Saifullah Kasuri, the second-in-command of Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has openly acknowledged the group’s close association with the Pakistan Army during a public address at a children’s school in Pakistan.
A video of Kasuri’s speech, delivered on an unspecified date, has been verified as authentic by intelligence agencies. In the footage, the LeT deputy chief is seen standing on a decorated stage adorned with red balloons, with part of what appears to be a school emblem visible in the background.
During his address, Kasuri claimed that the Pakistan Army invites him to lead funeral prayers, a statement widely seen as a direct admission of institutional backing. He also boasted about being feared in India, further reinforcing allegations of cross-border terrorism.
Security experts have expressed concern over the venue of the speech, noting that allowing a senior terrorist leader to address an audience at a children’s school highlights the deep-rooted tolerance and support extremist groups receive in Pakistan. Analysts say such platforms are often used to influence young minds and normalise radical ideology.
For India, Kasuri’s remarks reaffirm long-standing claims that Pakistan continues to provide state support to terror groups targeting Indian territory. Indian officials have repeatedly pointed to historical instances, including the 1999 Kargil conflict, where terror elements operated alongside the Pakistani military.
LeT Showing Signs of Revival
Intelligence assessments previously warned of a renewed surge in Pakistan-backed terrorist activity in Jammu and Kashmir. Reports indicated that Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) were regrouping and preparing for coordinated attacks months after India launched Operation Sindoor, a targeted counter-terror operation following the deadly Pahalgam attack.
Indian security officials described the inputs as a “critical alert,” prompting heightened surveillance and operational readiness across northern sectors. Authorities have made it clear that Operation Sindoor could enter another phase if cross-border terrorism continues.
Meanwhile, Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma recently reviewed security arrangements and anti-infiltration measures along the Line of Control in north Kashmir. He also visited the High Altitude Warfare School in Gulmarg to assess training programmes, with a focus on integrating advanced technology and innovation to strengthen combat preparedness.