New Delhi, November 2, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Pune has emerged as a major recruitment focus for terror outfits, including the Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda, with agencies reporting attempts to build digital networks in the city, according to an IANS report.
An intelligence official described the Pune network as a “white-collar” module involving highly educated, tech-savvy individuals who allegedly use encrypted platforms to spread extremist propaganda and develop recruitment links.
Between 2023 and 2026, agencies busted several suspected modules in Pune, including an Al-Qaeda-linked radicalisation module involving Zubair Hangargekar, the Islamic State module in Kondhwa and the case involving Ayan Sheikh. Investigations reportedly found that members were preparing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) or spreading violent jihadist material through encrypted channels.
The Maharashtra ATS investigation into the Kondhwa module found that members had allegedly rented a house to set up an IED training workshop and identified a site for testing.
Officials said the Islamic State was seeking to connect Pune-based networks with modules in Mumbai, Thane, Rajasthan and Jammu and Kashmir. Pune could serve as an operational hub, with members allegedly sourcing materials, conducting tests and training others.
According to officials, the recruitment effort is not limited to immediate attacks, with the outfit allegedly prepared to wait months or even years before attempting an operation.
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