Bengaluru Court Delivers Verdict in Shivamogga Terror Case
A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Bengaluru has sentenced two individuals to six years of rigorous imprisonment for their involvement in the Shivamogga terror module case. The verdict was delivered on Friday, November 22, 2025, marking a significant development in the counter-terrorism operation.
Court's Sentencing Details and Legal Provisions
The court ruled that the six-year prison sentences for both convicts will run concurrently. This means they will serve their punishment simultaneously rather than consecutively. Additionally, the judicial authority allowed the time already spent in custody during the trial to be set off against their total imprisonment period.
This set-off provision falls under Section 428 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), which mandates that the period of detention undergone by an accused during investigation, inquiry, or trial should be credited toward the sentence of imprisonment imposed on them. This legal provision ensures that individuals receive credit for time already served while awaiting trial.
Background of the Shivamogga Terror Module
The case revolves around a terror module discovered in Shivamogga, a city in Karnataka that has been on the radar of security agencies. The National Investigation Agency, India's premier counter-terrorism investigative body, had been investigating this module for its alleged involvement in activities threatening national security.
While specific details about the nature of their crimes weren't elaborated in the initial report, the involvement of the NIA indicates the serious nature of the charges. Terror modules typically involve groups or networks planning and executing activities that threaten public safety and national security.
Significance of the Judgment
This sentencing represents another successful operation by India's counter-terrorism agencies in dismantling networks that pose threats to internal security. The judgment comes as part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism at the grassroots level, particularly in regions where such modules have been active.
The court's decision to apply Section 428 of CrPC demonstrates the judiciary's commitment to ensuring legal procedures are followed while delivering justice. This balanced approach maintains the severity of punishment for terrorism-related offenses while upholding the legal rights of the accused.
The case highlights the continued vigilance of Indian security agencies in identifying and neutralizing potential threats before they can materialize into larger security challenges. The sentencing serves as both punishment for the convicted individuals and a deterrent to others who might contemplate similar activities.
