In a major breakthrough in the investigation into the November 10 explosion near Delhi’s historic Red Fort, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested a close associate of the suspected suicide bomber, Dr. Umar Un Nabi. The arrest has reinforced the agency’s suspicion that the attack was part of a broader, meticulously planned terror plot — codenamed “Operation D-6” — allegedly orchestrated by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
Car-Borne Suicide Attack Confirmed
The NIA has classified the Red Fort explosion as a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) used in a suicide attack. Forensic teams have confirmed that the deceased man inside the wrecked Hyundai i20 was Dr. Umar Un Nabi, an assistant professor at Al-Falah University in Faridabad. Investigators believe Nabi drove the car until detonation, causing the blast that left ten people dead and several injured.
Arrest of Key Aide Marks Major Breakthrough
The arrested aide, Amir Rashid Ali, is believed to have played a central role in facilitating the acquisition of the car later converted into an IED. The vehicle was registered in his name, and evidence suggests he traveled from Kashmir to Delhi specifically to assist Nabi in securing the vehicle. The NIA maintains that Ali’s involvement points to a coordinated module rather than an isolated radicalised actor.
“Operation D-6”: A Wider Conspiracy Emerges
Recovered documents, including diaries with coded references, have revealed clues about “Operation D-6,” which investigators believe was designed to target a major event in December. The planned attack appears to have involved multiple operatives, logistical coordination, and external handlers. Officials emphasize that the sophistication of the module suggests careful planning, rehearsed communication protocols, and defined roles for each participant.
Medical Professionals Under Scrutiny
The probe has exposed a startling network involving highly educated individuals, particularly medical professionals linked to Al-Falah University. Several doctors, including Dr. Muzammil Ganaie and Dr. Shaheen Sayeed, have come under the scanner for allegedly enabling the module’s activities. Investigators are examining evidence of encrypted messaging channels, overseas contacts, and possible ideological grooming within academic circles.
Funding and International Links
Preliminary findings indicate that around ₹20 lakh may have been funneled to the terror cell through a hawala network. Two members of the group reportedly traveled to Turkey, where they are believed to have met JeM handlers. Encrypted communication apps using auto-deleting “session keys” were employed to evade detection, demonstrating the cell’s operational discipline and cross-border reach.
Alternate Theories Ruled Out
Earlier speculation around an accidental explosion has largely been dismissed as forensic results, CCTV tracking of Nabi’s movements, and the arrest of additional suspects collectively reinforce the suicide-attack hypothesis. Investigators now view the premature detonation as a possible miscalculation by the bomber rather than a logistical error in transporting explosives.
Expanded Investigation Across States
The NIA’s probe now spans multiple states, involving Delhi Police, Jammu & Kashmir Police, Haryana Police, and Uttar Pradesh Police. More than 70 witnesses — including survivors, locals, and possible facilitators — have been examined. Agencies continue to pursue leads relating to procurement of explosives, digital footprints, and financial trails.
Political Response and Heightened Security
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed security agencies to intensify their crackdown and ensure that all individuals connected to the plot are identified and apprehended. Security has been tightened across major public spaces, landmarks, and government installations amid fears of additional planned strikes. The alleged involvement of JeM has raised concerns over potential diplomatic repercussions, particularly regarding India-Pakistan relations.
