Delhi Red Fort Blast Live Updates: Bhutan King Leads Prayers; Death Toll Rises to 13

The intensity of the blast sent shockwaves across the area — shattering nearby windows, damaging vehicles, and leaving the iconic Red Fort vicinity engulfed in smoke.

Authorities have cordoned off the area and closed the Red Fort for visitors for the next three days. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has also suspended operations at the Lal Quila metro station as a precautionary measure.

Eyewitness Accounts

Several eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and confusion. “The explosion was so loud that the entire lane trembled. We saw flames and people running in panic,” said Arjun Sharma, a shopkeeper near the blast site.

Officials Respond

Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha confirmed that the explosion originated from a slow-moving Hyundai i20 vehicle. “At around 6:52 PM, the vehicle halted at a red light before the explosion occurred, damaging nearby vehicles,” he stated.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in his first statement after the incident, confirmed that all possible angles — including terror and technical malfunction — are being probed. “Teams from the Delhi Police, NIA, NSG, and forensic departments are conducting a coordinated investigation,” Shah said.

Investigation Underway

Two individuals, reportedly previous owners of the vehicle, have been detained for questioning. The National Security Guard (NSG) and National Investigation Agency (NIA) have collected debris samples to determine the exact cause and composition of the explosive.

Sources in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) confirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have been briefed and are monitoring the situation closely. A high-level security meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at 9:30 AM.

Bhutan King’s Gesture

In a heartfelt gesture, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan offered prayers for the victims and expressed deep condolences to the families affected. His message of solidarity has been widely shared across social media.

Rescue Efforts

The Delhi Fire Department received multiple calls around 6:55 PM and immediately dispatched seven fire tenders to douse the flames. The injured were rushed to LNJP Hospital and RML Hospital, where emergency wards have been placed on alert.

Security Tightened

Following the blast, security has been heightened across the national capital, especially in high-footfall areas, government offices, and metro stations.

Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information on social media.