Two Kashmiri Students from IIT Kanpur Missing Amid Red Fort Blast Probe
In a concerning development, two Kashmiri PhD scholars from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur have been reported missing in the wake of the ongoing investigation into the recent car blast near the Red Fort in Delhi. The Uttar Pradesh Police, along with the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), has initiated an inquiry into their disappearance, which has raised alarms among the academic community and security agencies alike.
Details of the Missing Students
According to officials from IIT Kanpur, there has been no information regarding the whereabouts of the two students for several weeks. The first student has been unaccounted for since October 18, while the second went missing on November 10, coinciding with the day of the blast that resulted in significant casualties.
Both students enrolled in the PhD program at IIT Kanpur in 2019, and their sudden disappearance has prompted a thorough examination of student records and movement logs by security agencies in an effort to locate them.
Context of the Investigation
The investigation into the missing students comes in the aftermath of a tragic incident on November 10, when a car blast near the Red Fort in Delhi claimed the lives of 13 individuals and left over 30 others injured. The Uttar Pradesh government has requested a detailed report on Kashmiri students residing in the state, reflecting heightened concerns following the blast.
Arrests Related to the Blast
In a related development, the Jammu and Kashmir Police arrested a man from Srinagar, identified as Tufail Niyaz Bhat, who is suspected to have connections with a ‘white collar’ terror module believed to be behind the Delhi car blast. This arrest adds to the growing list of individuals detained in connection with the investigation.
As of now, six individuals have been arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with the blast. Those in custody include key accused Amir Rashid Ali, co-accused Jasir Bilal Wani, and several others, including medical professionals and a preacher. All detainees are currently under NIA custody as investigations continue.
Implications for Kashmiri Students
The disappearance of the two students has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of Kashmiri students studying in various parts of India. The ongoing scrutiny and investigations may lead to increased anxiety among these students, who may already feel marginalized due to their backgrounds.
Educational institutions are urged to provide support and assurance to their students, especially those from conflict-affected regions, to help them navigate these challenging circumstances.
Community Response
The academic community and student organizations have expressed their concern regarding the situation. Many are calling for a thorough and fair investigation into the disappearances, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability from law enforcement agencies.
There are also calls for a dialogue between student bodies and authorities to address the fears and uncertainties faced by Kashmiri students, ensuring that their rights and safety are prioritized.
Conclusion
The case of the missing Kashmiri students from IIT Kanpur amid the Red Fort blast investigation highlights the complex interplay between security concerns and the rights of students from sensitive regions. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for authorities to balance national security with the need for a supportive environment for all students, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.
Note: This article is based on the latest available information as of November 23, 2025. Further updates may emerge as investigations continue.
