Role of External State and Non-state Actors in creating challenges to Internal Security; Challenges to Internal Security through Communication Networks
What are the fundamental reasons behind the development and continuation of extremism in the Jammu area? Highlight the primary strategies for combating extremism in the region.
Historically, incidents started by terrorists have primarily affected the Kashmir Valley. Though it had been largely tranquil for almost 20 years, the Jammu division has seen an increase in these attacks since 2021.The last three years (2019–2022) have seen a perceptible resurgence of militancy in the Jammu region, which is responsible for 40% of the deaths of security personnel there.
Recent Incidents:
- Chenab Valley and Pir Panjal Region: These two regions are the main hubs for the resurrection of militant activity:
- Chenab Valley: Including districts like Reasi, Kathua, Udhampur, Kishtwar, Doda, and Ramban; Including the districts of Rajouri and Poonch, to the south of the Pir Panjal.
Factors behind the Resurgence:
Weakening of Defense Network:
- Following the skirmishes at Galwan in eastern Ladakh in 2020, a considerable chunk of the Army was sent to the Chinese frontier, leaving the defense network around the Jammu area weaker, exposing sensitive zones.
Attack from Pakistan:
- It is believed that around 20-25 hardcore militants have made their way into India from Pakistan.
- They operate within a 40-50 km radius of the border, with active units operating in the Poonch-Rajouri and Kathua-Doda-Basantgarh areas.
Geographic Features of Jammu:
- The geographical characteristics of Jammu—varied forests, hilly landscapes, and dense vegetation—offer protection to terrorist organizations, and the close proximity of Rajouri and Poonch districts to the Line of Control (LoC) makes them especially attractive for terrorists.
- These terrorists are heavily armed and have a good understanding of the terrain, complicating the task for security forces in tracking them down.
Local Intelligence Gap:
- After the 2020 stalemate with China, a substantial number of troops were redeployed to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, which is one major cause contributing to the recent upsurge in terrorism.
- Due to the void it has left in local intelligence, it is now more difficult to monitor and anticipate insurgent activity.
Technological Progress:
- Modern technology has not escaped the adoption of terrorist organizations.
- These days, they plan and disseminate their propaganda via social media, encrypted communication channels, and other digital technologies.
Lack of Trust with Locals:
- The local population and the state no longer have the same level of trust due to poorly executed security operations.
- Cooperation is weakened and animosity is stoked when civilians experience human rights violations or feel trapped in the middle.
Long-Term Repercussions:
- The reappearance of terrorism may have unfavorable long-term consequences such as social cohesion, tourism, economic development, and life safety in addition to endangering lives.
Foreign Infiltration:
- The issue is made more complicated by the arrival of foreign terrorists on Indian territory. Sharing intelligence and managing borders effectively are essential.
Way Forward
- Enhanced Security Measures: To combat terrorism, security forces have stepped up their proactive activities. Targeted attacks, raids, and the neutralization of terror modules are all part of these operations.
- Intelligence Coordination and Vigilance: To exchange vital information regarding terrorist activities, sleeper cells, and infiltration efforts, multiple intelligence agencies work together.
- Zero Tolerance Policy: In regards to terrorism, the Indian government has implemented a zero-tolerance policy. This involves enforcing the law strictly to prevent anti-national elements.
- Use of Anti-Terror legislation: In order to carry out raids, hold suspects, and stop terrorist activity, authorities make use of the Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act as well as other pertinent legislation.
- Multi-Layer Strategy: A thorough strategy is needed to address this issue. Raising the number of troops by itself won’t cut it. All parties involved must take swift, decisive action at the highest levels of government.
- Community Involvement: Getting involved with the Gujjar-Bakerwal community in particular can assist develop relationships of trust and provide intelligence.
- Technology and Intelligence: It’s critical to use technology to improve the collection and exchange of intelligence. Enhancing the cooperation between security services is also essential.
- Addressing the root cause: By resolving complaints and promoting socio-economic growth can help keep young people out of the military.
A diversified strategy is required to counter the rise of militancy in Jammu. This strategy should incorporate community outreach, socioeconomic development, and strong security measures. Adaptive measures are required in Jammu and Kashmir due to the changing security scenario. Authorities must deal with the difficulties presented by deep forests, cross-border infiltration, and sophisticated terrorist networks as attention moves from the Valley to Jammu.