The DRDO data leak case, a critical matter concerning India’s national security, has seen a significant update in Balasore, Odisha. Asif Ali, alleged to be a terrorist with connections to the Pakistani ISI, was brought before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) court on Friday. He was transported to Balasore from Meerut Jail on a production warrant.
Asif Ali is accused of providing weapons and ammunition to the ISI, intended for use in terrorist operations. His arrest took place in Meerut in 2015. Ishwar Behera, a cameraman employed at the Chandipur DRDO center, was also arrested in relation to the case.
The investigation revealed that Ishwar Behera had leaked sensitive information from DRDO to Pakistan. Asif Ali’s involvement included not only the conspiracy but also active participation in the supply of weapons and technical data.
Ishwar Behera has already been sentenced to life imprisonment. The court is continuing to hear the case against Asif Ali, who faces serious charges of sedition, criminal conspiracy, and threats to national security.
During the court appearance, Asif Ali’s bail application was rejected. Assistant Legal Defense Counsel Rajiv Kumar Pani confirmed that the accused is facing serious charges under IPC sections 120(B), 121(A), along with other sections, and the Official Secrets Act.
Security agencies consider this case to be a major security alert. The DRDO center in Balasore is a key element of India’s defense research, and the leakage of its information poses a severe threat to national security.
The court premises were heavily secured during Asif Ali’s appearance. Police and intelligence agencies were on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents. The court denied Asif Ali’s bail application.