Two Held In Noida For Alleged ISI-Backed Terror Conspiracy Via Instagram

In a significant counter-terrorism operation, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested two men in Noida for allegedly conspiring with Pakistani handlers, including operatives linked to the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), to carry out disruptive activities in India.

The accused have been identified as Tushar Chauhan from Meerut and Sameer Khan from Delhi. According to ADGP (Law and Order) Amitabh Yash , the arrests followed specific intelligence inputs about sleeper cells being cultivated through social media platforms like Instagram .

Investigators revealed that the accused were in direct contact with Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti and associate Abid Jatt , who, along with certain “ radical YouTubers ”, were allegedly acting on ISI instructions to recruit and radicalise Indian youth . These operatives reportedly used online platforms to lure recruits with financial incentives and propaganda aimed at disturbing communal harmony.

The ATS probe found that Chauhan initially connected with the handlers via Instagram before shifting to encrypted voice and video communication . To gain their trust, he created multiple accounts and maintained regular contact. During interrogation, Chauhan allegedly disclosed he had been instructed to conduct reconnaissance of sensitive locations and was offered ₹50,000 in advance and ₹2.5 lakh upon executing tasks, including grenade attacks on specific targets . He was also promised assistance to travel to Pakistan via Dubai.

Sameer Khan, meanwhile, was allegedly tasked with recruitment and propaganda activities , including writing slogans such as “ Tehreek-e-Taliban Hindustan ” in public places.

Acting on these findings, ATS teams tracked digital communications and movements before arresting the duo in Noida. A pistol, five cartridges, and a knife were recovered from their possession.

A case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Arms Act, and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Officials said further investigation is underway to uncover the wider network and sleeper cells operating online .