The recent deadly terror attack in Poonch, Jammu, and Kashmir, has left a soldier critical and raised concerns over security in the region.
The attack, which occurred on an Indian Air Force convoy, resulted in the essential condition of the soldier and the stable condition of three others. Tragically, one IAF soldier lost his life during the attack. Security forces have launched a massive search operation to track down the terrorists responsible for this heinous act. Additional IAF and Army personnel have been deployed to the attack site, and a search and cordon operation is ongoing in various areas to locate the terrorists who fled into a forest after the attack.
The terrorists involved in the attack used steel core bullets, capable of penetrating an armored shield, and, managed to decamp with the soldiers’ weapons. The attack was well-coordinated, with a sniper targeting the truck from the front while other terrorists sprayed bullets and lobbed grenades at the vehicle. This ambush left five soldiers dead and one injured. Experts from various agencies, including the NSG and NIA, have visited the site to gather information about the attack. The area where the attack took place, although considered terrorism-free for a long time, remains a notorious infiltration route for terrorists due to its topography and dense forest cover.
The security forces are facing challenges in tracing and neutralizing the perpetrators, with over 12 individuals detained for questioning but no arrests made so far. Drones and sniffer dogs are being utilized in the search efforts, but the terrorists may have found safe hideous in the dense forest to evade capture. Initial reports suggest the involvement of around five terrorists, including foreign mercenaries, in the attack. The terrorists are believed to have used grenades and sticky bombs that caused the vehicle to catch fire. The attackers are suspected of having been in the region for over a year, familiar with the tough terrain and knowing the area, making it difficult for security forces to apprehend them.
The attack in Poonch is a stark reminder of the persistent threat of terrorism in the region, with various terrorist groups active in Rajouri and Poonch. The involvement of banned terror groups like the People’s Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF) and Lashkar-e-Taiba has been reported. The security forces are intensifying their efforts to locate the terrorists and prevent further attacks. The situation remains tense as the search operation continues, and the safety and security of the region are paramount concerns for the authorities.
In conclusion, the recent attack in Poonch has highlighted the ongoing security challenges faced by the armed forces in Jammu and Kashmir. The critical condition of a soldier, the loss of lives, and the brazen nature of the attack underscore the need for heightened vigilance and security measures in the region. The coordinated efforts of security forces, intelligence agencies, and local authorities are crucial in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of the residents in Jammu Kashmir.
The government is taking the following measures
Security Operations
- The Army has launched a massive search and cordon operation in various areas of the Poonch and Rajouri districts to track down the terrorists involved in the recent attack on the IAF convey. This includes operations in areas like Shahsitar, Gursai, Sanai, and Sheendara Top.
- The Army has proposed to launch “Operation Sarvshakti” on both sides of the Pir Panjal range to eliminate terrorists in the Rajouri and Poonch districts, which have seen a surge in terror attacks.
- Additional IAF Garuad Special Forces and Army personnel have been deployed to the attack site to bolster security.
Intelligence and Coordination
- Security agencies have increased their focus on human intelligence gathering in addition to using technology, to track down terrorists and their overground workers.
- There is improved coordination among the police, military, and local people in the area to control the situation.
- The number of police stations is increasing and some reorientation is being carried out to help control the situation.
Policy Actions
- The government has declared 2023 as a “zero-infiltration year”, with no terrorists able to infiltrate through the Line of Control (LoC).
- The Modi government is cracking down on terror financing, sealing and freezing assets of terrorists, and has also outlawed terrorist organizations.
- The Jammu and Kashmir administration has taken prompt action in providing compensation and jobs to the families of civilians killed in the recent incident, reflecting its commitment to ensuring justice.
Overall, the government is employing a multi-pronged approach involving security operations, intelligence gathering, coordination among agencies, and policy actions to prevent terror attacks and eliminate the terrorist threat in the Poonch-Rajouri region.