The recent terrorist attack on Air Force personnel in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir serves as a grim reminder of the persistent threat that terrorism poses to the region’s peace. The martyrdom of Vicky Pahade underscores the urgent need for a concerted and unified effort to combat terrorism in the troubled region. The attack, reminiscent of previous incidents in the area, highlights the brazenness and audacity of terrorist groups operating in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite concerted efforts by security forces, terrorists continue to find ways to perpetrate violence and sow fear among civilians by attacking security personnel. The ambush at Bakrabal Mohalla near Sanai in Surankote tehsil is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of violence that has plagued the region for decades. The disconcerting reality is that terrorists exhibit an exhaustive knowledge of the entire topography of the Rajouri-Poonch region, precisely selecting both the location and timing of their strikes. Their awareness that the area is enveloped by mountains, coupled with the anticipation of slowed army vehicles navigating challenging road conditions, underscores the strategic advantage exploited by these terrorists. These assailants are astutely cognizant of the army’s movements in the region, signalling a grave concern for any security apparatus. The recurring attacks in this specific locale, surrounded by forests leading to Chamrer and Bhata Dhurian forests, echo a history of successful ambushes, inflicting severe casualties on army personnel before vanishing into the dense foliage. The haunting echoes of such recent incidents are a reminder of the heinous methods adopted by terrorists.
The sinister intentions of terrorists and their masters across the border are evident. They repeatedly ambush army convoys, causing significant damage and casualties to security forces. These attacks are aimed at challenging and demoralising the security apparatus in the region. Surankot has emerged as a focal point for terrorist activities, nestled demographically between the Poonch and Rajouri districts, with dense forests providing safe havens for terrorists. These terrorists receive specific intelligence regarding army movements, indicating local support for their operations. Despite efforts by local police and security agencies, this dangerous nexus persists, resulting in repeated terror strikes.
However, these cowardly acts won’t dampen the resolve of security forces, who vow to respond effectively. Given the varied terror activities across different districts, security forces must reassess their strategies to counter evolving threats. The presence of multiple active terrorist groups indicates porous infiltration routes that need immediate attention. Simultaneously strengthening local intelligence is crucial in dismantling this support network. More concerning is the fact that despite heightened vigilance due to ongoing elections, terrorists manage to strike, spreading fear among the populace. The nation cannot afford to lose brave soldiers to such cowardly attacks. The persistence of terrorism in Rajouri and Poonch districts underscores the need for robust security measures. Border control and sealing infiltration routes are urgent priorities. Additionally, there must be a concerted effort to counter the extremist ideologies that drive individuals to embrace terrorism. This requires engaging with communities at the grassroots level, promoting moderate voices, and debunking the narratives propagated by terrorist groups.
The recent terrorist attack in Poonch and other places is a stark reminder of the challenges that persist in Jammu and Kashmir. Attacks on security forces cannot be tolerated, and the public’s cooperation in providing vital information is essential. Each act of terrorism must be met with a strong response. It’s concerning that, despite the attempts to resurge terrorism in the region, adequate measures are yet to be taken to address vulnerabilities in the security apparatus. The administration must explore all avenues to enhance security and prevent such attacks. A decisive action is imperative at this juncture. Only consistent and persistent actions can eradicate terrorism.
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