Terror Attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir

GS3 – Internal Security

Context:

A recent terrorist assault occurred in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The Resistance Front (TRF), a Pakistan-backed militant group, has claimed responsibility. TRF emerged in 2019 as a front for the banned terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), which is proscribed under India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
The last major civilian attack of such scale in the region occurred in March 2000, when 36 Indian nationals lost their lives.

About Baisaran Valley

• Often dubbed the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Baisaran lies just 5 km from Pahalgam.
• The valley is known for its lush meadows, dense pine forests, and views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks.
• It is accessible only by foot or pony, enhancing its appeal as a serene tourist spot.

Recent Major Terror Incidents in J&K

• Pulwama Attack (2019): A suicide car bomb targeted a CRPF convoy, killing 40 personnel.
• Rajouri Attacks (2023): Terrorist firing resulted in the deaths of seven individuals.
• Reasi Attack (2024): Militants fired on a bus carrying Hindu pilgrims, killing nine and injuring 41 others.

Security forces have successfully thwarted numerous infiltration attempts and neutralized multiple threats in the region.

Trends in Terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir

• Cross-Border Terrorism: Terror outfits such as LeT, supported by Pakistan’s ISI and military, regularly launch attacks in J&K.
• Local Radicalisation: Some Kashmiri youth are indoctrinated via propaganda, often fueled by grievances or unemployment.
• Hybrid Militants: These are individuals who commit isolated attacks and then return to civilian life, complicating intelligence efforts.

Factors Driving Terrorism in J&K

• Pakistan’s Involvement: Persistent support from Pakistan, including safe havens, arms, and training camps for groups like LeT and Jaish-e-Mohammed, sustains insurgency.
• Challenging Terrain Along the LoC: The rugged, forested, and snowy landscape makes surveillance and patrolling difficult, enabling cross-border infiltration.
• Over Ground Workers (OGWs): Local collaborators assist militants by providing shelter, supplies, and vital intelligence.
• Digital Radicalisation: Extremist networks exploit social media, encrypted platforms, and online propaganda to indoctrinate and mobilise recruits.
• Sense of Alienation: Recurrent restrictions, surveillance, and forceful interventions can fuel discontent among the youth.

India’s Counter-Terror Measures in J&K

• Operation All-Out (2017): Aimed at eliminating top-ranking militants throughout Kashmir.
• UAPA Enforcement: Bans and penalises groups like LeT, JeM, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
• Back to Village (B2V): Promotes governance and development through grassroots engagement by civil officials.
• Integrated Border Management: Modernises surveillance along the India–Pakistan border to curb infiltration.
• Targeting Terror Funding: Authorities have frozen properties of militants and their sympathisers and banned anti-national outfits.
• Pre-Emptive Investigations: Security agencies are focusing on dismantling networks supporting terrorism through early detection and legal action.