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UP ATS Says Interrogation of Suspected AQIS Operative Exposes Vast Pakistan Links

Officials report a nine-day custody remand is focused on phone data to trace associates, including possible sleeper cells.

Overview

  • Bilal Khan was arrested on September 15 in Saharanpur and is being questioned after a court granted nine days of police custody starting November 4.
  • According to ATS disclosures, data extraction shows contacts with nearly 4,000 Pakistani numbers and regular communication with Pakistan-based handlers.
  • Investigators say he pledged bay'ah to an AQIS handler and received directives to plan violent acts and work toward a Sharia-run state in India.
  • ATS reports he amplified Asim Umar Sambhali’s messaging, shared anti-India propaganda in encrypted groups, and sought to recruit sympathizers online.
  • After the Pahalgam attack, officials allege he praised slain militants, posted abusive content about Indian security forces, and circulated pro-Pakistan Army videos.