UP Police, ATS Investigate Missing Kashmiri IIT Kanpur PhD Students Amid Red Fort Blast Inquiry
New Delhi, November 22, 2025 – In a concerning development, two Kashmiri PhD students from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur have been reported missing under suspicious circumstances. This news comes in the wake of heightened investigations into the recent Red Fort blast that occurred on November 10, 2025.
Background of the Incident
The missing students, who have been unaccounted for over the past 15 days, have raised serious concerns among their peers and the academic community. While officials at IIT Kanpur have stated they lack information regarding the students’ whereabouts, the timing of their disappearance coincides with the investigation into the Red Fort blast, which tragically resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals and injuries to several others.
Details of the Missing Students
According to sources from the Uttar Pradesh Police, one of the students has been missing since October 18, while the other has been untraceable since November 10. Both students enrolled in IIT Kanpur in 2019 and are currently pursuing their doctoral studies. Their sudden disappearance has prompted local authorities to take immediate action.
Investigation Efforts
In response to the situation, multiple agencies, including the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), the Uttar Pradesh Police, and the Local Intelligence Unit, have launched a detailed investigation. The focus of their inquiry includes:
- Examination of student records
- Verification of movement logs
- Gathering intelligence to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the students’ disappearance
Authorities are also reviewing the profiles of nearly 150 Kashmiri students residing in Kanpur to assess any potential connections to the ongoing investigations.
Connection to the Red Fort Blast
The Red Fort blast has been a significant point of concern for law enforcement agencies. On November 10, the explosion resulted in numerous casualties and injuries, prompting an extensive investigation. The State Investigation Agency (SIA) of Jammu and Kashmir Police has been actively working on the case, recently detaining a suspect named Tufail Ahmad, an electrician from Pulwama district. Ahmad was apprehended in connection with the blast investigation.
Further Developments in the Investigation
In a related incident, a Kashmiri doctor named Umar Nabi, who was working at Al-Falah University in Faridabad, managed to evade arrest following the apprehension of his associates involved in the blast. His evasion has raised additional questions regarding the network of individuals connected to the Red Fort incident.
Legal Proceedings
Meanwhile, a Special NIA Court has allowed Jasir Bilal Wani, an aide to Dr. Umar Muhammad, the alleged bomber, to meet with his lawyers. Wani, described as an active co-conspirator, was arrested on November 17 in Srinagar for allegedly providing technical assistance for terrorist activities. His involvement includes modifying drones and attempting to develop rockets for planned attacks.
Community Response
The disappearance of the two IIT Kanpur students has sparked concern within the academic and local communities. Many are calling for transparency and swift action from authorities to ensure the safety of all students, particularly those from sensitive regions like Kashmir. The incident has also highlighted the need for better support systems for students who may feel vulnerable or targeted due to their backgrounds.
Conclusion
The investigation into the missing Kashmiri students and the Red Fort blast continues to unfold, with various agencies working diligently to uncover the truth. As the situation develops, it remains crucial for the authorities to address the concerns of the community and ensure the safety of all students. The connection between the two incidents underscores the complexities of security and student welfare in India today.
Note: The information provided is based on the latest reports and may be subject to change as new developments arise.
