NIA Files Supplementary Chargesheet in Tamil Nadu ISIS Radicalization Case

New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a supplementary chargesheet against seven individuals and a registered society in connection with ISIS-inspired radicalization in Tamil Nadu. The case dates back to October 2022, following the Coimbatore car-bomb explosion, which prompted the central agency to intensify its investigation.

The Case Overview:
The investigation revealed that a network was using free online Arabic classes as a cover to radicalize youth for terrorist activities. The supplementary chargesheet names seven accused—Mohammed Hussain, Irshath, Ahmed Ali, Abu Hanifa, Jawahar Sadiq, Sheikh Dawood, and Raja Mohammed—who are students of Jameel Basha, principal of Madras Arabic College, and also targets the Kovai Arabic Educational Association (KAEA).

The accused are charged under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UA(P) Act). Earlier, the NIA had filed a chargesheet against four individuals, including Principal Jameel Basha, connected to the same network.

Details of the Radicalization Network:
Investigations revealed that the ISIS-inspired group spread extremist teachings via Zoom, WhatsApp, and Telegram platforms under the guise of Arabic classes. Among the 18 accused in the Coimbatore blast, 14 were students of KAEA. The supplementary chargesheet adds additional charges against two of the previously named accused, Mohammed Hussain and Irshath, for further involvement in radical activities.

NIA’s Actions:
The NIA’s Chennai branch registered the case in August 2023. Its investigation uncovered that vulnerable youth were being groomed for terrorist activities, with online Arabic classes used as a tool for ideological indoctrination. The agency continues its probe to dismantle this radical network.

Significance:
This case underscores the ongoing challenge of online radicalization and the need for vigilance against extremist propaganda disguised as educational initiatives. The NIA’s proactive measures aim to prevent similar networks from exploiting young minds under the pretext of language education.