Jammu appears to be facing a renewed wave of militancy, with the latest terrorist attack on July 8, 2024, targeting an army vehicle on the Machhedi–Kindli–Malhar road in Kathua’s Badnota village. The ambush resulted in the martyrdom of five Indian soldiers, sparking serious concerns within the security establishment about the intensifying militancy in Jammu.
Jammu Militancy in Numbers (2021–2024)
According to official data:
- 33 militant attacks have occurred in Jammu since 2021.
- In 2024 alone, there have been eight militant incidents, resulting in 11 soldier deaths and 18 injuries.
- Civilian deaths in 2024 (Jan–June) reached 12, matching the entire toll for 2023.
- Key affected districts: Rajouri, Poonch, Doda, Kathua, Udhampur, Reasi.
This data signals a shift in militancy from the Kashmir Valley to the broader Jammu division, which lies close to the Line of Control (LoC) — a critical infiltration point from Pakistan-occupied territories.
Why Militancy Is Rising in Jammu: Key Factors
The resurgence of militancy in Jammu is linked to strategic, socio-political, and intelligence failures:
- Human Intelligence Breakdown
Generational disconnect: Older local informants are aging, while ties with younger populations remain underdeveloped, leading to a weakening of grassroots intelligence. - Militant Diversion Strategy
With increased counter-terror operations in Kashmir under India’s Zero Terror Policy, militant groups have shifted their base of operations to Jammu. - Geostrategic Location of Jammu
As a gateway to the rest of India, Jammu is a high-value target for terrorists seeking to disrupt national stability and instill fear. - LoC Proximity Facilitates Infiltration
The terrain and porous nature of the Line of Control allow easier movement of militants and weapons into Jammu via Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. - Lack of Development Fuels Radicalization
Remote areas in Jammu continue to suffer from economic neglect, creating fertile ground for recruitment into militant networks.
Security and Intelligence Challenges in Tackling Militancy
Despite increased vigilance, several factors complicate counter-insurgency efforts in Jammu:
- The 192-km International Border (IB) and 740-km LoC remain major infiltration routes.
- Militants use encrypted messaging apps and local sympathisers to bypass security surveillance.
- Drone-based arms drops from across the border point to cross-border state sponsorship of terrorism.
- The sensitive communal fabric of Jammu adds complexity to law enforcement in times of violent unrest.
The Role of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir’s Security Dynamics
What Was Article 370?
- Article 370, a temporary provision in the Constitution, granted special autonomous status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.
- It restricted the Indian Parliament’s power to legislate for J&K, except in matters of defence, foreign affairs, and communications.
- Article 35A, introduced later, allowed the J&K legislature to define “permanent residents” and deny property and job rights to outsiders.
Supreme Court Verdict and Abrogation
- On 5 August 2019, the Government of India abrogated Article 370 and repealed Article 35A.
- In December 2023, the Supreme Court upheld this move, affirming that Article 370 was never permanent and emphasizing the aim of full constitutional integration.
Impact of Article 370 Abrogation on Militancy and Development
Security Impact
- The abrogation led to the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
- The removal of special status enabled unified legal and intelligence mechanisms, although militancy in Jammu has paradoxically spiked post-370, partly due to militant redirection.
Economic and Social Impact
- Private investment in J&K has increased post-abrogation.
- Infrastructure projects, including highways, health centres, and schools, have gained momentum.
- Women’s rights have been strengthened—female residents no longer lose property rights after marrying non-residents.
- Tourism in Kashmir and Jammu has seen record numbers post-370, helping normalize perceptions.
Conclusion: Jammu at a Crossroads
The surge in militancy in Jammu in 2024 is a serious national security concern. While the abrogation of Article 370 was a historic move aimed at greater integration and development, it has also inadvertently led to strategic shifts in militant activity.
To counter this trend:
- A rethink of intelligence strategies is vital.
- Economic revitalization in remote districts must be prioritized.
- Cross-border infiltration must be addressed through robust border management and international pressure on Pakistan
To Download Monthly Current Affairs PDF Click here
Click here to get a free demo
Discover all about CLAT Exam
