Home Ministry declares Shahzad Bhatti Network as terrorist organisation under UAPA

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has declared the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) a terrorist organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), alleging the group's involvement in smuggling arms, explosives, and narcotics across borders, as well as efforts to radicalize vulnerable individuals and petty criminals.

The MHA's announcement, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "zero tolerance" policy towards terrorism, was made in response to the group's alleged activities. The SBN is accused of using terrorist methods to undermine India's democratic system, communal harmony, and internal security. Additionally, the network is suspected of spreading divisive digital content to target India's social fabric.

The designation under the UAPA provides the government with enhanced legal powers to combat the organization and its alleged activities. With this move, the government aims to tackle the serious threat posed by the SBN, which combines cross-border trafficking, radicalization, and terror-related activities.