[By Devansh Desai Mumbai Samachar Desk]
New Delhi: The deadly explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort on Monday, November 10, that killed at least eight people has once again exposed the lingering threat of terrorism in the national capital. Over the last three decades, Delhi has faced several major terror attacks, most of which were carried out by Pakistan-backed groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and local outfit Indian Mujahideen (IM).
While improved intelligence and counter-terror systems significantly reduced such incidents over the past 15 years, the Red Fort blast serves as a grim reminder that the danger has not fully subsided. Here’s a look back at some of the major attacks that have rocked Delhi.
1996: Lajpat Nagar Market Bomb Blast
On May 21, 1996, a powerful bomb exploded in the bustling Lajpat Nagar market, killing 13 people and injuring 38 others. The attack was linked to operatives associated with Pakistan-based terror organisations. Years later, several accused were convicted by the court, marking one of the earliest major terror cases in Delhi.
1997: Series of Blasts Across Capital
Between October and November 1997, multiple bombs detonated in crowded zones, including near the Red Fort and popular city markets. At least four people died and over 30 were injured. Some suspects were connected to Sikh separatist groups, but no group formally claimed responsibility.
2001: Parliament Attack
On December 13, 2001, five armed terrorists stormed the Indian Parliament complex in New Delhi, launching coordinated gun and grenade assaults. Nine people, including security personnel and staff, were killed before all attackers were neutralised. Investigations identified Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba as the masterminds. The assault pushed India and Pakistan to the brink of war.
Also read: Delhi Red Fort Blast: Delhi, Mumbai on high alert; multiple states step up surveillance
2005: Diwali-Eve Serial Blasts
On October 29, 2005, just ahead of Diwali celebrations, three bomb blasts ripped through crowded markets in Sarojini Nagar, Paharganj, and in a bus at Govindpuri. The attacks killed 62 people and injured over 200. Investigations pointed to Lashkar-e-Taiba and a splinter group, Islamic Inquilab Mahaz, as key perpetrators.
2008: Delhi Serial Bombings
On September 13, 2008, five nearly simultaneous blasts rocked prominent locations like Connaught Place, Karol Bagh, and Greater Kailash. Around 30 people were killed and more than 100 were left injured. The Indian Mujahideen claimed responsibility, linking it to a series of urban terror attacks across India that year.
Also read: Delhi Car Bomb : Owner Of Car Linked To Faridabad Terror Network, Say Sources
2011: Delhi High Court Bombing
On September 7, 2011, a briefcase bomb exploded outside Gate No. 5 of the Delhi High Court, killing 11 people and injuring over 60. The Indian Mujahideen and Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami were implicated in the attack. It was one of the last major terror incidents in the capital before years of relative calm.
Also read: Masked Driver Captured on CCTV Moments Before Deadly Red Fort Explosion
2025: Red Fort Explosion
On November 10, 2025, a massive car explosion near the Red Fort Metro Station in Chandni Chowk caused widespread panic. At least eight people were killed and dozens injured as the fire spread to several nearby vehicles. The incident occurred hours after authorities announced the busting of a terror module in Faridabad. A probe is underway to determine whether the two events are connected.