Indian security agencies have carried out a significant counter-terrorism operation in the northeastern states of Assam and Tripura, arresting 11 individuals suspected of having links with Bangladesh-based fundamentalist groups. The arrests, made in late December 2025, highlight the continuing challenges of cross-border radicalization and the efforts of Indian authorities to safeguard the strategically sensitive Northeast region.
Background of the Operation
According to officials, the Special Task Force (STF) of Assam Police, working closely with central intelligence agencies, conducted coordinated raids across multiple districts – Barpeta, Chirang, Baksa, and Darrang in Assam, along with West Tripura district. Ten suspects were apprehended in Assam, while one was arrested in Tripura.
The individuals are alleged members of a newly identified extremist module called the Imam Mahmuder Kafila (IMK), believed to be an offshoot of the Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), a group banned in India for its involvement in terror activities. Intelligence inputs suggested that the IMK was attempting to establish sleeper cells in India’s Northeast, with the aim of destabilizing the region and spreading radical ideology.
Links to Bangladesh-Based Groups
Investigations revealed that the arrested individuals were working under direct instructions from handlers in Bangladesh. Senior police officials stated that Bangladeshi nationals, identified as Umar and Khalid, were coordinating with the Assam cell, while a local leader named Tamim from Barpeta Road was heading the module’s Indian operations.
The IMK module reportedly focused on radicalization, recruitment, and indoctrination of vulnerable youth in border districts. Their activities included clandestine meetings, distribution of extremist literature, and attempts to establish communication channels with foreign operatives.
Security Concerns in the Northeast
The arrests underscore the geopolitical sensitivity of India’s Northeast, which shares long and porous borders with Bangladesh. Historically, extremist groups have exploited these borders to infiltrate, recruit, and smuggle resources.
Officials emphasized that the IMK’s objective was not limited to religious indoctrination but extended to destabilizing the socio-political fabric of the region. By targeting Assam and Tripura, the group sought to exploit ethnic diversity, economic vulnerabilities, and existing fault lines to spread its influence.
Intelligence and Coordination
The success of the operation reflects close coordination between state police forces and central intelligence agencies. Inputs from national security agencies had been monitoring the IMK’s activities for months, leading to the identification of suspects and their eventual arrest.
Police Commissioner Partha Sarathi Mahanta of Guwahati described the arrests as part of a larger crackdown on jihadist elements attempting to gain a foothold in India. He stressed that the operation was preventive in nature, aimed at dismantling the network before it could carry out any violent acts.
Broader Implications
The arrests carry several broader implications for India’s internal security and regional diplomacy:
- Counter-terrorism vigilance: The operation highlights India’s proactive stance in neutralizing extremist threats before they escalate.
- Cross-border cooperation: It underscores the need for stronger collaboration between India and Bangladesh in tackling radical groups that operate across borders.
- Community resilience: Authorities have urged local communities to remain vigilant against radicalization efforts and report suspicious activities.
Historical Context
The Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) has a history of attempting to expand its influence into India. In past years, modules linked to JMB were discovered in West Bengal and other border states. The emergence of IMK as a new offshoot suggests that extremist networks continue to evolve, adapting their strategies to evade detection.
The Northeast, with its diverse population and socio-economic challenges, has often been seen as a vulnerable region for such infiltration. This makes the latest arrests particularly significant in preventing the spread of extremist ideology.
Official Statements
Authorities have assured that the arrested individuals will face thorough investigation under relevant anti-terror laws. Preliminary questioning has already revealed details about their recruitment methods and foreign connections.
Police officials emphasized that the crackdown is part of a larger national effort to secure the Northeast, which is vital not only for India’s internal stability but also for its connectivity with Southeast Asia under the Act East Policy.
Public Response
Local communities in Assam and Tripura have expressed relief at the arrests, though concerns remain about the possibility of hidden sleeper cells. Civil society groups have called for greater awareness campaigns to prevent youth from falling prey to radical propaganda.
Observers note that the arrests may also strengthen India’s diplomatic position in urging Bangladesh to intensify its crackdown on extremist outfits operating within its territory.
Conclusion
The arrest of 11 individuals in Assam and Tripura marks a decisive step in India’s ongoing battle against cross-border extremism. By dismantling the IMK module, security agencies have not only prevented potential terror activities but also sent a strong message about India’s commitment to safeguarding its northeastern frontier.
While the operation is a success, experts caution that the fight against radicalization is far from over. Continuous vigilance, community engagement, and international cooperation will be essential to ensure that extremist groups do not find fertile ground in India’s border states.
