NIA Takes Over Red Fort Blast Investigation Following Explosion

A significant decision has been made regarding the investigation of the recent explosion at the Red Fort, as the Indian government has officially assigned the case to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). This move comes one day after the blast, which raised concerns about security in the region.

The directive was issued following a high-level security review meeting led by Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister, on the morning of October 31, 2023. Attendees included senior officials such as the Union Home Secretary, the Director of the Intelligence Bureau, the Commissioner of Delhi Police, and the Director General of the NIA. Additionally, the Director General of Police for Jammu and Kashmir participated in the meeting via video conference.

According to a government source, police in Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir have been gathering crucial information regarding the blast. Investigators revealed that during a police operation, they seized 358 kg of explosives, believed to be ammonium nitrate, from a rented property linked to one of the suspects in Dhauj village, located in Faridabad.

In the aftermath of the explosion, Shah stated that authorities are examining “all angles” and have not dismissed any potential causes for the incident. “I hope our agencies will reach a conclusion on the cause of the blast within a short time,” he remarked. A senior forensic team from the Forensic Science Laboratory has been deployed to assist with the investigation.

The incident, which occurred on October 30, involved a Hyundai i20 car identified as the source of the explosion. According to the Delhi Police, the vehicle was first observed outside Asian Hospital in Faridabad around 07:30 hours, before entering the capital via the Badarpur toll booth at approximately 08:13 hours. Investigators are focusing on a 34-year-old man from Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, who purchased the Hyundai i20 on October 29.

Shah visited the site of the blast later on, expressing caution regarding the nature of the incident. “It is difficult to say what caused the incident,” he stated, emphasizing that the analysis of samples collected from the scene by forensic experts and the National Security Guard is essential for determining the cause. Although the investigation remains in its early stages, authorities are committed to exploring every possible lead.

As the NIA takes over the case, there is a heightened sense of urgency to uncover the truth behind the attack and ensure the safety of the public in the region. The involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies illustrates the seriousness with which the Indian government is treating this incident.