The high-intensity blast in Delhi has put the nation on alert, with state police forces beefing up security in their respective states. As many as eight people have died in the powerful explosion near the Red Fort metro station in the national capital, and the health condition of three people are critical.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with the Delhi Police Commissioner and took stock of the situation. Sleuths from the National Security Guards, National Investigation Agency and the forensic department have rushed to the spot. Shah also spoke with the Intelligence Bureau chief and discussed the security situation.
As per reports, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with Home Minister Amit Shah. Delhi Police chief Satish Golcha said he has briefed the Union minister about the incident. Golcha said, "The explosion happened in a slow-moving vehicle near the Red Fort traffic signal around 6.52pm, and occupants were present inside the vehicle.
According to reports, 24 people suffered injuries in the attack, and they were rushed to the hospital nearby. The Delhi Fire Department said they doused the fire soon after they received the call around 7.29pm, and the situation is under control now. According to the fire department, six cars, two rickshaws and one autorickshaw were gutted in the fire.
The blast comes hours after security forces from Jammu and Kashmir uncovered a white collar terror module involving the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind and spanning Kashmir, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Forces have arrested eight people, including three doctors, and have seized 2,900 kilos of explosives and ammunition.
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Delhi police have enhanced surveillance at all border points connecting Delhi with Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Security has been stepped up in sensitive zones such as railway stations, and metro premises. A senior officer told PTI that all district units, including the Special Cell and Crime Branch, have been put on alert, and teams have been directed to conduct random checks of vehicles and lodges near the Delhi-Haryana border.
In Maharashtra, a "precautionary alert" has been issued by police. "All the unit commanders at the district level in Maharashtra and commissioners of cities have been instructed to remain alert to avoid any untoward incidents", a police official said.
According to ANI, Kerala Police Chief Ravada Azad Chandrasekhar has directed the police to strengthen security across the state.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, after receiving information about the incident, has given instructions to keep the entire police force in Uttar Pradesh on high alert and ensure intensive checking and security arrangements.