Indian security agencies are intensifying surveillance on the Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), amid intelligence inputs suggesting that its rebranded faction, widely referred to as Neo-JMB, is attempting to widen its operational footprint beyond West Bengal into southern India.

Officials indicate that Neo-JMB functions under the guidance of a handler known as Salauddin Salehin, who is believed to be hiding in West Bengal.

Intelligence sources say Salehin frequently changes locations and has travelled across multiple states, reportedly reaching out to Bangla-speaking migrant workers.

According to investigators, Neo-JMB, which has its roots in Bangladesh, is now aligned with the Islamic State Bengal Province (ISBP). The appointment of Sheikh Al Amin as the Dhaka commander is seen as a significant organisational shift, signalling renewed strategic intent.

An Intelligence Bureau source noted that JMB historically operated under the ideological influence of Al Qaeda, but after 2015, factions within the group gravitated towards the Islamic State framework. The emergence of Neo-JMB under ISBP reflects this transition.

Security officials say recent intelligence assessments point to efforts by Amin and other leaders to expand activities into India. While West Bengal and parts of the Northeast have traditionally remained areas of concern, agencies now believe southern states have also come into focus.

Authorities attribute this shift partly to demographic patterns. Over the years, undocumented migrants from Bangladesh have settled in states such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala, often blending into existing Bengali-speaking communities.

Officials argue that extremist elements may seek to exploit these networks for recruitment and logistical support.

Another official claimed that Salehin, during visits to southern states, allegedly contacted numerous undocumented individuals. Financial inducements and threats of exposure were reportedly used to pressure some into assisting Neo-JMB operations.

Counterterrorism experts warn that collaboration between ISBP and Neo-JMB could present a heightened security challenge. They cite past incidents, including the 2016 Holey Artisan Bakery attack in Dhaka, as evidence of the destructive potential of such alliances.

Investigators further allege that after a period of relative dormancy, these groups have been attempting to rebuild capabilities. Some officials suspect external backing, including financial and training support, though such claims remain under scrutiny.

Recent developments in Bangladesh have also drawn attention. An explosion at a madrasa near Dhaka was initially suspected to involve the accidental detonation of triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a volatile explosive linked to previous terror attacks.

Authorities there later reported the alleged movement of multiple improvised explosive devices to safe locations.

Indian agencies fear that attempts could be made to smuggle explosives across the border. Officials say this possibility may explain what they describe as a noticeable rise in Neo-JMB-linked activities.

With elections scheduled this year in Kerala, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu, agencies are maintaining heightened alert levels. Last week, eight individuals from Tamil Nadu and West Bengal were arrested. Preliminary findings suggest they were allegedly plotting attacks in Delhi and other regions.

Investigators say religious sites and iconic landmarks, including the Red Fort, were among the suspected targets. Officials believe such plots are aimed at disrupting communal harmony and creating widespread panic.

Authorities in India express confidence that cooperation with Bangladesh will remain strong in countering cross-border terror threats. Both governments, officials say, recognise the shared security risks posed by extremist organisations.