Nagpur: Intelligence agencies have flagged that Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti, allegedly backed by the ISI, is being deliberately promoted on social media as a new proxy to counter the growing influence of jailed Indian don Lawrence Bishnoi.
Bhatti's Background and Extradition
Bhatti, who operates from Dubai, is named in several cases of terror in India, and his extradition process is currently underway. Recently, Bhatti's rivalry with Bishnoi spilled onto social media, with both sides trading threats.
Maharashtra ATS Crackdown
Maharashtra's Anti-Terrorism Squad conducted a statewide crackdown on Wednesday to track individuals communicating with Bhatti. Raids were carried out at 57 locations, including Bhandara and Chandrapur, and one suspect was picked up from Akola.
Social Media Polarization
Sources in the intelligence apparatus say the Bhatti-Bishnoi rivalry is triggering sharp polarization on social media. In Vidarbha's Akola district, Bishnoi's gang is led by his right-hand man, Shubham Lonkar, from Akot. In the same district, Bhatti's popularity is soaring among a section of society, according to sources. Security agencies are now on high alert to dismantle the cross-border network.
Bhatti's Dangerous Influence
Intel sources warned that the mix of gangster glamour and anti-national messaging is making Bhatti particularly dangerous on digital platforms. 'Bhatti is doing what Dawood did for ISI in India. He is recruiting followers, channeling subversive logistics, and executing attacks,' said an official.
The Nagpur Cyber Cell is also keeping a close watch on Bhatti's activities. Anyone liking, sharing, or commenting on the gangster's posts is under scrutiny, said Cyber DCP Deepak Aggarwal.
ISI's Role and Radicalization
According to intel reports, Bhatti's fan following on Instagram and other social media platforms is no accident. His content, often laced with provocative messaging, has been gaining traction. Agencies believe the ISI is using this popularity to build sleeper modules and terror networks across the country.
Investigators have recovered chats, messages, and other subversive content from various seized devices and documents, suggesting that Bhatti's group is radicalizing youth on social media, promising quick money, and pushing anti-national agendas. Several suspects are being grilled for their alleged role in spreading his propaganda and recruiting youths for ISI-backed operations.
Advanced Tracking Tools
'Our teams are using advanced tools like Garud Drishti to track subversive activities. Anyone found promoting Bhatti's network will face strict legal action,' said DCP Aggarwal.
