Mumbai, Apr 16: The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has questioned an 18-year-old NEET aspirant from Varanasi in connection with an alleged online radicalisation network with suspected links to Mumbai, officials said on Thursday.
Authorities confirmed that multiple electronic devices have been seized from the suspect, and he has been asked to appear again for questioning on April 22 as the investigation continues.
A coordinated operation was carried out with the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad at a residence in the Hanuman Phatak area under Adampur police station limits, where officials questioned the teenager—son of a local paediatrician—for nearly eight hours.
Investigators said the probe began following the arrest of Ayan Sheikh, a computer engineering student from Mumbai who was booked under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Forensic analysis of devices recovered from Sheikh reportedly indicated the existence of a wider digital network operating through encrypted platforms, leading investigators to trace links to the Varanasi-based youth.
Officials suspect the teenager may have been associated with an online ecosystem allegedly linked to the banned Pakistan-based organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed, though the investigation is still ongoing.
The probe has focused on encrypted communication channels, including a Telegram group named “Islamic Politics,” as well as WhatsApp groups where anti-government content was allegedly circulated. Authorities claim multiple individuals across states were part of these networks.
According to officials, the teenager had been active on these platforms for several months and is suspected of sharing objectionable content and participating in discussions that allegedly aimed at undermining state sovereignty.
Prior to the search, the Mumbai ATS reportedly placed his mobile number under surveillance to track his digital activity and possible external contacts.
During the operation, ATS teams temporarily entered the residence after finding it locked and conducted a detailed search, also reviewing financial and background details of the family.
Officials said that several items, including a laptop, three mobile phones, and a printer, were seized and sent for forensic examination.
While the teenager has not been arrested, he has been formally issued a notice to appear before the Mumbai ATS for further questioning as part of a broader investigation into the alleged network.