Delhi Red Fort blast: Al-Falah University releases statement, says no connection with accused doctors

Delhi blast

Faridabad's Al-Falah University on November 12 issued its first statement after investigative agencies began probe in connection with the 2,900 kg explosives haul and Monday evening's Red Fort blast. Distancing itself from the accused doctors, the University said it has no connection with the said (arrested persons) apart from them working in their official capacities with the University.

Dr Umar un Nabi, the man believed to be driving the white Hyundai i20 that exploded near the Red Fort metro station, was employed at the Al-Falah University's School of Medical Sciences and Research Centre. Two other doctors associated with the University – Muzammil Shakeel and Shaheen Saeed – have been arrested for their alleged involvement in terror activities.

Condemning the unfortunate incident, professor (Dr.) Bhupinder Kaur Anand, Vice Chancellor of Al-Falah University, said, "We are deeply saddened and anguished by the unfortunate developments that took place and condemn the same. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the innocent people affected by these distressing events."

"We have also learnt that two of our doctors have been detained by the investigating agencies. We wish to make it clear that the University has no connection with the said persons apart from them being working in their official capacities with the University," the statement added. The V-C also condemned the 'baseless' reports aimed at "maligning the reputation" of the University.

Panic gripped Old Delhi after a high-intensity explosion ripped through a car at a traffic signal near the Red Fort metro station on Monday evening leaving at least 12 people dead. The blast, that occurred in a Hyundai i20 car around 6.52pm, appeared like a red balloon bursting.

Asserting that the University laboratories are used solely for academic and training requirements of MBBS students, Dr. Anand said that every activity is carried out in strict adherence to statutory norms and ethical standards mandated by the regulatory authorities.

"It is hereby clarified that no such chemical or material, as is being alleged by certain platforms, is being used, stored, or handled within the University premises. University laboratories are used solely and exclusively for the academic and training requirements of MBBS students and other authorized courses. Every laboratory activity is carried out in strict adherence to established safety protocols, statutory norms, and ethical standards mandated by the regulatory authorities," the University added.

The Vice Chancellor said that the University is extending its full cooperation to the concerned investigating authorities "to enable them to arrive at a logical, fair, and conclusive determination in the matter pertaining to national security..."

"Our University has been conducting various academic and professional courses and has been training undergraduate MBBS students since 2019. The doctors trained and graduated from our institution are presently serving in reputed hospitals, institutions, and organizations across India and abroad, holding responsible and distinguished positions," it further added.

A high-intensity explosion ripped through a car at a traffic signal near the Red Fort metro station on Monday evening leaving at least 12 people dead. Delhi Police on Tuesday registered an FIR under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Explosives Act in connection with the deadly blast.

The national capital has been placed on high alert with strict vigil being maintained at the airport, railway stations and bus terminals.

Probe agencies conducted raids at multiple locations in the national capital as preliminary findings suggested a link to the terror module uncovered in Faridabad. Hours before the blast, eight people, including three doctors, were arrested and about 2,900kg explosives were seized. Of the total explosive material recovered from two rooms in Faridabad, police recovered 360 kg of inflammable material suspected to be ammonium nitrate along with some potassium nitrate and sulphur.