New Delhi: Terrorism remains one of the gravest threats to nations and societies worldwide, undermining peace, development, and humanity. The recent explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort has once again highlighted the persistent dangers posed by extremist groups. Initial investigations indicate the involvement of a Faridabad-based module linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed from Srinagar and Pulwama. Twelve lives were lost in the blast, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the case.
Authorities confirmed that the attack was part of a larger plan, but the perpetrators—fearing imminent action—detonated the bomb prematurely in a vehicle, resulting in a limited explosion. Eight suspects, including a female doctor from Lucknow, have been arrested so far. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences during his visit to Bhutan, assuring strict action against those responsible and emphasizing that “all those responsible will be brought to justice.” Home Minister Amit Shah also held high-level meetings to ensure a thorough investigation.
Security agencies are conducting multiple raids and examining electronic and technical data to trace terrorist networks. Officials suggest that the blast’s timing and scale indicate panic rather than a fully executed suicide mission. Experts believe that ammonium nitrate-fuel oil (ANFO) explosives were used, a cheaper and more accessible alternative to RDX, highlighting evolving tactics among terrorist groups.
This incident underscores a disturbing trend: increasingly, highly educated individuals—including doctors, engineers, and scholars—are being recruited into extremist networks. Former security officials stress that identifying funding sources and monitoring sleeper cells and local modules is crucial to prevent attacks. Intelligence agencies, including the NIA, NTRO, IB, and R&AW, must operate proactively, utilizing modern technology, AI, and social media monitoring to stay ahead of these threats.
India has faced numerous terrorist attacks between 2004 and 2025, ranging from the 2004 Dimapur bombings to the 2019 Pulwama attack. Thanks to vigilant security measures and international cooperation, the number of incidents has declined, and cross-border infiltration has been significantly reduced. Yet, the Red Fort explosion reveals vulnerabilities even in highly secured areas, highlighting the need for continuous vigilance and robust monitoring systems.
Experts emphasize that terrorism is not merely a security issue—it is a complex social, economic, and ideological problem. Military and police action alone cannot eradicate it. Long-term solutions require education, dialogue, and social justice. Addressing unemployment, inequality, and lack of opportunities can prevent radicalization among youth. Promoting communal harmony, religious tolerance, and national cohesion is equally essential. Strengthening border security, intelligence networks, and community cooperation can help weaken the roots of extremism and create lasting peace.
Ultimately, combating terrorism demands a comprehensive approach that combines vigilance with societal reform, ensuring that the next generation grows in an environment of opportunity, inclusion, and shared responsibility.
