The specter of a resurgent Khalistani militancy, fueled by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), looms large over Punjab, as evidenced by recent arms hauls and intelligence reports. The unholy nexus between the ISI and Khalistani elements aims to destabilize the region through terror activities, нанесение вреда the peace and harmony of Punjab.

The recent recovery of arms and explosives in Gurdaspur highlights this dangerous trend. While specific details of the Gurdaspur arms haul were not available in the search results, similar incidents in the recent past shed light on the modus operandi and the intended purpose of such operations. Typically, these caches include rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), improvised explosive devices (IEDs), hand grenades, and communication equipment. These weapons are likely intended for use by sleeper cells and Over Ground Workers (OGWs) tasked with carrying out terror attacks.

Intelligence agencies have warned that the ISI is actively directing Khalistani OGWs and sleeper cells to target railway tracks in Punjab and surrounding states. The aim is to cause significant damage and disrupt economic activity by targeting goods trains. To motivate these elements, the ISI is offering substantial funds, with terrorist Harvinder Singh Rinda, operating from Lahore, coordinating the operations. In response, state governments and Railway Protection Forces have been directed to increase surveillance and patrolling of railway tracks across Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.

The ISI's strategy involves exploiting various elements, including gangsters and narco-smugglers, to achieve its objectives. With increased pressure on anti-national and criminal networks in Punjab, a shortage of willing hands has emerged. This has led the ISI to directly contact criminals, goading them into action. This nexus allows for the pooling of resources and expertise, making it more challenging for law enforcement agencies to counter their activities.

The use of drones for smuggling arms, ammunition, and narcotics across the border has also become a significant concern. The rocket-propelled grenade attack on the Intelligence Headquarters of Punjab Police in Mohali serves as a stark reminder of the effectiveness of this tactic. The ease with which these items can be smuggled across the border poses a significant challenge to security forces.

Several recent incidents highlight the intensification of efforts to revive militancy in Punjab. In one instance, the Punjab Police, in coordination with central agencies, seized a large cache of arms and explosives, including RPGs and IEDs, foiling a plot to revive sleeper cells in the state. Preliminary investigations indicated a coordinated operation by the ISI and allied terror outfits. Similarly, an ISI-backed terror module linked to Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) was recently busted in Punjab, with six operatives arrested. The module was traced back to foreign-based handlers in Portugal, exposing the international dimension of this terror network.

The close links between the ISI and Khalistani groups like Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) have been well-documented. These groups receive active support from the ISI, including funding, training, and logistical assistance. The ISI uses these groups to execute terror attacks, spread propaganda, and recruit new members. Arrested Khalistani terrorist Harpreet Singh, wanted in connection with multiple terror attacks in Punjab, has alleged links with ISI and BKI.

The ongoing efforts to revive militancy in Punjab are not solely dependent on local elements. The ISI is actively engaging with the Sikh diaspora in the United States, Canada, and Europe to garner financial and logistical support. These foreign-based elements play a crucial role in funding terror activities, procuring weapons, and radicalizing youth.

In conclusion, the evidence suggests a concerted effort by the ISI to foment trouble in Punjab by exploiting the ISI-Khalistani terror nexus. The use of drones, the targeting of railway tracks, and the involvement of gangsters and narco-smugglers point to a multi-faceted strategy aimed at destabilizing the region. The recent arms hauls and arrests demonstrate the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in countering these threats, but sustained vigilance and coordinated efforts are essential to prevent a resurgence of militancy in Punjab.