RAW–Taliban Secret Contacts Aimed at Destabilising Pakistan, Expanding Indian Influence in Afghanistan
India’s intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) is allegedly involved in covert contacts and cooperation with certain circles within the Taliban government and anti-Pakistan elements, with the growing number of terrorist attacks in Pakistan being cited as evidence of such alleged links.
The cooperation between RAW and elements within the Taliban is being described as part of a broader strategy to maintain instability along Pakistan’s western border and create a conducive environment for anti-Pakistan militant groups, particularly the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
According to these facts, intelligence sharing, financial assistance, logistical facilitation and operational cooperation between RAW and Taliban-linked elements are continuing. Under this arrangement, anti-Pakistan elements are reportedly being provided intelligence and other forms of assistance to facilitate their activities in border areas.
The strategy could have several objectives, including maintaining continuous security pressure on Pakistan’s western border, keeping the TTP operational, exposing China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects to security threats and reducing Pakistan’s traditional influence in Afghanistan.
New Delhi, on the one hand, publicly supports international cooperation against terrorism, while on the other, it is confirm to be establishing contacts with elements that could pose security challenges to Pakistan.
The large quantity of weapons left behind in Afghanistan by the United States after its withdrawal has reportedly created another area of Indian interest. Following the availability of large quantities of American-origin weapons, Taliban fighters have increasingly gained access to more sophisticated arms beyond traditional AK-47 rifles.
India is seeking access to samples and information regarding these weapons by expanding contacts with the Taliban through multiple channels.
India is also using economic and diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan to expand its influence in the country and increase pressure on Pakistan.
In January 2025, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Taliban Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, during which discussions included expanding trade between Afghanistan and India through Iran’s Chabahar Port.
Bilateral trade between India and Afghanistan reportedly reached approximately $1 billion in 2025.
In March 2025, Taliban representatives and the Indian ambassador also discussed expanding Afghan imports and exports through the Chabahar route.
India has provided Afghanistan with wheat, medicines, vaccines and other humanitarian assistance. According to Indian officials, by January 2025, India had supplied 50,000 tonnes of wheat along with substantial quantities of medical and relief supplies to Afghanistan.
While this assistance is officially humanitarian rather than a trade agreement, it is being viewed by critics as an effort by India to win goodwill and influence among the Taliban authorities.
The financial support is being channelled through humanitarian assistance, commercial arrangements and bank accounts in third countries.
Despite the absence of full formal diplomatic relations, India and Afghanistan are continuing to explore future trade and economic projects, indicating a gradual expansion of Indian engagement with the Taliban authorities.
