Security forces in the Jammu region have heightened their vigil following credible intelligence indicating a potential threat from terror groups as the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections 2024 nears. Defence sources have indicated that these groups may plan to destabilise the fragile peace in the region with police stations, checkpoints and security convoys identified as potential targets. Several proxy organisations linked to terror outfits such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen remain active, posing a significant threat to stability in the region.
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Recent security operations have exposed sophisticated weapons and advanced communications equipment in the possession of these groups, highlighting an evolving and increasingly dangerous threat landscape. There have been several incidents in the past, and this cannot be ruled out, a senior defence official told PTI. However, the security apparatus has been enhanced with the deployment of additional troops and successful operations in both Jammu and Kashmir. We are ensuring that the regions remain peaceful during this election season and beyond.
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Areas south of the Pir Panjal range, including Rajouri, Poonch, Doda and now Kathua, have become focal points for the increased activities of these proxy outfits. While additional deployment of troops has strengthened the dominance of security forces in the region, dense forests, rough terrain and high altitude continue to pose significant challenges. These conditions are favourable for terrorists seeking to evade capture. According to Indian Army sources, a total of 33 terrorists have been eliminated in the Jammu and Kashmir region in 2024, of which 25 were eliminated in the hinterland. Of the total, 19 terrorists were killed in Kashmir while 6 were killed in the Jammu region.
