In a significant anti-terrorism operation, the Rajasthan Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has apprehended Babita Dhakad, also known as “Khadija,” based on intelligence inputs from Military Intelligence (MI). The arrest is related to her alleged association with a sleeper cell connected to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Babita, a resident of Rajasthan’s Sawai Madhopur district, is believed to have communicated with Pakistani terrorist handlers through social media and encrypted messaging apps. This case underscores the evolving tactics of radicalization and recruitment targeting women.
During the investigation, it was discovered that Babita engaged with online groups promoting extremist ideologies and radicalizing youth. Allegedly, she was indoctrinated through anti-India propaganda materials and videos by Pakistani handlers, leading her to adopt the alias “Khadija” and engage in activities associated with the JeM sleeper cell. Forensic analysis of her digital devices revealed purported links to networks involved in significant terrorist activities.
Authorities found connections between Babita and individuals linked to JeM commander Qari Zarar, known for his involvement in the 2016 Nagrota Army camp attack. Additionally, ties to Yusuf Azhar, a relative of JeM founder Masood Azhar and a suspect in the 1999 Indian Airlines Flight IC-814 hijacking, were also uncovered. Security agencies suggest a recent strategy by JeM involving the recruitment and radicalization of women through online platforms, with a women’s wing named “Jamaat-ul-Muminat” identified for this purpose.
The investigation indicates that Babita played a crucial role in this network and was allegedly planning to escape to Pakistan with the help of her handlers before being intercepted by security agencies. Joint teams of Military Intelligence and the Rajasthan ATS are interrogating her to ascertain any potential transmission of sensitive information across borders. Meanwhile, the Rajasthan Police are conducting a thorough probe to identify local associates who may have facilitated her activities. Suspecting further connections within the network, ATS teams are conducting searches and raids across the state.
