India: Suspected Islamic terrorist Abdul Rehman arrested for plotting attacks on Ram Temple and Somnath Temple

Image: Jihad Watch

Acting on intelligence reports, a joint team of Gujarat's Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and Faridabad's Special Task Force (STF) apprehended Abdul Rehman. Investigations revealed that he had carried out several reconnaissance missions on the Ram Temple and passed crucial information to handlers associated with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Rehman's plan involved an attack on the temple using hand grenades.

The 19-year-old, suspected of jihadist links, had been living in Pali village under a false Hindu identity, going by the name "Shankar." To avoid detection, he took up various jobs, including working at a mutton shop and driving an auto rickshaw in Faizabad, blending in with the local community. His low-profile lifestyle allowed him to remain undetected while maintaining covert ties with ISI operatives.

Authorities believe Rehman underwent training from ISI handlers, who equipped him with the skills to carry out the planned attack. Investigations suggest that he was in contact with members of an Islamic terror network via social media, receiving guidance on surveying key locations and providing crucial intelligence.

Although Rehman's primary target was the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, a site of immense religious and cultural significance to Hindus, sources suggest he had also targeted the Somnath Temple in Gujarat. With the Ram Mandir's location being sensitive and a high number of visitors, especially after the recent Kumbh celebrations, security agencies have already stepped up their surveillance. Rehman is believed to have conducted multiple reconnaissance missions to assess security weaknesses at the temple. The Somnath Temple, which is also expected to witness high foot traffic with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit, was another potential target. Attacking the temples at such times would maximize fatalities.

Rehman's swift arrest, which prevented a potential deadly attack, is being seen as a major success in countering Islamic terrorism in a nation that has long been a victim of Pakistan-backed attacks since its independence. Following his arrest, security forces increased surveillance around Ayodhya and deployed additional units to safeguard the religious sites.

Officials are interrogating Rehman to uncover more details about his network and possible accomplices. While intelligence reports have mentioned another suspect, their identity remains unknown. Security agencies remain on high alert, monitoring both physical and digital channels to thwart any future terrorism attempts.

This incident underscores the ongoing threat posed by jihadist elements to the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and the Somnath Temple in Gujarat. Both temples, which have faced historical attacks and destruction by Islamic invaders, have been reclaimed through immense struggle by Hindus. These sites are deeply hated by some Muslim groups worldwide. Some Muslim politicians in India have openly criticized the Supreme Court's 2019 verdict on the Ram Temple, fueling provocative sentiments among their followers. Consequently, the potential attack by a Muslim figure does not come as a shock to many Hindus.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)