India Holds Key UNESCO Meet at Red Fort Under Tight Security After 2025 Blast
December 12, 2025
India is hosting the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage from December 8 to 13, 2025. The event takes place at Delhi's historic Red Fort, which is tightly guarded following a deadly blast at the site on November 10, 2025. The blast killed 15 people and injured more than 24. To ensure safety, the Archaeological Survey of India closed the Fort to visitors from December 5 until December 14. Security is intense, with layers of barricades near the blast site and constant vigil from Delhi Police, paramilitary forces, and CISF at the entry gates. Only accredited delegates and media with special badges can enter. Bike-borne police patrol the Fort's perimeter at night. The opening ceremony on December 7 was attended by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and other dignitaries. On December 10, India's festival of Deepavali was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the meeting. A cultural program and gala dinner followed, with delegates enjoying the event under strict security. Local traders still remember the blast but are hopeful. The Red Fort, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, is a UNESCO world heritage site and a symbol of India's rich history.
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Red fort
Unesco
Security
India
Intangible Cultural Heritage
Blast
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