‘Only 80 active local terrorists in Valley’
Srinagar, Oct 3: GoC 15 Corps, Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai Thursday said that maintaining a peaceful atmosphere in Kashmir remains the biggest challenge for security forces.
“Kashmir has been peaceful during 2024, 2023, and 2022. We need a few more years like this to achieve enduring peace. Maintaining a peaceful atmosphere is the biggest challenge for security forces, as terrorism is being fueled from across the border,” he said.
He claimed that the recruitment of local terrorists has significantly decreased. “There are only 80 active local terrorists, and the number is decreasing each year. Significant efforts are being made by the Army, J&K Police, and other security agencies to maintain peace. There has been no active terror recruitment in the region,” he said.
Referring to recent attacks in the Pir Panjal range, Lt Gen Ghai said that there is a possibility that terrorists may attempt to seek shelter in Kashmir. “Terrorists keep moving, as they can’t survive in one place for long,” he said.
As for terrorist-initiated incidents in Kashmir, he said, “Some incidents have occurred where soft targets were hit, even by untrained individuals using pistols.”
About the Kokernag encounter, where an Indian Army Colonel and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat lost their lives in a fierce exchange of fire with militants, he said, “Our brave soldiers reached the terrorists’ hideout, but during the final phase of the operation, heavy gunfire claimed the lives of our men”.
He estimated that 25 to 30 foreign militants remain active in the region, expressing confidence in the Army’s ability to neutralize them soon. Lt Gen Ghai said the Army’s use of cutting-edge technology in counter-insurgency operations, which has significantly enhanced their effectiveness against insurgents.
He stated that the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, established in February 2021, remains intact, leading to reduced tensions along the Line of Control (LoC).
When asked about a possible reduction in troop numbers, he responded, “We are in a phase of consolidation. Reducing the counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism grids is not advisable at this stage. Both grids must remain intact.”
He said that the region is witnessing a new beginning, with significant developments and events taking place. “This progress is due to the efforts of the 15 Corps, J&K Police, CAPF, and other security agencies. The region is on the cusp of a new era.”
Discussing the challenges of infiltration from across the LoC, Lt Gen Ghai highlighted the effectiveness of the counter-infiltration grid. “Infiltration attempts are being effectively handled. This summer, there were no major attempts from the launch pads, and we kept them at bay,” he stated, adding they are in the process of analyzing the current lull in terrorist activity.
The Army, he said, has maintained strong ties with the people of Kashmir. “We have seen many significant events here, alongside considerable development in the region. Significant efforts are being made by the 15 Corps, J&K Police, and other security agencies. The Army has also started various welfare schemes for the people. We prepare students for various examinations and support sports initiatives. Some youth have even brought laurels to the country. We are also promoting culture, and we recognize our responsibility in nation-building,” he said, adding that drugs remain a challenge in the Valley.
He concluded by stating that the Indian Army is using the best available technology. “We have embraced technology in a significant way. Ongoing conflicts around the world are becoming more intense, and we must stay vigilant to ensure that our situation remains unaffected.”
