New Delhi: The probe into the Red Fort car blast that killed 13 people on Monday evening has been formally handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The explosion, which occurred near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort or Lal Quila Metro Station around 6:52 pm, is being examined from all possible angles, including a potential terror link.
Even though the exact cause of the explosion remains uncertain, investigators are now focusing on the vehicle’s ownership and connections to a recently uncovered terror module in Haryana’s Faridabad.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday vowed to bring those behind the explosion to justice, calling the incident a “heinous attack” that targeted civilians in a busy part of the national capital.
Car Traced to Doctor Linked to Explosives Haul
Investigators have identified the car involved in the blast as a Hyundai i20 bearing registration number HR26CE7674. The vehicle has been traced to Dr Umar Un Nabi, a Kashmir-based doctor who police say is linked to a recently busted terror module in Faridabad, where a massive cache of explosives was seized.
According to reports quoting officers from the Delhi Police Special Cell, Dr Umar was associated with another Kashmiri doctor, Dr Muzammil Shakil, who was arrested in the Faridabad case. Police had recovered nearly 2,900 kg of explosive materials from two rented accommodations in Faridabad villages just hours before the Red Fort explosion.
Investigators said the terror module, run by Dr Shakil and his associates, allegedly identified potential recruits, raised funds through professional and social initiatives, and arranged logistics for terror activities across North India.
Timeline and Movement of the Car
Sources said the car had three occupants and was parked near the Red Fort around 4 pm on Monday. CCTV footage reviewed by investigators showed the car moving through Chhata Rail Chowk, taking a U-turn, and heading towards Lower Subhash Marg shortly before the explosion.
Another CCTV clip captured the moment the car slowed down near a red light — seconds before it detonated. Initial speculation suggested a CNG cylinder explosion, but the discovery of links to the Faridabad module shifted focus toward a possible terror plot.
Dr Umar Missing; DNA Tests Ordered
Police have confirmed that Dr Umar Un Nabi has been missing since the Faridabad explosives case came to light. Three of his relatives have been detained for questioning from Koil village in Pulwama district, South Kashmir.
A senior police official said DNA testing is underway to confirm whether Umar was among those killed in the blast. “A person connected to the Faridabad module is suspected to have been in the i20, but the identity of the deceased will be confirmed only after forensic results,” the officer said.
Raids and Arrests in Jammu & Kashmir
Following the explosion, Jammu and Kashmir Police conducted overnight raids in Pulwama and adjoining areas. At least six people, including three members of Dr Umar’s family, were taken into custody for questioning.
Officials said those associated with the Faridabad module were part of a radicalised network that recruited young professionals under the guise of social and medical initiatives, channeled funds through legitimate businesses, and provided logistical support for terror operations.
As the NIA officially takes charge, multiple teams are now working jointly with Delhi Police, Faridabad Police, and J&K authorities to piece together the chain of events that led to one of Delhi’s deadliest explosions in recent years.