ISI targeting mainstream networks to revive separatism in Kashmir, says official
The Inter-Services Intelligence is pursuing a gradual strategy to bring separatist discourse into political and social networks, according to The Hawk.
The Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Kashmir Desk is working to revive separatism in Jammu and Kashmir through a gradual and calibrated strategy, according to a report by The Hawk. Intelligence officials state the agency is focusing on mainstream political and social networks rather than immediate terror attacks.
An Intelligence Bureau (IB) official said the Kashmir Desk is in overdrive and making suggestions to revive terror. The official noted that current assessments do not suggest plans for terror attacks in the Valley because executing them has become difficult under existing security arrangements.
The ISI is reportedly approaching individuals previously associated with the Hurriyat Conference and encouraging them to enter mainstream politics. This includes targeting former overground workers (OWGs) who have not been involved in unlawful activities for five to six years and lack fresh police files.
According to officials, the ISI is also scouting for youths on social media by monitoring posts that suggest discontent against the State. The agency is looking to recruit individuals into political parties, government services, schools, and colleges to ensure separatism becomes part of daily discourse.
One official stated the Pakistani intelligence agency is prepared to play a long game that could take three to four years to achieve its objectives. The strategy aims to avoid bombastic actions that would attract the attention of law enforcement agencies.