⊥The investigation into the recent explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort Metro Station has been handed over to one of India’s most experienced anti-terror officers — IPS Vijay Sakhare. Known for his sharp intelligence, leadership, and track record in handling sensitive law and order situations, Sakhare has now been appointed to head the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) 10-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the blast that has raised serious security concerns across the nation.
Vijay Sakhare is a 1996-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Kerala cadre. Over his career spanning nearly three decades, he has served in some of the most challenging policing environments, earning respect for his balanced approach to counter-terror operations and crisis management. His expertise in criminal investigations and counter-terrorism has made him one of the most trusted names within the NIA and the Ministry of Home Affairs. In September 2025, Sakhare was appointed as the Additional Director General (ADG) of the NIA — a role that placed him at the forefront of India’s fight against terrorism.
Before his elevation to the national agency, Sakhare held several key assignments in Kerala. He served as Inspector General of Police (IGP) and later as Police Commissioner in Kochi, where he dealt with complex law-and-order issues and high-profile criminal cases. His calm demeanor and data-driven approach to policing earned him a reputation for fairness and effectiveness. His tenure also saw him leading major operations against organized crime, communal violence, and extremist networks operating across state borders.
After the Red Fort blast, the Ministry of Home Affairs handed over the case to the NIA, suspecting the involvement of a larger terror network. Vijay Sakhare was chosen to head the 10-member SIT formed to lead the probe. The team, comprising an Inspector General, two Deputy Inspector Generals, three Superintendents of Police, and several Deputy Superintendents, has been tasked with uncovering the origin of the explosives, identifying the masterminds, and tracing potential cross-border connections. Under Sakhare’s command, the NIA has begun reviewing hundreds of CCTV recordings, analyzing mobile data, and coordinating with multiple state police units, including those from Delhi, Haryana, and Jammu & Kashmir.
Sakhare’s leadership is seen as a strategic decision by the central government. His appointment signals a message of seriousness and precision in dealing with the investigation. His previous experience with inter-agency coordination, intelligence analysis, and counter-terror strategies positions him as the ideal officer to navigate the complexities of a case that could have international linkages. His style of leadership emphasizes teamwork, intelligence-based investigation, and maintaining public confidence — all of which are essential in a case as sensitive as this.
The explosion, which occurred near the Red Fort Metro Station’s Gate No. 1, is being treated as a likely terror attack. Initial investigations suggest that the vehicle involved was fitted with an improvised explosive device (IED). The blast has revived concerns about sleeper cells and the re-emergence of radicalized groups in the capital. Under Sakhare’s supervision, the NIA is now examining all possible leads, including financial trails, communication records, and local collaborators, to map out the network behind the attack.
However, the challenges ahead are formidable. Terror modules often operate under deep concealment, using digital encryption, untraceable funds, and decentralized structures to avoid detection. Collecting credible forensic and digital evidence in such cases requires not only advanced technology but also coordination among various state and central agencies. Moreover, as the case has drawn significant public and media attention, maintaining transparency and accuracy in communication will be key to sustaining public trust.
Despite these challenges, Vijay Sakhare’s leadership inspires confidence among both his colleagues and the public. His approach combines firmness with prudence — qualities that have consistently defined his policing career. The coming weeks will be crucial as the investigation deepens, arrests are made, and forensic reports emerge. The success of this probe will not only bring justice to those responsible but also reinforce India’s broader counter-terrorism strategy at a time when threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated.
In many ways, Sakhare’s role in this case is symbolic of a new generation of Indian police leadership — professional, technology-driven, and nationally oriented. His appointment represents a blend of experience, integrity, and tactical understanding that India needs in its continuing fight against terror. The outcome of the Red Fort blast probe will, therefore, be a defining chapter not just in his career but also in the evolving framework of India’s internal security.
Disclaimer: The views and information presented in this article are based on publicly available reports and official government releases.