The STF is trying to procure a photograph of Bashir from the Darul Uloom in Deoband, where he was student. ‘‘Most of the six arrested terrorists had their connections in Deoband,’’ the source added.

Meanwhile, Waliullah’s father Habibullah suffered a heart attack after word spread that his son was the mastermind behind the serial bombing in Varanasi. But, no one in the family, including wife Umera Khatun, is ready to accept the STF story.

‘‘My husband is a law abiding citizen and can never do such things. I have already filed a petition in the High Court for his release,’’ Umera told The Indian Express. The High Court has served a notice to the STF and others directing the security agency to ensure that it should ensure Waliullah’s appearance in person before the court on April 12.

Waliullah, an Imam from Phoolpur, was picked up by the STF on March 29. The arrest has caused resentment in Phoolpur, where locals have started distributing handbills against the security agencies. Irate locals also staged a demonstration at the office of the DM today and demanded immediate and unconditional release of Waliullah.

‘‘He has to be released under any cost,’’ his elder brother Wasiullah demanded.