Significant Decline in Terror Incidents and Casualties in Jammu & Kashmir Over Five Years

*New Delhi*: The Home Ministry recently reported to a parliamentary standing committee that Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) has seen a marked reduction in terror-related incidents, encounters, and casualties over the past five years. The number of terrorist-initiated incidents in the region has dropped by 77% from 2018 to 2023, while civilian casualties have decreased by a notable 75%. The ministry attributes these improvements to its multifaceted approach, encompassing counter-terrorism operations, cybercrime control, border management, and disaster response.

According to ministry officials, thirty security personnel lost their lives in operations in 2023—a substantial drop from the 91 fatalities recorded in 2018. Terrorist-initiated incidents themselves have reduced to 94 in 2023, down from 417 in 2018. These figures reflect a significant decline in violence and a boost in security measures across the region.

However, recent months have seen a resurgence in terrorist activities, particularly in regions of J&K following changes in local governance. The ministry's report also revealed that there were no incidents of stone pelting or disruptions in 2023, marking a notable shift in public order. Civilian casualties have also seen a sharp decline, from 55 in 2018 to just 14 in 2023.

The abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, which removed the special status of J&K, has been followed by substantial changes in the governance and security landscape. The Union Territory now operates under new central laws, impacting over 21 million people. Ministry representatives have highlighted developmental initiatives, such as the Village Programme, which aims to create self-sustaining and vibrant communities close to the borders, encouraging stability and reducing local tensions.

On the counter-terrorism front, a robust approach has been taken. Notably, 57 individuals and organizations have been designated as terrorist entities under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) since the 2019 amendment, targeting high-profile figures such as Dawood Ibrahim and members of Jaish-e-Mohammad.

The crackdown has also addressed Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), which has seen a 73% reduction in incidents over the last five years. The number of affected districts has fallen from 126 in 2010 to just 25 in 2023, showing the effectiveness of security measures and government efforts in countering extremism.

In a separate development, the Indian Army is set to test an indigenously developed light tank designed for high-altitude warfare, a joint project by DRDO and L&T. With superior mobility and firepower suited to the challenging terrains of areas like the LAC (Line of Actual Control), the tank project reflects India’s strategic emphasis on enhancing defense capabilities in high-altitude regions.