ISI-Backed Network Busted, dismantled Ahead of Independence Day - Amit Shah

New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has claimed that Indian security agencies have dismantled an ISI-backed terror network allegedly led by Shahzad Bhatti, arresting more than 200 operatives in coordinated operations across 14 states.

In a post on X, Shah said the operations were conducted ahead of Independence Day and had foiled plans for “subversive attacks” across the country. He described the action as an example of the government’s “zero tolerance” policy towards terrorism.

According to Shah, security forces recovered a substantial cache of alleged terror-related material, including IEDs, grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols, live ammunition and CCTV cameras allegedly used for surveillance and espionage.

The Home Minister further claimed that the network had received support from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and was involved in several terrorist activities.

The alleged crackdown involved simultaneous operations at multiple locations, with agencies coordinating across state boundaries to identify and apprehend members of the network.

Authorities are expected to investigate the arrested suspects to establish the network’s organisational structure, foreign links, financing channels and intended targets.

The claims represent a significant counter-terrorism operation if independently established, although details regarding individual arrests, charges and recoveries are expected to emerge through ongoing investigations and official case proceedings.