The recent arrest of three individuals in Gujarat, India, on November 7, 2025, has brought to light a chilling prospect: the potential use of ricin as a bioweapon. Among those arrested was a doctor who allegedly turned his home into a laboratory to manufacture the deadly toxin. This development raises serious concerns about India's vulnerability to bioterrorism and the accessibility of dangerous substances.
Ricin is a highly toxic protein found naturally in castor beans. It is a byproduct of castor oil production, which makes it relatively easy to obtain in India, a major producer of castor oil. The toxin works by inhibiting protein synthesis in cells, leading to organ failure and potentially death. Even small amounts of ricin can be fatal if inhaled, ingested, or injected. Symptoms of ricin poisoning can appear within hours and include fever, cough, nausea, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to pulmonary edema, respiratory failure, and organ failure. There is currently no antidote for ricin poisoning, and treatment focuses on supportive care.
The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) revealed that the arrested individuals were planning to extract ricin and use it to contaminate public water sources and temple food offerings in Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Lucknow. This indicates a deliberate plan to inflict mass casualties and spread terror among the population. The doctor, identified as Dr. Ahmed Mohiyuddin Saiyed, had procured equipment and raw materials to extract and weaponize ricin. He and his accomplices had also surveyed crowded areas in Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Lucknow, potentially to identify targets for attack.
Ricin has a history of being used in assassination attempts and considered for use as a bioweapon. Its relative ease of production and high toxicity make it an attractive agent for terrorist groups and individuals seeking to cause harm. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classifies ricin as a Grade B biological weapon agent.
The recent incident in Gujarat highlights the need for increased vigilance and biosecurity measures in India. Law enforcement and intelligence agencies must work together to identify and disrupt potential bioterror plots. It is also crucial to regulate the production and sale of castor beans and castor oil to prevent the diversion of ricin for malicious purposes. Public awareness campaigns can educate people about the dangers of ricin and how to respond to a potential attack.
The threat of ricin as a bioweapon is not new, with historical references dating back to ancient India, where texts described its use in warfare. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the evolving nature of terrorism and the need to stay ahead of emerging threats. By strengthening biosecurity measures, raising public awareness, and fostering international cooperation, India can mitigate the risk of ricin attacks and protect its citizens from this deadly toxin.
