Central Security Team Arrives in Jammu and Kashmir Amid Heightened Threats
A high-level central team led by Home Secretary Govind Mohan arrived in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. The team began a two-day visit to review security measures across the union territory. This visit comes at a critical time, with Republic Day celebrations just around the corner.
Security forces and police remain on high alert. Multiple reports of suspicious activities have emerged in recent days, keeping authorities on edge.
Drone Intrusions from Pakistan Prompt Immediate Response
On Tuesday evening, security forces sighted several drones crossing the Line of Control in Rajouri district. These drones originated from the Pakistan side. Troops immediately opened fire to shoot them down.
Two drones were seen hovering over the Manjakote sector. Additional drones appeared in the Keri sector. All drones flew back to Pakistan after troops engaged them with gunfire.
This incident marks the second such occurrence in just three days. On Sunday, Army troops opened fire on drones hovering over Kalsian village near the LoC in Rajouri's Nowshera sector.
Similar flying objects were also sighted that same day over multiple locations. These included Kalakote's Teryath area, Mankote in Poonch district, and the Ramgarh sector of Samba district. These sightings triggered immediate alerts and extensive searches along the border.
Recovery of Arms and Increased Suspicious Activities
Earlier, security forces made a significant discovery near the international border in Samba district. They recovered a consignment of arms and ammunition dropped by a Pakistani drone.
The seized items included two pistols, three magazines, sixteen rounds of ammunition, and one grenade. This recovery highlights the serious nature of the drone threats.
Security agencies note a clear spike in suspicious activities across Jammu province since January 10. While officials have not issued an official statement, sources confirm increased drone sightings and seizures of Pakistani balloons in border areas.
Reports also indicate heightened terrorist movement in the hinterland of Jammu province. India has formally lodged a protest with Pakistan over the escalating drone intrusions.
High-Level Security Review Meeting Convenes
Home Secretary Govind Mohan chaired a crucial security review meeting at the Convention Centre. Senior officers from various security and intelligence agencies attended this meeting.
The delegation included top officials from the BSF, CRPF, Intelligence Bureau, and RAW. Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat and other key J&K police officers were also present.
The meeting thoroughly assessed the current ground situation. Discussions focused on security arrangements for the upcoming Republic Day celebrations. Key concerns included:
- The recent increase in drone sightings from Pakistan.
- Potential infiltration attempts under cover of dense winter fog.
- Reports of terrorist movement in the hinterland regions.
Officials stated that the exact motive behind these intrusions remains unclear. However, the timing ahead of Republic Day has caused significant concern.
Massive Security Operations and New Restrictions Imposed
In response to the threats, security forces and police have launched massive search and combing operations. These operations span across Jammu province to neutralize any potential risks.
The civil administration has implemented several precautionary measures. Citing security concerns, officials imposed a two-month ban on adventure activities in high-altitude forest areas of the Pir Panjal range.
Restricted activities now include trekking, camping, and hiking. Similar restrictions remain active in the Danwass forests of Tangmarg near Gulmarg.
The union territory administration has also banned the use of VPN services in several districts. This two-month ban addresses security threats and potential misuse by anti-national elements. Police have already booked several individuals for violating this new restriction.
The central team's visit underscores the government's commitment to ensuring a secure Republic Day. All agencies are coordinating closely to thwart any attempts to disrupt the celebrations in Jammu and Kashmir.
