The terror attack on a bus carrying pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district, just moments before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s oath ceremony, serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of militancy looming over the region. The tragic incident claimed the lives of at least nine innocent individuals and left many others wounded.
Despite the efforts of security forces, the menace of militancy continues to pose a significant challenge to the safety and security of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The targeted assault on the pilgrim bus is reminiscent of past incidents like the 2017 attack on Amarnath pilgrims. It is imperative that such acts be condemned in the strongest terms. It is incumbent upon the authorities to enhance security measures and strengthen counter-terrorism efforts to ensure the safety of all citizens, especially those undertaking religious pilgrimages. The attack in Reasi serves as a grim reminder of the need for sustained vigilance and proactive measures to combat militancy in Jammu and Kashmir.
In the aftermath of the Reasi attack, there has been an outpouring of solidarity and support from across the country. As we mourn the loss of innocent lives, let us also reaffirm our commitment to building a future where every citizen can live without fear or insecurity.
Despite new data indicating a drastic reduction in the number of militants in the union territory, violence has surged unexpectedly. Recent figures reveal that 111 active militants are now operating in the region, with only 40 being local youth. For the first time in years, the ratio of active militants in J&K has shifted in favor of foreigners. While security agencies might view the decline in local militants as positive, the rise in foreign militants is alarming. The situation highlights the persistent challenge of combating militancy in the Valley: as local militancy is curbed, foreign militants step in to fill the void, perpetuating the conflict.
The resurgence of militancy in the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch in the Jammu division, primarily driven by foreign militants, is a case in point. Over a decade ago, these districts were declared militancy-free by the government. However, since October 2021, there has been a spike in militant attacks in the region. Although there was an uneasy calm in Jammu in 2022, the area has once again become a militancy hotspot this year, with around ten security personnel killed in two ambushes. The dense forests in the region have complicated efforts to track militants. The situation is further exacerbated by the fact that these forests extend into South Kashmir.
While militancy may have decreased, it is far from eradicated and will likely persist as long as recruitment and infiltration continue to replenish militant ranks. To address this, the government needs to pursue political outreach in addition to security measures, as a solely security-focused approach may not yield sustainable results.
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