Opinion | Government and Military response to future attacks in JK.

Today, militancy in Kashmir is markedly different; it no longer fights for the Kashmir cause nor for the Kashmiri people. Since the abrogation, the focus of militancy sponsored by Pakistan has shifted. Its aim now is to disrupt peace and prosperity within India and to stifle the country’s growing progress. This strategy seeks to create crises in the Indian leadership and divert their attention from development to violence.
Analytically, Pakistan, being unstable in many ways, cannot afford such a war alone. There are external forces and internal support involved. We need to uncover the larger agenda behind this professionally orchestrated guerrilla warfare that has engulfed the whole of Jammu and Kashmir. The government and military response to potential future attacks in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) can be understood through various measures and strategies they are likely to employ.
These responses are typically structured around maintaining security, conducting counter-terrorism operations, and engaging with the community. The government is time and again executing tough laws to fight terrorism. The Government of India has adopted a multifaceted and robust stance against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. This approach combines stringent security measures, political strategies, and socio-economic initiatives. Counter-Terrorism Operations: The Indian government has intensified counter-terrorism operations through the deployment of Special Forces and coordination among various security agencies, including the Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Jammu and Kashmir Police. Border security has been enhanced along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) with Pakistan to prevent the infiltration of terrorists.
This includes the use of advanced surveillance technologies like drones, thermal imagers, and motion sensors. Operation All Out: Launched to eliminate active terrorists in the region, this operation has led to significant successes in neutralizing top militant leaders. Revocation of Article 370: In August 2019, the government abrogated Article 370, which granted special status to J&K. This move was aimed at fully integrating the region with India and bringing it under the same legal framework as the rest of the country.
Banning Terrorist Organizations: The government has banned various terrorist organizations operating in J&K, such as Hizbul Mujahideen, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Jaish-e-Mohammed, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Strengthening Anti-Terror Laws: Amendments to the UAPA have given the government more powers to designate individuals as terrorists and seize their properties. Efforts to strengthen local governance include conducting elections for local bodies, such as Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies, to ensure grassroots democracy and development.
Engaging with various political and social stakeholders to address grievances and promote peace. Development Projects: Launching various development projects aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities in J&K. Encouraging investment in the region to boost the economy and create jobs, which is seen as a way to address the socio-economic root causes of terrorism. Programs aimed at engaging the youth through sports, education, and skill development to prevent them from being radicalized. The government has actively sought international support to combat terrorism and has raised the issue of cross-border terrorism at various global forums. It is working with international partners to impose sanctions on terrorist organizations and pressure countries that support or harbour terrorists. De-Radicalization Programs: Efforts to counter extremist ideologies through education, counselling, and community engagement programs. This comprehensive approach aims to not only eliminate the immediate threat of terrorism but also address the underlying causes to ensure long-term peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Indian Army plays a pivotal role in combating terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) through a combination of military operations, intelligence gathering, and community engagement. The Indian Army has conducted cross-border surgical strikes to destroy terrorist launch pads and infrastructure along the Line of Control (LoC). Regular patrols and cordon-and-search operations are conducted to locate and eliminate terrorist hideouts. The Army works closely with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and intelligence agencies to share information and coordinate operations. Advanced surveillance technologies, including drones, thermal imagers, and motion sensors, are employed to monitor and prevent terrorist activities.
India army besides operations won hearts and minds through conducting various initiatives to build trust and goodwill among the local population. This includes medical camps, educational programs, and infrastructure development projects. Sadhbhavana (Goodwill) Operations: These are aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of the people in J&K and include building schools, providing vocational training, and promoting sports activities among the youth. De-Radicalization Efforts: Educational Programs: The Army runs educational initiatives to provide quality education and prevent radicalization among the youth. Efforts are made to rehabilitate surrendered militants and integrate them back into society. Disaster Relief. The Army provides timely assistance during natural disasters and emergencies, further strengthening its bond with the local community. Regular health camps and medical aid are provided to people in remote areas. The Army provides training to the Jammu and Kashmir Police and other paramilitary forces to enhance their counter-terrorism capabilities. Conducting joint exercises with other security forces to improve coordination and operational efficiency. Through these multifaceted roles, the Indian Army aims to ensure security, foster development, and promote peace in Jammu and Kashmir.
vadaiekashmir@gamil.com