How Pakistan Funded Terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir
Pakistan has used various methods to fund terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir. For this Pakistan has provided economic, military and political support to several terrorist groups and individuals. Following are the methods through which Pakistan funded terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir:
1. Providing Funds and Resources to Terrorist Groups
Pakistan has provided financial help to terrorist organizations active in Jammu & Kashmir such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) and others. These organizations receive training from Pakistan, receive supplies of arms, explosives and other military materials.
2. Supply of Weapons
Pakistan has supplied arms, explosives and other military equipment to terrorists. For this, terrorist activities have been carried out in Jammu & Kashmir with the help of various organizations and government agencies of Pakistan.
3. Foreign Funding
Pakistan helped terrorist organizations to get financial help from foreign sources. Under this, the funds are arranged through various collaterals, shell companies, and charity organizations, which aim to promote terrorist activities.
4. Support from ISI
Pakistan’s intelligence agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) provided training, arms, and funds to terrorist organizations. ISI motivated terrorists to infiltrate Jammu and Kashmir and carry out terrorist attacks. ISI’s role has been crucial in increasing terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir.
5. Political and Diplomatic Support
Pakistan gave prominence to the Kashmir issue at international forums and presented it as a conflict, so as to support terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir. Apart from this, Pakistan promoted the armed struggle in Kashmir as a freedom movement, so that terrorists could get support to continue their activities.
6. Spreading Instability in the Kashmir Valley
Pakistan encouraged local separatist groups and terrorist organizations to create political instability in parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Through this, Pakistan tried to destabilize peace and stability in the Kashmir Valley.
7. Humanitarian and Charity Fronts
Pakistan provided financial assistance and other types of resources to terrorists through charity institutions and religious organizations. The purpose of these institutions was to spread instability in the Kashmir Valley and involve people in terrorist activities.
Conclusion
Thus, Pakistan has adopted many diverse and complex methods to finance terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, which were aimed at challenging the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Indian state.
How Pakistan Funded Terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir
Introduction
Pakistan has adopted various strategies over the decades to fund terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan’s efforts have been to spread instability in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, promote separatism and encourage conflict against Indian rule. This work has been done mainly through Pakistan’s military and intelligence agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), which aims to challenge the Indian security forces and fulfill the dream of making Kashmir a part of Pakistan.
1. Support to Terrorist Organizations
Pakistan has given political, financial and military support to several terrorist groups that carried out terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir. These include major organizations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) and other separatist and terrorist groups. These groups were provided training, weapons, and funding by Pakistan.
2. Supply of Weapons and Explosives
Pakistan supplied modern weapons, explosives and other military equipment to terrorists. These terrorist groups used these weapons to attack Indian security forces and civilians in Kashmir.
3. Raising Funds Through NGOs and Charities
Pakistan used several charities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to provide financial support to terrorists. Through these institutions, Pakistan collected funds for terrorists and promoted terrorist activities in Kashmir. These organizations provided weapons, training and other resources to terrorist groups.
4. Role of ISI
Pakistan’s intelligence agency ISI motivated terrorists to infiltrate Kashmir, use explosives, and carry out attacks against Indian security forces. ISI was actively involved in training, guiding and providing financial help to terrorists. This agency has been responsible for smuggling and funding weapons for terrorists.
5. Political Support for Terrorism in Kashmir
Pakistan raised the issue of Jammu and Kashmir on international forums and propagated it as a “struggle” or “freedom movement”. Pakistan gave political support to the terrorists and separatists of Kashmir and justified their activities. As a result, Pakistan promoted terrorists in Kashmir and tried to strengthen their position.
6. Propagation of Religious Radicalism
Pakistan also propagated religious radical ideologies so that more and more young Kashmiris could join terrorist organizations. For this, Pakistan tried to incite the people of Jammu and Kashmir through various religious and cultural organizations.
7. Pakistan-Sponsored Infiltration
Pakistan also helped in infiltration of terrorists and armed groups in Kashmir. This infiltration was particularly prevalent in border areas like Poonch, Rajouri and Jammu from where terrorists launched attacks on Indian security forces and attempted to spread terror activities inside the state.
8. Economic Assistance and External Financial Support
Pakistan has also received external support, including some from Gulf countries, to foment terrorism in Kashmir. This money was used to conduct terror activities, train terrorists and provide them with military equipment.
Terrorist Who Killed 200 People in Jammu and Kashmir
The terrorist who killed 200 people in Jammu and Kashmir was Abdul Rashid Khan, a notorious terrorist of the Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) organization. He became active in the mid-1990s and was involved in several major attacks of terrorist violence in Jammu and Kashmir. He carried out several attacks against Indian security forces, civilians, and security agencies.
The major crimes involved in the activities of Abdul Rashid Khan included killing civilians, attacking security forces, and promoting terrorist activities. He was responsible for terror attacks against the Indian Army and played a role in spreading terror in various parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
According to several reports, he and his associates carried out killings of civilians in the Kashmir Valley, encounters with Indian security forces, and various terrorist activities. However, this number and identity may be doubtful, as details about such terrorists are often unclear and not officially confirmed.
If you are referring to a specific incident or terrorist, please provide more details for accurate information.
Who is a Civilian & Who is a Terrorist?
“Civilian” and “terrorist” are two different terms that have different meanings, contexts, and roles in society and politics. The distinction between these terms is especially important in cases like conflict, war, and terrorism. Let us understand these two terms clearly:
1. Civilian
Definition: A citizen is a person who is a normal resident of a country and who is not directly involved in events like war, conflict, or terrorism.
Role: The purpose of a citizen is to live a normal life in society. They are not part of any military conflict or terrorist activities.
Rights: Citizens get protection of their rights under a democratic and legal system, such as the right to live, freedom of expression, and religious freedom. During war and conflict they are protected under ceasefire and other international human rights rules.
Example: Any ordinary person who is not associated with a military or terrorist organization is considered a civilian.
2. Terrorist
Definition: A terrorist is a person who uses violence and fear, especially targeting innocent civilians, to achieve political or religious goals. Terrorism is a despicable strategy of spreading violence and terror to achieve a particular goal.
Role: Terrorist organizations usually carry out violent actions to wage war against a government or society, which may include bombings, assassinations, kidnappings, and other types of subversive activities. Their purpose is to spread fear and unrest in society.
Rights: Terrorists are considered illegal and criminals by a government, and they are usually punished under the law. Terrorists are denied legal and human rights due to their violent activities.
Example: If a person is a member of a terrorist organization and attacks civilians, detonates a bomb, or kidnaps an innocent, he will be called a terrorist.
Difference Between Civilian and Terrorist
Goal
The goal of a civilian is to live a peaceful and normal life.
The goal of a terrorist is to achieve political or religious goals by spreading fear and unrest in society.
Legal Status
Civilians receive protection under international law, such as the Geneva Convention. They should not be targeted in conflicts.
Terrorists, who deliberately spread violence, are legally considered criminals. Many countries have special laws against terrorism.
Social Role
Civilians contribute to the building of society and generally follow the laws.
Terrorists create disruption in society and try to bring instability.
Examples
Civilian: A school teacher, a doctor, a businessman, a farmer — all of them are citizens. These people perform normal functions in society and are not part of any violent activity.
Terrorist: A person who is a member of a terrorist group, such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, or Hizbul Mujahideen, who attacks innocent civilians, detonates bombs, or violates the rules of war is called a terrorist.
Cost of Financing a Terror Attack in India
The cost of financing terrorist attacks in India depends on many components, and is highly complex and varied. Terrorists receive financial resources from various sources, such as state support, illicit trafficking, international funding, and local criminal activities. It is difficult to accurately calculate the cost, as it is linked to a wide range of activities and sources.
However, we can understand the key aspects of financing terrorist attacks and the source of their cost through the following points:
1. Weapons and Military Equipment
Terrorist organizations use weapons, explosives, and other military equipment to carry out their attacks. Procurement of these materials requires money, and the cost varies depending on the type of attack and the group involved.
Arms smuggling: Weapons are smuggled into Kashmir or other regions from countries like Pakistan.
Explosives: The manufacture and supply of IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) and other explosive materials also involve significant expenses.
2. Recruitment and Training
Terrorist organizations need money to recruit new members and train them. They run training camps in Kashmir, North-East India, and across the border.
Training camps: These camps require funds for food, equipment, trainers, and logistics.
Human resources: Terrorist groups often offer financial incentives to recruit young people locally.
3. Preparation and Execution of a Terrorist Attack
Before launching an attack, terrorists need planning, reconnaissance, logistics, and execution strategies — all of which require resources and money.
Logistics: Vehicles, communication equipment, explosives, and technical devices.
Post-attack: Money is used for hiding, escaping, and avoiding legal consequences.
4. State-Sponsored Terrorism
Countries like Pakistan provide training, financial aid, and weapons to terrorist groups through their intelligence agencies. This significantly increases the cost and sophistication of terror activities.
Internal networks: Shell companies, international donations, and charities are used to fund terror operations.
5. Local and International Sources
Terrorists receive funding from:
- International donations from supporters abroad.
- Local criminal activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, and illegal mining.
6. International Terrorist Networks
Some groups are linked with international organizations like Al-Qaeda and IS, which provide funding, training, and weapons through global networks.
7. Economic Losses for India
Terrorist attacks cause massive economic and social damage.
Economic loss: Trade, tourism, and industries suffer heavily.
Security expenses: Increased military and national security expenditure adds pressure to the government budget.
Conclusion
The financing of terrorist attacks in India covers weapons, recruitment, logistics, training, international donations, and state-sponsored support. Though exact figures are difficult to calculate, it is clear that terror activities come at a high financial, economic, and social cost — affecting not just governments but citizens and the nation’s long-term stability.
How Pak Sponsorship of Terrorism Started
Pakistan’s sponsorship of terrorism is a complex and historical process, which has evolved over several decades. Its beginning is particularly linked to the dispute over Kashmir, and Pakistan has adopted it as its strategic policy. The process of sponsoring terrorism by Pakistan has gone through many twists and turns from the beginning of the fight against the Indian Army in Kashmir in the 1980s to the present day. Let’s know how it started:
1. Kashmir Problem and Pakistan’s Stance
The Kashmir issue has always been the center of dispute between India and Pakistan. Pakistan, while “officially” considering Kashmir as part of its state, called it a “disputed territory”. When conflict and tension increased in Kashmir since 1947-48, Pakistan resorted to various measures to challenge Indian control in the Muslim-majority areas of Kashmir.
Pakistan’s Early Intervention in the Kashmir Dispute
1947-48: Pakistan invaded Kashmir when Maharaja Hari Singh of Kashmir decided to join India. A ceasefire was later agreed under UN pressure, but the Kashmir issue has been a source of conflict between the two countries ever since.
1971: After Pakistan’s defeat in the Bangladesh War of Independence (1971), Pakistan adopted a more aggressive Kashmir policy, particularly promoting attacks against the Indian Army in Kashmir.
2. Beginning of Terrorism in the 1980s
Pakistan’s sponsorship of terrorism in Kashmir intensified in the 1980s when the conflict against the Soviet Union was going on in Afghanistan. Pakistan began training and funding the Mujahideen in Afghanistan with US assistance, which was a strategic advantage for Pakistan.
Terrorism in Kashmir Started in 1989
A terrorist movement started in Kashmir in 1989, which was actively supported by Pakistan through organisations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM). Pakistan provided training, financial aid, arms supply and military equipment to these organisations.
Pakistan’s ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence) ran a covert operation to promote terrorist activities in Kashmir. The main objective of ISI was to spread rebellion against Indian security forces in Kashmir and make Kashmir a part of Pakistan.
3. Pakistan’s Support of Terrorism from 1989 to 1990s
Pakistan trained jihadi terrorists and promoted terrorist attacks in Kashmir. During this time, Pakistan supported Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and other groups.
Pakistan’s support led to a sharp rise in the number of terrorist attacks in Kashmir, targeting civilians as well as Indian security forces.
Pakistan promoted it as a “freedom struggle” while India viewed it as terrorism and foreign intervention.
4. Expansion of Terrorism in the 2000s
Pakistan’s sponsorship of terrorism continued to grow until the late 1990s. Attacks such as the Kandahar hijackings (1999) and the Pathankot attacks (2016) were clear examples of Pakistan’s sponsorship of terrorism.
Pakistan also resorted to terrorism in the 1999 Kargil War, in which Pakistani soldiers infiltrated the Kargil region of Kashmir and clashed with the Indian Army. Pakistan supported local terrorists and infiltrators in this war.
5. International Network of Terrorist Organizations
Pakistan also started providing international support to the terrorists of Kashmir. The terrorist organizations expanded their network and carried out anti-India activities all over the world. These included organizations like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, which also carried out attacks in other parts of India.
Pakistan’s intelligence agency ISI was involved in supplying weapons, explosives and other military materials to the terrorists, apart from training them.
6. Adoption of Terrorism as a State Policy
Pakistan adopted terrorism as its state policy, especially to undermine Indian rule in Kashmir. Pakistan provided safe havens and training camps for terrorists using its political, diplomatic and military powers.
Pakistan presented terrorism as a “hybrid war”, inciting terrorists to infiltrate Indian territory without any overt military action.
7. Support of Terrorism by Pakistan in Modern Times
Pakistan still faces allegations of sponsoring terrorism. Many countries, including the United Nations and India, have accused Pakistan of providing safe haven and support to terrorist organizations.
Pakistan has continued to sponsor terrorism in Kashmir, although it has also taken some actions against terrorist groups, especially due to international pressure.
How ISI Started Using Drugs for Terrorism
ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence), Pakistan’s intelligence agency, started using drugs to finance terrorism in the 1980s during the Afghan-Soviet War. At this time Pakistan supported the jihadist movement in Afghanistan along with the US and its allies against the Soviet Union. Later, this strategy was adopted by Pakistan for Kashmir and other terrorist activities as well. Let’s find out how ISI started using drugs and how terrorism was financed by it:
1. Afghan-Soviet War (1979-1989)
In 1979, the Soviet Union intervened militarily in Afghanistan, after which the Afghan Mujahideen began to oppose their power. Pakistan provided training, arms and financial assistance to the Afghan Mujahideen with US support in this conflict. During the Soviet military action against the Afghan Mujahideen in areas like Khald-Zanjir and Herat in Afghanistan, Pakistan’s ISI trained and armed the terrorists.
During this time, Pakistan devised a plan to promote the smuggling of opium from poppy fields located near Pakistani territory in Afghanistan. Opium was produced in Pakistan’s border areas and money was obtained by selling it to terrorist groups. This method of gaining financial benefits through drug smuggling became part of ISI’s policy of financing terrorism.
2. Drug Smuggling and Terrorism Connection
After the Afghan war, terrorist groups formed in Pakistan, such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Hizbul Mujahideen and other jihadist organizations started receiving funding from drug smuggling and trade. ISI used drug smuggling as a major financial source for these terrorist organizations.
Opium and Heroin Smuggling: Pakistan, in collaboration with Afghanistan and other countries, smuggled opium and heroin. Opium was used to make heroin, and it was traded through Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, and Central Asia. The money obtained from this smuggling was used to purchase weapons, train and promote terrorist activities by terrorist groups.
3. Financial Support from Drugs
The financial support provided by ISI to terrorist organizations through drug trade was in several ways:
- Weapons Funding: The money obtained from drug trade was used to purchase weapons and explosives.
- Establishment of Training Camps: A part of the drug money was used to train terrorists and set up safe havens.
- Expansion of Terrorist Network: ISI used drug smuggling to strengthen the terrorist network in Kashmir and recruit new members.
4. Terrorism and Drugs in India
To promote terrorism in Kashmir, Pakistan funded terrorist groups through drugs. Pakistan involved local terrorist organizations in the drug trade to spread terrorism in the Kashmir Valley.
- Increased terrorist activities: ISI provided money for weapons, explosives, and suicide attack setups.
- Spread of conflict: Drug trafficking and terrorism combined to escalate violence across the region.
5. Export of Drugs to Central Asia and Western Countries
The drug trade spread from Pakistan–Afghanistan borders to Western countries and Central Asia. Terrorist organizations used the money from heroin and opium smuggling to fulfill their goals.
- Used drug trade as a tool of aggression and influence.
- Pakistan used the global drug market to gain foreign currency for terror activities.
6. Drug Trade Across the World
Pakistan established the drug trade as a global network, expanding beyond South Asia. This brought economic benefits to ISI and helped Pakistani terrorist organizations strengthen their activities in Kashmir and other conflict zones.
Why ISI Started Using Hawala in the 1990s
In the 1990s, Inter-Services Intelligence, Pakistan’s intelligence agency, started using the Hawala system to finance terrorism and fuel the conflict in Kashmir. Hawala is an illegal financial system used to exchange money around the world, especially in countries where banking and financial institutions are restricted or weak. Let’s understand in detail why and how the ISI used Hawala.
1. What is the Hawala System?
Hawala is a traditional financial system that carries out the process of transferring money without any banking system. In this, without any personal or institutional intervention, a person sends money from one place and it is received by the operator at another place. This entire process takes place under a trusted network, in which both parties trust each other.
2. Why Did the Use of Hawala Increase in the 1990s?
1. Lack of Control Over the Banking System
In the 1990s, with the Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India and the growing incidence of terrorism, international financial transactions came under strict surveillance. Transactions of terrorists and their supporters in the banking systems of India and other countries came under strict scrutiny.
Due to international sanctions and strict banking oversight, the ISI needed a secure and confidential medium to provide financial assistance to terrorists. Hawala was a confidential and discreet method through which money could be transferred without any documents or bank transactions.
2. Promoting Terrorism in Kashmir
Terrorist activities increased in Kashmir in the 1990s, and Pakistan provided financial support to groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizbul Mujahideen, Jaish-e-Mohammed, etc. For this, Pakistan used the Hawala network.
The ISI created a secret route to send funds to terrorist groups through Hawala, which kept this support hidden and made it difficult for India or international agencies to track it.
3. International Network and Financial Support
Pakistan developed Hawala as an international network that operated between Pakistan, Afghanistan, Gulf countries (like UAE), London, and even parts of Europe. Supporters sent money through Hawala brokers in Dubai, London, and Gulf nations, which eventually reached terrorist groups in Kashmir.
4. Clandestine and Secure Money Transfer
Hawala allowed secure, quick, and undocumented money transfer to terrorist organizations. There was no financial trail, making it extremely difficult for intelligence agencies to trace.
5. Parallel Economy
The hawala system created a parallel financial network in Pakistan and India. It enabled large-scale illicit money flow, supporting weapons purchases, training, and operational expenses of terror groups.
6. Strategic Objectives for Terrorism in India
ISI used Hawala to fund terror attacks, train jihadi organizations, supply arms, and promote anti-India activities in Kashmir. The cheap, fast, and secret method made Hawala a preferred financial tool for Pakistan's terror strategy.
3. Characteristics of the Hawala Network
- Confidentiality & Trust — No written record, based entirely on trust.
- Discreet Money Transfer — Used across Pakistan, Gulf countries, Afghanistan, and India.
- Efficient & Cheap — Faster and cheaper than banking systems.
4. Contribution of Hawala to Pakistan’s Strategy Against India
In the 1990s, Pakistan used Hawala to fund terrorist training, attacks, infiltration, and insurgency in Kashmir. Funding received through Hawala enabled groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed to expand terror activities across India.
How Pakistan Used LoC Trade to Fund Terrorism
Pakistan used Line of Control (LoC) trade as a clandestine and illegal way to fund terrorism, providing money, arms, and resources to terrorist groups. LoC trade started in 2008 between India and Pakistan as a confidence-building measure, but Pakistan soon turned it into a covert terror-financing channel.
1. Objective and Origin of LoC Trade
Started in 2008, the aim of LoC trade was to establish economic links between locals on both sides of the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. It was introduced to build trust, support the local economy, and normalize relations.
Major goods included:
- Food items
- Clothes and blankets
- Industrial goods and raw materials
2. How Pakistan Misused LoC Trade
1. Hawala Network & Financial Support
Pakistan used Hawala to secretly send money under the guise of LoC trade. This allowed funds to reach terrorist groups without official records.
2. Smuggling of Counterfeit Goods & Weapons
Pakistan used LoC trade as a cover to smuggle weapons, explosives, and counterfeit goods into Kashmir. Goods sent to terrorists were disguised as textiles or food items.
3. Financing Terrorist Activities
Fake trading invoices were used to channel money to terrorist groups. Funds were used for terror attacks, recruitment, training, and weapons procurement in the Kashmir Valley.
4. Clandestine Smuggling & Exchange of Aid
ISI used LoC trade routes to help terrorists reach safe havens, plan attacks, and receive money and supplies.
3. How India Opposed It
In 2019, India suspended LoC trade after uncovering large-scale smuggling, Hawala funding, and terror financing. Security agencies exposed how Pakistan used trade routes for money laundering and terror support.
4. Pakistan’s Strategic Advantage
Pakistan used LoC trade to secretly deliver money, weapons, and resources to its terrorist proxies without attracting global scrutiny. It strengthened Pakistan-backed terror networks and supported long-term insurgency in Kashmir.
Conclusion
Pakistan misused LoC trade and the Hawala system to fund terrorism, strengthen terror networks, and destabilize Kashmir. India suspended these channels once it detected large-scale terror financing operations. Pakistan’s covert networks enabled terrorism through smuggling, Hawala money transfer, and cross-border trade disguised as humanitarian activity.
How ISI Used MBBS Seats to Fund Terrorism
Pakistan’s intelligence agency ISI used the misuse of higher education seats like MBBS as a strategy to fund terrorism. It was a shocking but proactive strategy in which Pakistan used fake MBBS seats to provide military training to terrorists and their supporters in India, promote terrorist networks and fund terrorist activities.
1. Misuse of MBBS Seats – Pakistan’s Way
Pakistan adopted a duplicitous method to send terrorists to MBBS seats in the name of getting medical education in India. Under this strategy, Pakistan sent some terrorists and their supporters to India so that they could get enrolled there in the name of getting medical education and later they could be prepared to carry out terrorist activities in India.
1. Fake Doctor Seats and Fake Applications
Pakistan used to send terrorists and their supporters to apply for MBBS seats by posing as fake medical students. They were admitted to medical colleges so that these students could reach India in the name of education. However, the purpose of these students was not to get medical education but their real purpose was to promote terrorist activities.
2. Training and Networking Opportunities for Terrorists
After getting admission in MBBS, these students stayed in India and worked to spread the terrorist network by mingling with the security forces and communities there. These students were originally trained from Pakistan and were admitted to medical colleges to hide their real identity and purpose.
These students were sometimes sent for military training or work related to terrorist groups. While studying in medical colleges, they could plan to carry out terrorist attacks in different parts of India and join the local terrorist network there.
3. Supporting Terrorist Activities
Pakistan’s aim behind this misuse of MBBS was to promote terrorist attacks and religious dissension in India. Under the pretext of getting medical education, these terrorists got a chance to safely set up their network in India and join terrorist activities by joining organizations. Later, they planned terrorist attacks to create instability in India.
2. Expansion of ISI’s Strategy
Pakistan adopted many methods to promote terrorism. Among these, the formation of terrorist groups, smuggling of weapons, and the use of hawala network were prominent. ISI realized that if it sent terrorists to India disguised as medical students, it would be far more difficult to identify and track them.
Under the pretext of medical education, these students could roam freely across India, mingle with locals, and engage in clandestine operations to carry out terrorist activities in the future.
3. Medical Students’ Connection to Terrorism
Some medical students were trained for terror attacks, making them capable of carrying out serious operations. For example:
- Recruitment of terrorists in Kashmir: Pakistan sent many students who were trained to engage in terrorist activities in Kashmir while studying medicine.
- Raising funds via Hawala: These students were also used to send funds to terrorist organizations in India through the hawala network.
4. Fake Education Policy of ISI
ISI adopted a new strategy by misusing medical seats, known as a fake education policy. Under this policy:
- Pakistan-sponsored actors were given admission in India under the guise of medical education.
- These students were provided fake backgrounds and documents to conceal their real purpose.
- All activity was managed by ISI to help these individuals promote terrorism in different parts of India.
5. Indian Government’s Response
India understood the seriousness of the issue and increased monitoring of foreign student admissions. Strict verification, interviews, and background checks were implemented to prevent fake students from entering Indian medical colleges.
Kashmiri Handicrafts & Financing Terrorism
Kashmiri handicrafts and financing terrorism is a complex issue, in which Kashmiri embroidery, carpets, shawls, and other cultural products were misused to raise funds for terrorism. Pakistan and some terrorist organizations exploited the handicraft industry to finance militant activities in Kashmir, harming the livelihoods of Kashmiri artisans.
1. Importance of Kashmiri Handicrafts
Kashmir’s handicrafts — such as shawls, embroidery, carpets, and paper-mache — are world-famous cultural treasures and an essential part of Kashmir’s economy. These crafts have global demand, especially in Europe, the US, and Gulf countries.
2. How Terrorism Was Financed
1. Hawala Network Operated Through Handicrafts
Pakistan used the trade of Kashmiri handicrafts to send funds to terrorist organisations through the hawala network. Illegal financial transactions were carried out under the import-export of handicrafts, making it a cover for sending money and weapons to militants.
2. Exploitation of Kashmiri Artisans
Terrorist organisations pressured artisans into producing goods under fake transactions. The revenue generated was diverted into terror funding while artisans remained unpaid or underpaid.
3. Funding of Terrorist Groups
Pakistan established illegal trade channels through the handicraft industry. These channels supplied money, resources, and even weapons to terror groups operating in Kashmir.
4. Use of Handicraft Products for Smuggling
Terrorist groups used handicraft items such as shawls, carpets, and embroidered goods for smuggling money, messages, and even weapons across borders. This smuggling method was difficult for authorities to detect.
5. Kashmiri Traders and Artisans Linked to Terrorism
Many traders were pressured or coerced into assisting terrorist groups. They were used to launder money, move goods illegally, and provide logistics for terror operations.
3. Pakistan’s Policy & Terror Financing in Kashmir
Pakistan used the handicraft industry as an illicit financial channel to fuel violence in Kashmir. ISI used trade routes to provide money and weapons to terrorists.
- Money transfer via handicraft exports
- Creation of fake trade networks
- Smuggling of arms under the guise of handicraft trade
4. Response of Indian Government
The Indian government increased surveillance on the handicraft industry, trade routes, and hawala networks linked to terrorism. Security agencies investigated smuggling channels and provided protection for artisans and genuine traders. Efforts were made to create safe and legal business channels to prevent terrorists from exploiting artisans.
Saudi Money, Fancy Mosques & Extremism
Saudi money, fancy mosques & extremism is a sensitive and complex topic, with deep debates in terms of global politics, religion and security over allegations that Saudi Arabia finances Islamic religious movements, builds grand mosques and spreads extremism. Saudi Arabia has for several decades used its massive oil-based wealth to promote Islamic ideology and spread Wahhabi Islam, which some critics associate with extremism and radicalism. In this entire context, the construction of grand mosques and religious institutions is seen as a cultural and strategic tool.
1. Saudi Arabia and Wahhabi Islam
Wahhabi Islam, prevalent in Saudi Arabia, is a rigid Islamic ideology founded in the 18th century by Muhammad ibn Abdul Wahhab. It promotes the purity of Islam and rejects religious innovations (“bid’a”). Key aspects include strict religious interpretation, restrictions on women, and intolerance toward other sects and religions.
2. Saudi Wealth and Religious Activities
1. Grand Mosques and Their Construction
Saudi Arabia built some of the biggest mosques in the world including Al-Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina. These expansions were done using enormous oil wealth.
At the same time, Saudi Arabia funded the construction of Wahhabi mosques and madrassas in many countries to spread religious ideology, often criticized for promoting strict and fundamentalist teachings.
2. Religious Schools and Madrassas
Saudi Arabia funded madrassas across Pakistan, Afghanistan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Africa. These schools often taught strict Wahhabi doctrine, including:
- Jihad ideology
- Strict adherence to Sharia
- Intolerance towards non-believers
This radical education created ideological recruits who later joined extremist groups.
3. Promoting Extremism
1. Rise of Al-Qaeda and Taliban
Saudi Arabia funded jihadists during the Afghan-Soviet war (1980s), which indirectly contributed to the rise of Al-Qaeda and strengthening of the Taliban. Saudi-funded madrassas played a major role in radicalizing youth who joined global jihad movements.
2. Wahhabi Ideology and Radicalism
Saudi-backed mosques and madrassas preached strict Wahhabi interpretations, influencing extremist groups like Al-Qaeda, ISIS, Boko Haram, and radical networks in South Asia and Africa.
3. Money and Strategy
Saudi Arabia used its oil wealth to spread Wahhabi ideology globally. This resulted in political instability and the rise of extremist groups in many regions.
4. Current Policy and Changes in Saudi Arabia
In recent years, Saudi Arabia under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has taken steps to soften its religious policies under “Vision 2030.” The goal is to reduce extremism and project a modern, progressive image. However, change is gradual and long-term.
How Fake Indian Currency Notes Funded Terrorism
Fake Indian currency notes (FICN) became a vital strategy used by Pakistan and its terror networks to fund militant operations in India. Pakistan’s ISI printed and smuggled large quantities of counterfeit Indian currency to assist terror groups, finance attacks, and destabilize India’s economy.
1. Production and Smuggling of Fake Currency Notes
1.1. Production of Fake Notes
Pakistan established sophisticated printing facilities to produce near-perfect counterfeit ₹500 and ₹1000 notes. These notes were pushed through terror networks to weaken India’s economy and fund militancy.
1.2. Smuggling and Circulation
Fake notes were smuggled into India through:
- Nepal
- Bangladesh
- Middle Eastern countries
The money was used to buy weapons, explosives, logistics, and fund terror training camps. Sensitive regions like Kashmir, Punjab, and Northeast India became major targets of FICN circulation.
2. Funding Terrorism Through Fake Notes
2.1. Financial Support to Terrorist Groups
Fake currency was used to fund terrorist activities including:
- Buying weapons
- Buying explosives
- Recruitment and training
- Security equipment and logistics
2.2. Creation of Terrorist Networks
Fake currency networks helped jihadi organizations strengthen their financial position and mislead Indian security forces. The counterfeit notes were often mixed with genuine currency to avoid detection.
3. Response of Government of India & Security Agencies
3.1. Combating Counterfeit Currency
The Government of India and RBI introduced:
- Advanced currency security features
- High-security ink and paper
- Better detection mechanisms
Multiple arrests were made by NIA, CBI, and state police to dismantle counterfeit networks.
3.2. Crackdown on ISI-Terror Networks
India increased diplomatic pressure on Pakistan and exposed ISI-backed fake currency operations internationally.
3.3. Public Awareness
Training programs and awareness campaigns helped ordinary citizens and banks identify fake notes more effectively.
4. Impact of Fake Currency & Terrorism
Fake currency significantly strengthened terror networks, funded violent attacks, and contributed to economic damage. FICN became a major source of financing for anti-India terrorism.
Conclusion
Fake Indian currency was a crucial tool used by Pakistan's ISI to finance terrorism in India. Although India has taken strong actions to counter this threat, the link between counterfeit currency and terrorism still poses a major security challenge.
Role of Pak Diplomats in Funding Terrorism in India
Role of Pak diplomats in funding terrorism in India is a serious and complex issue, in which Pakistan diplomats and government agencies have been involved in providing financial aid and support to terrorists in India. Pakistan’s intelligence agency ISI and organizations like the Pakistan Army and Government of Pakistan have used diplomatic channels to promote terrorism. This involvement has increased tensions between India and Pakistan.
1. Promoting Terrorism
Pakistani diplomats often work under directions of the Pakistan Government and ISI. Indian officials have alleged multiple times that diplomats collaborate with extremist groups and provide financial aid and resources to terrorists in India.
1.1. Use of Diplomatic Channels for Terror Funding
Pakistani diplomats used diplomatic passports to move funds through hawala networks, fake Indian currency notes and other illegal means. Diplomatic immunity made it easy to transfer financial support and supplies to terror organisations inside India.
1.2. Money Smuggling
Fake Indian currency notes (FICN) produced in Pakistan were smuggled by diplomats to fund terror groups. Diplomatic bags—which cannot be checked—were often misused for smuggling money.
1.3. Diplomats’ Connection with Terrorist Networks
Several reports highlight that Pakistani diplomats maintained links with Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed and Hizbul Mujahideen, helping them with finances, logistics, and military materials.
2. Instances of Pakistani Diplomats’ Involvement
2.1. Role During Nawaz Sharif Government
Indian agencies claimed that during Nawaz Sharif’s rule, Pakistani diplomats actively assisted ISI operations and funded militants in India.
2.2. After the 2016 Uri Attack
Indian agencies found that Pakistani diplomats and ISI operatives used hawala and supply routes to move money and equipment for the attack.
2.3. Arrests of Pakistani Diplomats
Indian authorities have arrested or expelled Pakistani diplomats for involvement in terror financing activities, including a 2018 case where a High Commission staffer was caught funding terror groups.
3. Indian Government’s Response
3.1. Monitoring Diplomatic Channels
India intensified monitoring of Pakistani diplomatic missions to prevent their use for terrorist funding.
3.2. Arrests & International Pressure
India has exposed Pakistani diplomatic involvement at global forums like the UN and urged action against terror financing networks.
How Pakistan Discovered Terrorism in J&K Through Interviews
Reports from captured terrorists, international agencies, and investigations revealed Pakistan’s involvement in Kashmir terrorism. Many arrested terrorists admitted receiving training, weapons, and financial support from Pakistan’s Army or ISI.
Interviews often revealed:
- Training camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK)
- Direct assistance from ISI handlers
- Cross-border infiltration routes
UN and international reports also highlighted Pakistan’s role in destabilizing Kashmir.
Sinister Role of Kashmiri Media, Banks, Politicians
1. Role of Kashmiri Media
- Misuse of information: Some media glorified terrorism or spread misleading news.
- Propaganda: Certain outlets amplified extremist narratives.
- Political influence: Reporting sometimes aligned with separatist agendas.
2. Role of Banks
- Terror financing: Suspicious transactions, hawala, and fake accounts aided militants.
- Use of fake identities: Some banks unknowingly handled illegal funds.
3. Role of Local Politicians
- Vote-bank politics: Some leaders sought support of separatist groups.
- Corruption: Funds diverted to support anti-India activities.
- Opposition to central policy: Some leaders pushed separatist narratives.
Sinister Role of Kashmiri Bureaucrats & Academia
1. Role of Bureaucrats
- Soft approach toward terrorism
- Corruption & illegal money flow
- Misuse of administrative power
2. Role of Academia
- Radicalizing students
- Biased academic environment
- Connections with separatists
3. Consequences
- Instability
- Misuse of educational platforms
- Obstruction to development
Biggest Mistakes of Delhi in J&K
1. Special Status (Article 370 & 35A)
Created separatist sentiment, hindered integration, limited development.
2. Ignoring Political Instability
Over-reliance on a few families weakened democracy and pushed youth toward militancy.
3. Poor Balance Between Hard & Soft Policies
Excessive military force at times, weak communication, poor youth outreach.
4. Lack of Economic Development
Insufficient investment, unemployment, poor skill development.
5. Weak Policy Toward Pakistan
Failure to stop cross-border terrorism early, weak global diplomacy.
6. Neglect of Kashmiri Culture
Lack of cultural respect and engagement with local leaders.
7. Absence of Long-Term Strategy
Temporary fixes instead of lasting political and economic solutions.
Conclusion
Pakistan adopted a multi-layered strategy to destabilize Jammu & Kashmir, using terrorism funding tools such as hawala, drugs, fake currency, MBBS admissions, LoC trade, and diplomatic channels. Saudi money and Wahhabi influence also contributed to global extremism. Meanwhile, internal weaknesses in media, bureaucracy, banking, and politics in Kashmir worsened instability. Delhi’s past policy mistakes further complicated the situation.
A long-term, balanced, security-driven and development-focused strategy is essential for lasting peace in Jammu & Kashmir.