A Pulwama doctor is now at the centre of one of India’s most shocking terror investigations. On Thursday, officials identified 35-year-old Dr Umar-un-Nabi as the man behind the Hyundai i20 that exploded near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10. Within hours, a full-scale probe was launched, and by Friday, his home in Koli village was demolished, revealing what officials are calling a “white-collar” terror module involving medical professionals.
Below are five key things you need to know about Dr Umar un-Nabi and the events leading up to the deadly blast.
Medical Career Across Srinagar, Anantnag, and Faridabad
Umar graduated from Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar, in 2017 and obtained medical registration in 2018. He worked in hospitals across Srinagar and Anantnag before moving to Faridabad, where he became an assistant professor at Al-Falah Medical College and Hospital. For the past three years, he has lived alone in a small rented room near the institute.
Panic After Massive Explosive Seizures
Officials say Umar “panicked” after investigators recovered about 3,000 kg of ammonium nitrate, along with detonators, timers, and AK-47s, from premises linked to his alleged associates in Faridabad on November 9. Fearing arrest, he reportedly cut off communication, abandoned his routine, switched off all five of his phones, and went into hiding in Dhauj village, 15 km away. He then fled towards Delhi carrying ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO) and a detonator.
Connected to a ‘White-Collar’ JeM-Linked Network
According to investigators, Umar maintained close ties with Adeel Rather and Muzammil Ganaia, both Kashmiri doctors who had been arrested earlier. The group allegedly operated a logistics chain from Pulwama to the NCR, using their academic expertise to assemble explosive devices. Police believe the module consisted of 10 members, including 5–6 doctors, and had links to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
Final Movements Before the Red Fort Blast
Umar stopped attending his duties after October 30. On November 10, he drove the i20 into Delhi. CCTV footage shows the vehicle near Red Fort Metro Station moments before the explosion destroyed multiple cars. Forensic analysis confirmed traces of ammonium nitrate fuel oil, identical to what was seized in Faridabad.
Umar’s Family Had ‘No Idea’
Umar’s family members in Pulwama said they had “no idea” about any illegal activity. His sister-in-law, Muzamila, recalled speaking to him two days before the blast, describing him as a quiet and hardworking person. Relatives believed he was only stressed about student exams and hospital duties.
The Delhi Police Special Cell has filed an FIR under the UAPA, the Explosives Act, and sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to murder and attempted murder.
