Militant Attacks And Challenges To Peace In Jammu And Kashmir – OpEd

The region of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing signs of renewed tension, challenging the anticipated transition toward democracy and stability. A recent series of violent attacks have raised alarm, indicating the complex security scenario that both the central and state governments must address. Shortly after the newly elected government took office, the region experienced multiple attacks that threatened to destabilize the administration’s efforts to restore order.

One such attack occurred on October 24, near Gulmarg, when terrorists ambushed an Army vehicle, resulting in the deaths of two civilians and two soldiers, with several others injured. The targeted vehicle belonged to the 18 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and was en route from Botapathri when it was fired upon. Among the victims was an army porter who succumbed to injuries sustained during the attack.

According to police sources, the attackers aimed at a Rashtriya Rifles unit stationed along the Line of Control (LoC) in Gulmarg. The incident took place in a high-security zone near the India-Pakistan border, a restricted area typically accessible only to Indian Army personnel. In response, security forces have launched intensified operations to secure the area and ensure the safety of troops. Initial reports indicated that six soldiers were injured, prompting additional deployments to evaluate the situation and reinforce security measures. This marked the fourth major incident within a week, highlighting a worrying trend.

Earlier, on October 20, another deadly attack occurred near Sonamarg, along the Srinagar-Leh national highway. Militants targeted a camp housing workers of an infrastructure company, aiming to inflict significant casualties. The attack claimed the lives of seven employees, including both local and migrant workers, who were part of the Z-Morh tunnel construction team. This tunnel is a critical infrastructure project meant to enhance connectivity between Gagangir and Sonamarg in Ganderbal district. The attackers indiscriminately fired at various parts of the workers’ camp, including the mess area, and reportedly remained on site for a considerable period. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) later arrived to conduct forensic analysis and is expected to lead the investigation.

This assault marked a shift in militant tactics, as large infrastructure projects in Jammu and Kashmir had seldom been targets in the past. The attack was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a militant outfit linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. TRF’s operational strategy, led by Sheikh Sajjad Gul, has evolved to focus on both local and non-local targets, moving beyond its earlier focus primarily on Kashmiri Pandits. TRF has become increasingly active in the region over the last several months, aligning its actions with significant political developments, such as the recent Assembly elections—the first since 2014, especially after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. 

The October 24 attack, along with earlier incidents, occurred shortly after the elections in which the National Conference, led by Omar Abdullah, allied with the Congress to secure a majority and form the new government. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the attack, calling it “dastardly and cowardly.” He expressed sympathy for the victims, emphasizing that the workers were unarmed civilians contributing to a crucial infrastructure project. Abdullah reiterated that violence against civilians would not transform Kashmir into Pakistan, a claim often promoted by militant groups. His father, Farooq Abdullah, also condemned the attack, stressing that dialogue remains impossible as long as Pakistan continues to support violence in Kashmir.

The recent surge in violence appears to be part of a broader escalation in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Jammu region, which has seen increased militant activity since 2021. Historically, militancy has been concentrated in the Kashmir Valley since 1989, while Jammu had remained relatively peaceful after the early 2000s. However, the strategic shift towards Jammu—predominantly a Hindu-majority region—suggests a calculated change in militant operations, potentially aimed at diverting security forces from more strategic areas in the Valley.

Militants have adapted to the region’s rugged terrain, exploiting forested mountains and limited road connectivity to launch surprise attacks. The region’s geographical challenges, combined with a heavy concentration of security forces in the Valley, may have driven militants southward toward Jammu. Experts also suggest that militants are deliberately shifting focus to disrupt India’s broader security apparatus, taking advantage of Jammu’s relative vulnerability.

The insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir, which began in 1989, has claimed tens of thousands of lives. Despite the government’s rationale for abrogating Article 370 in 2019—asserting it would reduce violence and spur economic growth—recent statistics paint a different picture. From 2021 to 2024, there have been 33 militant-related attacks in Jammu alone, including eight in 2024, resulting in 11 soldiers killed and 18 injured.

One of the deadliest incidents occurred in June 2024, when nine Hindu pilgrims were killed and over 30 injured during an attack on a bus in Reasi district. This marked a significant escalation, following a series of attacks targeting civilians and security forces. The attacks also cast doubt on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assertion that the insurgency in Kashmir was nearing its end, as indicated by his government’s multipronged strategy after the region’s special status was revoked. The July attacks, including ambushes in Kulgam, Kathua, and Doda districts, highlighted persistent challenges to the central government’s claims of stability.

The revocation of Article 370 was accompanied by legal and administrative changes that further centralized control over Jammu and Kashmir. New land-related laws allowed greater central control, while measures such as curfews, internet shutdowns, and mass arrests deepened the trust deficit between Kashmiris and the Indian government. Critics argue that these policies have eroded civil liberties, resulting in widespread discontent. Arrests under controversial laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Public Safety Act have targeted journalists, human rights activists, and lawyers.

Local governance, despite recent elections, remains weak, with significant powers vested in the centrally appointed governor. The political downgrade of Jammu and Kashmir from a state to two Union Territories in 2019 limited local leaders’ ability to implement meaningful change, fuelling grievances. Experts suggest that restoring peace in the region would require measures that address the political wounds caused by the revocation of Article 370, such as reinstating statehood and local governance.

In response to the ongoing violence, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s cabinet proposed a resolution urging the central government to restore Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha approved the resolution, marking a significant step toward reestablishing the region’s former status. Omar Abdullah also met Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who reportedly assured the central government’s full support for the new administration.

Meanwhile, the broader India-Pakistan conflict over Kashmir remains unresolved, posing risks of prolonged regional instability. Experts emphasize that diplomatic negotiations, coupled with efforts to reduce violence, are crucial for achieving lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir. Without urgent measures for dialogue and reconciliation, the cycle of violence is likely to persist, complicating India’s internal security and foreign relations.