India arrests over 200 terror operatives linked to Pakistan ahead of Independence Day

Indian security agencies have arrested more than 200 individuals identified as "terror operatives" with alleged links to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Home Minister Amit Shah announced the crackdown on Monday, stating it thwarted potential "subversive attacks" planned around India's Independence Day celebrations last week. This operation, described as one of the largest in recent years, was conducted across 14 Indian states on August 12, three days before the country marked its 80th year of independence.

Shah stated that the "Modi government destroyed the ISI-backed terror group Shahzad Bhatti Network" and prevented its planned attacks through these arrests. Recovered items included pistols, live ammunition, grenades bearing Pakistani Ordnance Factory markings, and crude bombs. India and Pakistan, both nuclear-armed neighbors, have a history of mutual accusations regarding the fostering and abetting of terrorism.

A spokesperson for Pakistan's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters. However, Pakistan has consistently denied allegations of supporting militant groups responsible for attacks within India. The two nations were involved in a military conflict last year following India's accusation that Pakistani attackers were responsible for the deaths of 26 individuals at a tourist destination in Indian Kashmir.

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The Modi government destroyed the ISI-backed terror group Shahzad Bhatti Network ahead of Independence Day and thwarted its plans for subversive attacks by arresting more than 200 operatives.