New Delhi, Nov 10 (NationPress) In a profoundly troubling event, a devastating explosion occurred near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi on Monday evening, resulting in the tragic loss of 10 lives and numerous injuries.

The blast took place at a heavily trafficked signal, causing widespread panic throughout the Old Delhi region, igniting nearby vehicles and shattering windows.

Witnesses reported the explosion as a thunderous sound, with thick black smoke rising from the debris. This incident unfolded just hours after authorities in J&K dismantled a transnational terror module associated with Jaish-e-Mohammad and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind in Faridabad, recovering an alarming 2,900 kg of explosives and firearms.

Leaders from various political factions have condemned the explosion and are demanding an extensive investigation.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed profound sorrow, stating, “It is extremely distressing to learn about the car explosion near Red Fort Metro Station. Initial reports indicate that several precious lives have been lost.”

He called for an urgent and detailed inquiry, stressing the need for accountability regarding security lapses in this high-risk area.

Karnataka Minister Santosh Lad expressed his shock and extended condolences to the grieving families, stating, “Those responsible for this heinous act must be dealt with firmly.”

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin stated he was “shocked and deeply pained” by the event and expressed his sympathies to the victims' families. “The visuals from the site are truly heartbreaking,” he shared on social media.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray labeled the explosion as “truly shocking” and offered prayers for the injured. Party spokesperson Susieben Shah also conveyed her sorrow, wishing “peace and strength to all affected.”

Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala described the incident as “painful and alarming,” offering prayers for the deceased and wishing for a swift recovery for the injured.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav referred to the blast as “a tragic and serious incident,” urging a comprehensive investigation and immediate security initiatives to restore public confidence.

Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren expressed his “deep distress” over the news and prayed for strength for the mourning families.

Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra expressed her shock at the “awful blast,” offering condolences and prayers.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav called the explosion “painful and worrying,” urging the Centre to ensure a transparent and impartial investigation. “National security must transcend politics. We stand with the government in ensuring justice,” he stated.

Eyewitnesses described a deafening roar that “felt like the earth caving in,” with clouds of black smoke rising from the wreckage.

Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha confirmed the severity of the explosion, noting that seven fire tenders were dispatched to extinguish the flames, while the area was promptly sealed off.

Importantly, the J&K Police earlier on the same day dismantled a cross-border terror module linked to Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, resulting in the recovery of 2,900 kg of explosives, two assault rifles, pistols, timers, and other materials in the Faridabad region of Haryana, near New Delhi. Seven arrests have been made to date.

This seizure, occurring just before the explosion at Red Fort, coincides with the second phase of the Bihar assembly elections.