Ghori operates a sophisticated online module designed to radicalize youths.
Pakistan has long been labelled as a safe haven for terrorists. From Masood Azhar to Hafiz Saeed, several wanted terrorists have found refuge in the neighbouring country. Among them is Farhatullah Ghori, who is now misleading Indian youths through social media. He uses online platforms to incite violence, spreading messages calling for jihad to rebuild the Babri Masjid in India.
Online Propaganda and Radicalization
Notably, Ghori operates a sophisticated online module designed to radicalize youths. He manages a private group on the ‘Signal’ messenger app and runs a website that was launched on December 3 of last year.
These platforms spread extremist propaganda to youth through popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and more. One of the website’s prominent messages is “Let’s pledge to rebuild the Babri Masjid.”
However, the Indian authorities have blocked the website and other social media accounts to curb the spread of extremist content.
Babri Masjid: A Tool for Radicalisation
Also known as ‘Ustad,’ Ghori issued a video on the anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition (December 6). In the clip, he requested Muslim youth to abandon patriotism for jihad. He boldly claims that the Ram Temple could eventually fall with divine intervention.
History of Terrorism
Farhatullah Ghori hails from Pakistan’s Hyderabad and was designated a terrorist under the UAPA in 2020. Operating from Lahore, he has masterminded several high-profile attacks, including the 2002 Akshardham temple attack in Gujarat, which killed 30 people. Ghori’s name is also associated with the 2005 suicide bombing at Hyderabad’s Task Force Office.
Links to Sleeper Cells and ISI
In 2022, Ghori was associated with a bombing plot at Rameshwaram Cafe, which was reportedly coordinated by sleeper cells backed by Pakistan’s ISI. Mohammad Shahid Faisal, who is suspected to be a handler and is also Ghori’s son-in-law, was recognised as a major player in this plan. Faisal is currently evading capture and is thought to be in hiding in Pakistan.
Recent Activities
In 2024, Ghori appeared in a video encouraging youths to target trains and petroleum pipelines. His continued propaganda shows the urgent need for vigilance against online radicalisation and cross-border terrorism.