Sanchit Sharma
In the wake of the recent terrorist attacks in the Jammu region, particularly the tragic loss of our brave personnel in Kathua, it has become imperative for those at the helm of security and administrative decision-making-especially within the police force-to rethink their approach. The evolving nature of terrorism in the region demands not only a tactical shift but also a deeper strategic reorientation. We can no longer afford to respond to these threats with outdated doctrines or fragmented coordination.
The Enemy’s Strategy: Drawing Us Into Tactical Missteps
The adversary is not operating randomly; they are using calculated strategies to provoke reactions that lead us into disadvantageous terrain, both literally and operationally. The recent attacks reveal a pattern-luring our forces into unfamiliar, unforgiving jungle landscapes, then ambushing them with deadly precision. The loss of personnel in Kathua is a grim reminder that the enemy is choosing the battlefield, not us.
We must recognize this shift and reassess the role of various forces in counter-insurgency operations-particularly in jungle warfare scenarios. The police, though courageous and motivated, should function as a support system and intelligence backbone rather than the primary strike force in such high-risk environments. That responsibility must lie with more experienced, better-equipped units like the Indian Army and CRPF.
Understanding the Spike in Casualties: Patterns and Pitfalls
There has been a noticeable uptick in casualties since last year, and a deeper analysis reveals several key contributing factors:
Terrain Exploitation by Terrorists:
Terrorists are utilizing their knowledge of the geography to their advantage. After notifying locals-often with the help of Over Ground Workers (OGWs)-they move to higher ground and wait. Given the time it takes for forces to mobilize (often 5-6 hours or more due to poor road infrastructure and treacherous terrain), the enemy is often entrenched and ready by the time our troops arrive.
Delay in Response and Planning:
The movement of troops involves planning, intelligence validation, and logistical readiness. These steps, while essential, provide terrorists ample time to prepare ambushes and escape routes.
Professional Capabilities of the Enemy:
Weapons recovered from recent encounters indicate the presence of highly trained militants-often using AKs and M4 carbines, and operating in small, structured teams with defined roles (including snipers and assault units). These are not untrained insurgents but operatives, often trained or deployed by the Pakistani military or intelligence services.
Local Support and Stealth:
Terrorists are blending seamlessly with civilian populations, posing as laborers or travelers. New-age OGWs with no prior criminal records are nearly impossible to pre-identify. These operatives use encrypted communications and GPS-based tools like Alpine to navigate less-patrolled trails and streams, enabling stealthy movement and reducing the risk of interception.
Real-Time Tactical Intelligence Leaks:
There have been instances where forces maintaining strict radio silence were still targeted, clearly suggesting real-time information leaks from local sources.
Terrain-Centric Strategy:
The enemy is deliberately choosing jungle zones over urban areas, understanding that our forces are disadvantaged in such hostile, remote, and densely forested locations.
Lessons from the Kathua Encounter
The Kathua incident raises crucial tactical questions. A small team was sent to engage the terrorists based on visual confirmation-a decision that proved fatal. While courage cannot be questioned, we must reflect on whether it was strategically sound. Were there alternative methods available? Could reinforcements or drone surveillance have played a more prominent role? This incident highlights the urgent need for clarity in operational roles, especially concerning police forces in jungle warfare.
Operational Role of Police: Time for Re-evaluation
While the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the police force is specifically tasked with counter-terrorism, its consistent engagement in jungle warfare is debatable. Jungle warfare is not merely a matter of courage-it requires a deep understanding of terrain, ambush tactics, and prolonged engagement endurance. Even Special Forces units have suffered casualties in similar operations, underscoring the need for specialization over improvisation. A reassessment of the role of the police in such missions is urgently required.
Broader Systemic Issues: Fragmentation and Motivation
Lack of Coordination and Turf Wars:
Power struggles and poor inter-agency coordination are directly contributing to unnecessary casualties. Unified command structures and joint planning are the need of the hour.
Issues with Auxiliary Forces:
While the introduction of Village Defence Guards (VDGs) is commendable, concerns regarding their motivation, safety, and remuneration remain. Promises of promotions or absorption into the police force, if not managed properly, may lead to internal competition and mistrust.
Operational Fatigue and Morale:
Sustained operations with little rest, inadequate equipment, and poorly defined roles can lead to burnout and morale issues-factors that the enemy exploits with calculated ruthlessness.
Strategic Recommendations
Leverage the Police’s Intelligence Network:
Police units must focus on their strongest asset-ground intelligence. Their reach into local communities and knowledge of human terrain make them vital in pre-empting threats.
Redefine Engagement Roles:
Police forces should be tasked with securing perimeters, managing logistics, and providing real-time intelligence. They should not be the first line of contact in jungle warfare unless specifically trained and equipped.
Establish Forward Operating Bases (FOBs):
Temporary military bases in high-risk or high-infiltration zones would allow quicker response times and better territorial control. These posts should be supported by 24/7 surveillance and local informant networks.
Monitor Transit Corridors and Infiltration Routes:
Systematic monitoring using both human intelligence and technological tools can help detect and neutralize threats before they strike. Behavior analytics and movement pattern recognition must be integrated into routine operations.
Collaborate with Pro-National Locals:
Identify and empower local residents who are ideologically aligned with the Indian state. These individuals can act as trusted informants, helping bridge the intelligence gap in isolated regions.
Avoid Risky Pursuits in Hostile Terrain:
Instead of chasing terrorists into dense forests, forces should anticipate their movement and engage on more favorable terrain, using ambush tactics and area denial strategies.
Upgrade and Train SOG Units:
If the SOG is to remain an active part of counter-insurgency efforts, its personnel must undergo intensive jungle warfare courses. Access to advanced weapons, night vision systems, and GPS mapping must be standardized.
Involve Retired Military Experts:
Veterans with experience in jungle warfare should be involved in training, advisory roles, and operational planning. Their knowledge can fill critical gaps in preparation and response.
Institutionalize Joint Command Protocols:
Establish routine joint briefings and mission planning sessions between the DGP, GOC, and intelligence agencies. A synchronized command chain will reduce operational errors and foster unity of purpose.
The Path Forward: Unified Action, Not Isolated Bravery
Counter-insurgency in Jammu cannot be won with fragmented leadership or siloed operations. It demands a unified, professional, and highly coordinated force. Courage and commitment remain our strengths, but they must be matched with strategy, training, and technology.
Our response to this challenge will define not only the security of our borders but also the morale of our forces and the confidence of our citizens.
Let this be a turning point. Let us adapt, evolve, and unite.
(The author is Masters in Political Science)
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