Won’t spare Red Fort blast plotters: PM Modi’s stern warning

A day after a deadly blast near Delhi’s Red Fort shook the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday vowed that those behind the “heinous conspiracy” would be brought to justice.

Speaking in Bhutan during an event to mark the 70th birth anniversary of the Bhutan King's father, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the PM opened his address on a sombre note, saying he was attending the ceremony “with a very heavy heart”.

"The horrific incident that occurred in Delhi yesterday evening has deeply saddened everyone. I understand the grief of the affected families. Today, the entire nation stands with them," Modi said.

The PM said he had been in touch with security and intelligence agencies. “I was in contact with all the agencies probing the incident and with all the important people throughout last night. Discussions were ongoing. Information was being pieced together,” he said.

Assuring the nation that the perpetrators would face the full force of law, he said, “Our agencies will get to the bottom of this conspiracy. The conspirators behind this will not be spared. All those responsible will be brought to justice.”

The strong statement came amid a sweeping investigation into the Red Fort blast, which has triggered a nationwide security alert. Multiple agencies, including the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Delhi Police’s Special Cell, are coordinating efforts to identify those behind the attack.

Modi’s remarks from Bhutan carried both gravitas and symbolism, delivered at an international peace prayer festival attended by Buddhist monks and global delegates. “Today, on one hand, the Global Peace Prayer Festival is being held here with the blessings of Guru Padmasambhava, and on the other, India has been struck by an act of violence. But our resolve for peace and justice will prevail,” he said.

Despite the emotional tone, Modi went on to reaffirm India’s enduring partnership with Bhutan, describing it as “a relationship of values, emotions, peace and progress”.

He announced a series of new initiatives, including a 1,000-MW hydroelectric project, enhanced connectivity between Bhutan and India’s rail network and deeper youth and cultural exchanges.

“India and Bhutan are connected not just by borders, but by cultures and shared aspirations,” the PM said, calling Bhutan’s model of Gross National Happiness a guiding light for humanity.

Modi linked his call for global harmony to India’s response to terror. “The blessings of Lord Buddha and Guru Rinpoche remind us that peace must stand firm against violence. Those who attempt to shatter that peace, they will face justice,” he said.