New Delhi: The Centre has declared the Pakistan based Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, citing its alleged involvement in cross border smuggling, recruitment and activities linked to terrorism.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the decision on Wednesday, saying the action was in line with the government’s stated policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism.
A gazette notification issued by the Union Home Ministry invoked Section 35(1)(a) of the UAPA to add the Shahzad Bhatti Network to the First Schedule of the legislation. The schedule contains organisations formally designated as terrorist organisations under Indian law.
According to the notification, the government considers SBN to have been involved in terrorist activities in India and to pose a threat to the country’s internal security. The network has been accused of facilitating the movement of arms, explosives and narcotics across the border.
The notification also alleged that the organisation attempts to radicalise young people and local criminals by offering incentives and encouraging them to participate in activities described as anti national. It further alleged that SBN works with other banned organisations and designated entities to mobilise resources.
Authorities have also cited the alleged use of digital communication platforms by the network to circulate provocative and hateful material and promote activities that could disrupt public order and communal harmony.
The government notification referred to criminal cases allegedly involving members associated with the network under several laws, including the UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Arms Act, Explosives Act, Information Technology Act and Prevention of Defacement of Property Act.
With its addition to the First Schedule, SBN becomes the 46th organisation listed as a terrorist organisation under the UAPA.
The Centre said the designation was based on its assessment that the network’s alleged activities threaten India’s democratic system, communal harmony, territorial integrity and internal security.
