Could a Suspected Terrorist in Bengaluru Jail Be Linked to the Delhi Blasts?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- R. Ashoka claims a link between a suspected terrorist's actions in jail and a major terror incident.
- The NIA is urged to investigate for national security.
- Concerns are raised about mobile phone usage by inmates.
- Political accountability is called for, particularly towards the Congress party.
- Public confidence in security measures needs restoration.
Bengaluru, Nov 11 (NationPress) R. Ashoka, the Leader of the Opposition in Karnataka and a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stated on Tuesday that a suspected ISIS terrorist utilizing a mobile phone in Bengaluru's jail might have connections to the recent Delhi blasts. He emphasized that a more thorough investigation could uncover additional details related to this terrorism case.
While addressing reporters in Bengaluru, Ashoka remarked, "There are indications that the occurrence in New Delhi was a terrorist event. Concurrently, a terrorist employing a mobile device in Bengaluru Central Jail has come to our attention. A more extensive probe could bring forth further revelations. Given that this involves national security, it is imperative that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) takes charge of the investigation."
The investigation into the suspected ISIS terrorist, Zuhab Manna, also known as Zuhab Hameed Shakeel Manna, surfaced recently following the release of a related video.
The NIA is coordinating with the Karnataka government on this issue.
Zuhab Manna was captured in Dubai in 2020 and extradited to India in 2023.
The recently leaked video shows Zuhab Manna casually using a mobile phone while discussing passwords.
In the footage, the ISIS operative is heard stating, "If the password is available, we will get caught."
Ashoka has called for the investigation into the case involving the terrorist's use of a mobile phone within Parappana Agrahara Central Jail to be transferred to the NIA.
The Opposition leader further asserted, "These days, even well-educated Muslims, including those in the medical field, are turning into terrorists. Consequently, the Congress party must approach this issue with more caution. Such occurrences arise because the Congress compromises for power. The negligence of the Congress-led government allowed terrorists to use mobile phones in Parappana Agrahara. Congress leaders ought to acknowledge this failure and resign."
"This is not the era of Manmohan Singh," he added.
"Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, terrorists face no leniency — this is known worldwide. The Central government will take stringent action regarding this incident. During the Congress regime, Maoist activities surged, but Union Home Minister Amit Shah has nearly eradicated them. Similarly, terrorism will also be addressed effectively."
Opposition leader Ashoka stated, "It is insufficient for the state government to merely issue circulars. The Home Minister and police should actively visit and inspect public areas to restore public confidence. Robust security measures must be implemented wherever feasible. Trust in the Congress party is dwindling. Everyone is aware of Congress's affinity for Pakistan."
"In Karnataka, Congress is on life support. No one is aware of who the real Chief Minister is — even the MLAs are perplexed. The Congress high command is grappling with a crisis. While the BJP is gearing up for the Zilla Panchayat elections, it appears that Assembly elections may occur sooner than anticipated. The timeline for these elections remains uncertain. Both Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah are behaving like rebels. There is no question of anyone defecting from the BJP. We are prepared and eager for the elections," he concluded.