Indian authorities have designated the 'Shahzad Bhatti Network' (SBN) as a terrorist group under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). The Union Home Ministry announced the designation on September 16, citing the group's 'serious threat to the democratic system, communal harmony, and internal security of the country.' Over 200 suspects linked to the SBN were detained in a countrywide counter-terror operation ahead of Independence Day.

Shahzad Bhatti, a social-media influencer from Pakistan, is believed to have started his activities in Punjab, expanding his reach to 14 states. He operates from the UAE and is known for his Instagram and Facebook posts, often featuring a filter to enhance his appearance. His videos, shot in expensive cars or near snooker tables, include boastful background music. Security officials claim he has transitioned from 'organised crimes' to 'terror-related activities' and was tapped by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) due to his social media influence.

According to a Uttar Pradesh police officer, Bhatti recruited young men through social media, offering them ₹5,000-₹10,000 to put up posters glorifying him and his associates. Some were later assigned more dangerous tasks, such as installing Chinese-made CCTV cameras near critical installations, with footage livestreamed to Pakistan. In one instance, he allegedly sent online manuals to men in Punjab on making petrol bombs and an IED. The payments, often originating from Central Asian countries, were transferred directly to bank accounts.

The SBN is the 46th organization designated as a 'terrorist organisation' under Section 35(I) of the UAPA. The Ministry notification listed nine categories of crimes, including those under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Information Technology Act, 2000, Explosives Substances Act, and the Official Secrets Act, 1923. The Ministry stated the SBN's objective is to involve gullible youth and local criminals to smuggle arms, explosives, and narcotics from across the border.

Delhi Police had blocked 125 Instagram accounts related to Bhatti before the pre-Independence Day raids. Since October 2025, the police have registered 15 FIRs and arrested 69 accused, two-thirds from Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. Those arrested were described as poorly educated, economically vulnerable individuals recruited via social media for money, lured with the promise of relocating to the Gulf, or for resolving personal issues.

The exact nature of his alleged links to the ISI and the full extent of his operations remain unverified. The case highlights the growing role of social media in facilitating recruitment for criminal and terrorist activities, raising concerns about the use of digital platforms for such purposes.