Raipur Minors Detained by ATS for ISIS Radicalization Links

In a significant counter-terrorism development, the Chhattisgarh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has detained two underage individuals in Raipur suspected of having ties to a Pakistan-based ISIS module. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, who oversees the home department, stated that the boys were allegedly directed by ISIS handlers in Pakistan and were active on social media platforms, employing fake profiles. These minors were reportedly exposed to and influenced by extremist material, and were in the process of influencing others through platforms like Instagram. Sharma indicated that the youths possessed substantial information and were actively using the internet and social media under the guise of ISIS. This is the inaugural case of its kind in Chhattisgarh, and authorities are intensifying efforts to ascertain if more individuals are involved. Measures are being taken to enhance the ATS’s reach across the state. The public has been urged to promptly report any social media activity promoting anti-national sentiments. Investigators believe the Pakistan-based module exploited Instagram to target and radicalize Indian teenagers, promoting violent extremism and jihadist ideology.