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Gujarat ATS arrests two for terror conspiracy targeting RSS-linked politicians; remanded in custody
Gujarat ATS arrested Irfan Kalekhan Pathan and Murshid Zahid Akhtar Sheikh in connection with a plan to radicalise individuals, form a terror network, and target RSS-linked leaders. Pathan allegedly discussed weapons, explosives, and recruitment across states, while Sheikh was detained in Mumbai and later arrested; both were remanded to 11-day ATS custody. The case involves social-media networks, cross-state links, and possible arms smuggling and fundraising.
Why It Matters
The case illustrates online radicalisation, cross-state operatives, and potential plans for violence, highlighting the role of social media and inter-state cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts.
Timeline
3 Events
Local court remands both accused to 11-day ATS custody
April 21, 2026
A local court remanded both Irfan Kalekhan Pathan and Murshid Zahid Akhtar Sheikh to 11-day ATS custody. Further investigation is underway to identify other persons involved in the alleged terror plot.
Sheikh detained and arrested in the case
April 21, 2026
During further investigation, Murshid Zahid Akhtar Sheikh (21), a resident of Sakinaka in Mumbai, came to light. A team of Gujarat ATS, with assistance from Maharashtra Police, detained Sheikh and brought him for questioning. Sheikh's mobile phone contained objectionable material and chats indicating his active involvement in the conspiracy along with Pathan. Sheikh was subsequently arrested in the case.
Pathan arrested; FIR registered; plans to wage war and establish Ghazwa-e-Hind
April 21, 2026
Following specific inputs, Gujarat ATS brought Irfan Kalekhan Pathan (22), a resident of Siddhpur in Patan district, for questioning. His mobile showed contact with people linked to ISIS and other radical individuals via WhatsApp and Instagram. Preliminary probe suggested Pathan was actively spreading jihadist propaganda and attempting to build a network of like-minded radicals across the country. Pathan and associates allegedly hatched a conspiracy to wage war against the Government of India and create a terror network to establish Ghazwa-e-Hind, planning to recruit mujahideens from different states, train them in handling weapons and manufacturing explosives (including RDX bombs), and organise camps. Investigators found discussions about targeting political leaders linked to RSS and kafirs, and plans to impose Sharia as part of the broader conspiracy. Pathan was allegedly in touch with terror organisations to facilitate arms smuggling from Pakistan and Afghanistan and raise funds. An FIR under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 61 and 148 was registered and Pathan was arrested.