A DNA test has helped investigators identify the suspect behind the recent Red Fort blast in Delhi. Authorities continue to probe possible terror links as the nation mourns the victims and tightens security.
New Delhi: A deadly car explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10 has shaken the nation. The blast, which occurred during rush hour at 6:52 PM, killed at least 13 people and injured over 20 others. The car, a white Hyundai i20, was packed with homemade explosives made from ammonium nitrate fertilizer. It exploded while waiting at a traffic signal near Gate 1 of the Red Fort metro station, setting nearby vehicles on fire and causing chaos across Old Delhi.
Investigators have now confirmed through DNA testing that the man driving the car was Dr. Umar Nabi Bhat, a 28-year-old doctor from Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir. His DNA matched samples taken from one of the charred bodies found in the wreckage. Forensic experts also found his leg jammed between the steering wheel and pedal, proving he was behind the wheel when the bomb went off. This marks the first suicide bombing using a car in the national capital.
Dr. Umar’s family is in disbelief. His sister-in-law described him as a quiet, hardworking man who loved books and cricket. He had completed his MBBS and was preparing for exams. The last time his family heard from him was on November 7, when he said he was returning to Kashmir. After that, he disappeared.
CCTV footage shows the i20 parked near Sunehri Masjid for hours before slowly moving into traffic. Umar had also visited a nearby mosque that day. A video clip circulating online captures the moment of the explosion, showing the car engulfed in flames as people ran for cover.
The investigation took a darker turn when police raided homes in Faridabad linked to Umar’s alleged associate, Dr. Muzammil Ahmad Ganai. They found over 2,500 kg of explosives, assault rifles, timers, and chemicals. Diaries recovered from Muzammil’s room revealed plans for multiple blasts across India between November 8 and 12. Umar reportedly received ₹20 lakh to fund the operation and bought large quantities of fertilizer to make the bombs.
Key Details:
• Blast occurred at 6:52 PM near Red Fort Metro Gate 1
• 13 dead, over 20 injured
• DNA confirmed Dr. Umar Nabi Bhat as the driver
• Over 2,500 kg of explosives found in Faridabad
• NIA investigating links to terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the case and filed charges under anti-terror laws. They are probing connections to known terror outfits and tracking a wider network. Umar’s father and others involved in selling the car have been detained for questioning.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and other leaders have condemned the attack and promised justice. Security has been tightened across the country, especially at religious sites. As Delhi mourns, investigators continue to search for answers—how did a young doctor turn into a suicide bomber, and are more attacks being planned?
The city remains on high alert, and the nation watches closely as the investigation unfolds.
