Delhi Car Blast: ED Raids Al-Falah University Office; Probe Intensifies

NEW DELHI - In the wake of the devastating car blast near Delhi's Red Fort on November 10th, which resulted in 13 fatalities and numerous injuries, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigation by raiding the Al-Falah University office in Okhla on Tuesday morning. The central agency initiated raids at 25 different locations across Delhi at 5 am, as part of a widening probe into the incident.

The investigation is currently focused on uncovering a "white-collar" terror network, with potential involvement of medical professionals and individuals connected to Al-Falah University. Authorities have already recovered critical evidence, including a vehicle linked to the blast and a substantial quantity of explosive materials, suggesting a well-organized operation.

Al-Falah University has been under increased scrutiny following the arrest of several doctors in connection with the blast. Dr. Umar Un Nabi, the primary suspect in the blast, was a former student of the university. The university released a statement condemning the attack, affirming its dedication to being a responsible educational institution that aligns with national interests.

Delhi Police have issued two summons to the university's chancellor, citing inconsistencies in the institution's operations and the need to clarify the roles of certain individuals connected to it. Investigators are exploring potential links between the university and multiple suspects associated with the blast, including examining institutional records, financial transactions, and administrative decisions as part of a broader inquiry into the alleged Faridabad terror module.

Amidst the ongoing investigation, the government has ordered a forensic audit of all records of Al-Falah University. Financial monitoring institutions have begun investigating the university's funding channels. The decision to conduct a forensic audit and trace the university's funding was made during a review meeting led by Home Minister Amit Shah, to assess the investigation's progress.

The probe has also extended to Javed Ahmed Siddiqui, the founder and managing trustee of Al-Falah University. Siddiqui's background is under scrutiny, with reports indicating a past fraud case involving ₹7.5 crore against him.

The Al-Falah Medical Research Foundation, where some of the accused were allegedly employed, is also being investigated. Authorities suspect the location was used to plan potential terror activities. Searches at Dr. Muzammil Shakeel's room within the university resulted in the discovery of coded messages and electronic devices, further fueling suspicions.

Access to Al-Falah University's website was restricted recently. The website had previously listed Dr. Umar Un Nabi and Dr. Nisar ul Hassan as part of the Department of General Medicine at Al-Falah School of Medical Science and Research Centre. Dr. Nisar ul Hassan had been dismissed by the J&K government in 2023 due to alleged terror links.

Approximately 52 individuals, including the university's principal, staff, and students, have been questioned, and six people have been taken into custody. The ED and the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) have joined the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in conducting a thorough probe into the university's funding.