Union Home Ministry on Wednesday declared the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

The ministry said the network was involved in the alleged cross-border smuggling of arms, explosives and narcotics. It also accused the group of trying to push young people and petty criminals towards terrorism.

According to the Home Ministry, the network also targeted India’s democratic system and communal harmony through hateful digital content.

Alleged Recruitment of Young People Through Social Media

Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad officials earlier identified around 30 young men in Mumbai, all below the age of 20, who allegedly came into contact with Pakistan-based gangster Shehzad Bhatti through Instagram.

Investigators said the recruitment process allegedly followed a task-based model similar to levels in an online game. Young people were first given simple assignments to assess whether they would follow instructions.

Initial tasks reportedly included taking photographs or recording short videos of public places, government buildings and police stations. These activities were allegedly presented as routine tasks to avoid suspicion.

Security Agencies Track Reconnaissance Tasks

Officials said none of the 30 identified youths in Mumbai completed the initial instructions. One alleged assignment involved photographing a police station in Haryana, but the youth did not visit the location or carry out the task.

Another case allegedly involved more serious reconnaissance activity. Krishna Mishra, 20, was arrested by the Uttar Pradesh ATS along with Daniyal Ashraf over alleged links with Pakistan-based handlers.

Officials said Mishra allegedly photographed Narpoli Police Station in Bhiwandi and recorded an 18-second video of a nearby bridge. Investigators said the material was allegedly shared with handlers in Pakistan.

Digital Evidence Recovered

Digital material was reportedly recovered from the phones of the accused. Investigators said it included encrypted chats, video calls, reconnaissance footage and records of financial transactions.

Security agencies are examining the evidence to determine the extent of the alleged network and its links with Pakistan-based handlers.

Read more: Amit Shah in Kolkata to Select BJP Legislative Leader in West Bengal

Action Under UAPA

The Home Ministry's decision places the Shahzad Bhatti Network under India's legal framework for dealing with organisations linked to terrorist activities.

The ministry also alleged that the network used cross-border channels for weapons, explosives and narcotics and attempted to influence young people towards terrorism.

Investigations into the alleged recruitment network, digital communications and financial links are continuing.