Display omitted •Silver and activated carbon co-doped titania nanoparticles (TAC) were synthesized.•Pure anatase phase titania, face centered cubic silver nanoparticles were observed.•Zones of inhibition comparable to streptomycin were observed in E. coli & S. aureus.•Adsorptive nature of activated carbon concentrates bacteria around TAC.•Oxidative stress, cell rupture and bacterial adsorption inhibit bacterial growth. Development of efficient antimicrobial agents is imperative for the persistent microbial pollution and contamination. Here, we have analyzed the enhancement in the antibacterial activity of TiO2 nanoparticles when co-doped with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) and activated carbon (TAC). Highly active anatase phased TiO2 was observed in X-ray diffraction patterns and Raman spectra. Morphological studies revealed the formation of spherical TiO2 and Ag NPs on carbonaceous sheets. The gram negative bacterium, E. coli and gram positive bacterium S. aureus showed zones of inhibition of 7 mm which was comparable to the standard, streptomycin. This inhibitory activity is due synergistic effects of activated carbon, Ag NPs and TiO2 in the nanocomposite. The adsorption ability of activated carbon concentrates the bacteria around the nanoparticle environment. The oxidative stress and cell wall rupture brought about by Ag+ ions and TiO2 respectively inhibit the growth of the concentrated bacteria. The cost-effective and lethal nature of TAC towards both gram positive and gram negative bacterium may find numerous applications in antibacterial coatings, paints, surfaces and films.