New Delhi, 27 June (H.S.): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday filed a supplementary chargesheet against three more accused, including an absconding paediatrician, in connection with the high-intensity vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) blast near Delhi's Red Fort last year, taking the total number of chargesheeted accused in the case to 13.

According to NIA officials, the supplementary chargesheet was filed before the Patiala House Courts in New Delhi. The three accused have been identified as Zameer Ahmad Ahanger, Tufail Ahmad Bhat and Muzafar Ahmad, also known by the aliases Faraz and Zafar. All three are residents of Jammu and Kashmir. Muzafar Ahmad, a paediatrician by profession, is currently absconding.

Investigators said the accused allegedly played different roles in planning, facilitating and supporting the conspiracy behind the explosion. The NIA has invoked various provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Indian Penal Code and the Explosive Substances Act in the case.

With the latest supplementary chargesheet, the total number of accused chargesheeted by the agency has risen to 13. Among them is the alleged mastermind, Dr Umer Un Nabi, who was driving the explosives-laden vehicle and died in the blast.

The blast occurred near the historic Red Fort in Delhi and involved a vehicle carrying a large quantity of explosives. The incident prompted an extensive investigation by the NIA to uncover the conspiracy, identify those involved and trace the network that allegedly facilitated the attack.

Officials said the investigation has revealed a wider conspiracy involving multiple individuals, with evidence gathered through forensic analysis, digital records, witness statements and other technical inputs. The agency is continuing its investigation to identify additional conspirators, establish the financial and logistical support network behind the attack and locate the absconding accused.

The NIA said further investigation into the case remains underway, and additional legal action will be taken as more evidence emerges.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar