New Delhi: A startling claim by Pakistani cleric Naseer Madni has brought renewed attention to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder Hafiz Saeed’s alleged role in mobilising terrorists for Kashmir. Speaking at a gathering in Bahawalnagar on August 14, Madni claimed that Saeed had sent 10,000 people to Kashmir, portraying the move as a sacrifice made in the name of Pakistan.
Madni, while praising the jailed terror chief, questioned why Saeed was imprisoned and described him as someone who had not committed ordinary crimes. His remarks appeared to glorify Saeed’s alleged militant activities and his long-standing campaign linked to Kashmir.
The comments assume significance as Saeed is facing fresh legal proceedings in India in connection with the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people were killed. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a supplementary chargesheet against Saeed on July 6, naming him both individually and as the founder and chief of LeT and its active proxy, The Resistance Front (TRF).
On July 8, a Special NIA Court in Jammu issued an open-dated non-bailable warrant against Saeed. The court also considered his arrest and custodial interrogation necessary for a fair and effective investigation. The NIA has alleged that Saeed, who resides in Pakistan’s Punjab province, has deliberately evaded arrest.
Saeed has for years been associated with LeT, a Pakistan-based terrorist organisation designated as such internationally. The group has been accused of involvement in multiple attacks against India, most notably the November 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
Madni’s latest remarks have therefore added a significant dimension to the continuing scrutiny of Pakistan-based terror networks. His public praise of Saeed and reference to the alleged mobilisation of thousands of militants for Kashmir also underline the persistent ideological and organisational ecosystem surrounding anti-India terrorism.
For India, the statements further reinforce the importance of pursuing accountability against individuals accused of orchestrating or supporting terror activities, irrespective of where they are based.
