What the Kulgam attack reveals about changing terror tactics in Kashmir

The killing of two migrant labourers from Chhattisgarh in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district has once again brought the spotlight back on changing patterns of militancy in the Valley.

The attack, which claimed the lives of Deepak Rattray (24) and Bhopinder Kumar (28), has prompted the Jammu and Kashmir administration to intensify anti-terror operations, while Chhattisgarh has announced financial assistance for the victims' families.

At the same time, security agencies believe the incident reflects an attempt by Pakistan-backed terror outfits to revive an older strategy of targeting civilians and migrant workers.

What happened in Kulgam?

On July 31, terrorists opened fire at a brick kiln in Kellam village of Kulgam district, where migrant workers from Chhattisgarh were employed.

Deepak Rattray died on the spot, while Bhopinder Kumar, who sustained critical injuries, died in hospital the following day.

According to Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, the attackers allegedly spoke to the workers for several minutes before opening fire.

The attack is the second major terror strike in south Kashmir in around ten days.

The governments' response

The attack has prompted responses from both the Chhattisgarh and Jammu and Kashmir governments.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced financial assistance of ₹20 lakh for the family of each victim and said a nodal officer would be appointed to coordinate with the Jammu and Kashmir administration to ensure timely support.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced ₹10 lakh as ex gratia assistance from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund for the next of kin of each deceased worker.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a high-level security review meeting and directed security agencies to intensify anti-terror operations.

He also ordered district administrations to comprehensively review the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the safety of migrant workers, ensure that labourers from outside Jammu and Kashmir are registered with the local police and district authorities, and direct employers to provide them with insurance coverage.

Why are migrant workers being targeted?

The targeting of migrant workers is not a new phenomenon in Kashmir. During earlier phases of militancy, terrorist groups frequently attacked non-local labourers, Kashmiri Pandits, members of minority communities and civilians who were seen as symbols of normalcy or economic activity.

According to security analysts, such attacks are intended to spread fear, discourage migrant workers from coming to the Valley and disrupt economic activity, rather than inflict significant military losses.

By targeting civilians instead of heavily guarded security installations, militant groups seek to create a wider psychological impact and undermine public confidence in the security situation.

What are security agencies saying?

According to intelligence agencies, the recent attacks appear to reflect an attempt by the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) to revive this earlier strategy.

Officials believe the outfit is increasingly relying on proxy names instead of openly claiming responsibility.

Investigators say that although social media posts linked the recent violence to a group calling itself the United Liberation Council, evidence gathered so far points towards LeT operatives.

The agencies are also examining the alleged role of a militant identified as Latif, who they believe has links to former Lashkar commander Zakir Ganai.

These assessments are part of the ongoing investigation and have not been independently verified.

Why use proxy groups?

Pakistan-backed organisations have increasingly used front organisations over the past few years.

Groups such as The Resistance Front (TRF) emerged after the abrogation of Article 370 and have often been described by Indian security agencies as proxies of Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Using different names helps militant organisations attempt to avoid international scrutiny while continuing operations on the ground.

Why are agencies concerned about "low-intensity" attacks?

According to security agencies, the recent attacks indicate a possible shift in militant tactics. Instead of attempting high-profile strikes on heavily guarded security installations, officials believe terror groups may increasingly target vulnerable civilians, including migrant workers, members of minority communities and people in relatively less-secured public spaces.

Such attacks require fewer resources and planning but can create widespread fear, disrupt normalcy and attract significant public attention. Investigators also believe militants are increasingly using easily concealable weapons, such as pistols, and recruiting individuals with no prior criminal record, making it more difficult for security agencies to identify potential attackers before they strike.

Search operations intensify

Security forces have intensified search operations across south Kashmir following the Kulgam attack.

The administration has also ordered a review of protection measures for migrant workers, while investigations continue into the identity of those responsible and any cross-border links.

The attack has renewed concerns that despite a decline in large-scale militancy in recent years, terrorist groups may be attempting to adapt their tactics by targeting vulnerable civilians to create fear and undermine perceptions of normalcy in the Valley.