Shahzad Bhatti, a Pakistani accused of running a terrorist network, used social media
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Terrorism & insurgency (J&K, North-East)· Prelims + Mains·
Digital radicalization and cross-border terrorism: a GS3 Internal Security and Cyber Security case study.
Why in news
The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad intercepted two men in Gujarat who were being recruited into a terrorist network by a Pakistani accused, Shahzad Bhatti, via Instagram.
Background
Shahzad Bhatti, a Pakistani national, allegedly used Instagram to lure young Indians by posing as an influencer or offering luxury. The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad intercepted the suspects before they received specific tasks.
Facts for Prelims
- FactOver 40 modules linked to Shahzad Bhatti were dismantled across India.
- FactMore than 100 FIRs have been registered and 350 arrests made in connection with Bhatti's network.
- BodyGujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad: The state-level unit responsible for intercepting the suspects.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the terrorist network linked to Shahzad Bhatti, consider the following statements:
- More than 500 arrests have been made in connection with Bhatti's network.
- The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad intercepted the suspects before they received specific tasks.
- The suspects were recruited into the network using the Instagram platform.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)2 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (d) 2 and 3 only — Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: More than 350 arrests were made.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the challenges posed by social media platforms in radicalization and the role of state security agencies in countering cross-border digital terrorism.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Digital radicalization: Exploitation of influencer culture to lure youth into extremist ideologies
- Jurisdictional hurdles: Challenges in tracking and neutralizing cross-border digital terror modules
- Intelligence coordination: Need for real-time data sharing between state ATS and central agencies
Keywords: radicalization · cross-border terrorism · digital footprint · counter-terrorism · social media monitoring
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.