Pak supporting Sikh militants get funding, say fresh intelligence inputs

Sikh militants are getting more support from across the border to foment trouble in Kashmir and other parts of the county, fresh inputs from intelligence agencies to the foreign policy establishment suggest.

Pakistan establishments supporting Sikhmilitantshavelong remained a bone of contention between the two neighbours with Islamabad often denying its involvement.

But Indian agencies have consistentlypointedoutthata number of Sikh militants have taken refuge in Pakistan.

These fresh inputs point to support for Manjit Singh, the leader of Khalistan Zinadabad Force (KZF).

Intelligence inputs say KZF is becomingincreasingly activein South Kashmir and Kathua regions of the state and as well as in Punjab.

Sikh radical elements sheltered in Pakistan are reportedly engaged in anti-India activities like providing financial support to terror activities. They mostly belong to Babbar Khalsa International and KZF.

Reports state that the Khalistan Commando Force (KCF), the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF) in India are getting support from these groups.

Terror has time and again come in the way of the two sides renewing peace talks.

Pakistan on the other hand, has stepped up its rhetoric on Kashmir, which coincides with Indian efforts to show, “Pakistan is not a victim of terrorism,” in response to recent statements from China and US secretary of state Rex Tillerson.

“The terrorism that Pakistan suffers from is self-inflicted. The terrorism that is inflicted on India comes from across the border and it is exported...”, said an official.

SIKH RADICALS ARE REPORTEDLY ENGAGED IN ACTIVITIES LIKE PROVIDING FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO TERROR RELATED ACTIVITIES