Lucknow: Security agencies in Uttar Pradesh have uncovered a suspected terrorist network that has raised serious questions about the country’s internal security. The investigation has revealed a multi-layered conspiracy involving foreign intelligence connections, attempts to spread radicalism through social media, a strategy to convert youth through religious conversions, and targeting sensitive locations.
Who were arrested?
The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Thursday arrested two youths, both aged 20, on charges of terrorist activities. The accused have been identified as Tushar Chauhan alias Hizbullah Ali Khan, a resident of Ramala village in Baghpat but currently staying in Meerut, and Sameer Khan, a resident of Sunlight Colony in Old Seemapuri, Delhi.
What did UP ATS say?
The UP ATS’s investigation has begun to unravel the entire module, which also claims plans to form a new terrorist organization in India.
According to investigating agencies, Pakistan’s intelligence agency ISI was involved in a conspiracy to establish an organization named ‘Tehreek-e-Taliban Hindustan’ on the lines of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in India.
According to sources, the organization planned targeted killings, targeting celebrities, military and police officers, and important institutions. The investigation also revealed that RSS offices in Lucknow and Delhi could be potential targets.
How did Tushar become Hizbullah Ali Khan?
Meerut resident Tushar Chauhan alias Hizbullah Ali Khan has been identified as a key link in this network. According tp investigation, he had converted to Islam and dropped out of school about four years ago.
According to agencies, conversion was being used as a strategy to attract youth to radicalism and connect them with the organization. Previously, Vikrant Kashyap, a member of the same network, was arrested in Dehradun, raising concerns that the module’s roots may be even deeper.
How did the arrest happen?
During the investigation, Tushar’s mobile phone claimed to have yielded several crucial clues, including conversations with Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti, suspicious transactions, discussions related to weapons, video footage, and threatening audio recordings.
Agencies said that attempts were being made to brainwash young people through social media platforms and make them part of this network, which indicates that this case is not just local but a wider network.
How many days of Judicial custody?
The UP ATS arrested Tushar and Sameer Khan from Noida. Both were produced in court and remanded to 30-day judicial custody. Sources indicate that the accused were plotting attacks in Lucknow and Delhi. The ATS is now investigating their other contacts, funding networks, and potential associates.
Tushar’s family admitted that he had been suffering from depression and loneliness for some time. They also stated that they were aware of his foreign connections, but they also demanded a fair investigation and strict punishment if the allegations are proven.
Is security agencies on alert?
Following this revelation, security agencies have heightened their vigilance. Surveillance has been tightened at sensitive locations, and potential links to this network in other states are being explored.
While the case is currently under investigation, initial findings indicate that the conspiracy may span multiple levels. Therefore, agencies are conducting a thorough investigation, taking every aspect into account, to prevent any potential threats in a timely manner.
