A shadow of suspicion hangs over the Red Fort, with investigators now probing a chilling question: Was the recent blast merely a rehearsal for a much larger, potentially devastating attack planned for Republic Day?
Authorities are meticulously piecing together the events surrounding the November 10th explosion near the iconic Red Fort, and the investigation has taken a dramatic turn. Evidence suggests the attack may have been initially conceived to coincide with the Republic Day celebrations earlier this year.
But here's where it gets controversial... Analysis of mobile phone data has implicated Dr. Muzammil Ganaie, a key suspect arrested in a Faridabad-based terror module. The data reveals multiple reconnaissance visits to the Red Fort area by Dr. Ganaie in January 2025. Considering the Republic Day parade route passes directly by the Red Fort, an area heavily guarded with VVIP movement and strict security, this discovery raises serious concerns.
Police suspect these visits were part of a larger plot to target the historic monument on January 26th. The intense security measures in place at the time may have foiled the initial plan. A senior police officer, speaking anonymously, confirmed to the PTI news agency that data retrieved from Dr. Muzammil's phone showed his repeated presence near the Red Fort in early January. The officer stated, "These visits were part of a detailed reconnaissance ahead of a planned attack on January 26."
Investigators have also found that Dr. Muzammil, along with his associate Dr. Umar Nabi, studied security arrangements and crowd patterns during multiple visits to the Red Fort. Their movements were tracked using tower location data and CCTV footage.
And this is the part most people miss... The investigation now extends to Dr. Muzammil's financial dealings and how the explosives were acquired. Authorities are also investigating whether other suspects were involved in reconnaissance or provided logistical support. Furthermore, Dr. Umar's movements near the Red Fort are being scrutinized to determine if he had any contact with others before the blast.
On Monday evening, a high-intensity explosion rocked a slow-moving Hyundai i20 car near the Red Fort Metro Station, tragically resulting in 12 fatalities and numerous injuries. The case has been handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for further investigation.
What are your thoughts? Do you believe the initial target was Republic Day? Share your opinions in the comments below.
