New Delhi, September 14, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Security agencies have stepped up counter-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir following intelligence inputs that Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) is making a renewed push to rebuild its terror network in the Valley through a slow, targeted radicalisation campaign.
According to intelligence reports, the Pakistan-based outfit has intensified efforts to revive its networks in Jammu and Kashmir. Agencies have also intercepted communications indicating an increase in attempts to radicalise young people in the region.
An official said the developments have prompted the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and State Investigation Agency (SIA) to strengthen measures against both terrorism and radicalisation.
The LeT has reportedly established dedicated units in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) focusing specifically on radicalisation efforts in Jammu and Kashmir. Intelligence inputs suggest the outfit is initially targeting a relatively small number of youths across the region.
An Intelligence Bureau official said the LeT and Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) have roped in individuals who had previously exfiltrated to Pakistan and PoK to carry out the campaign. These individuals, who have relatives and contacts in Jammu and Kashmir, are allegedly being asked to identify potential targets.
The strategy, officials said, is to initially radicalise a limited number of people and subsequently use them to reach out to others, creating a “homegrown” radicalisation network.
The SIA recently identified five people, including two women, who were allegedly in contact with handlers in Pakistan and PoK. Officials said attempts were being made to radicalise them.
According to officials, the ISI has directed the LeT to adopt a gradual approach, with the objective of expanding the network through already radicalised individuals rather than attempting large-scale recruitment immediately.
Officials warned that sustained radicalisation could pose a greater long-term challenge than conventional terrorism by creating a wider support base for terror activities.
At the same time, agencies have detected fresh infiltration attempts along the Line of Control. Intelligence assessments indicate that the ISI is seeking to push around 30 to 40 terrorists from launchpads in PoK into Jammu and Kashmir. Those who manage to infiltrate are expected to take shelter in dense forest areas and remain there until receiving instructions for attacks.
An intelligence assessment has also flagged the possibility of an attack on the scale of the Pahalgam or Pulwama incidents. Officials said the suspected plan could involve targeting Kashmiri Pandits and migrant workers in an attempt to create communal divisions and disturb peace in Jammu and Kashmir.
FOLLOW NOW
