What Led to the Death of Former SIMI Operative Saquib Nachan?
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Synopsis
The death of Saquib Nachan, a former SIMI operative linked to ISIS, raises questions about the future of SIMI networks in India. His criminal past and connections highlight a longstanding threat. What does this mean for national security?
Key Takeaways
- Saquib Nachan passed away while undergoing treatment for a brain stroke.
- He was a former member of the banned SIMI organization.
- Nachan had known ties with ISIS.
- His criminal history included involvement in terror attacks.
- His death may impact the structure of SIMI networks in India.
New Delhi, June 28 (NationPress) Saquib Abdul Hamid Nachan, a former operative of the banned Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI), passed away while receiving treatment for a brain stroke, as confirmed by authorities at Tihar Jail on Saturday.
Sources within the National Investigation Agency (NIA) have also verified Nachan's death.
Reports indicate that Nachan, aged 65, known for his connections with ISIS and involvement in various terror activities, suffered a brain stroke while in custody following his arrest in December 2023. He was initially taken to Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital before being transferred to Safdarjung Hospital.
His criminal activities first came to light in 1991, leading to his arrest for planning terror attacks in Gujarat associated with Khalistani groups.
In the late 1990s, he was convicted by the Supreme Court for terrorist actions. He once again gained media attention when he was found guilty of orchestrating three bomb blasts in Mumbai between December 2002 and March 2003, which occurred in Mumbai Central, Vile Parle, and Mulund.
These attacks resulted in numerous casualties and injuries.
Convicted of multiple crimes, including murder and illegal possession of arms and explosives, he received a 10-year prison sentence, which lasted until 2017.
He was also implicated in declaring a village in Thane district of Maharashtra as ‘Al Sham’, claiming it as a territory ruled by Islamic law.
Numerous reports have highlighted his connections with ISIS, alleging that he indoctrinated youth and personally administered oaths to recruits.
Moreover, it is reported that he traveled to Afghanistan and Pakistan, maintaining close ties with high-ranking ISIS leaders in those regions.
The body is expected to be returned to his family once all formalities are completed.
His passing is perceived as a significant blow to the remnants of SIMI networks in India, which are currently under scrutiny from authorities and facing imminent collapse.
Point of View
Saquib Nachan's death signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle against radical elements within India. His history and connections serve as a reminder of the persistent threats we face, underscoring the necessity for continued vigilance and action from our security agencies.
NationPress
28/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saquib Nachan?
Saquib Nachan was a former operative of the banned Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) known for his links to ISIS and involvement in several terrorist activities.
What caused his death?
Saquib Nachan died from complications arising from a brain stroke while he was in custody.
What was his criminal history?
Nachan was implicated in multiple terrorist attacks, including orchestrating bomb blasts in Mumbai and was previously convicted for terrorism-related offenses.
How did his death impact SIMI networks?
His death is seen as a significant blow to the remaining SIMI networks in India, which are already under scrutiny from law enforcement.
What are his connections to ISIS?
Reports suggest that Nachan had ongoing ties with ISIS and was involved in recruiting and indoctrinating youth.
