At least 65 foreign terrorists from three different terror outfits are currently active in Jammu and Kashmir, according to security officials. This number has risen from 59 in the first week of March, indicating a concerning trend. A significant portion, approximately 35, belongs to Lashkar-e-Taiba, which has been implicated in the recent attack in Pahalgam. Additionally, 21 terrorists are affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed, while three belong to Hizbul Mujahideen. In response to this escalating threat, the Centre has initiated 26 measures to tackle infiltration and enhance surveillance. Officials express growing concern regarding the ongoing movement of foreign terrorists, prompting increased collaboration among security forces to effectively address these challenges.
Strengthening Security in Kashmir Valley
Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, security agencies are devising a strategy to eliminate the security "vacuum" in the Kashmir valley. This plan includes the permanent deployment of army and paramilitary forces in the mountains overlooking this popular tourist destination. Officials have indicated the necessity of realigning security forces, especially with the annual Amarnath pilgrimage set to commence on July 3. Currently, there are no security forces in the densely forested Bisaran Valley, complicating timely troop movement. The nearest units are located significant distances away and are only accessible by foot or horseback. Final arrangements for the enhanced security grid in the region are expected to be confirmed shortly, reflecting the urgent need to ensure safety for both pilgrims and local residents.
Intelligence Failures and Ongoing Investigations
Preliminary investigations into the Pahalgam terror attack have revealed critical failures in intelligence and inadequate deployment of forces at the targeted site, resulting in one of the deadliest incidents in Jammu and Kashmir. These attacks have exposed significant flaws in the Unified Command setup, which failed to provide actionable intelligence and effectively counter terrorism in the region. Despite the high footfall of tourists in this scenic area, security measures were deemed insufficient. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), initially deployed for "area domination," was withdrawn for other locations prior to the attack. Multi-agency probes are currently ongoing to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy, with evidence suggesting that at least two of the attackers communicated in Pashto, indicating they may be Pakistani terrorists. Authorities are intensifying efforts to flush out any remaining terrorists in the vicinity.
Counterterrorism Operations in Baramulla
On Wednesday, two terrorists were killed along the Line of Control in Baramulla district of north Kashmir, according to army officials. A large cache of weapons was recovered from the site following an encounter that erupted around 1 AM after the Indian Army received intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists near Uri Nallah. Brigadier Mayank Shukla, Commander of the 161 Infantry Brigade, stated that they had been receiving continuous information about the movement of Pakistani terrorists in the Uri sector for several days. He noted that when the terrorists crossed the LoC, Indian forces ambushed them, neutralizing the two terrorists in a two-hour firefight.
Enhancing Satellite Surveillance Capabilities
India plans to launch 100-150 additional satellites over the next three years to bolster border and coastal surveillance, as announced by ISRO Chairman V Narayanan. Currently, India operates about 55 satellites to monitor its 7,500 km border, a number Narayanan deemed insufficient. He emphasized that reforms in the Space Sector, which allow private participation in satellite and rocket development, are essential for these advancements. During a recent event, Narayanan also highlighted successful satellite docking operations as part of ISRO's SpAdEx missions. This initiative aims to ensure comprehensive monitoring of the country’s borders, with the increase in satellite capacity seen as crucial for national security, especially in light of recent security incidents.
Pakistan's Military Response
In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan has intensified military activity along the India-Pakistan border. The Pakistan Air Force and Army are reorienting their assets to prepare for potential Indian retaliation. Initial findings suggest that the attack was meticulously planned to maximize casualties. The Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) has released visuals of military exercises near the border, and sources indicate that around 40 launch pads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir are housing over 100 terrorists ready to cross into India. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is under pressure to ensure the military’s credibility amid increasing public resentment following Imran Khan’s removal. General Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff, has emphasized the need to restore the military's reputation, while the ISI chief is strategizing a robust response to anticipated Indian actions, drawing on lessons from past military exercises.
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