Delhi blast:  Authorities yet to rule out terror attack; Amit Shah visits blast site

NEW DELHI: Authorities suspect that the explosion in the national capital may be a suicide attack. The powerful blast occurred at 6:55 p.m. near Gate No. 1 of the Delhi Red Fort (Lal Qila) Metro Station. A car that slowed down at the traffic signal suddenly exploded. Unconfirmed reports say that the blast involved an I-20 car registered in Haryana. The owner of the car has been taken into police custody.

Police believe an IED was used in the explosion. Teams from the NSG and other national investigation agencies are camping at the site. The police are questioning the car owner, but no personal details about him have been released. Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the blast site and held discussions with the Delhi Police Commissioner and other top officials.

Amit Shah said that all possible investigations will be carried out. He has briefed the Prime Minister about the incident. He also confirmed that all major investigation agencies are present at the location. Shah visited the blast site as well as the hospital where the injured are being treated.

According to the latest information, 13 people have died and around 30 others have been injured. Reports say the car slowed down at the traffic signal, stopped, and then exploded. There are unconfirmed reports that multiple people were inside the car.

Following the incident, a high alert has been issued in Delhi and warnings have been sent to neighbouring states as well. Police sources say they suspect this could be a terror attack. Traffic in the area has been restricted.