NEW DELHI, May 22: In a major anti-terror operation, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UP ATS) arrested a man from Varanasi for allegedly spying for Pakistan. The accused, identified as Tufail, was reportedly sending sensitive and confidential information about India to Pakistan.
A resident of Varanasi, Tufail is learnt to have been in touch with several Pakistani nationals and sharing intelligence that could compromise national security.
During probe, it came to light that Tufail was allegedly sharing photos of strategic locations, including Rajghat, Namo Ghat, Gyanvapi, the railway station, and even Red Fort, with Pakistani nationals.
Further, he was active in some WhatsApp groups where he used to share videos of Tehreek-e-Labbaik leader Maulana Saad Rizvi, a known extremist figure. The officials found that he also spread provocative messages, calling for revenge over Babri Masjid and promoting the imposition of Sharia law.
The alleged spy is said to have been involved in circulating WhatsApp group links in Varanasi that served as a link between locals and Pakistani networks. He was also in contact with a Pakistani woman named Nafisa, whose husband reportedly serves in the Pakistani Army. Tufail is believed to have been in touch with nearly 600 Pakistanis.
The UP ATS is currently investigating the full extent of Tufail’s activities and network. This development highlights growing concerns over digital espionage and radical propaganda being spread via social media platforms.
(Manas Dasgupta)
