J&K’s Fight Against Terror: 75 Terrorists Neutralized in 2024, Majority from Pakistan
In 2024, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) demonstrated remarkable resolve, eliminating 75 terrorists, with nearly 60% of them identified as Pakistani nationals. This translates to one terrorist being neutralized every five days, a significant statistic highlighting both the efficacy of counter-terrorism operations and the persistent threat from across the border.
Shift from Local to Foreign Terrorists
According to data cited by the Indian Army, there has been a notable decline in the number of local terrorists operating in J&K. Pakistani nationals now constitute the bulk of the insurgents, underlining Pakistan’s continued role in sponsoring cross-border terrorism.
“With local networks dismantled, Pakistan now spearheads the insurgency in J&K through foreign operatives.”
Of the 75 terrorists neutralized, 42 were foreign nationals, killed in districts across both the Jammu region and the Kashmir Valley. Districts such as Baramulla, Uri, and Sopore emerged as hotspots for foreign terrorist activity. Encounters in Baramulla alone accounted for 14 non-local casualties in nine operations, reflecting the increasing reliance of terror outfits on Pakistani operatives.
Counter-Terror Operations in 2024
Security forces successfully thwarted 17 infiltration attempts along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB). These proactive measures prevented a surge of violence in interior areas, where 26 foreign terrorists were later neutralized. The operations in key locations such as Uri, Kupwara, and Bandipora show the Army’s strategic approach to dismantling terror networks.
An official quoted in the India Today report noted, “The local terrorist group has almost been wiped out.” This shift from locally recruited militants to foreign operatives indicates both the success of counter-radicalization efforts within J&K and the growing desperation of Pakistan-based terror groups.
Pakistan’s Role as a Terror Sponsor
The statistics once again expose Pakistan’s role as a state sponsor of terrorism. By supplying operatives to infiltrate Indian territory, Pakistan continues to destabilize the region, even as its own internal socio-economic crisis deepens.
“Pakistan’s crumbling socio-economic state hasn’t deterred its dangerous agenda of fueling terrorism in J&K.”
The international community has long acknowledged Pakistan’s complicity in funding, training, and arming terrorist groups. From harboring fugitives to facilitating recruitment, Pakistan’s policies have fueled decades of unrest in J&K. The reliance on Pakistani nationals for insurgency in 2024 further cements its position as a terror-exporting state.
“As local operatives diminish, J&K sees an increasing infiltration of Pakistan-trained terrorists.”
A Changing Landscape in J&K
While terrorism-related incidents persist, there has been a perceptible shift in the landscape of insurgency in J&K. The Indian Army’s operations have significantly weakened local terror networks. This has left Pakistan-sponsored terror groups scrambling to fill the void with foreign operatives.
Despite these efforts, terror-related violence in J&K resulted in the loss of 122 lives in 2024, including 32 civilians and 26 security forces personnel. These figures serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of terrorism, even as security forces achieve operational successes.
A Persistent Threat
The evolving terror dynamics in J&K reflect both the success of India’s counter-terrorism strategy and the unrelenting threat posed by Pakistan. With the local terror ecosystem almost wiped out, the focus has shifted to infiltrating operatives from across the border.
India’s resolve to combat terrorism remains unshaken. However, global recognition of Pakistan’s role as a terror sponsor is crucial for long-term stability in the region. The fight against terror in J&K is not just India’s battle; it should be a frontline effort in the global war against terrorism.