New Delhi, August 2: In a troubling development, two terrorist attacks have occurred in Jammu and Kashmir within just ten days. Authorities have discovered that both the first attack in Anantnag and the second in Kulgam are orchestrated by ‘The Resistance Front,’ an affiliate of Lashkar-e-Taiba. Agencies believe that Lashkar is reverting to its old strategy of using allied groups to target civilians in Kashmir.
These attacks signal Lashkar-e-Taiba’s renewed efforts to revive its operations in Jammu and Kashmir. The group is also adopting a new name to divert attention from its activities.
Following the Anantnag attack, a post went viral on social media claiming the involvement of the United Liberation Council. However, investigators clarified that this was merely a distraction tactic employed by Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Agencies are currently investigating the role of a Lashkar-e-Taiba member in these attacks. Evidence suggests that the assault was indeed executed by Lashkar.
Latif, a key figure, has collaborated with Lashkar commander Zakir Ganai, during which they executed attacks in Anantnag, Shopian, and Kulgam. Although Ganai was killed in a security operation in Kulgam, Latif managed to evade capture. An intelligence officer stated that Latif’s attacks aim to demonstrate that his organization remains relevant in the valley.
He has chosen to remain anonymous to evade security agencies. However, his plan involves conducting low-intensity serial attacks in South Kashmir, where he can strike suddenly and escape.
Officials further noted that Lashkar-e-Taiba hopes these attacks will strengthen its position in Kashmir and boost recruitment efforts.
Another official highlighted that the recent Kulgam attack specifically targeted migrant workers. This tactic recalls Lashkar’s historical methods of targeting non-locals to instill fear and compel them to leave Jammu and Kashmir.
Authorities assert that these attacks are not random incidents; they exhibit a clear pattern. The Kulgam attack occurred just two days after threatening messages and hit lists were circulated by terrorist-supporting channels.
Their targets include Kashmiri Pandits, minorities, and migrant workers in the valley. Security agencies have identified that attacks are likely to occur in areas with weaker security, meaning civilians will be the primary victims.
These terrorist groups are well aware that stringent security measures prevent them from infiltrating sensitive establishments and military camps. Consequently, Lashkar-e-Taiba has altered its strategy to focus on innocent civilians.
Officials indicate that Lashkar aims to create a significant impact through regular minor attacks that target civilians.
One officer noted that to execute such attacks, Lashkar has instructed its members to carry pistols instead of AK-47s, which are typically their weapon of choice.
Pistols can be easily concealed and attract less attention. Another concern for security agencies is the type of recruits the organization is seeking.
Lashkar is looking for individuals with no criminal records. An officer explained that these recruits will only be used for a single attack before disappearing. This strategy creates confusion for security agencies, making it difficult to track such elements.
While the primary targets remain ordinary civilians, particularly non-locals and minorities, Lashkar-e-Taiba also aims to strike at security forces.
Leave a Comment