# Two arrested in Karnataka over alleged terror plot on Telegram

2026-09-26T02:21:13+00:00 | India | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 3 independent outlets

Chikkaballapur police have arrested two men, Shabbir and Salman, for allegedly conspiring to carry out destructive activities through discussions on a Telegram group. According to the Times of India, the group discussed plans to target pro-Hindu leaders and kidnap wealthy individuals for ransom to fund terror activities. The New Indian Express reports that the posts included names of some BJP leaders, but police did not disclose details. Siasat.com quotes SP Padmini Sahu saying neither accused has a known terror background. The arrests followed a four-month investigation triggered by intelligence inputs. Police are examining the Telegram group, its administrator, and other members. The accused have been remanded in judicial custody. Police will seek further custody for questioning and examine their mobile phones and online activities. The investigation continues to establish the nature and extent of the alleged conspiracy.

## Indian Opinion Analysis

The three sources diverge in what they foreground. The Times of India leads with the most dramatic specifics: plans to target pro-Hindu leaders and raise ransom money, while The New Indian Express and Siasat.com stick closer to the police statement, with the Express also noting the alleged mention of BJP leaders but not specifying targets. The Express alone notes the arrests under Section 113(2) of BNS and mentions the accused may be migrants from Bangladesh, adding a layer not in other reports. A balanced reading suggests the core fact is an alleged online conspiracy, but details on its scope and targets remain under investigation. The police custody hearing and mobile phone forensic reports will be the next concrete developments to watch.

## Coverage

- siasat.com (neutral report) <https://www.siasat.com/two-arrested-in-chikkaballapur-over-alleged-terror-plot-talks-3548201/>
  Straight reporting of police statement and investigation details without slant
- timesofindia.indiatimes.com (sensationalist) <https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/two-terror-suspects-arrested-in-karnataka/articleshow/134491027.cms>
  Leads with terror plot and specifics about targeting leaders and ransom
- newindianexpress.com (neutral report) <https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2026/Sep/26/two-arrested-in-karnataka-over-alleged-provocative-social-media-posts>
  Focuses on provocative posts and public order, less dramatic framing

Tags: Chikkaballapur, Karnataka police, Padmini Sahu, Telegram
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