New Delhi, February 6: Indian-origin militants affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) are now being assigned more combat roles than before. As part of this strategy, they are being sent to Afghanistan, where the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) is involving them in warfare and portraying them as “heroes” through propaganda.
In 2019, the number of Indians linked to the Islamic State was estimated to be around 200. At that time, some returnees reported during interrogations that they were given only minor tasks and faced discrimination, leading to dissatisfaction among Indian recruits who wanted to return home.
However, the situation has changed. Security agencies indicate that the Islamic State is now sending its Indian operatives to Afghanistan, where ISKP has a significant presence. The organization is attempting to radicalize Indian youth, extracting them from India and deploying them in Afghanistan.
Officials state that Indian operatives are now prioritizing Afghanistan over Syria and Iraq. One reason cited is the cultural similarities, which make operations in Afghanistan seem easier compared to Arab countries.
Intelligence agencies are closely monitoring any potential terrorist movements from India towards Afghanistan. ISKP has suffered significant losses in recent years and is actively seeking new fighters.
According to an Intelligence Bureau official, the travel routes are not straightforward. Many recruits may first head to Gulf countries before reaching Afghanistan to evade the scrutiny of security agencies.
Previously, Indian recruits had only the option of Syria and Iraq, but after hearing alarming stories from returnees, recruitment from India had nearly halted. In those regions, Indians were not allowed to engage in combat and were assigned only minor roles.
The situation in Afghanistan is markedly different. Here, Indian operatives are not only being assigned combat roles but are also being utilized as suicide bombers. This has made Afghanistan an attractive destination for Indian recruits.
Recent examples include Abu Khalid Al-Hindi, Abu Rajah Al-Hindi, and Najib Al-Hindi, who have been selected for suicide attacks.
ISKP’s influence extends beyond just recruitment. The organization uses its robust propaganda machinery to present these individuals as “martyrs” and “heroes.” Najib Al-Hindi’s story was featured in a four-page spread in ISKP’s magazine, ‘Voice of Khorasan.’ Abu Khalid Al-Hindi from Kerala was also prominently showcased in the same publication.
These articles glorify their “sacrifices,” arduous journeys, and struggles, which are being used to lure and recruit young individuals.
Intelligence officials report that online activities have surged significantly in recent months. The importance ISKP places on Indian operatives is attracting youth to their cause.
Agencies indicate that ISKP’s long-term goal is to recruit thousands of young people from India and send them to Afghanistan. As conditions in the region become increasingly challenging, the organization needs new fighters and considers Indian recruits to be the most suitable.
Officials have warned that this recruitment process may continue, and security agencies must remain on high alert.