Islamic State established an ‘Islamic country’ in the Muslim-majority areas of Padgha and Borivali in Thane district

Thane – After the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) raided the residences of Saqib Nachan and other suspected terrorists in the villages of Padgha and Borivali in Bhiwandi (Thane district), several objectionable materials were seized, and disturbing information came to light. As per the 2011 census, Muslims comprised 83 percent of Padgha’s population and 92 percent of Borivali’s. It appears that Nachan had turned these villages into a base and operational headquarters for terrorist activities. Padgha is located 59 km from Mumbai and is close to the coastline.

1. The Nachan family is reportedly working to establish an ‘Islamic state’ in India, following the ideology of the Islamic State. It is alleged that the Nachan family has attempted to establish a Syria-like independent zone in Bhiwandi.

2. By reportedly promoting anti-national ideologies among Muslim youth, a so-called “cabinet” of 15 individuals has been formed.

3. A ‘sleeper cell’ is said to have been created for conducting anti-national activities.

4. It has been claimed that Nachan influenced the local population to such an extent that, a few years ago, the village was referred to as ‘Al Sham’ and declared to be separate from India.

5. In the past, police teams visiting this area have reportedly been attacked.

6. 5 individuals involved in the 2002–2003 Mumbai serial bomb blasts were from this village.

7. Nachan is also reported to have experimented with making explosives in this region.

8. These alleged activities have been ongoing for several years, with the banned organization SIMI believed to be behind them.

9. Nachan was previously affiliated with Jamaat-e-Islami, and later became the state chief of SIMI. A meeting he organized in Mumbai was reportedly attended by around 50,000 people.

Editorial Perspective

Wherever the Muslim population increases, there is an attempt to implement ‘Sharia’; this fact has once again been demonstrated here. It is evident that most of the villages in this area are likely supporting the terrorists. Therefore, the government must urgently take a decision regarding the future of this entire region.