Mumbai, March 9: Ayaan Sheikh, an engineering student arrested for alleged involvement in online radical activities and promoting banned organizations, was presented in court on Monday. Following the hearing, the court ordered that he be remanded in the custody of the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) until March 12.
According to reports, Sheikh was apprehended during an ATS investigation into online radical activities linked to banned terrorist organizations. The agency claims that he was sharing ideologies and propaganda materials related to these groups via social media and encrypted messaging platforms, attempting to inspire others towards radicalization.
After Sheikh’s ATS custody expired on Monday, he was brought back to court. During this session, the ATS requested an additional eight days of remand. The court granted the request, extending Sheikh’s custody until March 12.
During the hearing, the ATS informed the court that Sheikh was part of a Telegram group that was disseminating ideologies of banned organizations. The group, identified as “Islamic Politics,” had been under ATS surveillance for several days.
The ATS also revealed that several individuals from abroad were associated with this group, and Sheikh was allegedly involved in activities that fall under criminal offenses. According to the agency, numerous posts supporting banned organizations were shared in the group, which Sheikh liked and encouraged others to read by tagging them.
The investigation agency stated that other active members of the group were also under scrutiny, making it essential to question Sheikh further. Additionally, the ATS reported seizing two mobile phones and a laptop from Sheikh, which will undergo forensic examination. The agency noted that Sheikh was operating eight different email IDs, which are still under investigation.
On the other hand, Sheikh claimed in court that he had committed no crime. He asserted that ATS officials were pressuring him to confess to something he did not do.
Sheikh’s lawyer, Ibrahim, argued in court that all allegations against his client were baseless. He contended that mere membership in a Telegram group should not serve as grounds for arrest under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
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My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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