Full Breakdown
NIA Charges Nine ISIS Supporters in Vijayawada Online Radicalisation Case
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On Friday, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a charge sheet before the NIA Special Court in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, against nine individuals alleged to be members or supporters of the proscribed terrorist organisation Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The agency says the accused conspired to radicalise vulnerable youth through social-media platforms, develop a secure communication application, and prepare explosives and weapons training with the aim of establishing a caliphate in India through violent jihad.
Background & Context
The investigation began after the Two Town police of the NTR Commissionerate registered a case in March 2026 concerning online radicalisation. Initial arrests included 11 persons, among them a minor, before the matter was transferred to the NIA for a broader probe. The agency’s inquiry links the suspects to a larger conspiracy to support ISIS activities, specifically targeting Indian youth via Instagram and other digital channels.
Key Figures Charged
- Mohammad Rehmatullah Shariff – accused ISIS supporter
- Mohammed Danish – accused ISIS supporter
- Mirza Sohail Baig – accused ISIS supporter
- Lucky Ahmad – accused ISIS supporter
- Jishan Abdul Majid – accused ISIS supporter
- Mir Ashif Ali – accused ISIS supporter
- Abdul Salaam – accused ISIS supporter
- Sharuk Khan – accused ISIS supporter
- Shaikh Faiz ur Rehman – accused ISIS supporter
All are described by the NIA as natives of different Indian states.
Timeline of Legal Actions
- March 23, 2026 – The case was registered at Vijayawada II Town police station and later taken over by the NIA.
- March 26 – A separate filing noted the case’s initial registration at the same police station under the NTR Commissionerate.
- Friday (date of filing) – The NIA submitted the charge sheet to the special court in Vijayawada.
Legal Provisions and Charges
The charge sheet cites multiple statutes:
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 – Sections 61(2) read with 3(5) and 152, covering criminal conspiracy, common intention, and acts endangering India’s sovereignty, unity and integrity.
- Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) 1967 – Sections 13(1), 38 and 39, addressing unlawful activities, membership in a terrorist organisation, and support for such groups.
- Information Technology Act 2000 – Section 66F, relating to cyber-offences.
The NIA states that the accused motivated and radicalised gullible youths, planned the manufacture of explosives, and organised weapons training. They also allegedly created and tested a secure application for clandestine communication among themselves.
Data & Statistics
Official Statements & Responses
It further notes that the group’s objective was to establish a caliphate in India, thereby threatening the nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity.
Ongoing Investigation
The agency indicates that investigations continue against remaining suspects and other potential collaborators. No further court dates or procedural milestones have been announced.
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*This article synthesises information from multiple Indian news outlets reporting on the NIA’s charge sheet filing.*