Farhatullah Ghauri, also known by aliases such as Abu Sufyan, Sardar Sahab, and Faru, holds a notorious status as a designated terrorist. Born in Hyderabad in 1966, Ghauri later relocated to Dubai in the mid-90s before settling in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. His involvement in various criminal activities, particularly in connection with the Akshardham Temple attack in Gandhinagar in 2002 and a conspiracy to eliminate political leaders in Hyderabad in 2004, has garnered significant attention.
In October 2020, the Central government of India officially designated Ghauri as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). He is recognized as a key figure within the Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) terror group, often holding the title 'Ustad' among its cadre. His clandestine activities involve crucial roles within terror networks, contributing to a range of offenses such as attempts to commit murder, conspiracy, abetment, illegal arms and ammunition collection, and preparations to wage war against India.
Ghauri, known for his secretive nature, has managed to elude authorities, and even INTERPOL has faced challenges in obtaining a clear photograph of him. During his stay in Dubai, it is believed that Ghauri underwent several surgeries to conceal his identity. His enigmatic persona has extended to online platforms, where he has released propaganda videos, calling on Indian Muslims to revolt.
Given his association with the Jaish-e-Muhammad and his role as a handler, Ghauri remains a figure of significant concern for security agencies. Despite the challenges in tracking him, intelligence agencies have been closely monitoring his activities, recognizing him as a potential threat to national security.
