Kashmir militant announced as leader of new al-Qaida-linked cell

    A Kashmir militant leader has been announced as the head of a new al-Qaida-linked cell.

    Zakir Musa has been named as the figurehead of the new group, which represents the first time al-Qaida has operated openly in Kashmir.

    The 23-year-old is believed to be one of the perpetrators behind the revitalisation of insurgency in the region, exploiting social media to appeal to followers against Indian-administered rule.

    It is believed the new Jihadi group could cause discord amongst other, older insurgency groups as they emphasise a call for Islamism over the traditional fight for nationalism.

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