The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Thursday arrested two 20-year-old suspects in an alleged terror plot involving grenade attacks and targeted killings in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. The plot was being orchestrated by Pakistan-based gangsters linked to the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
Arrests and Identities
The accused have been identified as Tushar Chauhan, also known as Hizbullah Ali Khan, a resident of Baghpat currently staying in Meerut, and Sameer Khan of Delhi. According to ATS officials, the arrests have exposed a chilling recruitment pattern where Indian youths were radicalized and incentivized through social media to carry out violent acts.
Disclosures and Conspiracy
During sustained interrogation, Tushar made key disclosures pointing to a well-structured conspiracy. He revealed that he had been assigned the task of carrying out grenade attacks at selected locations in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, as well as killing specific individuals identified by his handlers. ATS sources said the targets included non-religious places, including some political organizations.
In return, Tushar was promised ₹50,000 as advance payment and ₹2.5 lakh after successfully carrying out the attacks. He was also assured of logistical support for his escape, including assistance in obtaining a passport and facilitating his relocation to Pakistan via Dubai after completing the mission.
Radicalization and Communication
ATS sources said Tushar came in contact with Pakistan-based gangsters Shahzad Bhatti and Abid Jat through Instagram, where he was gradually radicalized. Communication later shifted to encrypted channels, including voice and video calls. To gain their trust, he even created social media profiles in the name of Shahzad Bhatti. Through these channels, he received instructions, ideological content, and operational guidance.
Tushar further disclosed that alleged ISI-linked operatives — identified as 'Major Hameed', 'Major Iqbal', and 'Major Anwar' — were expected to assign targets.
Role of Sameer Khan
Sameer Khan was also in touch with the handlers via encrypted platforms and was tasked with propaganda activities, including writing 'TTH' (Tehrik-e-Taliban Hindustan) slogans, and recruiting youths.
Preparations and Recoveries
Both accused had reportedly begun reconnaissance of potential targets and were preparing to execute the planned attacks. The ATS recovered a .32 bore pistol with five live cartridges, a knife, and two mobile phones containing incriminating data from the accused. A case has been registered under relevant provisions of the BNS, Arms Act, and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Ongoing Investigation
The ATS is set to seek police custody of the accused to further unravel the network, identify additional operatives, and trace financial and digital links.
