Sources of Indian defence and military establishments has reported that Pakistan-based terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), and others have slowly begun moving their operational bases from Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province.
This strategic relocation follows India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted multiple terror camps across PoK and Pakistan, severely damaging the groups' infrastructure.
The shift reflects a tactical adaptation by these militant organisations, prompted by the perception that PoK has become vulnerable to precision Indian strikes. KPK offers them more strategic depth and proximity to the Afghan border, allowing them to regroup and continue their operations with reduced risk.
Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, was India’s calibrated response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. The operation involved precise missile strikes on nine terror infrastructure sites in PoK and Pakistan, deliberately avoiding military and civilian areas.
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Indian authorities highlighted that the strikes were aimed at dismantling terrorist networks while preventing escalation into broader conflict. Indian sources allege that the movement of these terror groups is facilitated with the “full awareness and direct support” of Pakistan’s state structures.
Evidence cited includes recent JeM gatherings in Pakistan under police protection and cooperation from political-religious outfits such as Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI).
A high-profile public mobilisation occurred in Garhi Habibullah town of Mansehra district, KPK, where JeM organised a recruitment event just hours before an India-Pakistan cricket match on September 14.
Senior JeM leader Mulana Mufti Masood Ilyas Kashmiri wanted by India and closely linked to JeM founder Maulana Masood Azhar spoke at the rally under armed guard, with local police present, highlighting the tacit support from Pakistan’s state apparatus.
This dossier, compiled by multiple Indian security and intelligence agencies, underscores the evolving dynamics of cross-border terrorism and the ongoing challenges India faces in countering these groups, emphasising the need for sustained vigilance and proactive operations.
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