 4 PM. After being stationary for approximately two hours, the Hyundai i20 left the parking lot, took a U-turn near the Old Delhi Railway Station, and proceeded toward Lower Subhash Marg. At a traffic signal near Chhata Rail Chowk, the car slowed down before the blast occurred. One officer familiar with the investigation said, “The footage shows the car slowing at a signal when the explosion occurred.”

The car involved in the blast bore a Haryana registration number (HR26CE7674). Investigators noted that the vehicle had changed ownership several times since its first registration in 2014 to a resident of Gurugram. Authorities are currently tracing the most recent ownership chain to determine whether the three individuals in the car were merely occupants or directly linked to the explosion itself. The investigative teams are also exploring all potential leads regarding how explosives may have been placed or transported within the vehicle.

In response to the blast, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that a comprehensive investigation is underway, with the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), and Delhi Police’s Special Cell jointly probing the incident. “A comprehensive probe is underway. The findings will be shared with the public,” he stated, emphasizing that authorities are examining all possible angles to ensure accountability.

The Red Fort explosion prompted heightened security measures across the national capital. Security forces were deployed at key locations, including government buildings, metro stations, airports, and other sensitive zones, to prevent further incidents. Two gates of the Lal Qila Metro Station, located near the blast site on the Violet Line, were temporarily closed on Monday evening as a precaution. Delhi Police, in coordination with intelligence agencies, increased patrolling, closely monitored CCTV feeds, and implemented strict checking of vehicles in critical areas.

Eyewitness accounts painted a grim picture of the aftermath. Local residents, commuters, and vendors recalled the intensity of the explosion, which sent a shockwave across the area. Windows of nearby buildings shattered, and parked vehicles were damaged beyond recognition. First responders and police rushed to the scene immediately, evacuating the vicinity and providing aid to those injured. Hospitals in the surrounding areas reported a sudden influx of patients with blast-related injuries.

The judiciary’s message of solidarity also highlighted the emotional toll on the families of victims. The Supreme Court noted that while no words can fully ease the pain of losing loved ones in such a violent incident, the collective compassion of the nation can offer some solace. In addition to offering condolences, the Court reaffirmed its dedication to upholding justice and protecting citizens’ rights, signaling that those responsible for such acts will be held accountable under the law.

The blast has also intensified discussions around public safety and counter-terrorism preparedness in the capital. Security analysts have highlighted the importance of monitoring high-risk zones, using intelligence inputs effectively, and maintaining a rapid-response capability to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The incident has prompted renewed scrutiny of vehicle registration records, surveillance systems, and coordination between multiple law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site and symbol of India’s history and culture, was immediately closed to visitors for three days following the blast. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) also closed the nearby Lal Qila Metro Station, reflecting the need for enhanced vigilance at high-profile locations in the aftermath of the explosion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while attending a two-day state visit to Bhutan, expressed his deep sorrow over the blast and assured that all conspirators involved will be brought to justice. His statement reflected the gravity of the incident and the central government’s commitment to national security. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also echoed this sentiment, vowing strict action against those responsible.

As the investigation continues, the Supreme Court’s message of solidarity stands as a reminder of the judiciary’s role not only in administering justice but also in upholding the collective conscience of the nation during moments of tragedy. In an hour marked by grief, the Court’s expression of empathy, combined with active law enforcement and investigative efforts, seeks to reassure the public that the nation is united in its response and determined to prevent further harm.

The Red Fort blast, apart from being a human tragedy, has become a catalyst for discussions on national security, urban safety, and the responsibilities of government institutions. While families mourn the loss of loved ones, the nation continues to seek answers and justice. The Supreme Court’s statement emphasizes that in addition to law enforcement measures, a sense of national solidarity and compassion remains central to India’s response to such incidents.

In conclusion, the judiciary, government authorities, and citizens alike have come together in mourning, reflection, and determination. The Supreme Court’s condolences serve as a solemn acknowledgment of the pain endured by families affected by the blast, while also reinforcing the principle that justice will prevail and accountability will be ensured. As Delhi recovers from the shock of Monday evening’s events, the focus remains on rescue, relief, investigation, and long-term measures to safeguard the city from similar threats.