Car explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort kills 12

An explosion near the historic Red Fort in the Indian capital of Delhi has claimed the lives of at least 12 people, with around 30 more injured in the blast.

The incident occurred at around 18:52 local time on 10 November, when a Hyundai i20 car stopped at a red light, before exploding. The vehicle was reportedly carrying three people at the time of the explosion.

The explosion occurred near a metro station adjacent to the Red Fort – a 17th-century fortress that is a popular tourist destination in the city.

The cause of the explosion is currently being investigated by authorities, but is being treated as a terrorist incident.

According to reports by Indian media sources, investigators are reportedly looking to determine whether the explosion was connected with a terrorist cell of seven people who were arrested during a raid the same day. Alongside the arrests, police also uncovered 2,900kg of explosive material, alongside chemicals, detonators, and guns.

The cell is allegedly connected with an Islamic insurgent group called Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), which is primarily based in the disputed Kashmir region, a territory claimed by both India and Pakistan.

Amit Shah, Indian Home Minister, stated: “We are exploring all possibilities and will conduct a thorough investigation, taking all possibilities into account. All options will be investigated immediately and we will present the results to the public.”

Security has been enhanced at a number of Indian landmarks, including religious sites, border areas, and other high-risk areas.

Twenty-six people died after mass shooting in Kashmir in northwestern India this year.