NIA Files Fifth Supplementary Charge Sheet in 2014 ISIS Link Case
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has intensified its legal pursuit in the high-profile 2014 ISIS link case by filing its fifth supplementary charge sheet against former engineering student Areeb Majeed. This latest legal document introduces a significant new charge: raising funds for terrorist activities.
Court Takes Cognisance and Sets Next Hearing
A special trial court in Mumbai took formal cognisance of this supplementary charge sheet on Friday. Special judge Chakor Baviskar directed that a copy be provided to the accused, Areeb Majeed. The court has scheduled the next hearing for May 11, 2024, for the recording of evidence in this ongoing trial.
Majeed is currently facing trial for alleged terrorist acts and various penal offences. With this new charge sheet, the prosecution has added Section 17 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). This section specifically prescribes punishment for raising funds intended for terrorist acts, marking a crucial escalation in the legal charges against him.
Background of the 2014 Case
The prosecution's case outlines that four accused individuals traveled to Iraq in 2014. Areeb Majeed was subsequently arrested on November 28, 2014, upon his arrival in Mumbai from Turkey. He is presently out on bail as the judicial process continues.
Proclamation Against Three Wanted Accused
In a related development, the special court last month issued a proclamation against three wanted accused: Fahad Shaikh, Saheem Tanki, and Aman Tandel. This action comes nearly 12 years after they allegedly left India to join the ISIS terrorist organization.
The court has mandated that the trio must appear before it within one month. Failure to comply will result in them being declared proclaimed offenders, a legal status that carries significant consequences.
This case continues to highlight the ongoing efforts by Indian investigative agencies to address and prosecute individuals involved with international terrorist organizations, with legal proceedings advancing through the judicial system.
