ISIS Network Busted for the First Time in Chhattisgarh; ATS Detains Two Minors Radicalised on Instagram

Raipur: In a major counter-terror breakthrough, the Chhattisgarh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has detained two minors for their alleged links with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). This is the first-ever ISIS-linked case uncovered in the state.

Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma confirmed that the boys were acting under the instructions of a Pakistan-based ISIS module, operating through fake IDs on social media platforms. The arrests were made after intense cyber surveillance and evidence collection.

Influencing Others Through Instagram

Sharma, who also holds the Home portfolio, said the detained minors were already radicalised through extremist online content. They were attempting to influence other young users on Instagram by circulating ISIS-aligned propaganda.

“These boys had access to extensive extremist material and were using the internet widely in the name of ISIS,” he said.

First Case Under UAPA in Chhattisgarh

Both minors have been booked under relevant provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA). Officials said this is the first time such a case has been registered in Chhattisgarh.

Sharma added that efforts are underway to identify more individuals who may have been targeted or radicalised. He has also requested the Chief Minister to expand ATS units across Raipur and other major cities to strengthen counter-terror operations.

Pakistani Handlers Used Fake IDs

ATS officials revealed that a Pakistan-controlled ISIS handler was using fake Instagram accounts to target Indian teenagers. The handler added the minors to a secret group chat where they were systematically radicalised.

They were then encouraged to share ISIS propaganda, violent extremist posts and anti-India content online to widen the terror network.

Attempt to Set Up an ISIS Module in Chhattisgarh

According to investigators, the minors were being motivated to establish a local ISIS module in the state. Continuous cyber monitoring by ATS and other agencies helped detect suspicious activities early, leading to their detention.

Technical evidence played a key role in confirming the involvement of the Pakistan-based handler.

Deputy CM Appeals for Vigilance

Sharma urged citizens to immediately report any social media accounts spreading anti-national or extremist content. He assured that strict action would continue against anyone promoting radical ideologies.