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Published 10:10 IST, November 27th 2023

Kashmir DGP RR Swain asserts foreign terrorists behind recent attacks in the Valley

Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) RR Swain emphasizes a resolute commitment to combat terrorism in collaboration with the Indian Army.

Reported by: Yuvraj Tyagi
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Kashmir DGP
DGP RR Swain emphasizes a resolute commitment to combat terrorism in collaboration with the Indian Army. | Image: Republic/AP

In the aftermath of a recent encounter in the Bajimaal area of Dharamsala that claimed the lives of five soldiers, including two Army Captains, the Director General of Police (DGP) for Jammu and Kashmir, RR Swain, underscored an unyielding commitment to combat terrorism. DGP Swain called for heightened citizen vigilance, acknowledging the adversary's intent to cause harm. "We are going to bring terrorism down," he declared in an interview with ANI, highlighting the collective determination of the J&K Police and the Indian Army in the region. 

Providing insights into the recent encounter, DGP Swain categorically stated that there was no local support for the acts of terrorism, emphasizing the involvement of foreign elements. He elucidated on the intricate relationship between the enemy's politics and economy, both heavily reliant on perpetuating terrorism.  

Status of terrorism in the region

The encounter in the Bajimaal area resulted in five casualties on the side of security forces, including the tragic loss of two Army Captains. The forces successfully neutralized two terrorists, one of whom was identified as Quari, a top LeT commander known for his proficiency as a sniper and orchestrating multiple attacks.

Quari's elimination under the ensuing Opeeration Solki is deemed a decisive blow to the resurgence of terrorism in the region. In September, the Kokernag counter-terror operation witnessed the sacrifice of 19 Rashtriya Rifles’ Commanding Officer Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak, JKP Deputy SP Humayun Bhat, and trooper Pardeep Singh. 

Clarifying the Kokernag encounter 

Despite extended media coverage of the Kokernag encounter, subsequent analysis revealed that only one local terrorist, Mohammed Uzair Khan, was involved. Uzair, affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Toiba terrorist group, targeted Indian forces with a single burst of armor-piercing bullets, resulting in casualties.

The use of drones by Indian security forces to secure the encounter site, while tactically effective, has sparked discussions on the portrayal of terrorists as "Ghazis" or holy Islamic warriors. This incident underscores the evolving challenges faced by security forces in managing public perceptions amidst complex counter-terrorism operations. 

The recent statements by DGP RR Swain affirm the collective commitment of J&K Police and the Indian Army to quell terrorism and ensure the safety and security of the region. The collaborative efforts reflect a steadfast approach to combatting terrorism in the face of recent challenges.

Updated 10:10 IST, November 27th 2023