[REVISION HISTORY]

Indian crackdown on Shahzad Bhatti network

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2026-09-01 23:40 UTC → 2026-09-16 12:57 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In late July 2026, Indian security agencies began targeting the Shahzad Bhatti network, an alleged Pakistan-based group directed by the ISI. Initial reports indicated the network used social media to radicalize youth in Uttar Pradesh and conducted raids in Assam to detain suspected operatives. Authorities alleged the group used encrypted channels and collaborated with various front organizations to gather infrastructure data and plan targeted killings. On August 12, ahead of India’s Independence Day, security forces conducted coordinated operations across 14 states to dismantle the network. Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the crackdown resulted in the arrest of over 200 operatives and the detention of 253 individuals. The Ministry of Home Affairs reported that more than 80 FIRs have been filed under various laws, including the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Investigations revealed the group had engaged in espionage, including targeting the families of West Bengal Cabinet members. Seized materials included improvised explosive devices, grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols, live ammunition, and CCTV cameras used for reconnaissance. In response, Shahzad Bhatti released a video denying the allegations, claiming the detainees are associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and asserting that approximately 3,000 of his associates remain active. Pakistan has rejected the claims as ‘baseless propaganda.’ As of late August, the Assam Special Task Force (STF) has continued its investigation, arresting a fifth suspect, Mrigen Haloi, on August 31. This follows the August 26 arrest of Fazal Islam Barbhuiyan. Authorities allege the network seeks to establish sleeper cells across Assam and the Northeast using encrypted communication and social media. On September 16, the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs officially designated the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) as a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

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