In a decisive move following a deadly explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort, the Government of India has officially classified the incident as a terrorist attack. This announcement, made during a Cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, condemned the event as a “heinous act perpetrated by anti-national forces.”
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, addressing the press after the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting, stated that the government is committed to ensuring that those responsible, as well as their sponsors, are brought to justice swiftly and effectively. He remarked, “The Cabinet directs that the investigation into the incident be pursued with utmost urgency and professionalism so that the perpetrators, their collaborators, and their sponsors are identified and brought to justice.”
Emphasizing India’s stance on terrorism, he reiterated a zero-tolerance policy and declared that the country would not be intimidated by such cowardly acts. “The Cabinet unequivocally condemns this dastardly and cowardly act that has led to the loss of innocent lives,” he added, highlighting the government’s commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms. He also acknowledged the expressions of solidarity and support from various nations following the incident.
Prior to the Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Modi took the time to visit Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital where victims of the blast are receiving treatment. Having just returned from a trip to Bhutan, he met with the injured, inquired about their well-being, and wished them a prompt recovery. Healthcare professionals briefed him on the patients’ conditions.
The explosion, which occurred on November 10, claimed the lives of at least twelve individuals and left many others injured when a Hyundai i20 car detonated near the Lal Quila Metro Station. The blast was powerful enough to inflict extensive damage in the vicinity, sending shockwaves throughout the central district of Delhi. Initial post-mortem reports highlighted severe injuries among the victims, who suffered from multiple fractures, head trauma, and ruptured internal organs, primarily affecting their head, chest, and upper body.
Forensic teams engaged in the investigation reported finding no splinter traces, leading to suspicions that a high-grade improvised explosive device (IED) may have been employed. Further analysis will reveal the exact nature of the explosive used in the attack.
In an emerging development, the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has gathered DNA samples from the mother of Dr. Umar Un Nabi, identified as the alleged driver of the bomb-laden vehicle. Reports indicate that Nabi, a Pulwama-born medical professional, may have ties to a recently uncovered Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) module.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has now taken over the investigation, assembling a dedicated team led by senior officers. This team will collaborate with the Delhi Police Special Cell, the Intelligence Bureau, and the Forensic Science Laboratory to facilitate a thorough probe. Officials noted that the NIA aims to uncover potential links to cross-border terror networks, radicalization channels, and financial pathways that could have facilitated the attack.
The government’s designation of the blast as a terrorist incident reflects a significant intensification of India’s counterterrorism efforts, sending a clear message that the nation stands united against terrorism. This commitment underscores India’s resolve to neutralize any threats to national security and to deliver justice for the victims of this tragic event.
