In 2019, around 200 Indians were associated with the Islamic State, initially facing menial jobs and discrimination. However, the group is now relocating Indian members to Afghanistan, where the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) is enticing them with combat roles and propaganda.
Previously, Indian operatives had moved from India and other regions to join the outfit in Syria and Iraq, expressing dissatisfaction with their treatment. The shift to Afghanistan marks a change, with ISKP actively recruiting Indian youth and aiming to transfer them from India to Afghanistan.
The Islamic State has successfully radicalized many Indian recruits, who prefer Afghanistan due to cultural similarities with Arab nations and easier operational conditions compared to Syria and Iraq. Agencies are monitoring potential movements of Indian operatives to Afghanistan, as ISKP seeks to replenish its ranks.
The outfit has specifically targeted Indian recruits for Afghan operations, as they show more interest in fighting there than in other countries. The route to Afghanistan may involve transiting through Gulf nations to evade detection and facilitate entry.
Before expanding into Afghanistan, Indian operatives were limited to Syria and Iraq, with declining recruitment due to negative experiences shared by returnees. In contrast, Afghan operations offer combat roles and suicide bombing opportunities, making it appealing to Indian recruits seeking active roles.
Recent instances of Indian recruits being selected as suicide bombers, such as Abu Khalid al-Hindi, Abu Rajah al-Hindi, and Najeeb al-Hindi, highlight the ISKP’s focus on Indian members. The group glorifies these operatives in its propaganda, portraying them as heroes in its communication platforms.
The ISKP’s strategy involves recruiting and indoctrinating Indian operatives through online activities, emphasizing their significance in the group’s operations. With plans to recruit more Indians for Afghan missions, the ISKP views Indian recruits as valuable assets for its ongoing activities in the region.
