Indian army redeploys troops in Jammu to crackdown on pro-freedom activists
Jammu: The Indian Army, along with paramilitary and other forces, has redeployed troops and special forces to intensify operations in the higher reaches south of the Pir Panjal range in Jammu region of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
According to the Kashmir Media Service, more than 10 battalions and over 500 Special Forces operatives have been deployed in these areas to curb the activities of those Kashmiris advocating for the UN-recognized right to self-determination. The Indian military has shifted its focus to intensive search operations across the forested regions of the Jammu division, including Rajouri, Poonch, Udhampur, Doda, Kathua, and Samba districts. This strategy is aimed at targeting pro-freedom activists and suppress their efforts.
Indian officials said that the human intelligence network has also been strengthened with the addition of new police personnel, while paramilitary forces have increased their presence and operational activities. Furthermore, new armoured and mine-protected vehicles have been introduced to enhance the capabilities of the Indian armed forces.
During the ongoing cordon and search operations, as well as house raids, Indian forces’ personnel are arresting and harassing local youth, labeling them as over-ground workers (OGWs) and sympathizers of pro-freedom activists.
Recently, senior Indian Army leadership has reviewed the situation in Jammu region and directed both the military and police to adopt a more aggressive approach towards individuals advocating for a plebiscite and supporting the freedom struggle.
