New Delhi: The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and police raided the home of Dr Shaheen Shahid, a young Muslim doctor, recently arrested from Faridabad in connection with the Delhi blast and the so-called Faridabad terror module.
Her father, Shahid Ansari, visibly distraught, told reporters outside his home, “My daughter is innocent, she’s being framed. She has spent her life serving people. We have full faith in Allah and in the truth. She cannot be part of any wrongdoing.”
According to him, Shaheen has always been dedicated to her work and has never shown interest in politics or activism. “She is a doctor, not a criminal,” he said with tears in his eyes. “We have raised our children to help others, not to harm anyone.”
The joint team of ATS Uttar Pradesh and police arrived at the family’s house early in the morning and searched for several hours. Officers reportedly seized mobile phones, laptops, pen drives, and documents, which have been sent for forensic analysis.
Local residents said the family had been living in the neighbourhood for years and had no record of suspicious behaviour. “They are decent people. Dr Shaheen used to attend patients even during the Covid lockdown. We cannot believe these allegations,” said Rashid Khan, a neighbour who witnessed the raid.
Investigating agencies are said to be examining Dr Shaheen’s bank statements, emails, and phone records for any links to extremist networks. Officials have, so far, made no public statement about the nature of the evidence collected.
The ATS also raided the Muttakipur home of her younger brother, Dr Parvez Ansari, also a medical professional. The house was searched, and neighbours were questioned about his routine and social contacts. “They came suddenly, surrounded the lane, and began asking questions,” said a neighbour who requested anonymity. “Parvez Sahab is quiet and polite. He always helped during emergencies. Nobody here believes he could be involved in anything wrong.”
Both brothers, Parvez and Shoaib, were questioned by the ATS and later released. However, family members said the constant scrutiny had left them fearful and humiliated. “We are ordinary citizens,” said Shahid Ansari. “We believe this is happening only because we are Muslims. Every time there is an attack somewhere, innocent Muslims are picked up and branded terrorists.”
Muslim community leaders in Lucknow and Delhi have expressed concern over the arrest, demanding a transparent investigation and legal protection for the accused.
