The recent Pahalgam terror attack, which occurred one year ago, has raised significant concerns regarding the methods and strategies employed in similar incidents. Baseer Naveed, a former researcher from the Hong Kong-based Asian Human Rights Commission, has highlighted alarming patterns he claims are reminiscent of past attacks. Over 25 tourists lost their lives in this tragic event, prompting widespread condemnation.

Naveed characterised the incident as “highly condemnable”, drawing attention to a specific tactic used by terrorist groups. Allegedly, attackers targeted individuals based on their religious identity, asking people to disembark from buses before determining who was Hindu and who was Muslim. This method has reportedly been used in previous violent incidents in regions such as Pakistan’s Kurram District and Balochistan province, where sectarian affiliations influenced the selection of victims.

According to Naveed, these attacks are not isolated occurrences but part of a systematic approach. He pointed to a series of violent acts in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan, where attackers identified their victims through sect or ethnic identity before carrying out their deadly actions.

Allegations of Operational Continuity

Naveed’s remarks suggest that there is an operational continuity among the groups involved in these attacks. He stated that “the trainers are the same,” indicating that those responsible for the Pahalgam attack have connections to earlier violent episodes. This alleged continuity raises questions about the networks that facilitate such actions and whether local authorities are equipped to effectively address them.

While the Pahalgam incident has drawn widespread attention, Naveed expressed criticism regarding Pakistan’s governmental response. He contended that there has been a significant lack of accountability following the incident, noting that no inquiries, judicial or otherwise, have been instigated by the Pakistani authorities. He questioned why prominent individuals with ties to militant organisations have not yet faced trial for their alleged involvement in such violent acts.

Naveed specifically cited extremist groups, such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, highlighting their alleged history of training operatives for missions targeting Kashmir and India. His statements suggest that individuals associated with these groups often work under conditions of relative impunity.

Criticism of Pakistan’s Handling of Terrorism

Naveed’s commentary is part of a broader call for a unified international response to terrorism. He asserted that all forms of terrorism must be unequivocally condemned, regardless of the origin or motivation behind these acts. His emphasis on a global perspective underscores the necessity for international cooperation in combating extremism.

In conclusion, the Pahalgam attack serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by identity-based violence. Naveed’s observations draw attention to patterns that appear to transcend borders, calling for greater vigilance and proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

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