Al-Qaeda-linked ABT ‘tests Indian waters’ online, agencies on high alert

New Delhi: Indian intelligence agencies are closely monitoring the alleged resurgence of the Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), a Bangladesh-based outfit linked to Al-Qaeda, amid concerns that the group is increasing its online presence and attempting to expand its influence into India.

According to intelligence inputs, the group’s physical infrastructure in Bangladesh has been significantly weakened due to sustained security crackdowns over the years. However, officials say it is now focusing on digital platforms to circulate propaganda and ideological material aimed at vulnerable audiences, including users in India.

Sources indicate that the group’s current strategy is centred on online radicalisation and recruitment rather than immediate large-scale coordinated attacks. Officials believe the intent is to influence individuals to act independently after exposure to extremist content, rather than operate through traditional structured terror modules.

Intelligence assessments suggest that the outfit is drawing on Al-Qaeda-linked ideological material in its messaging and is attempting to exploit regional and socio-political sensitivities in its outreach. There are also concerns that it may be targeting youth in border states and nearby regions through social media channels and encrypted platforms.

Officials, however, have stressed that there is no confirmed evidence of an operational network or active terror module currently functioning inside India. The situation is being closely watched, particularly the group’s online activity and any attempts at cross-border ideological influence.

Security agencies have intensified surveillance of suspected digital propaganda channels and are working to identify individuals who may be exposed to radical content. Authorities maintain that preventive measures are in place and that the focus remains on early detection of any potential threat emerging from online radicalisation networks.