Mumbai: An accused in an ISIS-linked case has alleged that two individuals posing as Indian Army personnel approached him with a proposal to “wipe out” his ongoing trial if he joined a covert operation. The disclosure has prompted a court in Mumbai to seek formal responses from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and local police.
Areeb Majeed, arrested in 2014 under anti-terror laws, filed an application stating that he does not seek any extrajudicial favours or settlements, but desires his trial to be adjudicated strictly on legal grounds.
Taking note of the plea on Wednesday, February 25, Special NIA Court Judge Chakor Baviskar described the incident as “serious, involving suspected impersonation, attempted inducement, and interference with the fair administration of justice.” The court issued notices to the Bazar Peth police in Kalyan (Thane district) and the NIA, directing them to submit their responses. The matter has been adjourned to March 4.
According to Majeed’s application, the events occurred on February 21, 2026. Majeed, who was granted bail by the High Court in 2021, was at his college when his wife informed him that an unidentified man and woman had arrived at their Kalyan residence and insisted on waiting for him.
The woman, claiming affiliation with the Indian Army, told Majeed over the phone that she was accompanied by a senior Colonel-rank officer from New Delhi. She allegedly requested his “help” in a covert operation, promising in return that his pending trial would be “wiped out,” the application stated.
Suspecting an attempt to prejudice his trial or entrap him in further incriminating communications, Majeed refused them entry and immediately contacted the 112 emergency helpline, also alerting the NIA control room. The two individuals were subsequently taken into custody by the Bazar Peth police for questioning.
The NIA’s case alleges that Majeed had travelled to Syria to join the terrorist group ISIS and returned to India to carry out terror activities. He was arrested in November 2014 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Indian Penal Code provisions, including charges of waging war against the nation.
With PTI inputs