Counter-Terror Operations

Intense counter-terrorism operations are underway at multiple locations across Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, sources familiar with the matter told ANI.

According to the sources, no specific updates are being shared at this stage due to the sensitive nature of the ongoing operations.
More details awaited.

On Monday, Jammu and Kashmir police carried out raids at 13 locations in the Doda district to bust terrorist hideouts and take action against individuals linked to terror activities.

This comes as the security concerns intensify after the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people.

Meanwhile, the Srinagar Police conducted extensive searches at multiple locations across the city at the residences of Over Ground Workers (OGWs) and terrorist associates of proscribed terrorist outfits in furtherance of an investigation into cases registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

According to a police release, the Srinagar Police conducted searches at the residences of 63 individuals.

The searches were conducted in accordance with proper legal procedures in the presence of Executive Magistrates and independent witnesses under the supervision of the officers of J&K Police.

The searches were carried out to seize weapons, documents, digital devices, etc., with the objective of evidence collection and intelligence gathering to detect and deter any conspiratorial or terrorist activity against the security of the Nation.

On Saturday, acting swiftly on specific intelligence inputs, a joint operation was launched by the Special Operations Group (SOG) Camp Machil and the Indian Army’s 12 SIKH LI unit in the forested area of Sedori Nala.

During the operation, a terrorist hideout was successfully located and busted. A significant cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from the site, including: five AK-47 rifles, eight AK-47 magazines, one pistol, one pistol magazine, 660 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, one pistol round, and 50 rounds of M4 ammunition, as per a press release. (ANI)

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.