Home Minister Amit Shah announced the complete dismantling of the ISI-backed Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) through a coordinated operation across 14 states, thwarting planned subversive attacks.
- 200+ operatives arrested in a synchronized operation across 14 Indian states.
- Complete neutralization of the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN).
- Recovery of IEDs and grenades with 'Pakistan Ordnance Factory' markings.
- Over 80 FIRs registered under UAPA, BNS, and the Arms Act.
In a massive victory for national security, Home Minister Amit Shah revealed on Monday that Indian security forces have successfully ripped apart the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN), a terror syndicate funded and directed by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The operation, executed just ahead of Independence Day, saw the arrest of over 200 operatives across the country.
Taking to X, the Home Minister described the operation as a brilliant manifestation of India's zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism. He emphasized that the coordinated strikes prevented a series of subversive attacks intended to disrupt the national celebrations and create instability.
Scale of Operation and Recoveries
The operation was launched on August 12, leveraging a sophisticated real-time intelligence-sharing system between the central agencies and State Police forces. The crackdown spanned 14 states, with the highest number of arrests occurring in Uttar Pradesh (62), Haryana (52), Delhi (51), and Punjab (44). Other affected regions included Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Gujarat, Bihar, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, J&K, and Kerala.
The recoveries made during the raids provide concrete evidence of cross-border terrorism. Security forces seized IEDs and grenades explicitly bearing 'Pakistan Ordnance Factory' markings. Additionally, pistols, live ammunition, and CCTV cameras used for espionage—specifically for recceing police, defense, and religious sites—were recovered from the suspects.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the dismantling of the Shahzad Bhatti Network is not just a tactical win, but a strategic blow to Pakistan's proxy war machinery. The use of local conduits to recce defense and religious sites indicates a shift towards 'hybrid warfare' where local assets are used for deep-state espionage.
"The precision of this multi-state operation demonstrates a matured intelligence ecosystem in India, capable of neutralizing sleeper cells before they can activate during high-security national events."
Historical Background of the SBN
The Shahzad Bhatti Network has been linked to several high-profile incidents across India. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has been probing Bhatti's role in the March 2025 grenade attack on social media influencer Roger Sandhu in Jalandhar. Furthermore, the network was found to be the mastermind behind the November 2025 explosion at the Women Police Station in Sirsa and the January 2026 car bomb blast at Baldev Nagar police station in Ambala, Haryana.
| State | Number of Arrests |
|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | 62 |
| Haryana | 52 |
| Delhi | 51 |
| Punjab | 44 |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN)?
It is a Pakistan-based terror syndicate involved in IED attacks, targeted killings, and espionage activities within India.
2. Which legal frameworks were used for these arrests?
The arrests were made under several laws, including the UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Arms Act, NDPS Act, and the Explosive Substances Act.
