 "Al-Falah University is located just 30 kilometres from Delhi.")
Al-Falah University, located in Dhauj village of Haryana’s Faridabad district, has issued a public statement expressing “deep anguish” after doctors working there became key suspects in the blast near Red Fort that killed 13.
The statement, issued by the university, came after reports that two doctors affiliated with the university had been detained by investigating agencies.
“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,” the statement began.
“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,” it read.
The statement further noted the university’s concern that certain online platforms are circulating baseless and misleading stories with the clear intent of maligning its reputation and goodwill.
Addressing specific allegations, the university clarified: “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. The University laboratories are used solely and exclusively for the academic and training requirements of MBBS students and other authorised courses."
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View AllThe National Investigation Agency (NIA), the Haryana and Uttar Pradesh Special Task Forces (STF), and the Delhi Police are among the multiple agencies conducting operations and searches inside the campus, as reported by ANI.
How and where the blast took place
At 6:52 pm local time (13:52 GMT), a powerful, high-intensity explosion ripped through a crowded neighbourhood in Old Delhi during the evening rush hour, near the historically significant Red Fort Metro Station (Lal Qila).
Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha informed reporters that the blast took place inside a slow-moving Hyundai i20 car that had stopped at a red light. The force of the explosion damaged nearby vehicles, leaving a scene of shattered windows and mangled wreckage.
Investigators quickly detained the original 2013 owner of the vehicle, Mohammad Salman, in Gurugram, Haryana. Police confirmed Salman had subsequently sold the car to another man in New Delhi, who then sold it again recently.
The man who bought the car directly from Salman has also been arrested. Despite the multiple sales, local media reported that the vehicle still retained its original registration under Salman’s name and carried a Haryana number plate.
The Delhi Police have formally registered a case under India’s main counterterrorism law, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), specifically invoking Sections 16 and 18, alongside provisions of the Explosives Act.
(With inputs from agencies)