Home Editorial Make Shrine audits a routine

    Make Shrine audits a routine

    As helmsmen have claimed time and again, terrorism is on its last leg in Jammu and Kashmir, it becomes imperative for security forces to take all steps to end this vicious cycle of violence from the soil of the Union Territory. In this context, taking the right measure, the police in Reasi district has carried out a comprehensive security audit at the revered Shrine of Shiv Khori.

    The SSP of Reasi led the security audit, focusing on strengthening surveillance, crowd management, and emergency response mechanisms. Reportedly, the officer reviewed the security of the shrine and adjoining areas while inspecting key police installations including the Domail Checkpoint, and Special Police Posts at Ikhni and Jhandi Morh. It was also stressed that the cops should have close liaison with locals and the village Defence Guards because they act as the front line of defence against anti-nationals as they are acquainted with the local population. As the tourist season is already knocking at the door with summer vacations in schools and other educational institutions on cards, it is likely that a number of religious and other tourists will flock to the places of tourist interest in big numbers.

    It is obvious that the pressure on the religious sites especially in the Jammu region will be more. This situation will obviously demand added security measures, and therefore the officers in all the districts in Jammu region especially the ones having tourist spots and pilgrimage sites should take a cue from Reasi’s administration and emulate the steps to strengthen security against any kind of terror threat.

    It is necessary that the police and the security forces should remain prepared as the threat perception is high due to pressure on terrorist organizations to show their presence and dent the interests of India. Similar approach is necessary in Kashmir also because the government cannot afford another bad tourist season this year on account of a security lapse like the one that played spoilsport on April 22, 2025 in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam. If the security forces had conducted a comprehensive security audit of this Valley ahead of the start of the tourist season might have helped prevent loss of life. The people should also cooperate with the administration especially the security forces by informing them about any suspicious activity or individuals without wasting time.

    It is certain that only through a united and sustained effort by security forces and vigilant citizens can the menace of terrorism be effectively defeated in J&K. Public cooperation, timely information sharing, and strong community engagement will play a decisive role in dismantling networks that aid and abet such anti-national activities.