Maulvi Ishtiyaq has been arrested arrested after 2,563 kg of ammonium nitrate was found at Delhi blast accused Dr Muzammil Shakeel’s house
NEW DELHI – In a case that has captured the attention of both law enforcement and the local community, Maulvi Ishtiyaq, the respected imam of Faridabad’s Al Falah University Mosque, has been arrested in connection with investigations in the recovery of explosives. Authorities say the arrest followed the discovery of 2,563 kg of ammonium nitrate at a property rented by Dr Muzammil Shakeel, a university colleague of Ishtiyaq.
The cleric, who had rented part of his house to Dr Shakeel, was taken into custody by the Jammu and Kashmir Police and transported to Srinagar for questioning. Officials have emphasised that the arrest is procedural and part of a broader investigation into the case.
However, Ishtiyaq’s family has strongly defended him, insisting that he had no knowledge of the material allegedly kept by the doctor and was completely innocent. Speaking to journalists outside their home, Ishtiyaq’s mother, Zaituni, said, “My son is innocent. He only rented the room; he didn’t do anything else. He works as an Imam at the Al Falah University Mosque and is busy with his work.”
Her words were supported by Ishtiyaq’s elder brother, Mohammad Sapat, who elaborated on the cleric’s life and character. “We are five brothers, four of whom work as imams in mosques. Ishtiyaq left the village 20 years ago and settled in Fatehpur Taga. He built a few rooms there, one of which he rented to the doctor,” he explained.
The family insists that the cleric’s acquaintance with Dr Shakeel arose purely through their professional association at the university. “We had no idea what the doctor kept in the room,” Sapat said. “Milk was even sent from our house to the doctor’s house. We have nothing to do with any wrongdoing.”
Maulvi Ishtiyaq originally hails from Singar village in Nuh district. According to his family, he has dedicated his life to religious service and has never been involved in any disputes or controversies. “He has always focused on teaching and guiding the community,” said Zaituni.
The family has appealed to authorities and the public for understanding, urging that innocent individuals not be harassed without clear evidence. “We trust the law. The truth will come out, and Ishtiyaq will soon be acquitted,” they said in a joint statement.
Local community members have expressed concern over the arrest of a long-standing religious leader, stressing the need for careful investigation. One resident of Fatehpur Taga, requesting anonymity, said, “Maulvi Ishtiyaq has always helped the community, from leading prayers to guiding youth. It is difficult to believe he would be involved in anything illegal.”
Students at Al Falah University also voiced support for the cleric. “He has always been a mentor and teacher to us,” said one student. “We are shocked to hear about the arrest, and we hope the truth comes out quickly.”
Police officials have reiterated that the investigation is ongoing and that questioning of both Dr Shakeel and Maulvi Ishtiyaq is being conducted according to legal procedures. “We are following due process. The arrest of Maulvi Ishtiyaq is part of the investigation, and all individuals will be treated according to the law,” a senior officer said.
The case has stirred debates across social media and local circles, with many voices calling for a careful, unbiased investigation that distinguishes between those directly involved in criminal activity and those with no knowledge or intent.
As the investigation continues, the family remains steadfast in defending the cleric’s innocence. “My brother has served the mosque and the community faithfully for years. We are confident that the truth will be revealed, and justice will prevail,” said Mohammad Sapat.
With questions surrounding the explosives recovery case still unfolding, the story has highlighted the importance of verifying facts before rushing to judgment. Community leaders have appealed for calm, urging authorities and the public to respect the principles of justice while the inquiry proceeds.
