Pakistan funding of terror in Kashmir: It's a two-way street
That Pakistan-based terrorist groups have been funding separatist activities in Kashmir is by now an open secret. But recent findings suggest it is rather a two-way street. The terrorist outfits too demand money from separatist leaders from time to time and threaten harm if they don't pay. The NIA has recovered blackmail letters during raids; recently, it arrested seven separatist leaders.
What do the letters say?
One letter on 'The J&K Hizbul Mujahideen' letterhead addressed to SAR Geelani's close aide Ayaz Akbar Khandey "requests" Rs. 5L, but warns him of paying up in four days or "you'll be responsible for yourself and family". The note written in Urdu also promises to return the money.
Demands aren't limited to just money
Demands aren't limited to money. An HM letter to Shabir Shah's aide Nayeem Khan says: "We are in dire need of Rs. 7,000 or Rs. 10,000. Also if you can leave a mobile phone with us..." Another LeT letter was addressed to Hurriyat Conference spokesperson Shahid-ul-Islam reads: "Our friend is unwell and he's in need of Rs 5,000. We hope you won't disappoint us…"
Meanwhile, Pakistani groups go hi-tech to incite terror in Kashmir
Meanwhile, Pakistan-based terrorist groups and members are also funding and inciting disruptive activities in Kashmir. The NIA has already identified 48 stone-pelters through 28 WhatsApp groups it traced. Many group creators and admins were found to be based in the neighboring country.
