Alarming Increase in Foreign Terrorists in J&K
This year, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) experienced a notable increase in the presence of foreign terrorists operating in the region. Out of the 46 terrorists eliminated, a significant 37 were of Pakistani origin, while only nine were local recruits. This shift in the demographics of terrorism in the region is causing concerns, particularly in light of the recent Gaza crisis.
The Gaza crisis, marked by escalating hostilities and significant international attention, has prompted security agencies to conduct a comprehensive review of their strategies and measures. There is apprehension that the situation in Gaza may rekindle street protests in Jammu and Kashmir, potentially leading to law-and-order challenges in the region.
High-Level Meeting Addresses Security Challenges
To address the growing security concerns, a high-level meeting was convened at the 15 Corps headquarters in Srinagar, bringing together top officials from Jammu and Kashmir and various security agencies. The primary focus of these discussions was the formulation of a new security framework to manage potential street protests and enhance coordination.
The meeting also delved into the evolving role of foreign terrorists, given the decline in local recruitments. The statistics are striking, with 37 out of 46 terrorists eliminated this year originating from Pakistan, marking a historic shift in the region's 33-year history of terrorism. The Ministry of Home Affairs reports approximately 130 terrorists operating in the Valley, with half of them being foreigners.
Concerns of Foreign Infiltration in Kashmir Amidst Rising Tensions
The recent developments have sparked concerns that Pakistan might escalate its endeavors to infiltrate additional terrorists into Kashmir. This could potentially compel the terrorists who are currently concealed in remote areas to relocate to the Valley, posing a significant threat to the stability and security of the region.
A high-level meeting, chaired by RR Bhatnagar, advisor to the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, and Upendra Dwivedi, the Army Commander of the Northern Command, brought together key officials. This gathering included the Director General of Police for J&K, the Chinar Corps Commander, as well as senior representatives from the military, state administration, and security agencies.
In a recent incident, the Pakistani UN envoy, Munir Akram, drew a comparison between Gaza and Indian Kashmir during a United Nations Security Council session. It's surprising to hear such remarks from a person who can be assumed to be well-educated.
It's important to note that Israel and its people have been significantly affected by the presence of terrorism at their borders. A similar situation exists in India, particularly in Kashmir. However, it's crucial to highlight that India as a nation is flourishing, and it's worth mentioning that the region of Kashmir is also making progress. There is no valid basis to equate the situation in Kashmir with that of Gaza.
Pakistan's frustrations with the increasing peace and development in the Kashmir valley seem to have driven them to make unfounded and immature comments. This is evident from how low they are willing to stoop, especially at a time when most international actors are focused on their own concerns and not receptive to such ill-informed remarks from the Pakistani side.
Projects that Pakistan could only hope to build with the Chinese are being built in Kashmir.
As of March 2022, the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana has successfully completed the construction of 17,601 kilometers of roads, connecting a total of 2,074 different locations. Additionally, both the New Banihal tunnel and the Chenani Nashri Tunnel have been completed and are now open for traffic.
J&K has been declared Open Defecation Free (ODF) under Swachh Bharat Mission.
In recent developments, two new AIIMS facilities, seven additional medical colleges, two state cancer institutes, and fifteen nursing colleges have either been initiated or made operational. This expansion has increased the overall intake capacity by 854 seats.
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Jammu and the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Jammu are now operational. Moreover, the count of government degree colleges and engineering colleges has risen from 96 to 147.
International flights from Srinagar to Sharjah commenced on October 23, 2021. Furthermore, night flights from both Jammu and Srinagar have been initiated. This ensures that Kashmiris are connected to India and also promotes foreign and domestic tourism into the Valley.
UNESCO also declared 6 gardens as the world heritage site in Kashmir
Nishat Bagh
Shalimar Bagh
Achabal Bagh
Chashma Shahi
Pari Mahal
Verinag
Before the removal of article 370, continuous collision, bomb blasts and protests were there in the Kashmir valley but after the removal the situation in the Kashmir valley has somehow normalized. The demand for an autonomous state mostly came from those who held terror funding and other terrorist activities in Kashmir. But after the removal of article 370, the terrorists have also started being vigilant in this area before any kind of activities.
There has been a 71% increase in the number of arrests made during counter-insurgency operations in the Jammu division, this is a huge victory for not just the authorities but also for the public who can now travel even more safely.
When we conduct a comparative analysis, it becomes evident that Indian-administered Kashmir has four airports, whereas Pakistan-administered Kashmir (PoK) has only two. Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) boasts a total of 35 universities, whereas PoK has a mere six. In terms of healthcare infrastructure, J-K stands out with its 2812 hospitals providing free medical services, while PoK has only 23 hospitals. Consequently, a considerable number of people in PoK face a higher risk of succumbing to various illnesses each month due to the lack of essential medical facilities and access to antidotes.
Comparing Gaza with Kashmir:
Comparing a state where terrorists take shelter with a state where there is no terrorist is totally unacceptable. Gaza is a terror prone area, people are terrified in that area, whereas in Kashmir everyone lives with a full-fledged freedom.
Nowadays, people visit Kashmir without a fear of being killed by a terrorist. So the Pakistan UN envoy who compared such things should get some idea before commenting on situations that are clearly above his brain capacity.
Preparing for Security Challenges in the Upcoming Winter Season
In addition to tackling the immediate issues arising from the arrival of foreign terrorists and the aftermath of the Gaza crisis, the discussions among Security Agencies also covered security measures for the impending winter season in the region. The severe winters in Kashmir can bring about distinctive security challenges, making thorough preparations essential for safeguarding the safety and welfare of the local population.
Despite the apparent lack of depth in the Pakistani diplomats' discussions regarding Kashmir, we must enhance our vigilance nonetheless.
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