Government declares Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network a terrorist organisation
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The government has declared Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday.
Shah said the action was taken in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. He alleged that the group was involved in smuggling arms, explosives and narcotics across the border, radicalising youths and criminals, and spreading hateful digital content.
A gazette notification issued by the Union Home Ministry invoked Section 35(1)(a) of the UAPA to add SBN to the First Schedule of the Act, which lists organisations designated as terrorist groups. SBN is the 46th organisation on the list.
The notification said the Centre had determined that SBN was involved in terrorism and had participated in various acts of terrorism in India. It alleged that the group targeted India’s democratic system, communal harmony and internal security by recruiting young people and local criminals for cross-border smuggling and terrorist activities.
The government also alleged that SBN radicalised youths through inducements, encouraged anti-national activities and mobilised resources in coordination with other banned organisations and designated entities.
The notification cited criminal cases against alleged SBN members under the UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Arms Act, Explosives Act, Information Technology Act and Prevention of Defacement of Property Act.
It further alleged that the network promoted terrorism through violent activities aimed at disrupting public order and used digital communication platforms to circulate provocative messages, posing a threat to the integrity of the country.