

An explosion near a popular movie theater in Delhi's Prashant Vihar area has left citizens in a state of panic. A man driving a three-wheeler near the site sustained minor injuries. Security forces, including NSG commandos and Delhi Police, are currently investigating the incident. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has accused the central government of failing to maintain law and order. This is the second blast in the area in the past month, but officials have not established a connection between the two events.
Delhi Explosion: Terror or Accident?
On October 2, 2023, an explosion near the PVR INOX movie theater in Delhi's Prashant Vihar area sent shockwaves through the city. The blast, caused by a low-intensity crude bomb, left one man with minor injuries and raised concerns about security in the capital.
Background
Prashant Vihar, located in North West Delhi, is a densely populated residential area with several shopping malls and movie theaters. The PVR INOX theater is a popular destination for movie-goers in the neighborhood.
This is the second blast in the area in the past month. On September 4, 2023, a similar low-intensity bomb exploded near a different multiplex in Prashant Vihar, causing no injuries. The police have not yet established any link between the two incidents.
Official Response
Security forces, including National Security Guard (NSG) commandos and Delhi Police, immediately cordoned off the area and launched an investigation. No terror group has claimed responsibility for the blast.
Political Reactions
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi accused the central government of failing to maintain law and order in the city. She demanded a detailed investigation and called for increased security measures.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What caused the explosion?
According to preliminary investigations, the blast was caused by a low-intensity crude bomb.
2. Who was injured?
One man driving a three-wheeler near the site sustained minor injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital.
3. Is it a terrorist attack?
Authorities have not yet classified the incident as a terrorist attack. Investigations are ongoing.
4. What is the status of the investigation?
Security forces are currently investigating the incident. No arrests have been made so far.
5. Is there a connection with the previous blast?
The police have not yet established a link between the Prashant Vihar blast and the previous explosion in the area on September 4.
Conclusion
The Prashant Vihar explosion has raised concerns about security in Delhi. While the exact nature of the incident is still under investigation, it underscores the need for vigilance and increased security measures in public places. The investigation is expected to shed light on the perpetrators and their motives.

After Chief Justice Gavai's formal recommendation, Union Government is set to appoint Justice Surya Kant as the next Chief Justice of India. With a distinguished legal career and key institutional roles, Justice Kant is highly regarded for his commitment to electoral transparency and landmark verdicts on various issues including abrogation of Article 370 and free speech. His term is expected to begin on November 24, 2025, and last for approximately 15 months.

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In the 127th episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the enduring significance of the national song 'Vande Mataram'. He urged all Indians to celebrate the 150th year of the song's composition and instill its message of patriotism and unity in the younger generations. Tracing its origins, PM Modi highlighted how the song reflects India's ancient wisdom and the powerful bond between "Ma Bharati" and her children. The programme, launched in 2014, aims to connect with various segments of Indian society and is now broadcast in multiple languages across the world.

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