Jammu, Jan 28 – Security forces have launched an extensive search operation across nearly two dozen locations in Jammu’s higher reaches and forested areas along the Line of Control (LoC) to combat terrorism in the region. The operation targets areas where terrorists have been active in the past, particularly in the wake of multiple attacks in the Jammu region last year.
The region has faced a surge in terrorist activities since 2021, particularly in the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch. However, last year, the violence spread to six additional districts, resulting in the deaths of 44 people, including 18 security personnel and 13 terrorists. Despite a decline in terrorist activity in the Pir Panjal districts of Rajouri and Poonch in 2024, concerns arose after incidents were reported in Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, Kathua, Udhampur, and Jammu between April and May.
Officials confirmed that the ongoing search operation is being conducted at 23 locations, with the highest concentration in the Chenab valley districts of Kishtwar, Doda, and Ramban (10 locations), followed by seven in Rajouri-Poonch, three in Udhampur, two in Reasi, and one in Jammu district. The joint efforts of the army, police, and central armed police forces aim to neutralize terrorist threats and prevent Pakistan-based handlers from further destabilizing the region.
The operation, focused on dominating vulnerable areas, especially dense forests, is set to intensify over the coming months ahead of the summer season. Last year, districts like Doda, Kathua, and Reasi recorded nine fatalities each, followed by Kishtwar (five), Udhampur (four), Jammu and Rajouri (three each), and Poonch (two). Among the victims were 14 civilians, including seven pilgrims who were killed in an attack on their bus and three Village Defence Guards (VDGs) who were shot in Udhampur and Kishtwar.
The ongoing security measures are part of the larger effort to maintain peace and prevent further escalation in Jammu’s vulnerable areas.
