Starting with Rahul Gandhi, the Lok Sabha Opposition Leader shared a deeply moving message on X: ‘Heartfelt salute to our heroic soldiers who attained martyrdom in the 2019 Pulwama terror strike. India remains perpetually indebted for their ultimate sacrifice in safeguarding our motherland.’ Accompanying the post was an image from his Jammu-Kashmir tour, symbolizing ongoing commitment.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra followed suit, emphasizing eternal gratitude. ‘Our nation owes an everlasting debt to the martyrs and their families. The valor, devotion, and sacrifice of our fearless troops set a benchmark for every citizen,’ she noted.

Mallikarjun Kharge, speaking as Rajya Sabha Opposition Leader and Congress chief, painted a vivid picture of heroism. ‘Humble homage to Mother India’s valiant sons who gave their all in Pulwama. Their unmatched bravery and patriotism echo eternally in our hearts. This unparalleled sacrifice ensures they live forever in memory.’

Sharad Pawar reflected on the military’s storied tradition. ‘Through grit, gallantry, and selflessness, our soldiers have upheld India’s integrity. We cherish their patriotism. Solemn tribute to Pulwama’s fallen warriors,’ read his statement.

Mamata Banerjee’s tribute was direct: ‘Saluting the courageous CRPF personnel martyred in Pulwama exactly five years ago today—no, seven years now.’

This collective mourning highlights cross-party respect for the armed forces. The Pulwama incident, perpetrated by Pakistan-backed militants, spurred India’s Balakot airstrikes and reshaped counter-terrorism strategies. Today, leaders’ words reinforce the unyielding spirit of those who serve, urging vigilance against future threats.

Investigators have confirmed that the Hyundai i20 used in the devastating suicide attack was registered in Ali’s name. His arrest in Delhi followed extensive searches conducted by NIA teams shortly after they assumed control of the case from Delhi Police.

Authorities indicate that Amir Rashid Ali, a resident of Samboora in Pampore, was in contact with the suspected bomber, Umar Un Nabi. Ali allegedly played a pivotal role in sourcing and arranging the vehicle that was ultimately converted into a deadly car bomb.

The NIA has now corroborated through forensic evidence that Umar Un Nabi, a former Assistant Professor from Pulwama, was indeed the individual driving the explosive-laden vehicle. Nabi was associated with the General Medicine department at Al Falah University in Faridabad.

Further intensifying the probe, investigators have also seized a second vehicle connected to Nabi, which is currently undergoing detailed examination for any additional evidence. To date, the NIA has recorded statements from 73 witnesses, including many who sustained injuries in the blast, as they work to uncover the full scope of the conspiracy and identify all individuals involved in this heinous act. The agency is collaborating with various police forces, including those from Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, to pursue all available leads.

The investigation into the incident has uncovered a meticulously planned terror operation. Authorities revealed that the perpetrators had prepared three car-borne improvised explosive devices (IEDs). One white Hyundai i20 exploded at the scene. A second vehicle, a red Ford EcoSport, was discovered abandoned in Faridabad. The search is ongoing for a third, as yet unrecovered, vehicle.

This sophisticated terror module is believed to have links to organizations such as Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind. Eight individuals have been arrested so far, including three doctors associated with Al-Falah University. Following these arrests, a significant cache of explosives, chemicals, and related materials, totaling 2,900 kilograms, was seized. All border crossings and police stations have been placed on high alert as the manhunt for the third vehicle and any remaining explosives intensifies.

In response to the growing tensions, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened an urgent high-level meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari and key cabinet members. The discussions aimed to address the fallout from the Delhi incident. Reports indicate that some Pakistani ministers have expressed that the country is in a “state of war” with India, with the recent blast exacerbating an already tense situation that began earlier in the year.

Adding a layer of stark reality to the situation, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif reportedly cautioned Prime Minister Sharif during the meeting. Asif highlighted Pakistan’s severe economic constraints, stating that the nation’s financial condition would not permit engaging in conflict, either with India or Afghanistan. Meanwhile, in India, the Union Cabinet convened to review the aftermath of the blast. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) also met, with Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in attendance. A moment of silence was observed for the victims of the explosion, which tragically claimed 12 lives and injured several others, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the government’s commitment to a swift investigation.

Embassies and ambassadors from various nations shared their grief on social media platforms. Messages conveyed deep sympathy to the families of the victims, offering prayers for their departed loved ones and wishing a full recovery for those injured in the blast. This unified expression of solidarity underscores the global impact of the tragedy.

The explosion, which occurred near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station, involved a car that detonated, causing significant damage to surrounding vehicles and infrastructure. Emergency services and investigative agencies, including police, NIA, and NSG teams, swiftly responded to the scene. A thorough investigation is underway, with authorities reviewing CCTV footage to identify those responsible for this heinous act.

In response to the incident, high alert security measures have been implemented across several Indian states, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Mumbai. Enhanced security presence is evident in bustling public areas and sensitive religious sites to prevent further incidents.

The tragic event has drawn widespread condemnation and heartfelt condolences from prominent figures, including athletes. Cricket World Cup winner and Indian men’s cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir expressed his sorrow, stating, ‘Saddened by the loss of lives due to the blast in Delhi. Praying for strength to the families of the deceased and for the speedy recovery of the injured.’

Olympic bronze medallist wrestler Bajrang Punia also shared his grief and condemned the act. ‘Saddened by the death of innocent people in the car blast near the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi today. It is a very heart-wrenching and devastating incident,’ Punia wrote on X. He further appealed for a transparent and impartial inquiry into the blast.

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat joined in mourning the victims and extended her deepest sympathies to their families. This horrific incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures in public spaces.