Internal Security in Jammu and Kashmir: A Year After the Pahalgam Terror Attack

In the year since the Pahalgam terror attack, the security apparatus in Kashmir and Jammu has undergone a significant transformation, with a shift from defence to preemption and offence. The Indian Army has been scouring the dense forests more aggressively, while the J&K police has established two new elite units, 'Snow Leopards' and 'Markhor', trained in high altitude and jungle warfare. This change in strategy has resulted in a decrease in militant attacks, with Pahalgam being the last major attack in the region.

• ▸The Army launched a major anti-militancy operation on both sides of the Pir Panjal mountains, eliminating the Saifullah group of Jaish-e-Mohammad.
• ▸The operation disrupted the larger terror network emanating from Pakistan, destroying hideouts and forcing militants to shift their bases.
• ▸The security agencies have adopted better coordination between different forces and intelligence agencies, meeting weekly under the Joint Control Centre for instant operation and intelligence feedback.

Key Provisions and Legal Framework

The security operations in Jammu and Kashmir are governed by the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), which allows for the designation of organisations as terrorist entities. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act provides the legal framework for investigating and prosecuting terror cases. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) grants special powers to the armed forces in disturbed areas, allowing them to conduct operations and make arrests without warrants.

• ▸The UAPA has been used to designate several organisations, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad, as terrorist entities.
• ▸The NIA has been investigating several terror cases, including the Pahalgam attack, and has made significant progress in disrupting terror networks.
• ▸The AFSPA has been in force in Jammu and Kashmir since 1990, granting the armed forces special powers to maintain law and order.

Challenges on the Ground

Despite the progress made in disrupting terror networks, the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains challenging. The region's rugged terrain and porous borders make it difficult to prevent militant infiltration. The local population's support for militants, driven by socioeconomic factors such as unemployment and poverty, also poses a significant challenge.

• ▸The lack of economic opportunities and basic amenities in rural areas has contributed to the sense of disillusionment among the youth, making them vulnerable to militant recruitment.
• ▸The presence of foreign militants, including those from Pakistan, has also been a major concern, with many of them being involved in terror attacks.
• ▸The security forces have been working to address these challenges, including through community outreach programs and economic development initiatives.

Significance and What Changes Now

The shift in strategy and the establishment of new elite units mark a significant change in the approach to internal security in Jammu and Kashmir. The focus on preemption and offence, rather than defence, is expected to yield better results in disrupting terror networks and preventing attacks. The improved coordination between security agencies and the use of technology, such as drones, are also expected to enhance the effectiveness of security operations.

• ▸The new approach is expected to reduce the number of terror attacks and improve the overall security situation in the region.
• ▸The establishment of the 'Snow Leopards' and 'Markhor' units is a significant development, as it demonstrates the ability of the security forces to adapt to changing circumstances and develop new capabilities.
• ▸The use of technology, such as drones, is expected to play a major role in enhancing the effectiveness of security operations, particularly in areas with difficult terrain.