Is There a Link Between Social Media and Terrorism in Andhra Pradesh?
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Synopsis
A shocking arrest in Andhra Pradesh reveals the dark side of social media as a 42-year-old man, linked to Pakistan-backed groups, is detained for circulating jihadi propaganda. This incident raises concerns about the influence of extremist ideologies on local youth and the alarming misuse of online platforms.
Key Takeaways
- Man arrested for links to Pakistan-backed social media groups.
- Charges include promoting enmity and unlawful activities.
- Evidence includes seized mobile phone and written messages.
- Incident underscores the threat of social media misuse.
- Counter-intelligence played a key role in the arrest.
Amaravati, Aug 17 (NationPress) A 42-year-old individual was apprehended in Andhra Pradesh’s Sri Sathya Sai district for his active involvement with social media groups linked to Pakistan, disseminating jihadi propaganda, as reported by the police on Sunday.
Kotwal Noor Mohammad was taken into custody in Dharmavaram town on Saturday. Superintendent of Police (SP) V. Ratna confirmed the arrest during a press briefing on Sunday.
A case has been registered under the stringent provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The SP stated that the accused has been charged with fostering enmity between various groups and engaging in activities detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of India.
According to the SP, he was identified as a member of six WhatsApp groups associated with banned organizations and was actively participating in 30 other social media groups linked to Pakistan.
Authorities also detained another individual who was in contact with Noor Mohammad, and investigations are currently underway.
Noor Mohammad was brought before a magistrate, who remanded him to judicial custody, sending him to Kadapa Jail. He had been working at a local hotel, preparing chicken biryani, and had resided in Dharmavaram for the past 15 years.
Initially suspected of being a passive member, further investigations revealed that he was an active contributor in discussions aimed at glorifying extremist ideologies.
The police confiscated the accused’s mobile phone along with a notebook in which he reportedly recorded messages and details from various WhatsApp groups.
The SP mentioned that the seized mobile is being analyzed by forensic experts to trace his “digital footprint” and to outline his network. She did not dismiss the possibility that the accused might have acted as a recruiter or sympathizer beyond the Sri Sathya Sai district.
The arrest was made based on information from counter-intelligence sources. Further questioning unveiled that he was willing to undergo training with terrorist factions.
The SP emphasized that this incident highlights the misuse of social media platforms by terrorist organizations to adversely influence the youth and impressionable individuals in the local community.
Point of View
We must advocate for a balanced approach that addresses the misuse of social media while promoting positive community engagement. It is crucial to stay vigilant in safeguarding our youth from extremist ideologies.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the man's arrest?
The man was arrested for his active involvement in Pakistan-backed social media groups that circulated jihadi propaganda.
What charges has he faced?
He has been charged under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
How long had he been living in the town?
He had been residing in Dharmavaram town for the last 15 years.
What evidence was found against him?
The police seized his mobile phone and a notebook containing messages related to extremist discussions.
What does this incident indicate about social media?
It highlights the misuse of social media platforms by terrorist groups to influence local youth and spread extremist ideologies.
