(a) whether the Government is aware of the presence of Islamic State (IS) in various Indian States, especially in southern Kerala;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the action taken to check such activities;
(c) whether the Government is further aware of reports of Keralites being killed in US military action in Afghanistan, who according to various media reports, joined IS and Taliban; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS
(SHRI G. KISHAN REDDY)
(a) to (b) : Some instances of individuals from different States including Kerala having joined IS have come to the notice of Central and State Security Agencies. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the States Police have registered cases against IS members / sympathizers and have arrested 155 accused so far all over the country. The Islamic State (IS)/ Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL)/ Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS)/ Daesh has been notified as a Terrorist Organization and included in the First Schedule to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 by the Central Government. IS is using various internet based social media platforms to propagate its ideology. Cyber space is being closely watched in this regard by the agencies concerned and action is taken as per law.
(c) to (d): There is no confirmation of media reports to this effect.
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