A Delhi court has approved the National Investigation Agency (NIA) an additional 45 days to complete its investigation into the Red Fort blast case, which resulted in 11 deaths and numerous injuries. This extension, the second requested by the NIA, was granted by the Patiala House Court following the agency’s plea for more time to wrap up the probe. The NIA cited the emergence of crucial new leads and the examination of a substantial amount of digital evidence as reasons necessitating the extension.
Sources indicate that the investigation has unveiled a potential larger conspiracy with potential connections across various parts of India and internationally, prompting a more in-depth inquiry. Additionally, the NIA is scrutinizing radical Arabic material allegedly found in the possession of the accused individuals. To aid in the interpretation of this material, the agency has sought the expertise of an Arabic language specialist from Jamia Millia Islamia.
Furthermore, the NIA has identified a WhatsApp group allegedly used by the accused, which is now under investigation. The agency is also examining several mobile numbers associated with the case as part of its ongoing efforts. Previously, the NIA had been granted a 45-day extension on February 13 to conclude its investigation, despite requesting a 90-day extension, with the court directing the probe to be completed within the extended timeframe.
