NIA gets 45 days extension to file chargesheet in Delhi blast case

A Delhi court on Friday (February 13, 2026) allowed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) an additional 45 days to submit its chargesheet in the Red Fort blast case that claimed 11 lives and left many others injured in November 2025.

The Central agency had approached the court of Additional Sessions Judge Prashant Sharma of Patiala House, seeking a 90-day extension to complete its investigation. However, the court granted only half of the requested period and instructed the agency to wrap up the probe within the revised deadline.

The judicial custody of the seven individuals arrested in connection with the explosion has also been extended until March 13.

The NIA has connected the November 10 blast in the national capital to what it described as a “white-collar” terror network uncovered earlier by the Jammu and Kashmir Police. According to the agency’s findings so far, the vehicle used in the explosion was allegedly driven by Umar ul Nabi, identified as the suicide attacker. Investigators have termed the incident the first car-borne suicide bombing in Delhi.

Recently, the court permitted the NIA to question Yasir Ahmad Dar — the ninth person arrested in the case — for an additional 10 days. The custody of co-accused Bilal Naseer Malla was also extended.

Advocate M.S. Khan, counsel for Mr. Shaheen and Mr. Muzammil, told reporters that the court granted only part of the extension sought by the NIA, noting that the agency had not adequately addressed several queries regarding the progress of its investigation.

The agency alleges that Mr. Dar, a resident of Shopian district in Jammu and Kashmir, played a significant part in planning the attack and had pledged to participate in self-sacrificial operations linked to the conspiracy. It further claims he was in regular contact with other accused, including Dr. Nabi.

Dr. Malla, the eighth accused and a resident of Baramulla, was arrested in Delhi on December 9. The NIA has alleged that he provided shelter and logistical support to Dr. Nabi and attempted to destroy evidence connected to the blast.

Officials have said the probe into the wider conspiracy is still underway, with assistance from various Central and State agencies to identify all those involved.