Centre Declares Shahzad Bhatti Network a Terrorist Organisation

New Delhi, September 16, 2026 The Centre has moved against the Shahzad Bhatti Network under India’s anti-terror law, with the Ministry of Home Affairs declaring the network a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah announced the decision on Wednesday, saying the action is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stated policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. The network has been accused of operating across borders to facilitate the movement of arms, explosives and narcotics. According to Amit Shah, its activities also included attempts to push young people and petty criminals towards terrorism, expanding the network’s reach beyond conventional smuggling operations. The Home Minister further alleged that the syndicate was working against India’s democratic structure and communal harmony. The network was also accused of using digital platforms to circulate hateful content, adding another dimension to the activities attributed to it. Amit Shah said the declaration of the Shahzad Bhatti Network as a terrorist organisation reflects the government’s continued approach of taking firm action against terrorism. The decision brings the network under the provisions of the UAPA and underscores the government’s stated focus on acting against organisations accused of supporting or facilitating terrorist activities.