Elections near, Intelligence flags radicalisation push using large gatherings in Bengal, Assam, Bangladesh

January 20, 2026

New Delhi: With elections looming in West Bengal, Assam, and Bangladesh, intelligence agencies have raised concerns over large-scale radicalisation drives in these regions. According to officials, these activities are not only aimed at polarising voters ahead of the polls but also at establishing terror modules with the intention of carrying out large-scale attacks. The agencies have flagged the situation as a matter of high alert, given the volatile political climate and the upcoming electoral season.

Cross-border radicalisation and political motives in Bangladesh
Intelligence sources have pointed out that in Bangladesh, the Jamaat-e-Islami is actively working to radicalise individuals, particularly to influence voter dynamics that currently lean towards the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Officials believe that the radicalisation campaigns are part of a coordinated strategy to shift political influence and exploit tensions in bordering Indian states. These developments have sent alarm signals to authorities in West Bengal and Assam, where similar events and camps are reportedly being conducted to promote radical ideologies among vulnerable populations.

Biswa Ijtema in West Bengal raises alarms
A recent event in West Bengal, the Biswa Ijtema, has become a key focus for intelligence agencies. Held in Punian village near Hooghly district from January 2 to 5, the event drew participants from over 100 countries. Officials noted two points of concern: first, the event had not been conducted in nearly three decades—the last one took place in 1992—and second, it was shifted to West Bengal after being cancelled in Bangladesh due to political instability. While authorities acknowledged that the event concluded with calls for global peace, they warned that large-scale gatherings of this nature could potentially become breeding grounds for radicalisation. Intelligence officials are keeping a close watch on such events, particularly in light of the proximity to upcoming elections.

Heightened surveillance in sensitive districts
Last year, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval visited Kolkata and held extensive meetings with senior police and Intelligence Bureau officials to discuss areas of concern in West Bengal. Districts such as Murshidabad, South 24 Parganas, Malda, and Birbhum were flagged for intensive monitoring due to the high concentration of Madrasas and other factors that could be exploited by radical elements. Authorities have been instructed to maintain heightened surveillance to prevent the spread of extremist ideologies and to ensure law and order during the election season.

Threats from the Islamic State and recruitment activities
Officials have further warned that terror groups, including the Islamic State, are actively scouting for youth to establish what they term a “Bengal Province.” Recruitment is reportedly targeting vulnerable individuals from Bangladesh, Assam, and West Bengal. Propaganda is being circulated online via channels such as Al-Bengali Media, emphasising alleged oppression of Muslims in the region and calling for unity against the Indian state. Intelligence sources stated that such groups plan to infiltrate large gatherings, scout for potential recruits, and create networks for radicalisation and armed activities.

Election-year vulnerabilities and law enforcement challenges
Intelligence officials have cautioned that the upcoming elections provide an opportunity for radical elements to exploit security forces’ focus on maintaining law and order. Officials predict increased emphasis on infiltration, illegal immigration, radicalisation, recruitment, rioting, and smuggling. West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose recently highlighted the twin challenges of radicalisation and militancy, particularly in Murshidabad district, describing them as grave threats to both security and social stability. With elections nearing, intelligence agencies are maintaining round-the-clock surveillance and coordination with local law enforcement to prevent any attempts to destabilise the region or influence voter behaviour through terror or extremist agendas.