Srinagar: Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have conducted a massive intelligence driven operation, summoning more than 1,500 individuals for questioning across the Valley. Authorities said the move was prompted by credible intelligence indicating that militant groups were planning to destabilize the fragile peace in the region.
The operation, spanning multiple districts including Anantnag, Pulwama, and Srinagar, is being carried out to neutralize potential threats before they materialize. Police officials explained that the individuals brought in for questioning include young men suspected of maintaining links with militant outfits, over-ground workers (OGWs), family members of militants, and persons previously charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
“The tip-off was credible, and we acted swiftly to prevent any attempt to disrupt peace,” said a senior police officer. Authorities emphasized that the operation was conducted under legal authorization and with adherence to due process.
The questioning involved verifying personal histories, examining digital devices, and scrutinizing any logistical or material support that could aid militant activities. In some districts, no incriminating material was recovered, highlighting the preventive rather than punitive nature of the exercise.
Police officials noted that while a large number of individuals were questioned, this does not automatically translate into arrests. The focus, they said, is on gathering intelligence and dismantling the support network that enables militancy.
Jammu and Kashmir has long remained a hotspot of insurgency and cross-border tensions. Authorities have repeatedly emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent violence, especially during politically sensitive periods or following intelligence on possible militant activity.
By targeting not only active operatives but also the support ecosystem around them, security forces aim to disrupt planning and prevent attacks before they occur. The preemptive nature of the operation underscores the authorities’ commitment to maintaining law and order while keeping militant influence under check.
While the operation was largely peaceful, security experts and civil society observers are closely monitoring its impact on local sentiment. Past experiences suggest that large-scale security actions, even when lawful, can trigger apprehension or resentment among the local population. Authorities are aware of this balance and have emphasized transparency and compliance with legal norms.
The success of this intelligence-driven initiative will largely depend on whether it prevents violence and weakens militant support networks. Analysts are watching for possible retaliatory actions or escalations and any broader implications for civil-military relations in the Valley.
With Kashmir continuing to grapple with the dual challenges of militancy and civilian concerns, such operations highlight the delicate balance between preventive security measures and community trust.