Muslim bodies urge restraint, reject guilt by association, and demand transparency, public updates, and protection of worship and civil rights
NEW DELHI — A Delhi court has extended the judicial custody of Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui, chairman of Al-Falah University, in a money laundering case linked to the wider probe into the November 10 car blast near the Red Fort.
Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Sheetal Chaudhary Pradhan of the Saket Court on Monday extended Siddiqui’s judicial custody till December 20, asserting that the custody was needed as the inquiry is still under way.
Investigators said the Enforcement Directorate is examining financial records and transactions linked to the university The court noted that the case is sensitive and that questioning and document checks are continuing.
The blast near the Red Fort killed several people and injured many others, sending shock across the city. Central agencies have said the attack is being probed under anti-terror laws. The National Investigation Agency has named a group of accused, many of them doctors, and has told courts that a planned attack was being prepared.
An NIA officer told the court that “the accused acted together and aimed to cause fear by hitting a busy area.” The agency added that the alleged bomber has been identified as Dr Umar Nabi.
Muslim organisations and community leaders have called for calm and fairness. A senior member of a Delhi-based Muslim body said, “Terror has no faith. Do not judge a whole community because of the acts of a few. Let courts decide on proof.”
Another community representative said, “We want a fast and fair trial. Public naming and linking institutions without final findings harms students, staff, and families who have no role in any crime.”
Legal experts also pointed out that the ED case against Siddiqui concerns alleged financial irregularities, while the terror case is being handled by the NIA. “These are separate legal tracks,” a defence lawyer said. “Every accused has the right to defend himself.”
Students from Al-Falah University said classes and admissions have suffered due to public claims. A student said, “We feel unsafe when people look at us with doubt. We only ask for facts to be shared, not rumours.”
Police said security has been tightened at sensitive places and asked people to avoid spreading unverified claims. “Action will be taken strictly under law,” an official said.
As hearings continue, Muslim leaders have urged authorities and media to protect civil rights and avoid stigma. “Justice must be based on evidence,” a cleric said. “Peace in the city depends on trust in the law.”
