New Delhi, April 13 (NationPress) Security agencies in India are intensively observing indications of a potential revival of the Base Movement in South India, a faction associated with Al-Qaeda. This group was notably active between 2015–16, executing low-intensity explosions primarily aimed at the judiciary and police.

An official reported that numerous members of this faction are still operational online and are currently attempting to reorganize, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Recent intelligence findings suggest that individuals who had previously avoided capture have resumed their communications, initially concentrating on establishing an online propaganda framework aimed against the Indian State.

“They are trying to gain momentum and broaden their support,” the official stated.

Significantly, there has been no immediate call for on-ground operations. The members seem to be functioning mainly online, prioritizing messaging and outreach efforts. Officials attribute this strategy to two factors: the necessity to evade detection and a deliberate focus on propaganda and radicalization at this point.

An official from the Intelligence Bureau noted that the timing of this renewed engagement is critical, coinciding with signals that Al-Ummah is looking to intensify its activities in South India.

This organization was behind the 1998 Coimbatore serial blasts, which targeted a rally of senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader L. K. Advani.

According to security officials, the revival of Al-Ummah is being spearheaded by Farhatullah Ghauri, who is believed to be operating from Pakistan. Their current campaign revolves around the slogan, “let us pledge to rebuild the Babri Masjid.”

Investigations by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in the past have confirmed connections between Al-Ummah and the Base Movement, as both groups exhibit similar operational characteristics.

While Al-Ummah's messaging addresses communal concerns, particularly regarding the Babri Masjid, the Base Movement appears to be revisiting its earlier focus on institutions like the judiciary and police, along with issues tied to Afzal Guru, Abdul Nassr Madani, and Kashmiri Muslims.

The Base Movement aims to engage youth in these matters and push them towards street protests that could escalate into violence. Officials indicate that the current emphasis is less on weaponized attacks and more on ongoing propaganda designed to mobilize young individuals.

Another official suggested that, based on current intelligence, Al-Ummah and the Base Movement are expected to operate independently this time.

Although their agendas diverge, officials speculate that the Base Movement's strategy could be more disruptive. “It seems aimed at inciting unrest through youth mobilization, drawing inspiration from recent occurrences in countries like Bangladesh and Nepal,” the official elaborated.

However, it is noted that the Base Movement is not pursuing a nationwide initiative at this point. Its immediate focus is on the southern region, particularly Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

The Base Movement is likely to target college students as part of its outreach strategy. Officials report that multiple online groups are being established where members can exchange content and attract young individuals. Students, often motivated by strong opinions on public matters, may be more vulnerable to this kind of messaging. This explains the group's intent to connect with campuses and students.