Investigation into Red Fort Blast: NIA Raids in Lucknow

Details of the Raid

Lucknow: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is actively investigating the car explosion near the Red Fort that occurred on November 10. In a significant operation, the NIA executed a raid at the residence of an arrested female doctor, referred to as ‘Madam Surgeon,’ who is believed to be one of the masterminds behind the blast. This operation took place on Monday and lasted for nearly five hours, involving a team of approximately six officers, including female personnel. The local police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) provided additional support during the raid.

Interrogation of Family Members

During the search, the agency also questioned the doctor’s father and elder brother. The inquiries took place at their family homes located in Qaisarbagh and Madiyaon, with both family members being interrogated from the morning until about 11:45 AM.

Additional Raids in Jammu and Kashmir

In conjunction with the operations in Lucknow, the NIA conducted raids at nine locations across Jammu and Kashmir. These areas had previously been searched by the J&K Police and the State Investigation Agency (SIA) during their investigations into an inter-state white-collar module associated with Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

Security Measures During the Operation

Due to the sensitive nature of the case, a heavy police presence was deployed in the area. Several lanes in the Khandari Bazaar locality were barricaded and sealed, restricting civilian movement during the operation.

Profile of the Accused Doctor

Investigators have identified the 46-year-old pharmacology specialist as a central figure in the Red Fort blast conspiracy. Reports indicate that she funneled between Rs 27–28 lakh into the module, which included Rs 6.5 lakh allocated for weapons and Rs 3 lakh for a vehicle. Although she claims the funds were distributed as zakat, authorities allege that she is the only woman involved in the Faridabad-based JeM module.

Connections to Other Extremists

The accused is also suspected of having communicated with Afira Biwi, the spouse of the Pulwama attack mastermind. Allegedly, they discussed plans to conduct attacks in six Indian cities on December 6 as “revenge for Babri Masjid.”

Background of the Accused

Originally from Kaiserbagh in Lucknow, the doctor has an impressive academic background. She excelled in her Class 10 and 12 board exams, completed her MBBS and MD at the government medical college in Prayagraj, and achieved a UPPSC rank that led to her position as an assistant professor at GSVM Medical College in Kanpur in 2006. However, her career took a drastic turn in 2013 when she abruptly stopped attending work. After years of failed communication, she was ultimately terminated in 2021. Investigators suggest that during her absence, she became involved with radical networks while associated with Al-Falah University, where she allegedly met and married suspected JeM operative Dr **.