Introduction
In response to escalating terror activities in the Jammu region, the Indian government has unveiled a comprehensive security strategy aimed at bolstering defenses and countering threats. The plan, which involves the establishment of over 75 Special Operations Group (SOG) camps, enhanced Village Defence Committees (VDCs) training, and increased Border Security Force (BSF) deployment, seeks to address the persistent security challenges posed by cross-border terrorism.
Strategic Security Enhancements
The recent surge in terrorist attacks in Jammu has prompted a significant overhaul of the region’s security measures. According to reliable sources, the new strategy includes deploying personnel from the SOG in more than 75 camps strategically located in forested areas. These camps will be manned by local police, CRPF, and Army personnel, who will conduct daily patrols to monitor and neutralize terrorist threats.
The Jammu region, which stretches 485 kilometers along the border with Pakistan, is characterized by its dense forests and rugged terrain. This challenging landscape has been exploited by terrorists for infiltration and attacks. To counter this, the government has focused on increasing security around critical points, particularly near suspected infiltration routes.
Enhanced Village Defence Committees
A pivotal component of the new security plan is the revival and strengthening of the Village Defence Committees (VDCs). These committees will undergo regular training to proficiently handle both traditional and semi-automatic weapons. The goal is to empower local villagers with the skills necessary to defend their communities against terrorist incursions.
Moreover, recent intelligence has revealed that terrorists are utilizing local villagers’ personal hotspot connections for making Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls to their handlers in Pakistan. To counter this, the government plans to raise awareness among villagers about the risks of sharing their internet connections and implement punitive measures against those who violate these security protocols.
Increased BSF Deployment and Border Security
The Centre has also decided to enhance the deployment of BSF personnel to fortify border security. Two BSF battalions, comprising over 2,000 personnel, are being relocated from Odisha to bolster defenses in Jammu. These troops will be stationed in key areas, including Samba and near the Jammu-Punjab border, with a particular focus on preventing infiltration through cross-border tunnels.
The BSF is responsible for securing over 2,289 kilometers of the International Boundary that stretches across Jammu, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. The Jammu region’s vulnerability to cross-border tunnels, coupled with its challenging terrain, makes it a prime area for terrorist activities. By reinforcing border security and enhancing counter-infiltration measures, the government aims to mitigate these risks effectively.
Government’s Zero Tolerance Policy
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism during a recent Lok Sabha session. The government’s approach involves a comprehensive strategy to dismantle the terror ecosystem through a whole-of-government approach. This includes sustained actions against terrorists and their support networks, financial crackdowns, and the banning of anti-national organizations.
Rai also outlined preventive measures, such as identifying and investigating strategic supporters of terrorism and enhancing the counter-insurgency grid. The strategy focuses on modernizing security equipment, intensifying cordon and search operations, and improving real-time intelligence sharing among security forces operating in Jammu and Kashmir.
Summary
The Indian government’s new counter-terrorism strategy for Jammu represents a robust response to the region’s escalating security challenges. By establishing SOG camps, revitalizing VDC training, and increasing BSF deployment, the plan aims to counteract terrorism effectively. The government’s zero-tolerance policy and comprehensive approach to dismantling the terror ecosystem are central to its efforts to ensure peace and stability in the region.
Table of Key Learning Points
| Key Learning Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Strategic Deployment of SOG Camps | Over 75 SOG camps will be set up in forest areas for enhanced patrolling and counter-terrorism efforts. |
| Revitalization of Village Defence Committees | Regular training for VDCs in handling both traditional and semi-automatic weapons. |
| Increased BSF Deployment and Focus on Tunnels | Two BSF battalions relocated to strengthen border security and prevent infiltration. |
| Zero Tolerance Policy | Government’s comprehensive strategy to dismantle the terror ecosystem and enhance security measures. |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
