'ISIS engaging IM terrorists to stoke communal tension'

Pakistani intelligence agency ISI has engaged terrorists belonging to Indian Mujahideen to carry out vandalism at religious places in India for stoking communal tension in the country, intelligence inputs have stated.

Sources said such attempts could be carried out in border states like Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir, both of which have been alerted about the intelligence inputs and advised to remain vigilant for thwarting any bid to threaten the peace.

A few other states, too, have been alerted and asked to take preventive steps as vandalism at religious places may lead to communal tension at other places as well, they added.

Terrorists belonging to Indian Mujahideen, who had taken shelter in Pakistan, have been engaged by ISI for effecting the nefarious design, they said.

Last month, too, after getting reports of five Pakistani terrorists entering India, all the states were asked to stay extra vigilant against any attempt by subversive elements to disrupt the peace and spark communal tensions during the festival season.

Campaigns against cow slaughter by Hindu activists in recent weeks have some times led to road-blockades, arson and communal incidents.

Also, in the past, sacrifice of cattle at public and non- traditional places has proved to be a flashpoint for communal incidents.

Besides, crowded pandals and immersion processions also remain soft targets for saboteurs.

Special watch at pandals, procession routes and venues of immersion would be desirable to prevent communal incidents and other law and order problems, the advisory said.