The recent blast in Delhi has unveiled a disturbing expansion of terror networks within India, with investigations pointing to links with ISIS, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and the Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH) ideology. Authorities are now grappling with a sophisticated, multi-state operation involving radicalized medical professionals, foreign handlers, and advanced bomb-making capabilities. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and state police forces are actively dismantling this network, which spans across Kashmir, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana.
A significant cache of weapons, including an M4 assault rifle, pistols, grenades, and ammunition, was discovered in Naugam, Jammu & Kashmir. This discovery is critical to understanding the origins and reach of the Delhi blast plot. The recovery of M4 rifles, known for their armor-piercing rounds, in a region experiencing renewed militant activity, signals a grave threat.
The investigation has identified Imam Irfan, a cleric from Shopian, as a central figure accused of radicalizing suspects. He is believed to have attempted to revive the AGuH group, recruiting doctors to mask their activities and acting as a former associate of JeM. Doctors Muzammil, Adil Ahmad Rather, and Umar Mohammad Nabi allegedly fell under Irfan’s influence, drawn to the ideology of slain AGuH commander Zakir Musa. Irfan is suspected of preparing one doctor for a suicide mission, aiming to re-establish AGuH as an al-Qaeda-aligned Kashmiri militant outfit.
AGuH, originally founded by Zakir Musa in 2017, was thought to be defunct after its leadership’s demise. However, Irfan’s alleged efforts to resurrect its appeal among radicalized youth are now a major concern. The probe has also detailed how these doctors facilitated the movement of arms, including handling an AK-47 rifle and supplying pistols for illicit use.
A breakthrough at a flour mill in Faridabad revealed the sophisticated methods used for explosives manufacturing. Dr. Muzammil allegedly used the grinder to process chemicals, including ammonium nitrate stolen from his workplace, to create explosive mixtures. The mill was cleverly disguised, highlighting the meticulous planning involved.
Furthermore, foreign connections are emerging, with alleged handlers identified in Türkiye and links to Jaish-e-Mohammed. Bomb-making instructions and drone-attack footage were reportedly shared with suspects. Evidence also suggests a meeting between some suspects and a Syrian ISIS commander in Türkiye, reportedly facilitated by JeM, underscoring the international dimension of this expanding terror threat.