NEW DELHI (Diya TV) — Indian security agencies have foiled an alleged Pakistan-backed terror plot ahead of Independence Day, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said. The coordinated operation targeted the Shahzad Bhatti network.
Shah said agencies detained 253 people across 14 states during raids conducted around Aug. 12. Officials also registered more than 80 first information reports, or FIRs, as part of the nationwide crackdown.
Shah announced the operation on X. He said security agencies acted to stop terrorist groups from carrying out attacks before India’s Independence Day celebrations on Aug. 15.
The operation covered several states and involved central agencies and local police forces. Officials focused heavily on Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi and Punjab. Authorities also made arrests in several other states as the investigation expanded.
Security teams recovered weapons and other material during the raids. The seized items included improvised explosive devices, or IEDs, pistols and live cartridges. Teams also found grenades marked by the Pakistan Ordnance Factory.
In addition, investigators recovered CCTV equipment that they suspect the network used for surveillance. Officials believe the equipment may have helped operatives watch potential targets and gather information before an attack.
Intelligence inputs reportedly warned authorities about possible attacks in crowded areas before Aug. 15.
Officials identify Shahzad Bhatti as a Pakistan-based handler linked to the Inter-Services Intelligence agency, or ISI. They accuse him of managing a cross-border network that recruits and supports operatives in India.
According to intelligence officials, the network uses several methods to move money, weapons, and instructions. These methods reportedly include hawala channels and encrypted communication apps. The network allegedly also relies on local sleeper cells to carry out reconnaissance and support planned attacks. Officials said that authorities have tracked the Bhatti network for months.
The Home Ministry said the Aug. 12 raids followed months of coordination between central security agencies and state police.
Shah said the coordinated action had prevented the suspected terror network from carrying out its alleged plans. Security agencies are expected to maintain heightened vigilance as India marks its Independence Day.
