Context:
- Three pro–Khalistan operatives involved in a grenade attack at the Bakshiwala police post (Punjab, Dec. 18) killed in an encounter in Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh.
- The operatives were linked to the Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), a terror group associated with Pakistan’s ISI.
Relevance to GS 3 (Internal Security)
- Details of the Encounter:
- Encounter labeled as a breakthrough against KZF terror module by Punjab Police.
- Recovered: Two AK-47 rifles and two 9mm Glock pistols from the deceased operatives.
Cross-Border Terrorism and International Links:
- Suspected British Connection: Mastermind Jagjeet Singh, allegedly a British Army personnel, used the alias Fateh Singh Baghi, indicating international involvement in the attack.
- Transnational Terror Network: The terror module is controlled by Pakistan-based Rajeet Singh Nita, with Greece-based Jaswinder Singh Mannu playing a significant role.
- Role of Diaspora: The UK-based Jagjeet Singh’s involvement suggests the role of the diaspora in funding, radicalizing, and supporting terror activities.
- Global Coordination: The KZF operates with cross-border support, including Pakistan, Greece, and the UK, indicating a well-coordinated and transnational operation.
Radicalization and Recruitment:
- Socioeconomic Background: The operatives came from lower socioeconomic strata, with at least one having a criminal history, suggesting the exploitation of vulnerable youth for recruitment.
- Radicalization Patterns: The involvement of individuals with criminal backgrounds in terror groups reflects the tendency of radical groups to recruit disillusioned and marginalized individuals.
Investigations and Future Actions:
- Ongoing Investigation: Efforts are underway to investigate the broader terror network, focusing on logistics, financing, and potential collaborators.
- Internal and External Threats: The operation highlights persistent threats from both domestic terror modules and international terror groups with foreign backing.
