Indian agencies are closely monitoring the Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) as it expands into West Bengal and southern states. The Neo-JMB, operating under local handler Salauddin Salehin in West Bengal, is linked to the Islamic State Bengal Province (ISBP). This shift from Al Qaeda to the Islamic State marks a significant change in operations for the JMB.
Salehin, moving across India to meet Bangla-speaking laborers, aims to expand Neo-JMB operations in South India. The group targets illegal Bangladeshi immigrants settled in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala. By exploiting labor shortages, Neo-JMB recruits these immigrants for its activities, posing a serious threat.
Combining forces with ISBP, Neo-JMB poses a grave danger, reminiscent of the 2016 Holey Artisan Bakery attack in Dhaka. With support from the ISI and Lashkar-e-Taiba, these groups are regaining strength to carry out attacks in India. Recent arrests in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal revealed plans to target temples and the Red Fort in Delhi, aiming to disrupt communal harmony.
Efforts are underway to prevent these groups from carrying out attacks during upcoming elections in Kerala, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu. The Indian and Bangladeshi governments are expected to collaborate closely to counter this shared threat, ensuring peace and security in the region.
