30 Mumbai youngsters on ATS radar for suspected radical links
- 30 individuals in Mumbai are being monitored by the Maharashtra ATS for suspected radicalisation.
- Some of the youngsters are believed to have been in contact with foreign handlers via encrypted platforms.
- ATS has stepped up surveillance and is coordinating with central agencies to prevent any potential threat.
- Officials are focusing on deradicalisation efforts alongside monitoring.
The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has placed at least 30 youngsters from Mumbai under its radar, suspecting them of having links to radical elements. Sources in the security establishment confirmed that these individuals are being monitored for their online activities and potential connections with handlers based outside the country.
Encrypted platforms under scrutiny
According to ATS officials, many of those under watch were found to be active on encrypted messaging apps and social media platforms. Investigators believe some of them were in touch with foreign operatives who have been pushing extremist ideologies.
“We have identified a pattern. Several young men and women were consuming content that glorifies violence and promotes radical beliefs,” a senior officer told Mumbai Mirror. The identities of the suspects have not been disclosed, but the list includes students and young professionals from different parts of the city.
Surveillance and coordination
The ATS has heightened physical and digital surveillance on these individuals. Teams have been deployed to track their movements and communication. The agency is also working closely with the Intelligence Bureau and the National Investigation Agency to share inputs and assess the level of threat.
Officials said that while no immediate plan for an attack has been detected, the vigilance is preventive. “We are not taking any chances. The idea is to nip any radicalisation in the bud,” the officer added. Some of the suspects have been questioned and their devices examined.
Focus on deradicalisation
Besides monitoring, the ATS is also looking at counselling and deradicalisation programmes. Police sources indicated that for first-time offenders or those who appear to be at an early stage of radicalisation, a rehabilitation approach is being considered.
“Not everyone who consumes extremist content becomes a terrorist. We are trying to engage with families and community leaders to bring these youngsters back,” another official said. The agency has held meetings with local NGOs and religious figures to help with the outreach.
The development comes amid a broader crackdown on radical networks across the country. In recent months, central agencies have arrested several suspects from Maharashtra linked to online hate speech and terror funding.
So far, no arrests have been made in this specific case. The ATS continues to gather evidence and monitor the 30 individuals for any escalation in behaviour.
What happens next depends on how the investigation unfolds. If sufficient evidence of criminal intent emerges, arrests could follow. Otherwise, the focus may shift to long-term monitoring and deradicalisation.