Delhi Court Grants NIA 45-Day Extension In Red Fort Blast Probe; Cites Fresh Leads

A court in Delhi has granted the National Investigation Agency an additional 45 days to proceed with its inquiry into the Red Fort blast incident. The explosion had resulted in 11 fatalities and left many others injured.

The Patiala House Court approved the agency’s request for extra time, making it the second such extension in this case. Investigators had previously sought more time to continue their work.

Sources indicated that the agency informed the court about important fresh leads uncovered during the investigation.

Officials noted that a substantial amount of digital data is currently being reviewed, which necessitates additional time.

The agency also conveyed that the findings suggest a wider conspiracy, possibly involving links across various parts of the country and beyond, requiring detailed examination.

Authorities are studying radical Arabic content reportedly recovered from the accused individuals.

To ensure accurate interpretation, the agency has engaged an Arabic language expert from Jamia Millia Islamia.

Investigators have identified a WhatsApp group allegedly used by those involved in the case. They are also closely examining several mobile numbers linked to the accused as part of the inquiry.

On 13 February, the court had already provided a 45-day extension to the NIA, even though the agency had requested a longer period of 90 days.

At that time, the court had partially accepted the plea and directed the agency to complete the probe within the revised timeline.

Earlier, Additional Sessions Judge Prashant Sharma had allowed the agency to continue questioning accused Yasir Ahmad Dar for 10 more days.

The NIA arrested Dar, a resident of Shopian in Jammu and Kashmir, as the ninth accused in the case.

The agency apprehended him in New Delhi under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

The NIA earlier stated, “NIA investigations have revealed Dar’s active role in the conspiracy behind the car bomb blast that rocked the national capital on November 10. An active participant in the conspiracy, he had sworn allegiance and taken an oath to carry out self-sacrificial operations.”

The agency further alleged that Dar maintained close communication with the other accused. These included Dr Umar Nabi, the deceased attacker, and Mufti Irfan.

Another accused, Dr Malla from Baramulla, was arrested in December for allegedly offering logistical support and attempting to destroy evidence.

The NIA stated that it is continuing its investigation into the broader conspiracy. It is also coordinating with multiple agencies to trace all connections linked to the attack.

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