NEW DELHI: After years of concentrated terror attacks in Rajouri and Poonch, militant activities have spread across six additional districts in the Jammu region this year, with fatalities reaching 44, including 18 security personnel and 13 terrorists, according to security officials as reported by PTI.
While the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch saw a decline in incidents compared to previous years, a wave of violence erupted in Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, Kathua, Udhampur, and Jammu beginning in April. This shift has raised alarms among security agencies, prompting coordinated military, police, and central armed police force (CAPF) operations, particularly in the region’s dense forests.
“Operations are ongoing to counter these threats and dismantle attempts by Pakistan-based handlers to extend terror into previously peaceful areas,” officials stated. Increased security measures now include intensified night patrols, particularly along the border villages to prevent infiltration.
In recent months, the districts of Doda, Kathua, and Reasi reported nine deaths each, followed by Kishtwar (five), Udhampur (four), Jammu and Rajouri (three each), and Poonch (two). Among the deceased were 18 security personnel and 14 civilians, including seven pilgrims who were killed in an attack on their bus. Three village defense guards (VDGs) were also shot in Udhampur and Kishtwar.
Notably, seven security personnel were killed in Kathua alone, with others in Doda, Kishtwar, Poonch, and Udhampur. Officials added that operations in Akhnoor in October resulted in the deaths of three terrorists, while others were killed in encounters across Doda, Kathua, Udhampur, and Rajouri.
The Rajouri-Poonch area, which was largely free from terror activities over a decade ago, has witnessed a resurgence of violence since 2021, predominantly targeting military vehicles. The region has seen over 100 fatalities since then, including 47 security personnel and 48 militants.
To address the evolving threat, security forces have expanded their presence in vulnerable areas, reviving foot patrols and reinforcing night operations. Additionally, public outreach programs such as ‘Operation Sadbhavana’ have been bolstered, with medical camps and community interactions aimed at fostering goodwill among local populations.
