Underground Madrassa Near Al Falah University Under Investigation: Delhi Blast Terror Connection Probe

New Delhi:

Investigative agencies probing the Delhi blast have placed an underground madrassa located approximately 900 meters from Al Falah University under scrutiny for potential terror connections.

Situated in an isolated area near Dhauj village in Faridabad, this unusual educational facility spans 4,000-5,000 square feet. What has particularly attracted investigators' attention is its distinctive construction—built approximately 7 feet below ground level.

Only a small 3-foot structure of the madrassa is visible above ground. The building features unusually thick walls with platform-like structures encircling the entire subterranean section.

Investigators note that the architectural design deviates significantly from typical madrassas.

The property is registered to Maulana Ishteyaq, who previously rented accommodation to Muzammil Shakeel—an associate of Umar un-Nabi, the suicide bomber responsible for the November 10 explosion near Red Fort that claimed 13 lives.

Following revelations during Muzammil's interrogation, authorities arrested Maulana Ishteyaq.

Investigation has revealed that the property dealer who facilitated the land transaction for the cleric has not yet received complete payment, with documentation still pending. The cleric's family maintains they sold land to purchase this plot for the madrassa, which they describe as still under construction.

Authorities are investigating the madrassa's funding sources, contributors, associates, and operational intentions. Muzammil has been identified as one contributor.

Local residents informed NDTV that children frequently visited the madrassa. Both investigative agencies and Faridabad police recently inspected the premises and questioned nearby residents.

While Maulana Ishtiaq's family acknowledged renting their property to Muzzamil, they insist on the cleric's innocence. They claim no prior acquaintance with Muzammil, stating they considered him an ordinary tenant.