Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has widened its investigation into the arrest of a 19-year-old BDS student, uncovering his suspected links with individuals across multiple states, including Delhi, Bihar, Rajasthan and Punjab. Investigators said they have initiated coordination with central agencies and counterparts in these states to dismantle the wider network.The BDS student, a resident of UP’s Saharanpur, was arrested in Moradabad on March 16 for allegedly operating an ISIS-linked online radicalisation and recruitment module. ATS officials revealed that he was actively radicalising minors through social media platforms and encrypted applications. Sleuths said the accused used platforms like Instagram, Session and Discord to identify and target vulnerable teens.The accused allegedly adopted a systematic indoctrination strategy—initially sharing general religious content before gradually introducing extremist propaganda, distorted interpretations and pro-ISIS material. ATS sources said they found his suspected links with individuals across multiple states based on analysis of his gadgets. “They exchanged ISIS literature and videos to radicalise like-minded people,” an ATS source said. ATS officials said they will soon move court to seek the student’s remand.According to officials, the accused came under the influence of ISIS ideology nearly three years ago and subsequently established contact with handlers based in Pakistan and other foreign locations. He apparently used VPNs and multiple anonymous accounts to evade detection and operated several closed groups to circulate radical content. One such platform, allegedly run by him under the name “Al Ittihad Media Foundation”, was used to expand outreach and recruit new members. Sources said some recruits were also encouraged towards deeper ideological commitment, with discussions around violent jihad and even suicidal fedayeen-style attacks.A case has been registered under relevant sections of BNS and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act at ATS police station in Lucknow.
