Fresh troop deployment in Amarnath Yatra’s name intensifies IIOJK militarization
Srinagar: The Indian government has started the phased induction of additional deployment of its forces in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir in the name of security for the Amarnath Yatra 2026, further adding to the already massive military presence in the territory.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the deployment additional Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) is being carried out under Operation SANJY-2026, with Indian authorities announcing a multi-layered grid along the pilgrimage routes and associated facilities.
Officials said the induction of paramilitary forces has already begun and will continue in phases until the conclusion of the annual pilgrimage.
As part of the first phase, 115 companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) are being deployed, including 20 additional companies brought into the territory. Authorities have also planned extensive surveillance through drones, intelligence-based operations and heightened security arrangements along the Pahalgam and Baltal routes.
Observers note that every year thousands of additional troops are deployed in the name of securing the Amarnath Yatra, further tightening the military grip on the occupied territory. They point out that a significant number of personnel inducted during such deployments often remain stationed in occupied Jammu and Kashmir even after the pilgrimage concludes, contributing to the continued militarization of the territory.
Political analysts say the recurring build-up of troops under various security pretexts has transformed the territory into one of the most heavily militarized zones in the world. They maintain that successive troop deployments, whether in the name of counterinsurgency operations, election security or religious pilgrimages, have resulted in a sustained expansion of the security footprint across the territory.
The analysts further argue that the increasing militarization is part of a broader strategy aimed at consolidating New Delhi’s control over the occupied territory and suppressing political dissent. They say the deployment of additional forces during the Yatra has become a recurring phenomenon. The 57-day Amarnath Yatra is scheduled to commence on July 3 and conclude on August 28, 2026.
