New Delhi, July 13: A Delhi court on Monday granted permission to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to cremate and dispose of the remains of 11 people who lost their lives in the Red Fort car bomb explosion case.
Special Judge Pitambar Dutt allowed the investigating agency to proceed with the disposal process after the NIA informed the court that all necessary forensic examinations had been completed. The order also covered the biological remains of Dr Umer Un Nabi, who was driving the explosive-filled vehicle during the deadly suicide attack and died in the blast.
The court directed that the remains must be handled and disposed of with complete dignity while respecting the religious beliefs and customs associated with the victims.
The judge further instructed the NIA to submit a compliance report after completing the process to ensure that the court’s directions were properly followed.
NIA Completes Collection of Forensic Evidence
During the hearing, the NIA informed the court that forensic teams had collected required evidence from the remains of the victims as well as from the suspected suicide bomber.
The agency had approached the court seeking approval for disposal of the remains, stating that the biological materials had started deteriorating due to prolonged storage.
The court considered the circumstances and allowed the agency to carry out the final procedures while maintaining respect for the deceased.
Investigation Into Red Fort Explosion Continues
The explosion near the Red Fort, which occurred on November 10 last year, triggered a major security investigation involving multiple agencies.
The NIA has been leading the probe into the high-intensity improvised explosive device (IED) attack and has gathered evidence related to the planning, execution and alleged terror network behind the incident.
On May 14, the agency submitted a detailed chargesheet running into nearly 7,500 pages before the court. The document outlined the findings of the investigation and details of the alleged conspiracy behind the attack.
Three More Accused Named in Supplementary Chargesheet
Last month, the NIA filed an additional chargesheet against three more individuals in the case.
Among those named was an absconding paediatrician who has been identified by investigators as a founding member of an alleged terror module linked to the blast.
With the latest filing, the total number of people chargesheeted in connection with the case has increased to 13, including Dr Umer Un Nabi.
The agency continues its investigation to trace other possible links and gather further evidence related to the attack.
Court Emphasises Respectful Handling of Victims’ Remains
The latest court order highlights the importance of balancing investigative requirements with humanitarian considerations.
While preserving forensic evidence remains crucial for the case, the court stressed that the final disposal of human remains should be carried out in a manner that honours the dignity of those who lost their lives.
The NIA is now required to complete the process as per the court’s instructions and submit details of compliance.