Delhi Red Fort Blast: Police Say ‘Not Confirmed as Bomb Explosion,’ Cite Absence of Crater and Pellet Injuries

Authorities Delhi police have, in the start of the morning, denied calling it a bomb blast explosion because nothing like a crater or typical splinter injuries was found at the place of the bombing.

`'No Signs of a Bomb Blast Yet,' Say Officials

The blast in question was said to have taken place in a moving Maruti Suzuki Eeco which was completely destroyed by the incident. Reports say there were between two to three occupants in the vehicle when the bomb went off.

"An explosion happened in a moving car on the road. There is no crater at the spot, so we cannot confirm if it was a bomb blast. Also, no pellet or splinter injuries have been reported so far, which are typical in bomb explosions," a Delhi Police official told Hindustan Times.

Forensic teams have since cordoned off the area and are collecting samples and debris from the site to determine the cause of the explosion.

Witnesses Describe Scene of Panic

The moment was marked by chaos and confusion, as eyewitnesses said. "It was so loud that we thought we were all going to die," said a shopkeeper near the Red Fort Metro Station. "Everyone ran in all directions with the car engulfed in flames."

The scene was truly apocalyptic; various vehicles were aflame, glass was broken everywhere, and thick plumes of smoke were rising into the night sky. Emergency services immediately descended on the scene, while surrounding areas were sealed off as firefighters battled to contain the blaze.

Investigation Underway

According to police, the explosion may emanate from some mechanical or gas-cylinder malfunction, but all angles—including terror linkage—are presently being examined. The NIA and the Delhi Police Special Cell are working together to assess the evidence.

The area around Red Fort, one of the most crowded areas in the national capital, has seen robust security in place since the blast, with numerous check-posts being erected around it.

Forensic findings should confirm whether the blast was accidental or intentional, and they are expected to be released very soon.

Till then, Delhi Police have cautioned citizens against coming out with conjectures or rumors, assuring that things are well under control and that a comprehensive report will be issued after completing the investigation.

(This is an ongoing story. Tune in for validated updates.)