NIA & ED launched several raids in 13 states in India and detained 100 top PFI leaders.

On September 22, 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted a series of coordinated raids on offices associated with the Popular Front of India (PFI) as part of a significant crackdown on suspected terror funding activities. This extensive operation spanned thirteen states across the country and resulted in the detention of approximately 100 top leaders from the organization.

According to the NIA, the PFI has established connections with extremist groups and organizations that are primarily focused on campaigning against issues such as fake encounters, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, and police misconduct. The raids commenced in the early hours of the morning, starting around 3:30 AM, as agents moved swiftly to apprehend the suspects. As of the latest reports, over 100 leaders from the PFI have been arrested, reflecting the scale and seriousness of the operation.

The state of Kerala saw the highest number of arrests, with 22 individuals detained, followed closely by Maharashtra and Karnataka, each recording 20 arrests. Additional detentions occurred in Tamil Nadu (10), Assam (nine), Uttar Pradesh (eight), Andhra Pradesh (five), and Madhya Pradesh (four). This widespread operation underscores the authorities' commitment to addressing concerns surrounding alleged terror financing and the activities of organizations perceived to threaten national security.

In the aftermath of the raids, reactions have varied, with supporters of the PFI condemning the actions as an infringement on civil liberties, while law enforcement agencies emphasize the need to investigate and dismantle networks that could potentially fund or support extremist activities. The ongoing investigations are expected to delve deeper into the operations of the PFI and its affiliations, aiming to uncover any further links to radicalization or unlawful conduct.

As this situation unfolds, it highlights the complexities of managing national security issues while balancing the rights and freedoms of individuals and organizations. The raids mark a significant moment in the Indian government's efforts to tackle perceived threats from extremist groups, reflecting a broader commitment to safeguarding public safety and maintaining law and order. The implications of these actions will likely resonate within the political landscape as debates about security, civil rights, and the role of organizations like the PFI continue to evolve.