Delhi Blast: Lal Qila Metro Station Closed Today Due to Security Reasons: DMRC

The Lal Quila metro station remains closed due to ongoing investigations following an explosion near the Red Fort, which resulted in fatalities and injuries. Delhi Police are examining CCTV footage and have made several arrests as part of the inquiry.

The Lal Quila metro station remains closed as investigations continue following the blast near the Red Fort on Monday evening. This explosion resulted in at least eight fatalities and numerous injuries. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced on Tuesday that all other metro stations are operating normally, but Lal Quila is shut for security reasons.

Delhi Police's initial investigation into the explosion suggests a connection to an i20 car traced back to Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir. Sources indicate that this vehicle was allegedly purchased by a Pulwama resident. CCTV footage obtained by the police shows the suspect's car entering and exiting the parking area near the Red Fort, with evidence suggesting the suspect was alone at the time.

Extensive Investigation Underway

Following the explosion, Delhi Police conducted a thorough night-long search operation across hotels in Paharganj, Daryaganj, and nearby areas. Hotel registers were meticulously examined during these raids, resulting in four individuals being taken into custody for questioning. The police have also reviewed CCTV footage from multiple locations to trace the vehicle's movements.

According to sources, investigators are examining over 100 CCTV clips, including footage from nearby toll plazas, to establish the complete movement of the vehicle involved in the blast. The car reportedly entered Delhi from Haryana via Badarpur. Based on CCTV evidence from various locations, around 13 people are currently under scrutiny and being questioned.

Joint Efforts and Arrests

A person linked to a Faridabad module is suspected of travelling in the car involved in the blast. However, confirmation of a deceased individual's identity will only be possible after DNA testing. This investigation follows a joint operation by Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana Police that led to the recovery of 360 kg of explosive material and ammunition from Faridabad, resulting in two arrests: Dr Muzammil and Aadil Rather.

Deputy Commissioner of Police for North Delhi, Raja Banthia, addressed reporters stating that investigations are ongoing and no conclusive comments can be made yet. Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) teams are collecting traces of explosions while examining the crime scene thoroughly.

Legal Proceedings Initiated

The Delhi Police have registered a case concerning this incident under various sections of legal acts including Sections 16 and 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), along with sections of both the Explosives Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). This case has been filed at Kotwali Police Station as part of their ongoing efforts to resolve this matter.