J&K Witnesses Decline in Terrorism, 1517 Suspects Arrested
SUHAIL KHAN
SRINAGAR, Dec 20: The abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, marked a pivotal turning point for Jammu and Kashmir, with significant changes in the region’s security landscape. Official sources report a drastic decline in terror activities over the past five years, alongside reduced local recruitment into militancy and a sharp drop in the number of terrorists neutralized in 2024 compared to previous years. Activities like stone-pelting, separatist-led strike calls, and violent street protests have almost disappeared since the historic decision.
According to information shared with Kashmir Despatch by official sources, security forces have maintained a robust zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism.
In the past five years, a series of intensive raids and searches across Jammu and Kashmir have resulted in the arrest of 1,517 terror suspects, including Over Ground Workers (OGWs).
During these operations, security forces have also seized significant amounts of weapons, cash, electronic devices, and incriminating documents.
The crackdown has focused on dismantling the networks of OGWs and other terror suspects who play a crucial role in aiding terrorist outfits. These individuals are involved in logistics, recruitment, and facilitating the movement of arms, ammunition, and funds.
Officials revealed that the number of arrests post-abrogation has seen a sharp rise, standing at 1,517, compared to 454 in the five years preceding the abrogation of Article 370.
A senior official emphasized that the unwavering zero-tolerance policy has ensured a safer environment for the residents of the Union Territory. He acknowledged the persistent attempts by Pakistan to destabilize the region, particularly by infiltrating foreign terrorists into mountainous and remote areas. However, the heightened vigilance and dedication of soldiers along the Line of Control (LoC) and borders in Kashmir and Jammu have successfully thwarted these attempts.
“Pakistan continues its efforts to sustain instability in the region, but the alertness of our forces has posed significant challenges for infiltrators,” the official stated. He further highlighted that tighter border controls have made it increasingly difficult for foreign terrorists to cross into Indian territory.
In the past five years, security forces have neutralized 156 foreign terrorists, a marked reduction compared to 469 in the five years before the abrogation. This significant decline is attributed to the concerted efforts of security agencies to curb infiltration and eliminate active threats.
As the Valley witnesses a decline in terrorism, the official expressed optimism for a more stable and peaceful future in Jammu and Kashmir.
