A Delhi court has granted the National Investigation Agency (NIA) seven additional days of custody for Jasir Bilal Wani, the primary accused in the recent Delhi blast case. The extension comes as investigators continue to unravel critical details about the terror plot and identify potential accomplices.
Court Proceedings and Investigation Status
The special NIA court at Patiala House Court approved the seven-day custody extension on November 27, 2024, following detailed arguments from both the prosecution and defense. The investigating agency presented compelling reasons for requiring more time with the accused, citing the complex nature of the case and ongoing investigative requirements.
Jasir Bilal Wani was produced before the court amid tight security arrangements. The NIA counsel argued that the extended custody was essential for several critical aspects of the investigation. These include uncovering the complete conspiracy behind the blast, identifying all individuals involved in the terror network, and tracing the source of explosives used in the incident.
Key Investigation Priorities
According to sources familiar with the case, the additional seven days will be crucial for investigators to pursue multiple lines of inquiry. The NIA team needs to verify Wani's movements and activities in the days leading up to the explosion, examine his digital footprints and communication patterns, and conduct multiple identification parades.
The investigation team is particularly focused on establishing the chain of events that led to the blast and determining whether the accused acted alone or as part of a larger terrorist module. Forensic analysis of evidence collected from the blast site continues to provide new leads that require immediate follow-up action.
Security agencies are working to piece together the entire conspiracy, including how the explosive materials were procured and transported to the location. The extended custody will allow investigators to confront Wani with fresh evidence that has emerged during the course of the investigation.
Legal Proceedings and Future Course
During the court hearing, the defense counsel raised objections to the custody extension, arguing that their client had already cooperated with the investigation. However, the court found merit in the NIA's application, noting the seriousness of the charges and the need for thorough investigation.
The next hearing in the case is scheduled after the completion of the extended custody period. The court has directed the NIA to ensure that all interrogation follows established legal protocols and that the accused's rights are protected throughout the investigation process.
Security has been heightened around court premises and investigation facilities as the probe continues to develop. The Delhi Police and central security agencies remain on high alert while supporting the NIA's investigation into this critical national security matter.
