Chhattisgarh’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has detained two juvenile boys in Raipur for their alleged involvement with a Pakistan-linked ISIS module. This development was announced by Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, who noted it as a first for the state and confirmed that investigations are underway to find any other potential operatives.
Sharma explained that the apprehended youths were reportedly acting under the direction of ISIS operatives based in Pakistan. They were actively using social media, including Instagram, with fake accounts to spread extremist ideology. The boys had absorbed radical content and were attempting to influence younger individuals online. Their internet usage was extensive, and they possessed considerable information related to the terror group.
The minors face charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Sharma assured the public that the state is committed to strengthening its counter-terrorism capabilities by reinforcing the ATS in Raipur and other major cities. He plans to advocate for an enlarged ATS team to the Chief Minister. The Deputy Chief Minister also appealed to the public to report any social media activity that promotes anti-national sentiments.
Official sources revealed that the ATS identified and detained the minors following surveillance of their online activities. The Pakistan-based ISIS module was reportedly using Instagram accounts to target and radicalize Indian teenagers, aiming to destabilize the country through cyber warfare. The handlers allegedly integrated the minors into private group chats where they were systematically exposed to jihadist propaganda and encouraged to disseminate ISIS material. There are indications that the goal was to establish an ISIS presence in Chhattisgarh, which the ATS has successfully thwarted through vigilant cyber monitoring and evidence collection.