New Delhi, India — Authorities have detained several suspects following a car explosion in the capital that has claimed the lives of nine individuals and injured at least 20 others. The blast occurred during the evening rush hour near the Red Fort, a historic fortress where the Prime Minister typically addresses the nation on Independence Day.
The explosion devastated one of New Delhi’s busiest areas, destroying multiple vehicles and leaving widespread destruction in its wake. Investigators are treating the incident as a potential act of terrorism, leveraging stringent anti-terrorism laws that empower them to detain suspects without charge for extended periods.
In a significant development, police in Kashmir apprehended five people linked to the blast in Pulwama district. This action is part of a larger crackdown that has seen approximately 1,500 individuals questioned across the region as authorities attempt to preempt further destabilization from militant groups. Reports indicate that as many as seven men, including three medical professionals, were arrested just hours before the explosion.
Investigators have also indicated they recovered substantial quantities of bomb-making materials, which they allege connect the detained individuals to well-known militant organizations based in Pakistan, such as Jaish-e-Mohammed. India has long accused its neighbor of fostering insurgency and instability in the Kashmir region, where a violent conflict has persisted for decades. Pakistan, however, continues to reject these claims.
Media sources have suggested that the vehicle involved in the explosion—a Hyundai i20—was driven by Dr. Umar Nabi, a Kashmiri doctor. While there hasn’t been official confirmation of his involvement, authorities are exploring whether he intentionally detonated the vehicle or if it was an accidental explosion. Police spokesperson Sanjay Tyagi stated that they are examining all potential causes, including the possibility of a planned assault or a mishap related to the vehicle’s condition.
Additionally, a car dealer from Faridabad, identified as Amit, has been detained to assist with inquiries regarding the vehicle’s ownership. Investigators are tracing its ownership lineage to ascertain how Dr. Nabi may have acquired it. Sources noted that police have initiated inquiries into the connections between various individuals involved in the case.
The events leading up to the explosion reportedly began with an investigation into anti-India propaganda linked to threats against military personnel in Srinagar. Over the course of three weeks, these inquiries led to a series of arrests and a deeper examination of the networks potentially involved in inciting violence.
The tragedy has left families in mourning. Among the deceased are Jumman Khan, a 35-year-old e-rickshaw driver, whose family was devastated as they struggled to identify him after the blast. Other victims included Nauman Ansari, 21, a cosmetics shop owner, and Pankaj Saini, also 21, a taxi driver, both of whom had loved ones left behind in Uttar Pradesh.
Witnesses described a harrowing scene following the explosion, with people scrambling to locate their friends and family amid the chaos. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Lok Nayak Hospital to meet survivors and condemned the attack, asserting that those responsible would face justice without exception.
As investigations continue, the impact of this devastating incident will resonate throughout the city, highlighting ongoing tensions and challenges faced in the region.