Kolkata, August 15: The family of Asaful Malik, a West Bengal resident arrested in Bengaluru over alleged links with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has rejected the allegations and claimed that he is innocent. His mother, Hasina Bibi, told reporters that she was shocked by the arrest and said her son had been focused on education and preparing for government examinations.

Malik, a resident of North 24 Parganas, had graduated from Gobardanga Hindu College and was reportedly preparing for competitive examinations, including the West Bengal Civil Service examination. According to his mother, he eventually moved to Bengaluru around 18 months ago and took up employment as a security guard to support his family.

Police Allege Contact With Afghanistan-Based TTP Member

The case emerged after Bengaluru Police detained Malik from the Bommasandra Industrial Area and questioned him.

According to the police, interrogation allegedly revealed that Malik had come into contact with Imran Ahinder, whom investigators identify as an Afghanistan-based member of the TTP. Police are examining the alleged communication and the circumstances in which the two came into contact.

Other reports citing investigators say authorities are examining digital material, including messages and audio recordings allegedly recovered from Malik’s phone. Investigators are also looking into whether there were any wider local, financial or organisational links.

Family Rejects Allegations

Malik’s mother has strongly disputed the allegations against her son.

She said he had spent much of his time studying and pursuing a government job, including attempting to join the police. She also said the family was awaiting further information from Malik’s father, who was expected to contact authorities in Bengaluru.

Neighbours in his native area have also reportedly expressed surprise over the allegations and arrest.

Investigation Continues

Police have registered a case and are continuing to investigate Malik’s alleged contacts, digital communications and financial links. Investigators are also examining whether anyone else was involved or whether the case extends beyond the individual suspect.

At this stage, the TTP connection and other allegations remain claims under investigation, while Malik’s family maintains that he has been wrongly accused.

The case is likely to draw further attention as investigators examine the digital evidence and alleged international contacts to establish the full circumstances surrounding the arrest.