Pahalgam Attack: Pakistan-backed terrorists target Hindus amid rising Kashmir tourism, say experts

The recent Pahalgam terror attack has reignited concerns about Pakistan’s direct involvement in fueling unrest in Kashmir. Experts and security analysts suggest that the attack, which specifically targeted Hindu pilgrims, was a pre-planned operation supported by Pakistan’s Army and its intelligence agency, ISI. The timing of the attack is particularly significant—coming just days after Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir invoked the two-nation theory and emphasized Kashmir as Pakistan’s “jugular vein” during a controversial speechThe assault appears to be part of a broader effort to destabilize the peace that has been steadily returning to the valley, especially with a record-breaking 2.35 crore tourists visiting Kashmir in 2024. Locals, who had embraced peace and supported tourism growth, were reportedly aiding the victims, underscoring their rejection of violence.Security analysts argue that with Pakistan facing economic decline, domestic unrest in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and declining credibility of its military, such proxy attacks serve to divert internal anger outward. India has pointed to growing evidence, including past admissions by Pakistani leaders about terror funding, to underline the state-sponsored nature of such attacks. Calls are growing for international recognition of Pakistan's continued use of terror as a strategic tool.