A recent blast near the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi on November 10 resulted in the tragic loss of 13 lives and numerous injuries. This incident, likely caused by an improvised explosive device (IED), has highlighted the ongoing threat posed by such devices. Experts emphasize the lethal nature of IEDs, which can be easily assembled and have the potential to inflict mass casualties. The dark nature of these weapons calls for an urgent and comprehensive national strategy to counter the threat they pose.
IEDs are favored by terrorists for several reasons: they are low-risk, high-impact, and can be constructed from readily available materials. Typically, an IED is made up of a container, battery, detonator, switch, and explosives, with additional elements like ball bearings or nails to enhance their lethality. Most of the components can be improvised from common items, while many terrorist groups rely on commercially manufactured detonators for their reliability. However, some extremists have experimented with unstable homemade detonators. The simplicity of assembly combined with their destructive potential makes IEDs a popular choice for terrorist operations.
The components of IEDs often reveal identifiable patterns that can assist investigators in tracing the responsible terror group. The type of explosive used—whether military-grade like RDX or TNT, commercial explosives, or homemade mixtures such as ANFO—can provide crucial clues, as different groups typically stick to familiar materials. The triggering mechanism, whether it is command-operated, timer-based, or victim-operated, sheds light on the group's operational methods. Additionally, the placement method—be it vehicle-borne, suicide-borne, or person-borne—further refines the investigation. Together, these factors create a unique "bomb signature," allowing authorities to link an attack to specific perpetrators. The National Bomb Data Centre of the NSG maintains thorough records of such incidents to aid in these investigations.
Interestingly, IED attacks in India have shown a decline across significant conflict zones, including Jammu & Kashmir and Naxal-affected areas. Recent incidents in J&K have utilized a mix of military-grade and homemade explosives, as seen in the 2019 Pulwama attack, which incorporated RDX from Pakistan with locally sourced materials. The use of drone-dropped magnetic IEDs has also reduced significantly. In Naxal-affected regions, incidents have sharply decreased, with most devices relying on commercially available explosives. While only a few notable incidents like the 2024 Bengaluru Rameshwaram Café blast have occurred nationwide, jihadi groups are increasingly combining different types of explosives.
Military-grade materials often enter India through Pakistan-backed channels, whether via drones or human couriers. Despite enhanced border security, the challenge remains, as agencies must intercept every attempt while handlers only need one successful delivery. This creates a perpetual cat-and-mouse dynamic that necessitates continuous technological advancements and vigilance.
Commercial explosives used in various industries are regulated by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO). Although PESO implements strict safety standards, limited manpower can lead to vulnerabilities, particularly in insurgency-prone areas where pilferage occurs through coercion or collusion. Additionally, terrorists often extract explosive materials from precursor chemicals and commonly available substances, such as fertilizers. While Indian fertilizers incorporate safety measures, the threat remains due to the accessibility of precursor items. Experts advocate for clearer identification of such chemicals and recommend that vendors report bulk purchases to local authorities.
The need for a comprehensive National Counter-IED Policy is urgent. Such a policy would unify strategies, clarify responsibilities, and enhance coordination among various stakeholders involved in preventing and responding to explosive threats. The recent blast near the Red Fort appears to involve a nitrate-based mixture, but further speculation is unwarranted at this time. A critical lesson from these incidents is the importance of ensuring that all recovered explosives and devices are handled safely by trained Bomb Detection and Disposal Squads before any evidence collection occurs. The actions of alert individuals, such as the Srinagar doctor-cop who played a vital role in dismantling new terror modules, serve as a reminder of the importance of skilled personnel in counter-terrorism efforts.
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