New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) Despite the ongoing presence of terror launchpads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the ISI has been relocating several operatives to Bangladesh. Their goal is to facilitate infiltration into India via the Bangladesh border, as reported by intelligence agencies.

Indian intelligence has uncovered a significant conspiracy orchestrated by the ISI in anticipation of Republic Day on January 26. Due to increased difficulty for terrorists attempting to cross the Line of Control (LoC), the ISI is now focusing on the route through Bangladesh, an official disclosed.

Another source revealed that the ISI has been collaborating with individuals involved in cattle smuggling, counterfeit currency operations, and human trafficking. These smuggling networks will assist terrorists in crossing into India from Bangladesh, added the official.

These syndicates, well-acquainted with the routes into India from Bangladesh, have been contacted by Pakistan to advance their lethal agenda before Republic Day. An official from the Intelligence Bureau mentioned that terrorists would initially utilize the sea route from Pakistan to enter Bangladesh.

The ISI is poised to exploit the recent exemptions granted by the Yunus government in 2024, which lifted mandatory inspections for Pakistani shipments and eliminated security clearance needs for Pakistani visa applicants.

These decisions have greatly benefited the ISI, allowing for the unhindered transportation of arms, ammunition, and terrorists into Bangladesh without security checks, according to officials. This scheme has been underway since October 2025.

Ibtisam Elahi Zaheer, an aide to Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed, has visited Bangladesh to engage with key figures in various smuggling networks. An official indicated that the ISI orchestrated his visit to ensure coordination with other terrorist factions and crime syndicate leaders in Bangladesh. Zaheer, a seasoned operative, has a long-standing relationship with the ISI and has played a pivotal role in Lashkar-e-Taiba activities.

Additionally, Zaheer, who is a cleric known for his anti-India rhetoric, is seen as an ideal candidate to spearhead the extensive terror operation planned for India, according to officials.

Indian agencies are on high alert. Officials note that while attacks by Pakistani terrorists are commonplace, this particular scheme is distinct. The planned attack aims to not only inflict harm but also to deliver a powerful message to Pakistani youth, who have been hesitant to join groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. Both organizations are struggling to recruit, making a significant attack necessary to reinvigorate their ranks, an official stated.

Following the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government, Pakistani influence in Bangladesh has surged, bolstered by ties with Jamaat-e-Islami and favorable conditions set by the Yunus administration.

Furthermore, the ISI has established multiple terror cells and is overseeing targeted assaults on minority communities. This upcoming attack is crucial for the ISI as it serves as a litmus test for their operations in Bangladesh. The agency aims to shift a substantial portion of its activities there, allowing terrorists to target both the northeastern states and West Bengal.

Moreover, the ISI intends to capitalize on the deployment of numerous security personnel for upcoming elections in West Bengal and Assam, viewing this as an opportune moment to strike against India.

An official remarked that the selection of terrorists from PoK rather than Bangladesh is strategic, as these individuals are already extensively trained. The ISI only needs to provide instructions for infiltration, allowing them to be ready for immediate action, making them ideal for the planned attack.