NIA Raids Uncover Radicalization Centers in Tamil Nadu and Telangana
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has recently conducted coordinated raids in Tamil Nadu and Telangana, leading to the discovery of several radicalization centers. These centers, which masqueraded as Islamic regional study centers offering Arabic classes, were found to be involved in the indoctrination of susceptible youth.
According to the NIA, these radicalization activities were predominantly carried out online through platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. The agency revealed that the raids resulted in the seizure of currencies amounting to Rs 60 lakh and US$18,200, as well as incriminating books in Arabic and vernacular languages. The NIA is currently examining the seized mobile phones, laptops, and hard disks for further evidence.
The NIA believes that the blast incident in Coimbatore in October last year was a direct consequence of these radicalization sessions. The agency stated that the individuals responsible for the blast were inspired by ISIS ideology and aimed to propagate the Khilafat agenda, which is in direct conflict with India’s constitutionally-established principles of secularism and democracy. They conspired to recruit and radicalize young people to involve them in terrorist activities.
Sources disclosed that Jamesha Mubeen, who drove a car laden with explosives and died in the Coimbatore blast, had previously attended the Kovai Arabic College in Kuniyamuthur. In fact, approximately 25 individuals who were Mubeen’s college mates are now under scrutiny.
Based on the evidence gathered from the Arabic college in Coimbatore, the NIA’s Chennai unit recently registered a case against radicalization and recruitment for ISIS. Consequently, the simultaneous searches were conducted in 22 places in Coimbatore, three places in Chennai, one place in Tenkasi, and five places in Hyderabad.
Notably, the residence of DMK councillor M Mubaseera of the 82nd ward of Coimbatore Corporation was also subject to these searches. In Chennai, the searches encompassed Thiru Vi Ka Nagar, Ayanavaram, and Neelankarai.
The NIA’s continued efforts to dismantle these radicalization centers and disrupt their activities remain of utmost importance. By uncovering these networks and prosecuting those responsible, security forces aim to safeguard the youth from falling prey to extremist ideologies and ensure the security and stability of the region.
