Jammu, Dec 28: Jammu and Kashmir continues to face sustained terror threats this winter, with intelligence agencies assessing the presence of over 30 Pakistani terrorists operating in the Jammu region, even as the Indian Army has intensified counter-terror operations during Chillai Kalan to prevent militants from exploiting harsh weather conditions.
Defence and intelligence sources said the terrorists, under pressure from sustained security operations, have shifted to higher and middle mountain ranges in Kishtwar and Doda districts where civilian presence is sparse. The movement is seen as an attempt to evade detection and regroup during the winter months, traditionally considered a low-activity period.
Rejecting any seasonal lull, the Army has expanded its operational footprint into snowbound and high-altitude areas since the onset of Chillai Kalan on December 21. Forward winter bases and temporary surveillance posts have been established to ensure continuous pressure on terror hideouts despite sub-zero temperatures.
Army units are conducting regular patrols across ridgelines, forests and remote valleys to deny terrorists any safe shelter. Officials said the strategy is aimed at confining terror groups to inhospitable terrain, disrupting their supply routes and preventing movement towards populated areas.
The operations are being carried out in close coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, Special Operations Group, Forest Guards and Village Defence Guards. Joint analysis of intelligence inputs is helping security forces track terrorist movement and execute targeted operations without delay.
Security agencies believe dwindling local support and heightened vigilance in lower areas have forced terror groups into isolation. There are reports of attempts by these elements to pressure villagers for food and shelter, though officials said such efforts have met with limited success.
Specially trained winter warfare units have been deployed in sensitive sectors, backed by drones, thermal imagers and ground sensors to monitor movement in snow-covered terrain. Surveillance and search operations are being conducted in a continuous cycle to ensure that cleared areas remain under watch.
Officials said the focus this winter remains on eliminating residual terror pockets and preventing regrouping, underlining that harsh weather will no longer provide cover to Pakistan-sponsored terrorists operating in Jammu and Kashmir. (Agencies)
