At least eight people were killed in the massive explosion that took place on Monday evening in a parked car near Delhi’s Red Fort Gate No. 1. The incident triggered a panic in the area, prompting authorities to sound a high alert in the national capital region, along with states, including Uttar Pradesh, Mumbai, Punjab, and Haryana.

Fifteen people were brought to Delhi’s LNJP Hospital. Eight of them succumbed to the injuries before reaching the hospital, while three are said to be critically injured. “One is in stable condition,” Medical Superintendent, Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital, told news agency ANI.

Seven fire tenders were initially rushed to the explosion site after the Delhi Fire Department received a call regarding the explosion around 7 pm. Security has been increased at sensitive religious sites, districts, and border areas. Meanwhile, all security agencies have also been alerted.

Following the blast, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with the Delhi Police Commissioner. Teams from the NSG, NIA, and the forensic department were immediately rushed to the spot. The Home Minister is in continuous touch with the IB Director regarding the Delhi incident, reports added.Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and taken stock of the situation after the shocking blast near Delhi’s iconic Red Fort that has claimed eight lives and left more than 20 people injured, sources in the government have said.