Written by: Nabiha Nur
In the wake of India’s strategic failures and military setbacks against Pakistan, it now appears to be adopting a new and troubling policy by providing support to radical militant proxies aiming to destabilize Pakistan from within. This alarming shift has become even more evident as TTP Chief Noor Wali Mehsud publicly seeks assistance and justification for alliances with Hindu nationalists, exposing the extent of foreign influence and the complex, shifting realities shaping militant strategies today.
In a recently circulated video message, Noor Wali Mehsud did not merely hint at collaboration with non-Muslim powers but openly advocated for it. He went as far as to label potential alliances with “Hindu disbelievers” as a legitimate component of their so-called “Jihad.” The video has since drawn widespread condemnation, sparking intense debate and outrage across diverse segments of society. Moreover, the statement has reignited longstanding concerns regarding the ideological deviance of the Khawarij.
In Surah Al-Ma’idah, Allah commands:
“O you who believe! Do not take the Jews and Christians as allies. They are [in fact] allies of one another. And whoever is an ally to them among you—then indeed, he is [one] of them. Indeed, Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:51)
This verse clearly warns against political and military allegiances with those who oppose Islamic values. Yet Noor Wali and his followers continue to manipulate these teachings in order to justify receiving support, including funds and arms, from opposing factions.
The notion that Afghanistan could benefit from a relationship with India, as claimed by Noor Wali, is being viewed not as strategic insight but as proof of foreign influence within the Khawarijeen. Many in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa believe this to be evidence that these militant groups are operating under foreign agendas, particularly those of hostile powers.
Reports suggest that Noor Wali has been exploring strategic partnerships beyond traditional alliances. It is no coincidence that these ideological shifts within FAK coincide with alleged covert support from India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), aiming to destabilize Pakistan’s internal security. A study by former CIA targeting officer Sarah Adams has made notable claims regarding India’s alleged involvement in supporting terrorism within Pakistan. According to Adams, Indian intelligence agencies have allegedly provided financial support, reportedly amounting to $10 million, to Taliban in order to fund militant activities and promote destabilizing agendas against Pakistan. She claims that these funds were routed through India’s Ministry of Defense and used to support the personal security of Taliban Supreme Leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada. According to her, this strategy represents a shift in India’s approach, moving from traditional diplomacy to more covert operations aimed at destabilizing Pakistan internally.
The duplicity of such groups is no longer hidden. While they parade themselves as defenders of Islam, their backroom dealings with hostile states for financial and strategic support lay bare their hypocrisy. These alliances are not forged out of necessity but convenience, and they serve to advance agendas that are neither Islamic nor just. It is this deception, cloaked in religious language, that has become the most dangerous weapon in their arsenal.
The Prophet ﷺ warned:
“The worst of creatures in the sight of Allah on the Day of Resurrection will be the double-faced person who comes with one face and speaks with another.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
The modern-day militants who negotiate with hostile adversaries and justify atrocities under the guise of jihad exhibit the same duplicity and deviation.
Many religious scholars have condemned the statement made by Mufti Noor Wali regarding seeking aid from non-Muslims, declaring it un-Islamic and contrary to the principles of Shariah. Among them is Professor Dr. Qibla Ayaz, member of the Shariat Appellate Court and former Chairman of the Islamic Ideology Council, who emphasized that such remarks have no foundation in Islam. He firmly stated that the context in which Noor Wali justified alliances with disbelievers distorts the core teachings of Islam and reflects a dangerous ideological deviation.
The people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are now calling for clarity and decisive action against those who distort religion for political maneuvering. Many fear that silence or inaction will only embolden extremist factions, deepen sectarian divides, and fuel cycles of violence that put innocent lives at risk. Locals are urging the security forces to intensify and strengthen their operations against these Khawarijeen. The call is not only for military action but also for coordinated efforts to counter the ideological distortions that fuel these groups.
The grief of families devastated by FAK’s actions is now compounded by outrage and disbelief. As the group embraces alliances with India, it trivializes the sacrifices made by countless civilians and soldiers alike.
Noor Wali Mehsud’s controversial endorsement of ties with India has done more than ignite political controversy; it has laid bare the ideological contradictions within the Khawarij-inspired militant movements. Far from being protectors of faith, they are now increasingly seen as instruments of foreign agendas, willing to sacrifice religious authenticity and national integrity for survival.
