Bhubaneswar, Nov 15: A potential Odisha connection has surfaced in the deadly car blast near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10, which claimed 13 lives. Investigating agencies have reportedly found links between Dr. Muzammil Shakeel Ganaie, one of the prime suspects, and individuals from Odisha.

Sources indicate that several WhatsApp messages exchanged between Dr. Ganaie and phone numbers registered in Odisha have been recovered, leading investigators to focus on the state as part of the ongoing probe. A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which has taken over the investigation, is expected to visit Odisha soon.

Odisha’s Revenue & Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari confirmed that the matter is under investigation and assured that strict action would be taken if any links to the state were established.

“There has been a blast in Delhi, and the concerned agencies are investigating. As reported, there seems to be some connection with Odisha, which will also be thoroughly investigated,” Pujari said. “The perpetrators of the blast will not be spared. Stern action will be taken, and exemplary punishment will be imposed on all involved.”

Pujari also highlighted that terrorism has become an international issue, noting that even the United States has faced terrorist attacks in the past. “Therefore, in Odisha, all vulnerable areas are being closely monitored to prevent such incidents,” he added.

The state government is fully committed to combating terrorism and safeguarding the people of Odisha. In response to the blast, security measures across the state have been heightened, particularly at popular tourist destinations such as Puri, Konark, and Cuttack, where large gatherings have taken place.

However, Odisha’s Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan stated that there is currently no immediate threat to the people of Odisha.