Modi govt deploys more troops in IIOJK
Srinagar: The Modi-led Indian government has initiated the deployment of additional troops in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) in an effort to intimidate and harass Kashmiris who are demanding their UN-recognized right to self-determination.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) have decided to deploy Army and paramilitary forces in the hilly areas of IIOJK. This decision, made at the highest levels of the MoD and MHA, has been communicated to top officials of the Army and CRPF, and the deployment has begun immediately, according to Indian officials.
“Army and paramilitary forces will conduct regular patrolling in the hilly areas of Rajouri, Poonch, Doda, Kishtwar, Udhampur, Kathua, and Reasi districts,” the officials stated. They added that hills overlooking roads used by the Indian Army, paramilitary forces, and police for patrolling will also be covered by the troops.
Reportedly, Indian troops from the Army’s 9 Corps have intensified their presence in the Kathua hills, while the Delta Force of the 16 Corps has deployed more personnel in the twin districts of Udhampur and Doda. Special Forces and sniffer dog units of the Army have also been stationed in these areas.
This move comes despite the fact that occupied Jammu and Kashmir is already the most heavily militarized zone in the world, with over one million Indian forces presence. The increased deployment is seen as an attempt to further suppress the Kashmiris and curb their demands for self-determination.