New Delhi: The investigation into the recent blast at Delhi’s historic Red Fort has officially been handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The decision comes after preliminary findings by the Union Home Ministry indicated the need for a high-profile and coordinated probe into the incident.
NIA Forms Special 10-Member Team
To handle this sensitive investigation, the NIA has constituted a special 10-member team, named Special 10, led by Additional Director General (ADG) Vijay Sakhare. The team composition includes:
- 1 Inspector General of Police (IG)
- 2 Deputy Inspector Generals (DIGs)
- 3 Superintendents of Police (SPs)
Remaining Deputy Superintendent-level officers (DSPs)
The team’s objective is to swiftly uncover the conspiracy behind the blast, identify the terrorists involved, and dismantle the operational network. They will work in close coordination with the Delhi Police, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and Haryana Police to ensure no leads are overlooked.
ADG Vijay Sakhare: The Man Leading the Investigation
Vijay Sakhare, a 1996-batch IPS officer from the Kerala cadre, is known for his professional and honest policing. His credentials include:
- IG of NIA since 2022 on a five-year deputation
- ADG of NIA since September this year for a two-year term
Formerly held positions such as Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) in Kerala, Kochi City Police Commissioner, and officer in the Crime Branch
Educational background: Master’s in Public Administration from Harvard University
Known for sports interests including tennis and cricket
Sakhare has successfully led numerous high-profile investigations involving serious crimes and counter-terror operations. His appointment to lead the Red Fort blast probe reflects the government’s intent to ensure a thorough, evidence-driven investigation.
Early Findings: Panic-Induced Explosion?
Sources suggest that the blast may not have been part of a planned attack. Preliminary findings indicate:
- The suspected suicide bomber, Umar Mohammad, may have panicked following the arrests of two key module members, Dr Muzammil Shakeel and Dr Adil Rather.
- Investigators recovered 2,900 kilograms of explosives, including ammonium nitrate, in Faridabad, Haryana.
- Forensic inspection at the Red Fort site revealed no crater formation and no projectile impact, suggesting a premature or mishandled detonation.
Intelligence officials indicated the incident may have resulted from human error within the Jaish-e-Mohammed module rather than a fully coordinated strike.
Coordination Across States
The NIA is focusing on:
- Tracing the entire operational network of the terror module
- Mapping financial trails
- Uncovering local support systems
To aid the investigation, the NIA will seize all case diaries related to the module from Delhi, Haryana, and Jammu & Kashmir Police. The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) may also provide assistance. Multiple arrests are expected in the coming days as the investigation progresses.
Earlier today, ADG Vijay Sakhare held a detailed strategy meeting with the Intelligence Bureau (IB) Chief to align priorities and ensure coordination between intelligence and enforcement agencies.
Way Forward
With the formation of the special team and active coordination among multiple agencies, the investigation into the Red Fort blast is expected to reveal the full scope of the module’s operations. Authorities aim to determine whether this incident was an isolated mishap or a disrupted attempt at a larger terror plan.
