Dehradun: The Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF) has uncovered an organised online network allegedly being used to spread extremist ideology and recruit vulnerable youths through social media platforms. Investigators say the network follows a multi-layered recruitment model, with handlers linked to Pakistan’s intelligence agency ISI avoiding direct contact during the initial stages.
According to STF officials, the investigation revealed that recruitment begins through social media and messaging applications such as WhatsApp and Telegram. Individuals are first added to large online groups where videos, posts, and messages promoting extremist ideology are regularly circulated.
Senior Superintendent of Police (STF) Ajay Singh said investigators found that group members are continuously monitored to assess their reactions to the content being shared. Those who frequently engage with or support extremist material are gradually identified and shifted to smaller, restricted groups.
Officials said the process is designed to evaluate an individual’s mindset, commitment, and ideological inclination over multiple stages. Those showing greater involvement are allegedly subjected to further indoctrination before being moved into highly restricted groups reportedly operated by ISI-linked handlers or terrorist organisations.
The STF said the recruitment process is systematic and prolonged, with each stage aimed at influencing an individual’s thinking and establishing confidential communication before assigning further roles.
The investigation gained momentum following the recent arrest of Mohammad Salauddin from Gadarpur, who, according to the STF, was allegedly connected to the same recruitment module. The agency is continuing its probe to identify other individuals linked to the network and determine its wider reach.
Officials have urged citizens, especially young social media users, to remain cautious while joining unknown online groups or engaging with suspicious content, and to immediately report any activities promoting extremism to law enforcement agencies.
