IIOJK: Indian forces launch CASO in Poonch district
Jammu:: Indian forces have launched a cordon and search operation (CASO) in the Surankote area of Poonch district in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
According to Kashmir Media Service, personnel of the Rashtriya Rifles and the Special Operations Group (SOG) of police carried out searches in Dhara Sangla, Gujjar Naar, Kherowali Dhok and adjoining forest villages of Surankote.
Indian officials claimed that the operation was launched after receiving information about the movement of two separate groups of suspected militants in the densely forested area. They said no contact had been established till the latest reports and that the operation was continuing as Indian forces were systematically combing the area.
Notably, Indian forces frequently launch CASOs and raids across IIOJK on various pretexts. During these operations, residents are subjected to harassment, intimidation and restrictions, while many youth are detained and interrogated at police stations and military camps.
Kashmir watchers say such operations are used to create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation among the civilian population while suppressing dissent and the Kashmiri people’s demand for their UN-recognized right to self-determination.
