Gangtok: Sikkim Police has clarified that there is no evidence of any organised terrorist module, local extremist network, or communal angle operating in the state, even as investigations continue into the alleged online self-radicalisation of a 19-year-old youth arrested in connection with suspected extremist activities.
Addressing concerns over the state’s security, Deputy Inspector General of Police (Gangtok Range & Crime Branch-CID) and Principal Official Spokesperson for Sikkim Police, Tenzing Loden Lepcha, IPS, said there was no intelligence suggesting any immediate threat to public safety or communal harmony.
”Sikkim Police wishes to reassure all citizens that there is presently no intelligence indicating any imminent threat to public safety, communal harmony or law and order in the State. At this stage, there is no evidence of any organised terrorist module, local extremist network or communal angle within the State of Sikkim. The investigation presently relates to the alleged activities of an individual,” the officer said.
While ruling out a wider domestic module, Lepcha warned that digital leads indicate interstate and international linkages that are being thoroughly examined in coordination with central intelligence agencies and law enforcement bodies of other states.
Emphasising the broader societal challenge, Lepcha noted, ”This case serves as a reminder that online radicalisation is an emerging security challenge. Parents, educational institutions and the public are encouraged to remain vigilant regarding extremist content circulated through digital platforms and to report any suspicious online activity to Sikkim Police. Preventing radicalisation requires not only effective policing but also the active participation of families, educational institutions and the community.”
The investigation stems from a major joint operation supported by the Delhi Police, where the Sadar Police Station in Gangtok apprehended 19-year-old Md. Arju of Nam Nang. The arrest followed high-level intelligence inputs received via the State Special Branch and Central Intelligence Agencies pointing to suspicious online activity. Police have registered FIR No. 58/2026 under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, and the Information Technology Act, 2000.
According to an official press statement, the investigation—spearheaded by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) Mingyur Tempo Nadik—indicates a clear pattern of online self-radicalisation, a global phenomenon where vulnerable individuals are influenced via social media and encrypted messaging forums without direct, physical contact with extremist organisations.
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During the breakthrough operation, a raid at a residence on Lower MG Marg, Nam Nang Road, led to the brief detention of six family members and the seizure of laptops, iPads, and pen drives. A forensic analysis of Arju’s Samsung mobile phone uncovered extremist applications, active chats regarding an Instagram group named “GIM (Group of Islamic Members)”, militant funding discussions, and communication records with individuals in India and Pakistan. Investigators also recovered ChatGPT conversation logs reflecting ideological support for extremist views. The five other family members were released on bail bonds after being cleared of any incriminating evidence.
Addressing the delayed public disclosure, Sikkim Police noted that operational sensitivity required close coordination with internal and interstate police heads to verify emerging leads before making the case public. In accordance with Section 6 of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, 2008, a statutory report has been forwarded to competent authorities.
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