India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested a man suspected of involvement in the deadly car bombing that occurred near the iconic Red Fort in Delhi on March 3, 2024. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 10 individuals and left over 30 others injured. The NIA confirmed that the suspect is a resident of India-administered Kashmir and the vehicle used in the attack was registered in his name.
The NIA identified the alleged suicide bomber as a man from Pulwama, also in Jammu and Kashmir, who perished when the vehicle he was driving detonated at a traffic light. In connection with the investigation, authorities have seized another vehicle associated with the suspect, who reportedly worked as an assistant professor at Al Falah University in Faridabad, located in the National Capital Region of Delhi.
Authorities at Al Falah University stated they had “no connection with the said persons apart from them working in their official capacities with the University,” following the NIA’s announcement of the suspect’s affiliation. The NIA has conducted interviews with over 70 witnesses and continues to seek additional individuals who may have information regarding the bombing.
Details of the Attack
The car bombing near the Red Fort—a historic 17th-century monument and a symbol of India’s independence—occurred in a bustling area filled with tourists and street vendors. Witnesses described a scene of chaos as the explosion unfolded. Footage from the aftermath revealed thick orange flames rising into the night sky, while twisted and charred vehicles littered the area, and victims were scattered across the street.
Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha reported that at approximately 18:42 local time, a “slow-moving” vehicle halted at a red light, where the explosion subsequently occurred. He stated, “The passengers in the vehicle and people in surrounding vehicles were impacted.” The blast ignited at least six vehicles and three autorickshaws, prompting a rapid response from emergency services. Fire crews were dispatched shortly after 18:55 local time to combat the blaze.
Survivors of the attack were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. The incident marks an alarming event for Delhi, a metropolis with a population exceeding 30 million, where such violent occurrences are uncommon.
As the investigation unfolds, the NIA is focused on gathering further evidence and understanding the broader implications of this attack on public safety in the region.
