Intensify operations, aim for zero-infiltration in J&K: Amit Shah to security agencies

New Delhi: Amid reports of foreign militants‘ involvement in recent J&K terror attacks, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday directed all security agencies to intensify counterterror operations with a ‘zero-infiltration’ goal. Chairing a two-day security review meeting, he called for a “ruthless approach” against infiltration and terrorism, stating, “Our goal is to uproot the existence of terrorists.”Officials noted concerns over the presence of foreign militants despite claims of “zero-infiltration” by the Army and BSF. These militants, with logistical support from local overground workers (OGWs), have been targeting security forces in the Jammu region. Shah also flagged the narco network’s role in terror funding, urging swift and rigorous action to curb financial support from the drug trade. He reaffirmed the Modi government’s ‘zero tolerance’ policy against terrorism and stressed the need for security agencies to remain vigilant and work in synergy.

The review meeting followed a terror attack in Kulgam on Monday, where ex-serviceman Manzoor Ahmad Wagay and his family were shot at by militants. Wagay succumbed to his injuries, while his wife and niece are undergoing treatment. The last such security review meeting was held on December 19.

According to official data, terrorist incidents in J&K have declined by 70%. Between 2004-13, 2,056 civilians were killed, compared to 390 in the last decade. Since August 2019, stone-pelting incidents have dropped by 90%, and there have been only 32 calls for strikes. However, districts like Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, Kathua, Jammu, and Rajouri have seen increased terror activity in recent years, with over three dozen incidents recorded since 2021.

Infiltration attempts in Jammu have surged since January 2021, when the Indian Army foiled an attempt along the LoC in Akhnoor, killing three militants. In June 2023, terrorists targeted a bus carrying pilgrims in Reasi, killing nine and injuring 33. The rising violence in border districts, including drone attacks and bomb recoveries, has heightened security concerns in the region.