Mumbai/IBNS: Activist Gautam Navlakha was introduced to a Pakistan Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) General for his recruitment showing his nexus to the organisation, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) told the Bombay High Court on Tuesday in connection with the 2018 Bhima Koregaon case.

In its affidavit opposing the bail plea filed by Navlakha, the NIA stated that the activist delivered speeches at different forums on issues related to the Kashmir separatist movement and the Maoist movement.

According to the agency, it has seized documents from Navlakha connected to the formation of the Communist Party of India (Maoist), indicating his deep involvement in the activities of the banned outfit.

“Navlakha had visited USA thrice to address ‘Kashmiri American Council’ Conference organised by Ghulam Nabi Fai, who was arrested by the FBI in July 2011 for accepting funds from ISI and Pakistan government. Navlakha had written a letter to the judge of US court trying the case for clemency (granting pardon). Navlakha was introduced to a Pakistan ISI General for his recruitment by Fai on the direction of ISI showing his nexus and complicity with Fai and ISI,” the affidavit said.

The NIA further claimed that Navlakha was attempting to trivialise the acts done by him, which were serious in nature.

“Navlakha is trying to portray his criminal activities as work for human rights by the fact remains that there should be a clear distinction between preaching and committing offence itself,” the affidavit read.

Moreover, it was claimed that the acts committed by Navlakha had a direct impact on the unity, integrity and sovereignty of India.

“Navlakha is one of those members who is part of giving mileage to subversive activities (Naxalite Maoist insurgency) against this country," it added.