Govt Declares Shahzad Bhatti Network Terrorist Organisation
MHA lists SBN under UAPA, citing cross-border smuggling, radicalisation and terror-related activities
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 16th Sept: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has declared the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA), placing the group in the First Schedule of the law.
The move was announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who said the action was in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government’s stated policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. The MHA issued a notification on September 16 under Section 35(1)(a) of the UAPA, inserting SBN as serial number 46 in the First Schedule.
According to the notification, the Centre believes the network is involved in efforts to recruit and radicalise young people and local criminals, including for the smuggling of arms, explosives and narcotics across the border.
The government notification also says the network has been involved in activities that pose a threat to India’s democratic system, communal harmony and internal security. It further alleges that SBN used digital communication platforms to disseminate provocative content and promote terrorism.
The notification refers to criminal cases registered against alleged members of the network across different jurisdictions. These cases invoke provisions of several laws, including the UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Arms Act, Explosive Substances Act, Explosives Act and Information Technology Act.
The Centre also said SBN was involved in radicalising individuals through inducements, motivating them for anti-national activities and mobilising resources in association with other banned organisations and designated entities.
The designation comes after a major multi-state security operation against the network ahead of Independence Day. According to an earlier PIB release, security agencies conducted coordinated operations across 14 states on August 12, resulting in 253 detentions, more than 80 FIRs and over 200 arrests linked to SBN.
Authorities had reported recoveries including IEDs, grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, firearms, ammunition and surveillance equipment during the crackdown.
With its inclusion in the First Schedule, the Shahzad Bhatti Network is now formally designated as a terrorist organisation under Indian law, bringing it within the statutory framework applicable to organisations listed under the UAPA.
