The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the Red Fort car explosion, uncovering significant details. The latest information has pointed to several new names and an organisation named "Ansar Interim" linked with the Red Fort car explosion. According to investigators, the group allegedly included a section of doctors and certain religious figures behind the alleged "white collar terrorism."
What is ‘Ansar Interim’?
NIA investigators claim that the objective of "Ansar Interim" was to carry out sabotage activities in Jammu and Kashmir, with Union Territories also reportedly on their radar.
The term 'Ansar" is an Arabic word meaning "protector." Experts note that several militant organisations across the world use the term in their names. According to investigators, groups allegedly influenced by Al Qaeda’s ideology have historically adopted similar naming patterns, often as a form of ideological branding.
Also Read | Speeding car crashes into police vehicle near Nitish Kumar’s residence in Patna VVIP zone, officer injured
Alleged formation and key members
As per the investigation, before the Red Fort explosion, several individuals, including Muzammil Gani, Umar Un Nabi, Adil Rathar, his brother Muzaffar Rathar, Tufail Ghazi, Kkari Amir and Maulvi Irfan Ahmed allegedly met at an Eidgah in Srinagar. Investigators claim that "Ansar Interim" was formed during this meeting.
According to the NIA, Adil Rathar was chosen as the head of the organisation, Maulvi Irfan as his associate and Gani as treasurer.
Role of Umar Un Nabi
Investigators allege that the car explosion near the Red Fort was planned by "Ansar Interim." Umar Un Nabi, who carried out the suicide attack, is described as the coordinator of the organisation. He allegedly collected funds along with Gani and later took responsibility for procuring explosives.
In 2023, the group allegedly purchased large quantities of chemicals from individuals identified as Soha and Noor in Haryana. Investigators further claim that Umar learned the basics of improvised explosive device (IED) making by watching online videos.
Recruitment and preparation
According to the probe, Adil Rathar was responsible for recruiting new members. Investigators allege that he brought Danish from South Kashmir into the group and took him to a rented house near Al Falah University, where explosives were reportedly assembled.
Also Read | Indian Railways new rule: No boarding at ticketed station could mean seat cancellation
Danish was initially assigned to carry out the suicide attack near the Red Fort, and Umar allegedly persuaded him to do so. However, investigators claim that Danish later withdrew, citing his family’s financial situation. Umar, described by investigators as the most radicalised member of the group, eventually carried out the suicide attack himself.
The investigation into the incident remains ongoing, and authorities have stated that further details will be made public as the probe progresses.
