Maharashtra ATS Intensifies Crackdown on Shahzad Bhatti Network, 16 Handlers Under Scanner

The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has intensified its crackdown on the network linked to Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti, following the Centre’s decision to designate the network as a terrorist organisation. Intelligence inputs suggest that around 16 handlers associated with the network are under the agencies’ scanner.

The individuals reportedly linked to the network include Amal Gujjar, Abad Jat, Farooq Khokhar, Jaffar Supari, Shani Tiger, Rana Hunain, Hassan Gujjar, Sohail Ahmed alias Sohail Baloch, Sardar Zorasingh alias Dogar, Yawar Khan, Hammad Menon, Sohail Chaudhary, Sheikh Salman, Sarfaraz Dogar, Abu Musa, Nomi Khan and Munna Zingada.

According to intelligence inputs, the handlers are allegedly attempting to create unrest in India, with some members believed to be operating within the country. Investigators suspect that young people are being recruited through online interactions and assigned seemingly minor tasks, including recording videos of specific locations, putting up posters promoting terror activities and sharing information such as ministers’ contact details.

In return, they are allegedly promised money, weapons or opportunities to travel abroad. Authorities are monitoring such activities, and individuals found to be involved could face legal action, including under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), depending on the evidence and nature of their alleged involvement.

The Shahzad Bhatti network and its handlers reportedly face more than 100 cases across Delhi, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Telangana, Maharashtra and Punjab. Punjab accounts for 25 cases, including 20 registered under the UAPA, according to the information available.

The Maharashtra ATS has urged citizens to remain cautious while engaging with unknown or suspicious people on social media. Parents have also been advised to monitor their children’s online activities and watch for sudden behavioural changes. The agency warned against offers of easy money and appealed to people not to circulate rumours that could disturb communal harmony or public order.

In September, the Union government declared the Shahzad Bhatti Network a terrorist organisation under the UAPA. The Union Home Ministry said the network was involved in the cross-border smuggling of arms, explosives and narcotics, and allegedly radicalised young people and petty criminals to draw them into terrorist activities. It also accused the network of disseminating hateful digital content targeting India’s democratic institutions and communal harmony.