NIA Files Chargesheet Against Three Accused
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday filed a supplementary chargesheet against three more accused, including an absconder, in the 2021 Red Fort blast case. With this, the total number of accused chargesheeted in the case has risen to 12.
Details of the Accused
The three accused have been identified as Mohammad Asif, a resident of Jammu and Kashmir; Mohammad Sajid, a resident of Delhi; and an absconder named Mohammad Iqbal. According to the NIA, Iqbal is believed to have fled to a neighbouring country and is a key conspirator in the blast.
Investigation Findings
The NIA investigation has revealed that the accused were part of a larger conspiracy hatched by Pakistan-based terror groups. The blast, which occurred on January 26, 2021, near the Red Fort in Delhi, injured several people and caused panic. The agency has collected evidence including digital data, financial transactions, and witness statements linking the accused to the plot.
Legal Proceedings
The chargesheet has been filed before a special NIA court in Delhi. The court has taken cognisance and issued non-bailable warrants against the absconder. The trial against the other accused is ongoing.
Impact and Security Measures
The Red Fort blast highlighted security vulnerabilities in high-profile locations. Since then, security has been beefed up in and around the Red Fort area. The NIA continues to probe the cross-border links of the case.
