HT Digital,
Guwahati , Nov 05:Assam moved to curb extremist influence on Dec 4, issuing a sweeping order that blocks the publication and circulation of radical material linked to Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh, Ansarullah Bangla Team, Ansar-Al-Islam and allied outfits. The directive was released in Dispur after inputs from Assam Police, the Special Task Force and the Judicial Department pointed to renewed attempts to push jihadi propaganda across the state.
Officials said the groups are already banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, but recent intelligence showed fresh circulation, storage and online transmission of extremist literature. The material included ideological texts, digital propaganda and recruitment content aimed at drawing young people towards violent extremism. Investigators warned that the spread of such content could disturb public order and pose risks to national security.
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The Judicial Department drew on provisions under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, which allow states to seize publications that encourage enmity between communities or provoke actions harmful to national integration. Citing these powers, the government invoked Section 98 of the BNSS to halt publication, printing, sale, storage and exhibition of any content — physical or digital — associated with the banned organisations.
The restriction covers websites, social media platforms, encrypted messaging channels and other online spaces where radical content may circulate. The state framed the move as a precaution to prevent indoctrination attempts, especially in regions where security agencies had earlier flagged suspicious communication patterns.
Law-enforcement units, including Special Branch, CID, district police and cybercrime teams, have been instructed to enforce the order immediately. Officers have been asked to monitor digital networks closely and take action against individuals or groups found storing or spreading prohibited material.
The directive signals Assam’s latest push to tighten surveillance on radical networks and curb the digital spread of extremist ideology at a time when online platforms remain a key battleground for recruitment and messaging.
