India, Nov. 14 -- The explosion near Delhi's Red Fort earlier this month shocked the nation not only because it struck a heritage site, but because of what early investigations suggest - the alleged involvement of educated professionals, including doctors, in a sinister terror plot.

The case, still under investigation, has sparked an uncomfortable debate: What happens when radicalisation penetrates elite, seemingly benign professions? How should India respond - firmly, but within the bounds of its Constitution?

A disturbing pattern emerges

Initial reports from investigating agencies point to a "white-collar terror" network - individuals with professional qualifications allegedly collaborating with radical elements to target civilians a...