In a shocking revelation that has sent ripples through India’s counter-terrorism circles, investigations have uncovered a meticulously orchestrated radicalization network led by a woman known only as Dr. Shaheen. At least 19 women, many highly educated and from stable backgrounds, were lured into extremism under the guise of a “safe” support group—only to vanish without a trace.
The Mastermind: Dr. Shaheen’s Web of Deception
Authorities describe Dr. Shaheen as a charismatic, persuasive figure who operated under multiple aliases, presenting herself as a mental health counselor and women’s rights advocate. She targeted vulnerable women—many struggling with personal crises—through private online forums and self-help groups disguised as empowerment circles.
“Her method was insidious,” revealed a senior NIA officer. “She preyed on emotional vulnerabilities, offering solace before introducing extremist ideologies framed as ‘liberation theology.'”
How Were These Women Recruited?
Investigations reveal a chilling pattern:
- Initial Contact: Women were approached via social media with messages like “You’re not alone—we understand your pain.”
- Grooming Phase: Dr. Shaheen hosted private Zoom sessions and encrypted chats, fostering deep emotional bonds.
- Ideological Shift: Discussions moved from self-help to anti-state rhetoric, framed as “fighting oppression.”
- Disappearance: After months of indoctrination, they severed family ties, erased digital footprints, and vanished.
One victim’s sister, Priya (name changed), shared: “My sister was a PhD scholar. She called saying she’d found ‘true purpose.’ Days later, she was gone.”
Why Target Educated Women?
Security experts note that women are increasingly exploited by extremists for their ability to evade suspicion.
“Female recruits bypass surveillance easily,” said counter-terrorism expert Col. Rajan Mehra (Retd.). “They’re used for logistics, recruitment, even attacks.”
Dr. Shaheen’s network allegedly had links to transnational groups, though officials remain tight-lipped.
Families Desperate for Answers
Heartbroken relatives describe searching hospitals, ashrams, and mortuaries—with no leads.
“We checked everywhere,” said a father from Kerala. “Nothing.”
The women’s last-known locations span Jammu & Kashmir, Kerala, and West Bengal—regions with histories of extremist activity.
Did the System Fail?
Critics argue intelligence agencies missed red flags:
– Dr. Shaheen’s encrypted apps were flagged in 2022, but no action was taken.
– Families’ complaints were dismissed as “domestic disputes.”
“The system ignores radicalization until it’s too late,” said human rights lawyer Aparna Bhat.
The Hunt for Dr. Shaheen
Interpol has issued a Red Notice, but Dr. Shaheen remains at large. Her last trace was a money transfer from Istanbul to a Srinagar NGO. Some speculate she’s part of a larger syndicate.
How Can This Be Prevented?
Experts recommend:
1. Monitoring Online Radicalization Hubs: Shut down covert forums posing as support groups.
2. Community Awareness: Families must question sudden ideological shifts.
3. Rehabilitation Programs: De-radicalization for rescued recruits.
Conclusion: A Warning
This case shows how extremists exploit trust and vulnerability. As agencies search for the missing women, one truth is clear: radicalization often hides behind a mask of safety.
— Reporting by NextMinuteNews Investigations Team
