In recent times, Jammu has witnessed a troubling rise in attacks, causing widespread concern among its residents and authorities. These resurgent attacks have disrupted the peace in the region, leading to increased security measures and heightened tensions. The reasons behind these attacks are complex, involving various political, social, and security issues. As the community grapples with these challenges, efforts are being made to restore stability and ensure the safety of the people living in Jammu.
Tags: GS – 3, Challenges to Internal Security Through Communication Networks – Government Policies & Interventions– India and its Neighbourhood
Context
- The Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has experienced a significant increase in militant attacks since mid-2021, including recent incidents like the ambush on Army vehicles in Kathua district and targeted strikes in other areas.
- This resurgence represents a departure from historical patterns, raising concerns about security vulnerabilities and implications for regional stability.
What are the Reasons for the Rise in Militancy in Jammu?
- Strategic Shift:
- The implementation of a zero terror policy in Kashmir has provided militants with an opportunity to operate in Jammu.
- In 2020, perceived low militancy in Jammu led to troop movements to Ladakh, potentially prompting militants to relocate.
- Strategic Importance of Jammu:
- Jammu serves as a crucial gateway to the rest of India, making it an attractive target for militants aiming to disrupt normalcy and instil fear.
- Geostrategic Considerations:
- Proximity to the Line of Control (LoC) allows militants easier access from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, facilitating infiltration and logistical support.
- Recent incidents indicate a deliberate effort to establish footholds in hilly and forested terrains across districts like Rajouri, Poonch, and Reasi.
- Economic Disparities:
- Lack of economic opportunities and development in remote and border areas of Jammu create fertile ground for the recruitment of local youths by militant groups.
- Political Alienation:
- Perceived political alienation among certain communities, exacerbated by historical grievances and administrative challenges, can foster sympathy or support for militant ideologies.
- Lack of Human Intelligence:
- The locals who provided information decades ago are now in their 60s or 70s, and security forces have not nurtured relations with younger generations, highlighting a gap in human intelligence gathering.
Note:
- Terrorism: Under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Act, 2012, terrorism involves using violence or threats to instil fear for political, ideological, or extremist purposes, affecting national or global security.
- Militancy: Militancy denotes a readiness to use violence or combativeness, including various armed groups or individuals, often used interchangeably with terrorism but indicating potentially less extreme violence.
What are the Challenges in Dealing with the Rise in Militancy?
- Geographical Terrain:
- The 192-km international border (IB) in Jammu and the 740-km Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir are potential infiltration points.
- Militants exploit difficult terrains and forested areas, with recent attacks in Kathua indicating a revival of old infiltration routes.
- Community Relations:
- Trust between security forces and local communities is crucial for intelligence gathering.
- Efforts to revive Village Defence Guards (VDGs) face challenges due to past allegations of crimes by VDG members.
- Intelligence Gathering:
- Accurate and timely intelligence is hindered by local sympathisers and militants’ use of sophisticated communication technologies.
- Militants use locals’ phones and apps like Telegram to evade detection by police and security forces.
- External Support:
- Cross-border support from Pakistan, including weapon supply via drones, influences local militancy dynamics, complicating counter-terrorism efforts.
- Communal Fault Lines:
- Jammu’s demographic diversity is susceptible to communal tensions during heightened violence.
- Incidents like the killings in Dangri village and targeted strikes on specific communities aim to stoke communal fears and divisions.
Steps Taken by Government to Deal With Militancy in Jammu and Kashmir:
| Initiative | Objective |
| Revocation of Special Status | Removed special status and privileges of Jammu and Kashmir for closer integration with India. |
| Shimla Agreement (1972) | India-Pakistan committed to resolving differences peacefully. |
| Confidence-Building Measures | Efforts to improve relations like bus services and trade routes. |
| 2015 Ufa Declaration | Resumption of dialogue between India and Pakistan. |
| PARVAAZ Scheme | Subsidy for air cargo transport of perishable goods from Jammu and Kashmir. |
| Himayat | Training and placement program for unemployed youth in Jammu and Kashmir. |
| Udaan | Industry initiative for skill development and training of youth in Jammu and Kashmir |
| Nai Manzil | Program for school dropouts or Madrasa-educated youth for mainstream education and employment. |
| USTAAD Scheme | Upgrade skills and training of minority communities in traditional arts and crafts |
| Panchayat-Level Youth Clubs | Engage youth in development and recreation to reduce militancy |
Way Forward:
- Border Security Measures:
- Enhance border surveillance and fortify vulnerable points along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) to curb cross-border infiltration.
- Invest in data analysis software to better interpret surveillance information and identify infiltration patterns.
- Technological Advancements:
- Deploy advanced surveillance technologies, drones, and night-vision equipment to enhance operational effectiveness and real-time monitoring of militant activities.
- Legal and Political Frameworks:
- Examples include strengthening the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and implementing the Enemy Agents Ordinance to effectively counter terror financing and activities.
- Fast-track terror cases through dedicated courts to ensure speedy justice and deter future attacks.
- Community Engagement:
- Invest in education initiatives promoting tolerance and countering extremist narratives.
- Encourage inter-faith dialogue and community engagement programs to foster social cohesion and address grievances that extremist groups exploit.
- Diplomatic Outreach:
- Build partnerships with regional security organisations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) for a collective approach to counterterrorism.
- Policy Review:
- Promote information sharing and best practice exchanges between security forces and counter-terrorism experts.
- Ensure civilian safety by adopting standardised operating procedures (SOPs) that minimise collateral damage.
UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)
Prelims:
Q:1 Consider the following countries: (2022)
- Azerbaijan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Tajikistan
- Turkmenistan
- Uzbekistan
Which of the above have borders with Afghanistan?
- 1, 2 and 5 only
- 1, 2, 3 and 4 only
- 3, 4 and 5 only
- 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Ans: (c)
Q:2 With reference to Buddhist history, tradition and culture in India, consider the following pairs: (2014)
Famous shrine Location
- Tabo monastery : Spiti Valley and temple complex
- Lhotsava Lhakhang : Zanskar Valley temple, Nako
- Alchi temple complex : Ladakh
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
- 1 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (c)
Mains:
Q:1 To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, bearing marginal note “Temporary provision with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir”, temporary? Discuss the future prospects of this provision in the context of Indian polity. (2016)
Q:2 Analyse the circumstances that led to the Tashkent Agreement in 1966. Discuss the highlights of the Agreement. (2013)
Source: IE
FAQs
Q: What is happening with the resurgent attacks in Jammu?
- Answer: Recently, there has been an increase in violent attacks in the Jammu region, including terrorist activities and cross-border shelling. These incidents are causing concern among the local population and authorities.
Q: Why are these attacks happening again?
- Answer: The resurgent attacks are mainly due to ongoing tensions between India and neighboring countries, as well as efforts by terrorist groups to disrupt peace in the region. Some groups may be trying to exploit the situation to further their agendas.
Q: How are the local people affected by these attacks?
- Answer: Local people are facing disruptions in their daily lives, including fear for their safety, economic hardships due to instability, and damage to property. The frequent violence makes it difficult for communities to lead normal lives.
Q: What is the government doing to address these attacks?
- Answer: The government is taking several measures to address the situation, including increasing security forces in the region, conducting counter-terrorism operations, and enhancing surveillance along the borders to prevent infiltration.
Q: How can residents stay safe during these attacks?
- Answer: Residents can stay safe by following the instructions of local authorities, staying informed about the latest developments, avoiding areas known for frequent attacks, and having emergency plans in place. Cooperation with security forces and reporting suspicious activities can also help improve safety.
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