Following the horrifying terror attack in Pahalgam that left 26 civilians dead, Lashkar-e-Taiba’s deputy chief Saifullah Kasuri has released a video denying any involvement and shifting blame away from Pakistan. His statement comes after The Resistance Front (TRF), a Lashkar offshoot, openly claimed responsibility for the attack. Saifullah Kasuri accused India of creating a false narrative, intensifying tensions between the two countries as questions mount over TRF’s growing presence and operations.
In the video that is being widely shared online, Saifullah Kasuri—also known as Saifullah Khalid—blamed the Indian media for “spreading lies” and alleged that India itself orchestrated the attack for political gain. He urged international observers to question India’s claims and accused it of deliberately maligning Pakistan’s image globally. His comments follow TRF’s claim of responsibility, which came shortly after the brutal incident involving unarmed civilians.
Rise of TRF After Article 370 Revocation
The Resistance Front emerged in 2019 following India’s decision to revoke Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. TRF, which operates as a proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba, quickly gained traction online and evolved into a structured militant network. Reports suggest that the group was formed with elements from Lashkar, Tehreek-e-Millat Islamia, and Ghaznavi Hind.
Though initially dismissed as a social media-based outfit, TRF has since been involved in multiple attacks and has become central to the recruitment and radicalization of youth in Kashmir. It actively uses digital platforms to spread propaganda, encourage infiltration, and coordinate the smuggling of arms and narcotics across the border from Pakistan into Indian territory.
TRF’s Strategy and Online Recruitment
According to intelligence and police sources, TRF has strategically leveraged social media to conduct psychological warfare, attempting to provoke unrest and instability in Kashmir. The Ministry of Home Affairs has confirmed that the group not only recruits online but also plays a key role in facilitating terrorist movements and inciting violence against the Indian state.
Despite Saifullah Kasuri’s denial, the attack has once again brought attention to Pakistan-based terror outfits operating under new names. The incident has deepened mistrust and further escalated tensions in an already volatile region, as India pushes for accountability and stronger global action against cross-border terrorism.
