The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two key accused in the Tamil Nadu Hizb-ut-Tahrir (HuT) case, marking a significant breakthrough in its crackdown on extremist activities in India.
The arrested individuals, Kabeer Ahmed Aliyar and Bava Bahrudeen alias Mannai Bava, were allegedly involved in a conspiracy to propagate Hizb-ut-Tahrir’s radical ideology through secret gatherings (Bayaans) and the organization of an exhibition promoting the military strength of Islamic nations. Authorities claim that their objective was to invite external forces (Nussrah) to overthrow the Indian government through violent jihad.
The case, registered as RC 01/2024/NIA/CHE, initially targeted six individuals linked to HuT’s activities in Tamil Nadu. Further investigation revealed that the accused were deeply influenced by HuT’s extremist, pan-Islamist, and fundamentalist ideology, which seeks to re-establish an Islamic caliphate and enforce a constitution drafted by HuT founder Taqi al-Din al-Nabhani.
NIA Arrests 2 Key Accused in Tamil Nadu Hizb-Ut-Tahrir Case pic.twitter.com/2SI8HYHMsa
— NIA India (@NIA_India) February 3, 2025
As part of its counter-extremism measures, the Government of India banned Hizb-ut-Tahrir and all its manifestations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in October 2024. The group has been under scrutiny for its attempts to radicalize individuals and build an underground network across multiple states.
International Links And Funding Under Probe
The NIA continues to investigate HuT’s co-conspirators, international connections, and funding sources. The agency has been tracking the organization’s expanding influence in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala, as well as potential ties to radical networks in North and Northeast India.
Officials have stated that social media and digital platforms played a crucial role in HuT’s efforts to radicalize youth and spread its ideology. The arrested individuals were allegedly part of a broader conspiracy aimed at destabilizing the Indian state and fostering anti-national sentiments.
The latest arrests are considered a major success in India’s counter-terrorism efforts. Security agencies are intensifying their efforts to identify additional HuT operatives and dismantle the group’s underground network.
The Indian government has reaffirmed its commitment to preventing radical elements from undermining national security. Further investigations and crackdowns on HuT’s operations, financial backers, and digital outreach are expected in the coming weeks.
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