Introduction
Jammu and Kashmir, a region with a history of insurgency, has witnessed a significant reduction in militant activities in 2023, with security forces successfully eliminating 49 militants, including 40 foreigners, in anti-insurgency operations. The Director General of Police (DGP) of Jammu and Kashmir, Dilbag Singh, emphasized the collective efforts of "team J&K" comprising J&K Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the army, intelligence agencies, and civil administration. These efforts are aimed at achieving the ambitious goal of making Jammu and Kashmir "terror-free."
The Changing Landscape
Speaking during the 3rd Northern Regional Police Coordination Committee meeting, DGP Dilbag Singh highlighted the remarkable transformation in the security situation in the region. He noted that there was a time when incidents of stone pelting targeting security forces occurred every Friday, but this has now become a thing of the past. Singh attributed this positive change to the coordinated efforts of the security apparatus.
Zero Violation of Human Rights
Dilbag Singh proudly stated that "zero violation of human rights" has been achieved in the region, with no civilian casualties reported in law and order engagements over the past few years. He acknowledged the valuable cooperation of the local population in maintaining peace and security.
Reduced Local Militancy
The DGP also pointed out that local involvement in terrorist activities has significantly decreased. This year, security forces successfully neutralized 40 foreign terrorists and nine local terrorists, marking a considerable achievement in the fight against insurgency.
Enhanced Coordination and Synergy
Singh attributed the success in counterinsurgency operations to the optimal synergy among the various security forces, which has pushed militants out of villages and cities and into the mountains. He expressed gratitude to the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their cooperation and support.
A Unified Approach
The 3rd Northern Regional Police Coordination Committee meeting, attended by senior officers from police departments of northern states and union territories, as well as officers from CAPFs/CPOs, emphasized the importance of enforcement of the rule of law. Actions have been taken against individuals involved in anti-national activities and those inciting such activities.
Recommendations and Future Plans
The meeting also featured discussions on various critical topics, including tackling cybercrime, anti-terror operations, and the smuggling of narcotics. Participants proposed measures to enhance coordination among forces, real-time information sharing mechanisms for inter-state criminal activities, and the sharing of intelligence on organized crime and human trafficking.
Conclusion
Jammu and Kashmir's efforts to combat terrorism and insurgency have borne fruit in 2023, with a significant reduction in militant activities and civilian casualties. The collaborative approach of "team J&K" and the synergy among security forces have played a pivotal role in achieving this progress. While challenges remain, the region is moving closer to the goal of becoming "terror-free," offering hope and stability to its residents.