The surge in terrorist activities and cross-border infiltration in Kathua district has left the local population feeling vulnerable and unsafe. With increasing terror strikes and the district’s geographical proximity to the border, the demand for the constitution of Village Defence Groups (VDGs) has gained substantial momentum. This growing call from the people of Kathua district, supported by local public representatives, highlights the urgency of a robust security strategy to combat the rising threat of terrorism and to restore the confidence of the people in their ability to defend themselves. The Kathua district, particularly its border and hilly areas, has always been a flashpoint for terrorism due to its location along the International Border. Over the past year, the district has witnessed a series of terrorist strikes, leading to a general sense of insecurity among its residents. The increasing infiltration of militants and the lack of immediate response from security forces have left local communities exposed. In such a situation, the formation of VDGs, much like in the erstwhile Doda district during the 1990s, could prove crucial in safeguarding the lives and property of the people.
The concept of VDGs is not new to the region. During the height of the insurgency in the 1990s, the Doda district successfully established VDGs, where local villagers were organised and provided with weapons and training to defend their communities against militants. This grassroots-level defence mechanism played a significant role in curbing terrorism in the region. Today, the people of Kathua are calling for a similar approach to address the growing threat posed by terrorists.
Local leaders, including MLAs, DDC members, and ex-Sarpanchs, have expressed strong support for the formation of VDGs in Kathua. They argue that the involvement of local youth, who are familiar with the topography and geography of the region, would make the VDGs highly effective in combating terrorism. In a region where dense forests and hilly terrain provide natural hideouts for militants, local youth, who are familiar with the land, can play a vital role in detecting and neutralising threats. Furthermore, providing local youth with weapons and training would ensure they are equipped to protect their villages and respond effectively to terrorist attacks.
The role of public representatives in this demand is critical. DDC Chairman of Kathua has been vocal about the urgency of this issue. He has pointed out that the administration’s delay in renewing weapons licences and returning confiscated weapons to the people has compounded the problem. People who previously possessed licensed weapons now find themselves defenceless, as their weapons have not been returned, and the renewal process has been stalled since 2019. This delay in renewing licences has not only disarmed the local population but also rendered their weapons illegal, preventing them from using them for self-defence. This issue of weapon licences needs immediate attention. Residents of Kathua, particularly in the border areas, feel that their ability to protect themselves is compromised due to administrative neglect in renewing weapon licences.
The Government has to address these concerns. The constitution of VDGs should be a priority, as it would enable local communities to assist security forces in preventing cross-border infiltration and countering terrorism. VDGs, made up of local youth, could serve as force multipliers, providing intelligence, surveillance, and even direct intervention in cases of terrorist activity. Giving these groups access to sophisticated weapons would enhance their ability to respond to threats effectively. Additionally, providing emoluments and basic training in weaponry would further incentivise the formation of these groups, ensuring that local communities are actively engaged in protecting their own safety. The formation of VDGs, along with the renewal of weapon licences, will go a long way in addressing the growing threat of terrorism and cross-border infiltration. The Government must act swiftly to implement these measures, as the safety and security of the people of Kathua depend on it.
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