Chhattisgarh ATS detains two minors in Raipur for alleged ISIS links
Raipur: The Chhattisgarh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has detained two minors in Raipur for their alleged links with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), marking the first such case reported in the state. Deputy chief minister Vijay Sharma, who also holds the Home portfolio, confirmed the development on Tuesday.
According to Sharma, the ATS detained the boys following an extensive investigation that revealed their connection with Pakistan-based ISIS handlers. The minors were reportedly active on social media using fake identities and were operating under the direction of ISIS modules across the border.
Sharma said the boys had been influenced by extremist online material and were attempting to radicalise others through Instagram. He added that they had access to significant amounts of sensitive information and used internet platforms extensively under ISIS-linked pseudonyms. The duo has been booked under relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.
Stating that the case highlights a growing cyber-radicalisation threat, Sharma said efforts are underway to identify more individuals possibly connected to the network. He also proposed expanding the ATS presence in Raipur and other key cities to strengthen surveillance and counter-terror operations. “I will request chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai to further increase the ATS team’s strength,” he said. The deputy CM urged citizens to promptly report any social media accounts spreading anti-national content.
Police officials said the ATS tracked down the two minors following sustained cyber monitoring. Investigators found that a Pakistan-based ISIS module had been running fake social media accounts to destabilise India and influence vulnerable youth online. The handlers allegedly used Instagram to reach out to teenagers, expose them to jihadist propaganda, and encourage anti-India activities.
The minors were reportedly added to ISIS-controlled Instagram group chats, where they were systematically radicalised and instructed to circulate extremist propaganda. Preliminary evidence also suggests that they were being motivated to help establish an ISIS-linked network within Chhattisgarh.
Officials said the detention was carried out based on strong technical evidence linking the accused to the online module. They added that further investigation is underway to determine the extent of the network and identify additional suspects involved in similar online activities.
(with inputs from agencies)
