The Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of Pakistan has reportedly directed the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) to execute a series of major terror attacks across Punjab in a bid to revive the Khalistan movement, according to investigative agencies. In response, the Punjab Police have launched a sweeping crackdown on BKI operatives throughout the state.

The Threat and Its Scale

Officials say the BKI is actively establishing operational modules across Punjab and targeting young people — particularly those from rural areas — for recruitment. 'There is a strong focus on youth from rural areas. The BKI is trying to exploit their financial hardship by luring them with money to join the outfit,' an official said.

An Intelligence Bureau official noted that BKI handlers based in Pakistan are monitoring social media platforms to identify and approach vulnerable young users, adopting a modus operandi similar to that of Shahzad Bhatti. Investigators say ideological recruitment has largely failed, as many youth do not identify with the Khalistan cause, prompting the outfit to shift toward financial inducements.

The IED Recovery and Module Bust

The gravity of the threat became concrete when the Punjab Police dismantled a major BKI module on Sunday, 27 July 2025. Following the arrest of an alleged BKI operative in Jalandhar, police recovered a powerful improvised explosive device (IED) weighing nearly 1.3 kg — sufficient, according to police, to cause a massive explosion.

Investigators described the seizure as part of the outfit's broader conspiracy to revive militant activities in the state. Officials also confirmed that funds are allegedly being channelled from Pakistan to sustain these revival efforts.

Strategy: Small Strikes to Mask a Bigger Attack

Officials warn that the BKI's playbook involves a deliberate mix of small and large-scale attacks. Smaller strikes — such as grenade attacks at multiple locations — are intended to create widespread fear, stretch law enforcement resources, and serve as a diversionary tactic ahead of a larger, more destructive operation.

'The intention is to keep the law enforcement agencies busy with smaller attacks and then use this diversionary tactic to carry out a big attack in the state,' an official said. Intelligence agencies have warned for several months that the threat could intensify as Punjab approaches elections.

Why Desperation Is Driving the ISI's Push

Officials say this is a critical juncture for the BKI. Countries including Canada have cracked down on Khalistani networks, and improved India-Canada ties have made it harder for Pakistan-based handlers to coordinate with operatives abroad. As a result, Pakistan's spy agency has reportedly stepped up pressure on the BKI to prove its operational capability inside India.

Past attempts to revive the Khalistan movement in Punjab have failed, and officials say the group's desperation itself amplifies the risk of a major strike. 'The BKI is under pressure to demonstrate its operational capability, and that desperation increases the risk of a major terror strike or other serious act of violence in the state,' an official said.

Security Forces on High Alert

The Punjab Police and central intelligence agencies remain on high alert, officials confirmed. Security has been heightened across the state, with particular focus on rural districts identified as recruitment hotspots. Officials cautioned, however, that the threat has not been neutralised and active monitoring continues.