Two underage individuals in Raipur have been taken into custody by the Chhattisgarh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) due to suspected links with the Pakistan-based ISIS terror network. According to Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, the detained boys were reportedly directed by ISIS modules in Pakistan and were utilizing social media platforms with fabricated identities. “They were themselves influenced by extremist content, and were attempting to influence others on Instagram,” Sharma noted, adding that the minors possessed significant online access and were actively engaged under the ISIS banner. This is the inaugural case of its kind reported in the state, prompting an expansion of investigation and surveillance. Charges have been filed against the minors under the UAPA. The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted plans to bolster the ATS, particularly in urban centers, to proactively identify and counter radicalization efforts. He also appealed to the public for vigilance and immediate reporting of any anti-national social media activities.
