Karnataka: Home Ministry designates Bhatkal-brothers as terrorists

A list of terrorists released by the ministry included Riyaz Bhatkal and Iqbal Bhatkal, founders of Bhatkal-based Indian Mujahideen, Hizbul Mujahideen commander Syed Salahuddin, and gangster Dawood Ibrahim's close aide Chota Shakeel.

Bhatkal (Karnataka): The Union Home Ministry designated 18 persons including two brothers from Bhatkal as terrorists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

In August last year, the Central Government amended the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) in 1967 to include provisions to declare individuals as terrorists.

The ministry of home affairs has declared 18 people as terrorists. The list released by the ministry included Riyaz Bhatkal and Iqbal Bhatkal, founders of Bhatkal-based Indian Mujahideen, Hizbul Mujahideen commander Syed Salahuddin, and gangster Dawood Ibrahim's close aide Chota Shakeel.

According to reports, listed individuals are suspected to be hiding in Pakistan. The individuals were involved in activities to destabilize the country.

The Home Ministry in a statement reiterated its policy of zero-tolerance towards terrorism.