In Rajasthan, a 32-year-old man named Qasim has been apprehended on suspicion of spying for Pakistan. This arrest occurred amidst heightened vigilance following India's Operation Sindoor. Qasim is accused of maintaining contact with individuals in Pakistan during the operation and of having previously visited the neighboring country.
Qasim's arrest was carried out by a joint team comprising the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and the Crime Investigation Department (CID). Authorities are planning a forensic examination of his phone and further interrogation to determine the extent of his involvement in espionage activities. Qasim had previously resided in Delhi but had relocated to his village before acquiring a visa to Pakistan, where he married a Pakistani woman. He remained in contact with her during Operation Sindoor, raising suspicions about his activities.
This arrest is part of a broader crackdown on suspected espionage networks with cross-border links. Recently, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested Sahdev Singh Gohil near the Kutch border. Gohil, a health worker, is accused of sharing sensitive information related to the Indian Navy and Border Security Force (BSF) with a Pakistani agent in exchange for money.
Operation Sindoor has led to high alert levels in Rajasthan and other border states. Following the operation, security measures were intensified, with airports suspending operations and schools closing in border districts. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma led a Tiranga Yatra in Jaipur to celebrate the success of Operation Sindoor and honor the armed forces.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the strong message sent by Operation Sindoor, stating that it demonstrated the consequences when "vermilion turns into gunpowder." He asserted that the operation, conducted in response to a terror attack, wiped out several terror hideouts and sent a clear signal to enemies of the country.
These developments highlight the ongoing concerns about cross-border espionage and the efforts by Indian intelligence agencies to counter such activities. The investigation into Qasim's connections and the information he may have shared is ongoing, as authorities work to dismantle any potential spy network and ensure national security. The recent arrests and heightened security measures reflect India's commitment to safeguarding its interests and responding decisively to threats emanating from across the border.