More than 200 operatives of the ISI-backed terrorist group Shahzad Bhatti Network were arrested ahead of Independence Day across the country, said Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday (August 17, 2026).
Mr. Earlier reporting noted: Shah said more than 200 operatives of the network had been arrested through coordinated operations across 14 states.
He said the Modi government destroyed the ISI-backed terror group Shahzad Bhatti Network ahead of Independence Day. Shah said the operation is a brilliant example of India’s zero-tolerance towards terrorism. The Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) is a Pakistan-based terror syndicate linked to grenade, IED and petrol bomb attacks and targeted killings across India, according to a government statement. “To counter SBN-linked disruptions planned around Independence Day, a coordinated multi-state operation was carried out on August 12 using a real-time intelligence-sharing system with State Police forces,” the government statement said. “Cumulatively, over 80 FIRs and 200-plus arrests have been recorded against SBN under UAPA, BNS, the Arms Act, NDPS Act and Explosive Substances Act,” it said. The statement said recoveries include IEDs and grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, confirming the network’s direct cross-border links. “Security agencies reaffirm the Government of India’s zero tolerance for cross-border terror and continued coordinated action to dismantle SBN’s networks nationwide,” it said. Earlier reporting noted: “Modi govt destroyed the ISI-backed terror group Shahzad Bhatti Network ahead of Independence Day and thwarted its plans for subversive attacks by arresting more than 200 operatives,” Shah said in a post on X. He added, “ Indian security forces ripped apart the network by launching coordinated operations across different locations in 14 states upholding a brilliant example of India’s zero-tolerance towards terrorism.”
Earlier reporting noted: ISI-backed Shahzad Bhatti group destroyed before Independence Day, terror plot foiled: Centre ISI-backed terror group Shahzad Bhatti Network was destroyed before Independence Day, with security forces thwarting its plans for subversive attacks, Union home minister Amit Shah said on Monday.
