Ram Rattan Sharma
shavetaji456@gmail.com
Terrorism has had a profound and multifaceted impact on the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, affecting its society, economy and environment. Inresponse, the Indian govt.has implemented a comprehensive and multi-pronged strategy to combat terrorism and restore normalcy,
Impact of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir
Terrorism has caused immense human suffering and widespread disruption in the region since the insurgency began in 1989, tens of thousands of people have been killed, includingcivilians, securityforces, andmilitants. The violence has led to a large scale migration of minority communitiesd, particularly Kashmiri Hindus, from the Valley
The economic and social costs have been significant:
Economy:-Key Sector likes Touris, agriculture and handicrafts have suffered greatly. The disruption trade commerce and other economic activities have resulted in a reduction in GDP, increased unemployment and poverty. Recent attacks have particularly affected the tourism sector leading to a high number of booking cancellations.
Society:-The social fabric of the region has been damaged by the continuousviolence. This includes the loss of educational opportunities, increasedmedicinal costs for the population and a general atmosphere of fear and insecurity. The conflict has also been exploited to promote radicalization and a culture of grievance among the youth.
Environment:-The conflict has had an ecological impact as well. Large scale deforestation has occurred, leading to soil erosion and other environmental damage.
Govt. Initiatives to combat terrorism:-The Indian govt. has adopted a “Zero Tolerance” policy towards terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir focusing on multi pronged approach to dismantle the terror ecosystem. Thesestrengthening security and intelligence:-The govt. has enhanced the counter-insurgency grid and modernization security equipment. This includes intensified cordon and search operations (CASO), round the clock check points, and day.
Border Security:-A multi pronged strategy is in place to prevent cross border infiltration including the deployment of “smart border techonologies”like laser fencing, drones, and thermal imaging.
Intelligence Sharing:-Real time intelligence sharing among all security forces is key component of the strategy to counter terrorist organizations.
Crack down on Terror Finance:-The got is actively cracking down on the financial networks that support terrorism through measures like the seizure of properties belonging to terrorists and their associates.
Legal and Administrative Actions:-
Unlawful activities 🙁 Prevention) Act (UAPA):-The got has used the UAPA to declare certain organizations and individuals as unlawful and to take action against those involved in fomenting terrorism.
Dismantling the terror Ecosystem:-.The govt.’s approach is to not only target militants but also the over ground workers and other individuals and institutions that provide support to them.
Socio-Economic and Political Initiatives:-The govt. is focusing on promoting economic development, Job creation and tourism to address grievances and foster stability.
Community Engagement:-Program like operation Sadbhawna aim to win the hearts and minds of the local population through social welfare initiatives, skill development programs, and providing medical aid.
Political process:-Efforts are being made to restore democratic processes through local governance and timely elections to address political alienation and building trust.
Counter –Radicalization:-The govt. is focusing on counter radicalization which is often fuelled by the dismentation of “secessionist literature” and “false narratives”. In some cases, this has involved banning books and publications deemed to be glorifying terrorism.
Diplomatic and international cooperation:-India has consistently used diplomatic channels to raise the issue of cross border terrorism and has called on other nations to hold accountable. It has also suspended various diplomatic and trade agreements with Pakistan in response to terror attacks.
These combined efforts have led to a reported decline in the number of terror related incidents, stone pelting, and organized hartals in Jammu and Kashmir the govt.s’ strategy is to sustain these gains and work towards the goal of
“Terror Free Jammu and Kashmir.”
(The author is Former Dy.Librarian, University of Jammu)
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