New Delhi: India has tightened its security operations and expanded arrests in Kashmir and other regions following the deadly car bomb blast near the Red Fort in New Delhi earlier this month. The explosion on November 10 killed at least ten people and injured many others, prompting a large national security response.
Authorities have arrested several people since the attack, including four more suspects in recent days. Among the latest detainees are three doctors and another individual linked to them.
Investigators say the group may have connections to banned militant outfits such as Jaish e Mohammad and Ansar Ghazwat ul Hind. Officials believe the bombing was part of an organized network rather than an isolated act.
Security agencies have also increased questioning and surveillance of students, professionals and community leaders in Kashmir. Police have conducted multiple raids, detentions and identity checks in towns and villages across the region. Families of those detained say many are being held without clear information or charges.
One of the cases gaining national attention is the death of Bilal Ahmed Wani, a shopkeeper from Kashmir. Wani had been detained and later released during the crackdown. According to family members, he struggled emotionally after his detention and later died after setting himself on fire.His death has deepened public anger and fear among many local residents.
The government has also directed state authorities to review certain educational institutions including some minority run colleges and schools.
Officials say they want to examine whether some institutions have been used for recruitment or radical activities. Critics worry this step could create mistrust and tension among communities.
Meanwhile, a separate accident added to the tense atmosphere. A police station on the outskirts of Srinagar was damaged after explosives stored as evidence detonated. The blast killed police officers and forensic experts who were handling the material. Authorities said the explosion was accidental and not linked to militant activity.
Security analysts say that while investigations continue, the expanding crackdown could fuel resentment in Kashmir and complicate relations between security forces and civilians.
Human rights groups have warned that mass detentions and broad surveillance measures may create long term consequences and risk further unrest.
Government officials maintain that the actions are necessary to protect the country and prevent further attacks.
They also say the investigation remains active and more arrests are expected as intelligence teams follow new leads.
The Delhi bombing has become one of the most significant security challenges India has faced this year. As the investigation continues, questions remain about how wide the militant network may be and whether the ongoing crackdown will lead to stability or deepen tensions in an already sensitive region.