Agra: In a major crackdown, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) has uncovered a nationwide religious conversion racket with suspected links to extremist elements in Pakistan and Gaza. The syndicate, which operated through social media and online gaming platforms, targeted vulnerable Hindu youth across several states. Eleven individuals have been arrested in connection with the case.
Pakistan, Gaza Links Emerge in Investigation
The investigation began in March after two sisters, aged 18 and 33, went missing from Agra. Their disappearance led authorities to a larger network orchestrating illegal religious conversions. Officials allege that the group received ideological and logistical support from handlers based in Pakistan and Gaza, with suspected ties to banned organisations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the Popular Front of India (PFI).
The alleged mastermind, Abdul Rehman Qureshi—also known as Rehman Chacha—is a convert originally from Firozabad. Another key operative, SB Krishna (who converted to Islam and took the name Ayesha), is believed to have facilitated foreign funding and recruitment logistics from Goa.
Online Games and Social Media Used for Targeting
Police say the group used mobile gaming apps, including LudoStar, as a gateway to engage with young people. Victims were befriended during gameplay and then gradually indoctrinated through private chats on WhatsApp and Signal. Once trust was established, they were exposed to religious content aimed at influencing their beliefs and encouraging conversion.
At least two rescued girls, including a teenager from Dehradun, reportedly attempted to flee their homes under the group’s influence. Authorities confirmed that several victims were so deeply radicalised that counselling efforts initially proved ineffective.
Long-Term Conversion Plan Revealed
According to statements made during police interrogations, the group was allegedly working toward a broader ideological goal referred to as “Mission 2050” — a plan to facilitate mass conversion across India by the middle of the century.
The operation reportedly involved sophisticated funding mechanisms, including cryptocurrency transfers and crowdfunding platforms, routed through the UAE, UK, USA, and Canada. Some financial activity is believed to have taken place via the dark web to evade detection.
Multiple States Involved, Nationwide Operation Underway
So far, arrests have been made in Delhi, Goa, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh. The suspects face charges under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Law, 2021, along with provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to organised crime and cyber operations.
In response, UP ATS and Special Task Force (STF) have launched “Mission Asmita,” a counter-radicalisation effort aimed at identifying additional victims, tracking digital footprints, and neutralising similar networks across the country.
Political and Public Response
The revelations have drawn strong reactions from both political leaders and civil society. Union and state officials have called for increased monitoring of digital platforms, particularly gaming and messaging apps. “What we are witnessing is not just illegal conversion but digital radicalisation, targeting our youth,” said a senior Home Ministry official.
Authorities have issued advisories to parents and educational institutions, urging vigilance over children’s online activities and encouraging the reporting of suspicious digital behaviour.
The investigation remains ongoing, with central agencies expected to step in for deeper inquiry into international linkages and terror financing angles.