Security forces demolished the house of Dr Umar Nabi, the accused who allegedly drove the explosive-laden vehicle used in the recent Delhi blast, officials said on Friday. The demolition was carried out during the intervening night of Thursday and Friday in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing counterterror measures linked to the case.
According to officials, the step was taken as part of a coordinated security response following the blast, which has triggered nationwide concern about urban terror networks and the movement of explosives across state lines.
Security forces act overnight
The demolition operation began late on Thursday (November 13, 2025) and continued into the early hours of Friday (November 14). Officials said the action was undertaken based on intelligence inputs suggesting the property had been used to facilitate activities connected to the blast.
Armed personnel cordoned off the area before heavy machinery was brought in to dismantle the house. Local reports indicate that the operation was smooth and faced no public disruption, largely due to tight security arrangements and pre-emptive area control.
This move comes amid a series of raids and arrests made across Jammu and Kashmir and Delhi as investigators track down the network allegedly behind the explosion.
Connection to Delhi blast investigation
Dr Umar Nabi, originally from Pulwama, has emerged as a key suspect in the Delhi blast case. Investigators have said he was driving the explosive-laden car that caused the explosion, although details of his involvement—whether logistical, operational or ideological—are still under scrutiny.
Security agencies have been piecing together the movements of the vehicle, the origin of the explosives, and possible collaborators who may have helped execute or plan the act. The demolition is seen as both a punitive and preventive measure, following precedents in cases where properties were used for storing or assembling explosive materials.
A senior security official said the action was taken under legal provisions that allow authorities to destroy structures used for terror activities. The official added that more such measures could follow as the probe progresses.
Increased security across the Valley
The incident has prompted heightened security across Jammu and Kashmir, especially in Pulwama and adjoining districts that have historically seen militant-linked activities. Additional checkpoints, intensified night patrols and surveillance measures have been placed on major roads.
Local residents said they saw an unusual movement of armoured vehicles on Thursday evening, suggesting preparations for the late-night demolition. Markets in several parts of Pulwama opened as usual on Friday morning but with a visible presence of security personnel.
Authorities have also increased monitoring near highways and inter-district routes to prevent the movement of explosives or suspects attempting to flee.
Delhi authorities tighten investigative grid
Meanwhile in Delhi, investigators continue to examine CCTV footage, forensic evidence from the blast site, and mobile communication data connected to the suspects. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Delhi Police Special Cell are working jointly on the case.
Officials said several digital devices recovered from searches are currently undergoing forensic analysis. The agencies are also focusing on whether the blast was part of a larger planned series of attacks or a standalone act intended to trigger panic.
With the festive season approaching and the national capital historically facing heightened terror threats during this period, security agencies have been placed on alert. Tightened checks have been ordered at metro stations, crowded markets, and sensitive government installations.
Political and public response
The demolition has drawn significant attention, with political reactions emerging from both the Centre and Jammu and Kashmir administration. While officials have emphasised that such measures are necessary to dismantle terror networks, civil rights groups have questioned whether due legal process was followed.
Residents in Pulwama said the incident has sparked mixed reactions—some see it as a deterrent, while others fear increased tension in the region.
Public sentiment in Delhi remains tense following the blast, with several citizens demanding stronger preventive intelligence and improved surveillance mechanisms.
Conclusion
The demolition of Dr Umar Nabi’s house marks a major development in the Delhi blast investigation and signals a no-tolerance approach by security forces towards properties linked to terror activities. As the probe deepens, authorities across Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir continue to coordinate efforts to track down all those involved. With security tightened and multiple agencies engaged, the coming days are likely to see further operational actions and arrests linked to the case.