At a recent conference of senior security and intelligence officials, the Centre resolved to take a hard stance against terrorist supporters in Jammu, similar to the restrictions in place in Kashmir. Property of those found supporting terrorists will be confiscated, and significant legal proceedings will be initiated against them. Furthermore, the government is considering prohibiting family members of terrorist sympathizers from holding official posts.
Key Decisions and Measurements
The decision came after a review of the present security situation in Jammu, particularly in light of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forthcoming visit on June 21 and the ongoing Amarnath Yatra. Terrorist assaults in Reasi, Kathua, and Doda have killed nine persons, including seven pilgrims and a CRPF officer, while also injuring several security personnel and civilians.
Increased Terrorist Activity.
The discussion revealed a major increase in terrorist activity in Jammu, particularly below the Pir Panjal range. There has also been a noticeable increase in infiltration attempts over the international border with Jammu. Officials suspect that the ISI, Pakistan’s intelligence service, is seeking for opportunities to harm India during the Amarnath Yatra.
Enhanced Security Measures
To tackle these threats, about 500 paramilitary companies, including the CRPF, BSF, ITBP, and CISF, will be stationed along the Amarnath Yatra route. All paramilitary soldiers now stationed in Punjab will be relocated to Jammu. The discussion was attended by officials from several major ministries, including the Home Ministry’s Kashmir Division and the Military Intelligence Branch.
Sushant Sareen, a security analyst, discussed how terrorist activities had shifted from Kashmir to Jammu over the past three years. He pointed out that intensified Army operations in Kashmir had led militants to form smaller, more dispersed groups in Jammu. Sareen underlined that modern terrorist operations are more sophisticated than earlier, less planned strikes.
SP Vaid, the former DGP of Jammu and Kashmir, stated that the terror attacks should not postpone the Union Territory’s elections. He emphasized that the high voter turnout in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, with more than 50% voting in Jammu and Kashmir, demonstrates robust popular involvement despite security concerns.
Conclusion
The Centre’s determination to confiscate the possessions of terrorist supporters and strengthen security measures reflects a robust approach to tackling terrorism in Jammu. With significant deployments of paramilitary forces and a focus on preventing infiltration, the government aims to ensure the safety of citizens and the smooth conduct of the Amarnath Yatra. The commitment to maintaining election schedules underscores the resilience of democratic processes in the face of terrorism.
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