MUMBAI (26 February 2026) — A special court on Wednesday directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Kalyan police to submit formal responses following a startling application by Areeb Majeed, an accused in a high-profile ISIS-related case. Majeed alleged that individuals posing as Indian Army officers approached him with an offer to “wipe out” his ongoing trial in exchange for his participation in a covert operation. Judge Chakor Baviskar described the claims as a “serious incident” involving potential impersonation and interference with the administration of justice.
Allegations of Inducement and Covert Recruitment
According to the application filed by Majeed, who is currently out on bail, the incident transpired on 21 February 2026. Majeed stated that while he was at his college, his wife informed him that an unidentified man and woman had arrived at their residence in Kalyan, insisting on waiting inside for him.
The document details a telephone conversation between Majeed and the woman, who allegedly claimed to be from the Indian Army. She purportedly stated she was accompanied by a senior Colonel-rank officer from New Delhi. According to the plea, the individuals requested Majeed’s “help” in a covert operation and promised that the criminal case against him would be terminated in return.
Majeed asserted that he immediately became suspicious, noting that it is “legally impossible for any executive authority to wipe out a criminal case pending before this court.” He further claimed the individuals attempted to recruit him to contact persons abroad using a specialised mobile device—a proposal he feared could be used to entrap or implicate him further.
Procedural Steps and Judicial Observations
Suspecting an attempt to prejudice his trial, Majeed refused the individuals entry to his home and contacted both the 112 emergency helpline and the NIA control room. The two persons were subsequently taken to the Bazar Peth police station for questioning.
Taking cognisance of the matter, Judge Baviskar issued notices to the Bazar Peth police and the NIA, seeking their replies to the complaint. The court observed that the incident involved:
- Suspected Impersonation: Uncertainty regarding the true identity of the individuals claiming to be from the military.
- Attempted Inducement: The offer of extrajudicial settlements to an accused facing trial under anti-terror laws.
- Judicial Interference: Representations suggesting that executive power could override judicial proceedings.
Background of the Case
Areeb Majeed was arrested in November 2014 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Indian Penal Code. The NIA alleges that he travelled to Syria to join ISIS before returning to India to carry out terror activities. Majeed, who has spent over eleven years defending himself, maintains that he returned in coordination with Indian authorities. He was granted bail by the High Court in 2021.
The special court has adjourned the matter to 4 March 2026, by which time the NIA and local police are expected to provide an explanation regarding the identity of the individuals and the nature of the alleged encounter.
Sources
- Press Trust of India (PTI): “ISIS case accused claims suspected Army personnel offered trial ‘wipe out’” (26 February 2026)
- The Indian Express: “‘Wipe out case against you’: ISIS accused moves court over alleged inducement” (25 February 2026)
- The Times of India: “ISIS case accused claims ‘wipe out’ offer; court seeks NIA reply” (26 February 2026)
- Mumbai Mirror: “ISIS suspect claims two ‘army officials’ tried to recruit him” (26 February 2026)
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