NIA Searches Anantnag Forest After Arrested Doctor’s Revelations in Red Fort Blast Probe
The National Investigation Agency (NIA), along with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, carried out multiple search operations on Tuesday in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district following fresh disclosures made by arrested doctor Adeel Rather. The searches were launched early in the day across the Hutmurah forest belt and nearby locations.
Officials confirmed that at least three sites were being examined based on information provided by Dr. Rather during interrogation. The doctor was arrested in connection with an inter-State terror module believed to be involved in the November 10 Red Fort blast in New Delhi, which claimed 15 civilian lives.
On November 7, an AK-47 rifle was recovered from Dr. Rather’s locker at the Anantnag medical college, where he had served as a senior resident until October 2024. Investigators suspect the weapon was part of a larger network operating across multiple States.
Authorities are also examining the possible role of Dr. Rather’s brother, Dr. Muzaffar Rather, who reportedly shifted to Dubai earlier this year. Agencies are evaluating whether he had any operational or financial links to the module under investigation.
Search operations in Anantnag continued through the day as teams scanned forested terrain and nearby structures. Officials indicated that further arrests or recoveries cannot be ruled out as the probe progresses.
Our Thoughts
The developments in the Anantnag search operations reflect the seriousness of the ongoing investigation into the Red Fort blast case, one of the most significant terror-related incidents reported in recent months. The arrest of medical professionals, including Dr. Adeel Rather, marks a concerning trend, highlighting how individuals in credible positions may be exploited or radicalised into participating in extremist activities. The recovery of an assault rifle from a hospital locker further underscores the risks posed by covert modules operating beyond traditional security radar.
The involvement of inter-State networks and possible offshore connections, including the suspected role of Dr. Rather’s brother in Dubai, suggests that the investigation may widen in scope. The NIA’s decision to revisit specific forested areas in Anantnag indicates that the agency believes additional evidence or persons of interest may still be located in the region.
As the probe continues, it will be important for authorities to maintain transparency and ensure that due process is followed. The case also demonstrates the need for rigorous background checks, monitoring of sensitive workplaces and identifying early signs of radicalisation. TheTrendingPeople.com will continue to follow developments as more information emerges.
