Government Declares Shahzad Bhatti Network a Terrorist Organization: What You Need to Know

In a significant move, the Indian government has classified the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network as a terrorist organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that this action is part of a broader strategy to combat terrorism and maintain national security. The SBN is accused of smuggling arms and narcotics while inciting youth into terrorism, posing a threat to India's democratic structure and communal harmony. This designation marks the 46th entry on the list of banned terrorist organizations in India, highlighting the government's commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against terror.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 16, 2026, 16:11 IST

Government Action Against Shahzad Bhatti Network

New Delhi: On Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the government has officially designated the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) as a terrorist organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

This decision aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism.

According to Shah, the SBN is implicated in the smuggling of arms, explosives, and narcotics across borders, as well as inciting young individuals and petty criminals to engage in terrorist activities. The group aims to undermine India's democratic framework and communal harmony while disseminating hateful digital content.

A gazette notification from the Union Home Affairs Department confirmed the addition of the Shahzad Bhatti Network to the First Schedule of the UAPA, which lists organizations banned for terrorist activities.

The government believes that SBN has been involved in various acts of terrorism within India.

The notification described the SBN as an organization that seeks to recruit impressionable youth and local criminals to facilitate the smuggling of weapons and drugs, thereby posing a significant threat to the nation's democratic integrity, communal peace, and internal security.

It also referenced criminal cases against alleged members of the SBN under various laws, including the UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Arms Act, Explosives Act, Information Technology Act, and Prevention of Defacement of Property Act.

By adding SBN to the First Schedule, the UAPA formally categorizes it as a terrorist organization under Indian law, marking it as the 46th entry on this list.

The notification further stated that the SBN is involved in radicalizing vulnerable youth by enticing them into anti-national activities and collaborating with other banned organizations to mobilize resources for such acts.

Moreover, the SBN promotes terrorism through violent actions that threaten public order and utilizes various digital platforms to spread provocative messages, posing a serious challenge to national integrity.