Intelligence agencies have raised a fresh alert about Babbar Khalsa International’s intentions to rejuvenate the Khalistan movement in Punjab. The banned outfit is reportedly shifting its focus towards rural radicalization and planning low-intensity attacks in urban areas like Chandigarh. Previously unsuccessful in urban recruitment efforts, BKI is now targeting rural regions to spread misinformation among vulnerable youth.
The revised strategy of BKI involves launching an online misinformation campaign in rural areas to propagate anti-India sentiments. By targeting less-educated and unemployed youth, the group aims to attract followers to its ideology. Additionally, BKI plans to intensify poster campaigns promoting the Khalistan movement and figures like Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale in areas less impacted by past militancy.
While facing challenges in urban recruitment due to increased awareness, BKI intends to continue its recruitment efforts in rural pockets. The outfit also maintains its plan to conduct low-intensity attacks in urban centers, focusing on strategic targets like government buildings rather than civilians. Pressure from its cadres and Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence is reportedly driving BKI to escalate operations in Punjab.
