Tue Nov 18 21:28:00 UTC 2025: News Article Summary:
Srinagar, November 19, 2025: Jammu and Kashmir Police, specifically Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK), conducted raids and detained a doctor and his wife in Srinagar, Kulgam and Anantnag for alleged unlawful online activities. The couple, identified as Dr. Umer Farooq Bhat and Shahzada Akhtar, are accused of propagating terrorist, secessionist, and separatist agendas via social media in collaboration with handlers across the border. Recovered digital devices are undergoing forensic analysis. Meanwhile, a UAPA court convicted Towseef Ahmed Thokar, a local militant arrested in 2021, sentencing him to six years imprisonment for terror offences.
News Article:
J&K Police Crackdown on Online Extremism, Militant Convicted
Srinagar – In a move signaling a continued crackdown on online extremism, Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) detained a doctor and his wife on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, for allegedly spreading anti-national propaganda via social media. Coordinated searches were conducted at four locations across Srinagar, Kulgam and Anantnag resulting in the arrest of Dr. Umer Farooq Bhat, a physician at SMHS Hospital, and his wife, Shahzada Akhtar.
Police reports indicate that the couple is suspected of working with handlers across the border to promote terrorist, secessionist, and separatist agendas. Authorities allege Dr. Farooq was misusing his position to engage in activities detrimental to public order and national security, while Ms. Akhtar is suspected of radicalizing women through online and offline engagements under the guise of community outreach. Her affiliation with the banned terrorist organization ‘Dukhtaran-e-Milat’ is currently under investigation.
“This operation sends a clear message that no individual, regardless of their position, will be allowed to weaponize digital influence to aid terrorism or disturb public order,” stated a police official.
The CIK seized multiple digital devices, including phones, SIM cards, and a tablet, from the couple’s residence. These devices are undergoing forensic analysis to uncover a broader network of collaborators.
In a separate but related development, a UAPA court convicted Towseef Ahmed Thokar, a local militant arrested in 2021 following an encounter in Shopian. Thokar was sentenced to six years of imprisonment for terror offences. Special Judge Parvaiz Iqbal emphasized the need for a stringent approach against acts that endanger national security while upholding constitutional rights. The court commended the investigating officer and prosecution for their thorough investigation and presentation of strong evidence.
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