Police, Army and paramilitary forces have intensified counter-terror operations across nearly two dozen locations in Jammu division, primarily targeting higher reaches and forested areas along the Line of Control (LoC).
The operations, according to senior officers of the security establishment, are aimed at dismantling terror networks responsible for a series of deadly attacks in the division last year, senior officials said Tuesday.
“Close coordination between the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and paramilitary forces is yielding results, and we are committed to eliminating terrorism,” a senior police officer involved in the operations said.
While Rajouri and Poonch districts have been known hotspots for terror activities, terrorists extended their footprint to six other districts—Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, Kathua, Udhampur, and Jammu—in 2024.
The terror incidents in these districts have alarmed security agencies, with attacks claiming 44 lives, including 18 security personnel, 13 terrorists, and 14 civilians.
The bloodshed includes a targeted attack on a bus carrying pilgrims returning from Shiv Khori temple, resulting in seven civilian deaths, as well as the killings of three Village Defence Guards (VDGs) in Udhampur and Kishtwar.
“Last year’s violence indicates the changing strategy of terror groups, who might now aim to disrupt peace across a broader geographic area. We are taking every step to deny them that space,” a senior Army officer said.
Currently, search operations are underway at 23 locations, with the Chenab valley—spanning Kishtwar, Doda, and Ramban districts—emerging as a major focus with ten active search sites.
Another seven locations are being combed in Rajouri and Poonch, while three operations are ongoing in Udhampur, two in Reasi, and one in Jammu district.
“These operations aim to ensure that forested areas, often used as terrorist hideouts, are neutralized. Domination of such areas will intensify before the onset of summer when infiltrations typically see an uptick,” the officer added.
Security agencies have identified the role of Pakistan-based handlers in aiding and abetting terrorism in Jammu division.
“There is clear evidence that these handlers are pushing terrorists to shift their focus to newer districts to create fear and disrupt normalcy. But their plans are being thwarted through relentless counter-terror operations,” another senior police officer said.
The operations are being backed by robust intelligence inputs and high-tech surveillance tools, officials said.
The twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch, which witnessed a spate of deadly attacks in 2021-2023, have seen a marked drop in terror activities in 2024. However, vigilance remains high in these districts.
“Despite the decline, we cannot let our guard down. Counter-insurgency measures are being implemented with the same intensity, ensuring that the hard-earned peace in these areas is preserved,” an army officer posted in Rajouri said.
Official data for 2024 reveals that Doda, Kathua, and Reasi each recorded nine killings, followed by Kishtwar with five, Udhampur with four, and Jammu and Rajouri with three each. Poonch registered the lowest with two deaths.
“The figures indicate a strategic shift in terror activities, with a focus on less militarised districts. This necessitates dynamic strategies and enhanced cooperation among security forces,” the senior Army officer said, adding that the ongoing operations would be ramped up in the coming months, especially before summer.
“Our focus is not just on neutralizing active terrorists but also on dismantling their logistics and support networks. With continued efforts, we will ensure that 2025 sees a significant reduction in terror activities,” the police officer said.
The security grid is also encouraging local communities to participate in vigilance initiatives, including strengthening the role of Village Defence Guards in vulnerable areas.
