Investigation Underway for Three Kashmiri Doctors in Red Fort Explosion That Claimed Nine Lives

Post by : Raina Nasser

Significant progress has been made regarding the Red Fort explosion investigation, with three Kashmiri physicians — Adeel Ahmad Rather, Muzammil Shakeel, and Umar Mohammed — facing scrutiny for their supposed connection to the tragic incident that led to nine deaths and injuries exceeding twenty on Monday evening.

As per intelligence reports, the detentions of Adeel Ahmad Rather, originating from Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, and Muzammil Shakeel from Faridabad, Haryana, revealed the presence of nearly 2,900 kg of explosive materials, believed to be ammonium nitrate — the same chemical implicated in the Red Fort vehicle blast.

Details of the Red Fort Incident

At approximately 6:52 PM, a white Hyundai i20 detonated at a traffic light near Netaji Subhash Marg, situated between Red Fort and Chandni Chowk. Witnesses described a “massive fireball,” igniting numerous vehicles in flames. Firefighters battled the blaze for nearly half an hour, as chaos ensued in central Delhi.

In response, security agencies promptly initiated a thorough investigation, tracing the vehicle through multiple owners — from Salman to Devender, Aamir, Tariq, and ultimately Dr. Umar Mohammed, who is suspected to have operated the vehicle during the explosion. CCTV footage allegedly captures Umar just prior to the blast, and a DNA examination has been mandated to verify his identity.

Potential Terror Links and Ongoing Inquiry

While officials have yet to classify this incident as a terror attack, a case has been filed under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is poised to take charge of the investigation.

Insiders suggest that Umar, alarmed by the apprehension of his companions and the confiscation of explosives, may have been inclined to execute a suicide mission. The inquiry has also unearthed ties to Jaish-e-Mohammad, with pro-group posters located in Srinagar prior to the blast.

Emergence of a ‘White Collar Terror Framework’

Investigators characterize this as a disturbing trend of radicalization — a “white collar terror ecosystem” wherein educated professionals, including physicians, are being drawn into extremist actions. These networks reportedly rely on encrypted platforms for communication, financial transactions, and operational coordination.

Funds were allegedly solicited under the pretense of social and charitable initiatives, while the suspects managed recruitment, logistics, and the acquisition of armaments and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

A Concerning Shift

Prior to their arrests, all three doctors maintained reputable careers — Adeel at Government Medical College, Anantnag, Muzammil as a senior resident at Al Falah Medical College, and Umar associated with local medical facilities. Their suspected involvement highlights a troubling trend in terror recruitment, targeting the educated demographic.

Authorities are actively conducting sweeping raids across numerous states as the investigation broadens to reveal more extensive networks linked to the Red Fort explosion.