The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched a major investigation into an alleged online radicalisation network involving Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti and suspected operatives linked to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The investigation focuses on allegations that Indian youths were being targeted through digital platforms and offered financial incentives to participate in activities intended to facilitate terrorist attacks and disrupt internal security.
The fresh case, registered on November 12, 2026, originates from an investigation initiated by the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) in April this year. The earlier investigation examined suspected Pakistani sleeper-cell activities and alleged efforts to establish contacts with individuals in India through social media platforms. The NIA has now taken up the matter to investigate the wider network, its foreign connections and the alleged recruitment activities.
According to officials, the First Information Report (FIR) names eight accused. These include Shahzad Bhatti, along with Md Hamad Barkati, Abid Jatt, Major Hamid, Major Iqbal and Major Anwar, who are alleged to be associated with the wider Pakistan-based network. Two Indian nationals, Tushar Chauhan, also known as Hijbullah Ali Khan, from Uttar Pradesh, and Sameer from Delhi, have also been named in the case. Both were arrested by the UP ATS in April during its investigation.
Investigators suspect that the network used online communication channels to approach vulnerable young people, influence their thinking and encourage their involvement in unlawful activities. The alleged operation involved spreading extremist narratives and maintaining contact between local recruits and handlers based outside India. Authorities are also examining claims that financial rewards and other incentives were offered to attract individuals into the network.
Uttar Pradesh Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Amitabh Yash had earlier stated that Bhatti, Abid Jatt and radical Pakistani YouTubers were allegedly working under ISI instructions to influence Indian youths. According to the police assessment, these activities were intended to disturb internal peace and communal harmony. Investigators are examining the extent of these alleged connections and the role played by individuals operating through digital platforms.
The development comes after the Union Government declared the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in September 2026. The government took the decision on the grounds that the network was believed to be involved in terrorism and had participated in various acts of terrorism in India.
The NIA’s investigation highlights growing concerns over the use of social media and online communication services for cross-border extremist recruitment. Digital platforms can allow individuals operating from different countries to establish contact with potential recruits, spread propaganda and coordinate activities without direct physical interaction.
As the investigation progresses, the agency is expected to examine digital evidence, communication records and the alleged links between the accused and their foreign handlers. The probe will also seek to identify other individuals who may have been involved in the suspected recruitment network.
The latest action reflects India’s continued efforts to strengthen its counter-terrorism response and prevent foreign-linked networks from exploiting digital platforms to threaten national security. The investigation remains ongoing, and the allegations against those named in the case will be subject to the legal process.
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