A high-level probe into the Red Fort blast uncovers a radicalisation network led by Maulvi Irfan Ahmed in Jammu and Kashmir, linked to the Jaish-e-Mohammad terror outfit and a Faridabad-based module planning pan-India attacks with massive explosive stockpiles.
The ongoing investigation into the Red Fort car blast has exposed a deep-rooted radicalisation and recruitment network originating in Jammu and Kashmir, orchestrated by Maulvi Irfan Ahmed, a former paramedic at GMC Srinagar and an Imam from Nougat. According to security agencies, this radicalisation campaign directly led to the formation of the Faridabad terror module, which carried out the Red Fort attack.
Radicalisation Origin and Network Expansion
Officials revealed that Maulvi Irfan Ahmed played a pivotal role in recruiting young minds across Jammu and Kashmir under the ideological banner of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). As a respected Imam and medical professional, Irfan had access to a wide circle of students and young doctors at GMC Srinagar. His influence reportedly drew several medical professionals into extremist activities, marking a concerning trend in educated radicalisation.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police began tracing the network after Jaish-e-Mohammad posters appeared in Srinagar on October 27, triggering a state-level investigation. Initial arrests of three overground workers unveiled Irfan’s involvement, prompting a wider crackdown that led to the arrests of Dr Adeel Ahmad Rather and Zameer Ahanga, both known associates of the Maulvi.
Medical Professionals and the Faridabad Module
Subsequent interrogation revealed crucial links to Dr Muzammil, affiliated with Al Fatah University in Faridabad, and Dr Umar, the alleged bomber in the Red Fort incident. Investigators have pieced together how this medical circle, under Irfan’s direction, evolved into a radical cell that coordinated with handlers abroad.
Police have confirmed the Faridabad module’s operational role in the Red Fort explosion, describing it as part of a broader Jaish-led terror network designed for multi-city strikes across India. The network reportedly used encrypted communication channels such as Telegram, through which Irfan maintained direct contact with his handlers based in Afghanistan.
Massive Explosive Seizures Point to Bigger Agenda
The investigation has uncovered staggering quantities of explosive materials tied to the network. Law enforcement agencies seized 350 kilograms of ammonium nitrate in one operation and an additional 2,563 kilograms in another, signaling a much larger terror plan in the making.
“These stockpiles indicate preparations for widespread attacks across the country,” a senior police official stated, calling it one of the largest explosive seizures linked to a domestic terror module in recent years.
Women’s Wing and Radicalisation Drive
In a disturbing twist, the probe found that Maulvi Irfan proposed creating a women’s wing of Jaish-e-Mohammad within India to accelerate recruitment and ideological indoctrination. He appointed Dr Shaheen Saeed to lead the initiative, instructing her to expand radicalisation beyond J&K into Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.
Officials said Dr Saeed made multiple visits to Jammu and Kashmir to receive directives from Irfan. “She was tasked with spreading the extremist narrative among women and forming recruitment cells,” an intelligence officer confirmed.
Use of Social Media and Propaganda
Investigators also discovered that Irfan had created multiple Telegram accounts to disseminate Jaish propaganda videos and communication materials aimed at radicalising the youth. These videos often featured speeches by senior Jaish leaders and were circulated widely among sympathisers to deepen ideological commitment.
National Security Implications
With multiple arrests and seizures, authorities believe they have dismantled a key operational module of Jaish-e-Mohammad that had intended to expand its footprint across India. However, security agencies caution that several recruitment cells may still be active.
“This network’s sophistication and the involvement of educated individuals show that radicalisation is evolving beyond traditional terrains,” an NIA source said, stressing the need for enhanced surveillance and counter-radicalisation programs.
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The Red Fort blast case has thus transformed from an isolated terror incident into a major counterterrorism operation revealing the extent of cross-border influence and local recruitment in India’s heartland.
