The Indian government has officially designated the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) as a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), according to a gazette notification issued by the Union Home Ministry. The designation was announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who stated the decision aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's zero-tolerance approach to terrorism. The notification invoked Section 35(1)(a) of the UAPA to add SBN to the First Schedule of the Act, which lists organisations designated as terrorist groups under Indian law.

The Centre claims the SBN is involved in smuggling arms, explosives, and narcotics across borders, inciting youths and petty criminals into terrorism, and targeting India's democratic structure and communal harmony. The notification also cited criminal cases registered against alleged SBN members under multiple laws, including the UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Arms Act, Explosives Act, Information Technology Act, and Prevention of Defacement of Property Act. The SBN is described as a Pakistan-based ISI-backed terror syndicate linked to grenade, IED, and petrol bomb attacks, as well as targeted killings across India.

The designation follows a multi-state operation conducted across 14 states in August 2026, which resulted in 253 detentions and over 200 arrests, with more than 80 FIRs registered against alleged SBN operatives. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) stated the operation was conducted in coordination with state police forces using a real-time intelligence-sharing system. The 253 detentions included significant numbers in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, and other states. Fresh FIRs were registered in Delhi and Karnataka.

The notification also highlights the group's alleged use of digital communication platforms to disseminate provocative messages, posing a serious challenge to national integrity. The SBN is now the 46th organisation listed under the UAPA's First Schedule, marking a significant step in the government's counter-terrorism strategy.

The designation of SBN as a terrorist organisation underscores the Indian government's continued efforts to combat cross-border terrorism and safeguard national security. However, the lack of a response from the group or its alleged members leaves questions about the accuracy of the claims and the extent of the SBN's activities. Further investigations and public discourse may be necessary to fully understand the implications of this designation and its impact on regional security dynamics.