The Strategic Rebranding of Terror Outfits in Kashmir Post Article 370:

The last terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir has struck a change in the tactical pattern of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. As The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility for this attack, it is believed to be a logo change from the old terrorist outfit of Lashkar-e-Taiba(LeT).

Moving Towards More Secular Appeal

In recent years, there has been a trend towards secularism, and the emergence of new terrorist groups such as TRF, PAFF (People's Anti-Fascist Front) and ULF (United Liberation Front) is a clear reflection of replacing old religious names like LeT and JeM. This avoidance of jihadist terminology along with softer language captures a wider audience while avoiding international counter terrorism efforts.

The Effect Of Repeal Of Article 370

The removal of Article 370 in August, 2019 changed the entire perspective towards Jammu and Kashmir. With the older Islamist traditional ways of Pakistan becoming irrelevant, there was a need for proxy groups like TRF to adapt and mold the narrative of militancy to be portrayed as indigeous resistance instead of foreign violence.

Avoiding International Restrictions

There has been increased oversight from the world, especially regarding funded terror groups by Pakistan, urging them to stop supporting these groups. In an an effort to avoid fueling suspicion, Pakistan allowed the rise of non religious groups branded as TRF which allows them to covertly continue their proxy war without being trapped into sanctions.

Subverting India's Stability Rhetoric

These organizations seek to destabilize India’s narrative of Kashmir being peaceful and fully integrated with the country. Often, they masquerade foreign-sponsored terrorism as developmental discontent which runs counter to nationalistic sentiments, creating obstacles for Indian diplomacy and altering world opinion.

Contemporary Hiring and Ceaseless Financing

Allied with TRF, The Resistance Front has shifted to using encryption applications to reach out and identify impressionable youth. They lure them with emotional lenses, and propaganda. Though they may have different faces, their backbone remains the same. Operational assistance from Pakistan’s ISI remains while funding arrives via hawala, cryptocurrency, and several charitable fronts.