NIA Conducts Major Raids in Jammu and Kashmir Following Delhi Blast Investigation

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched extensive operations in Jammu and Kashmir as part of its investigation into a bomb blast near Delhi's Red Fort. The agency conducted a raid at a local businessman's residence in Handwara, aiming to disrupt terrorist networks and weapon supply chains. Meanwhile, a special court has extended the judicial custody of seven accused individuals linked to the case. The investigation has faced delays due to protests in the region. This article delves into the details of the ongoing operations and the implications of the arrests made.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 23, 2026, 12:24 IST

NIA's Intensive Operation in Handwara

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has intensified its investigation into the recent bomb blast near Delhi's historic Red Fort by launching significant operations in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday morning. The investigative team executed a search at the residence of a local businessman in the Gulura area of Handwara, located in the Kupwara district. This operation aims to dismantle terrorist networks and disrupt the supply chain of weapons.

Thorough Search Operation Underway

The raid commenced early Monday, with NIA officials meticulously searching the businessman's home. According to sources, the team is examining digital devices, suspicious documents, and records of financial transactions. As of the time of reporting, the search operation was still in progress.

Court Update: Judicial Custody Extended for Seven Accused

In a related development, a special NIA court at Patiala House in Delhi has extended the judicial custody of seven key accused individuals for an additional 15 days. The accused include Dr. Shaheen Syed, Mufti Irfan, Dr. Adil Ahmed, Jaseer Bilal Wani, Dr. Muzammil, Yasir Ahmed Dar, and Nasir Bilal Malla. Special Judge Peetambar Dutt issued this order following a video conference appearance by the accused.

During the previous hearing on March 11, the NIA informed the court that the investigation faced delays due to protests in Jammu and Kashmir supporting Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Additional Arrests Made

Two other accused, Tufail Ahmed Bhat and Zamir Ahmed Ahangar, have been remanded to NIA custody for five days. The court had previously extended the investigation period by 45 days.

These residents of Jammu and Kashmir were allegedly arrested for their connections to the terrorist organization 'Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind' (AGH) and for allegedly supplying weapons to the main accused. The NIA stated that both individuals—Zamir Ahmed Ahangar from Ganderbal and Tufail Ahmed Bhat from Srinagar—are active 'over-ground workers' (OGW) for AGH, bringing the total number of arrests in this case to 11.

Background of the Incident

A powerful explosion occurred in a car near the Red Fort on November 11, 2025.