Introduction
In recent weeks, Jammu and Kashmir have witnessed a surge in terror attacks, causing significant concern among security forces and the general public.
Recent Terror Attacks in Jammu and Kashmir
The security situation in Jammu and Kashmir has been tense following a series of terror attacks in Reasi, Kathua, and Doda districts.
These attacks have resulted in the deaths of nine people, including seven pilgrims and a CRPF jawan, and injuries to seven security personnel and several others.
Key Incidents
Reasi Attack on June 9: On the day of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony, unidentified terrorists opened fire on a bus in Reasi, killing at least 10 people and injuring 33 others.
Increased Attacks Below the Pir Panjal Range: There has been a noticeable rise in terror activities in Jammu, particularly below the Pir Panjal range.
Expert Opinions on the Motive Behind the Attacks
As per Lt General Hasnain (R), the terrorists' primary goal was to challenge the Indian government's claim of control over Jammu and Kashmir. By targeting a bus carrying pilgrims, the terrorists aimed to send a clear message that despite the government's assertions, the region remains volatile and under threat from terrorist activities.
Historical Context
He drew parallels to the Chittisinghpura Massacre of 2000, where 35 Sikh pilgrims were killed by Pakistan-based terrorists just before then-US President Bill Clinton's address to the Indian Parliament.
This historical reference underscores the strategic timing and messaging behind such attacks.
Security analyst Sushant Sareen highlighted the shift in the center of gravity of terrorism towards Jammu over the past three years. This shift is attributed to the Army's increased operations in the Kashmir valley, which have reduced the space for terrorists to operate.
Neglect of Jammu Region
Sareen pointed out that the Jammu region has been relatively neglected in the broader Jammu versus Kashmir security dynamic, making it a target for increased terrorist activities.
He also noted the presence of highly trained terrorist groups, differing from the previously observed targeted killings by smaller factions like PAFF (People's Anti-Fascist Front)
Political Implications and Recommendations
Assembly Polls in Jammu and Kashmir
Former DGP of Jammu and Kashmir, SP Vaid, stressed the importance of not postponing assembly elections in the Union Territory due to the recent terror attacks.
Vaid argued that postponing elections would play into Pakistan's hands and suggested that conducting elections, even under challenging circumstances, would demonstrate resilience and defiance against terrorist threats.
Historical Precedent
Vaid cited the successful conduct of assembly elections in 1996 and 1997, during the peak of terrorism, as a precedent for holding elections in the current scenario.
He also noted the high voter turnout in the recent Lok Sabha elections as a positive indicator of the public's willingness to participate in the democratic process despite security challenges.
Conclusion
The recent surge in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir reflects a complex interplay of strategic messaging by terrorists, shifts in the operational dynamics of terrorism, and political implications for the region.
The recommendation to proceed with assembly elections, despite the security threats, highlights the importance of maintaining democratic processes and not succumbing to terrorist intimidation.
(Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu Facing More Terror Attacks, Security Situation, Lt General Syed Ata Hasnain, Sushant Sareen, SP Vaid, Assembly Elections, Chittisinghpura Massacre, Pakistan's Deep State, Modi Government, Pir Panjal Range, PAFF, Lok Sabha Elections, UPSC, CAPF, CDS, NDA, SSB, AFCAT, CSE, IAS, IB ACIO, Current Affairs, News)
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