Former TTP Spokesman Ehsanullah Ahsan Warns of Pakistan Reactivating Jihadi Groups in Kashmir

In a significant and alarming revelation, former Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) spokesman Ehsanullah Ahsan has warned that Pakistan is once again resorting to its old strategy of using jihadist groups as proxies to advance its geopolitical interests. In an article published in The Sunday Guardian, Ahsan claimed that Pakistan’s security establishment is facilitating the reactivation of militant groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Kashmir, with the aim of escalating instability in the region.

Pakistan’s Strategic Shift and Growing Frustration

Ahsan stated that Pakistan’s foreign policy has long been interventionist and shaped by a military mindset, prioritizing regional influence over internal stability. However, recent developments, particularly the strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between India and the Taliban-led Afghanistan, have reportedly left Pakistan frustrated. Islamabad had long sought to maintain its influence over Afghanistan, but the Taliban’s independent foreign policy, which includes fostering better relations with India, has put Pakistan’s establishment in a difficult position.

This growing India-Taliban closeness has compelled Pakistan to return to its traditional reliance on jihadi factions to maintain its influence in Kashmir and counter India’s regional ascendancy. Ahsan noted that the reactivation of these groups is not only a desperate attempt to revive the armed insurgency in Kashmir but also serves as a distraction from Pakistan’s mounting internal crises and diplomatic setbacks.

Reactivating Jihadi Groups in Kashmir

According to Ahsan, Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has directed groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed to resume operations in Kashmir. He warned that the renewed activities of these groups could lead to increased violence, cross-border terrorism, and heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.

This revelation is particularly concerning as these organizations have long been accused of carrying out deadly attacks in India. LeT was responsible for the 2008 Mumbai attacks, while JeM has been linked to multiple suicide bombings, including the 2019 Pulwama attack that killed 40 Indian paramilitary personnel.

Ahsan also alleged that Pakistan has been using jihadist groups as a proxy arm of ISIS in Afghanistan, further fueling instability in the region. By backing these militant outfits, Pakistan is not only endangering Kashmir but also risking a broader conflict that could impact South Asia as a whole.

Pakistan’s Desperation Amid Internal and Global Pressure

Ahsan argued that Pakistan’s reliance on jihadist groups stems from its worsening internal situation. The country is facing a deep economic crisis, international pressure over its alleged links to terrorism, and increasing diplomatic isolation. These challenges have reportedly forced the Pakistani establishment to revert to old strategies of state-sponsored terrorism to deflect attention from its failing governance.

Pakistan has long faced accusations from India and the global community for harboring terrorist networks and providing them with logistical and financial support. In recent years, international watchdogs like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) have repeatedly placed Pakistan on its grey list for failing to curb terror financing. Reactivating jihadist groups in Kashmir could push Islamabad further into international scrutiny and invite stringent sanctions.

Regional Implications and India’s Response

India has consistently maintained that Pakistan is the primary sponsor of terrorism in Kashmir and has called for global action against Islamabad’s terror infrastructure. If Ahsan’s claims are accurate, this development could lead to increased cross-border attacks, security concerns, and a potential escalation in Indo-Pakistan hostilities.

New Delhi has strengthened counter-terrorism measures, enhanced border security, and intensified diplomatic efforts to expose Pakistan’s terror links on the global stage. The Indian government may also push for further economic and diplomatic sanctions against Pakistan if credible evidence emerges regarding the reactivation of jihadist groups in Kashmir.

Conclusion

Ehsanullah Ahsan’s warnings about Pakistan’s renewed efforts to reactivate jihadist groups in Kashmir are deeply troubling. If his claims hold true, South Asia could be on the verge of another cycle of violence and instability. The international community must closely monitor Pakistan’s activities and hold it accountable for any actions that threaten peace and security in the region. India, on its part, will need to stay vigilant and continue its diplomatic and strategic efforts to counteract these emerging threats.