Assam Police Unveils Details of Extremist Networks Amid Ongoing Operation Praghat

The Assam Police's Special Task Force is intensifying its crackdown on extremist networks under Operation Praghat. Recent investigations have revealed a structured ecosystem of extremist groups operating both online and offline, with significant transnational connections. Key findings include the recruitment processes of these groups, their ideological motivations, and the financial networks supporting them. The police are closely monitoring jihadi activities in the region, with ongoing operations leading to multiple arrests. This article delves into the complexities of radicalization and the evolving nature of jihad in Assam, highlighting the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating these threats.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 30, 2025, 16:45 IST

Crackdown on Extremist Networks in Assam

Guwahati, Dec 30: The Assam Police Special Task Force (STF) is intensifying its efforts under Operation Praghat, revealing new insights into the operations of extremist networks in Assam and the Northeast region.

During a press conference at Jyoti–Bishnu Kala Mandir in Khanapara, STF chief Partha Sarathi Mahanta disclosed that investigations have uncovered a well-organized extremist ecosystem functioning both online and offline, with significant international connections.

Mahanta noted that extremist groups, including those associated with the banned Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) and the Imam Mahmuder Kafila (IMK), are actively indoctrinating supporters through encrypted digital platforms.

He highlighted a group named ‘Purvo Akash’ that serves as a key communication, propaganda, and recruitment hub. This group systematically disseminates extremist ideological content related to cyber jihad and violent struggle to radicalize its followers.

The recruitment process is structured and involves identifying potential recruits through online jihadist channels, providing them with radical literature, and closely monitoring their activities via encrypted platforms.

“Recruits must pledge allegiance, share personal information, and submit a video of their oath to an Indian handler, who then forwards it to leaders in Bangladesh for verification before formal induction,” Mahanta explained.

He added that the Indian security and intelligence agencies are vigilantly monitoring jihadi activities in the Northeast, particularly in Assam, based on consistent intelligence from central agencies.

Mahanta revealed that the IMK module was identified during intelligence assessments and is a Bangladesh-based faction of JMB, founded in 2018 by Jewel Mahmud, an ex-JMB member, promoting the ideology of Ghazwatul Hind.

He elaborated that this ideology advocates for Muslim supremacy through the elimination or expulsion of non-believers, which drives their operations.

Following a regime change in Bangladesh in August 2024, senior leaders of JMB, Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), and Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) allegedly instructed IMK leaders to activate and expand their operations in India, including Assam.

As part of this expansion, Bangladesh nationals Umar and Khalid were tasked with coordinating activities in Assam, with the state cell led by Nasim Uddin alias Tamim from Barpeta Road.

The STF reported that this initiative has led to the radicalization of numerous youths from Barpeta and Chirang, with similar patterns observed in West Bengal.

IMK has also taken advantage of social and religious gatherings to broaden its influence, conducting multiple secret meetings in local mosques since 2024.

During a meeting on December 28, 2024, IMK ideologues, including Nasim Uddin and Manirul Islam, allegedly promoted armed resistance in India, asserting that “atrocities against Muslims must be countered with armed struggle.”

“Typically, each meeting involved six to eight local youths who were indoctrinated and encouraged to prepare for jihad,” Mahanta stated.

Financial investigations have unveiled a complex terror-funding network utilizing hawala and digital transactions.

“Local supporters contributed funds, which were collected by Nasim Uddin alias Tamim and sent to Bangladesh through hawala channels. Digital collections via bank accounts and UPI platforms were also employed,” Mahanta noted.

The STF also reported cross-border movements of operatives, who obtain passports and visas to travel to Bangladesh under the guise of normal visits. Some were advised to travel with family to avoid suspicion and receive arms training, with two operatives from Assam crossing into Meghalaya in April 2025 to meet with handlers from Bangladesh.

Under Operation Shock, the STF has ramped up coordinated actions against radical elements following previous arrests of JMB operatives.

On Monday, simultaneous operations were executed in Assam, West Bengal, and Tripura, resulting in the arrest of 11 terrorists, with 10 apprehended in Assam and one in Tripura. Those arrested in Assam are currently undergoing interrogation.

Mahanta emphasized the evolving nature of jihad, stating that extremist groups are increasingly engaging in what police refer to as “digital jihad.”

“For these groups, jihad extends beyond direct attacks; it encompasses building networks, spreading ideology, and indoctrinating individuals. Digital platforms are extensively utilized for this purpose, particularly targeting the youth,” he explained.

The Assam Police confirmed that the first phase of Operation Praghat has concluded, with further phases planned. Ongoing investigations aim to identify additional operatives, funding sources, and sleeper cells associated with the network.