Army gears up to thwart militant attack before R-Day

NEW DELHI, Jan 13: The army has intercepted wireless traffic which indicates that foreign militants plan to make a serious attempt to cross over into Jammu and Kashmir before Republic Day in order to disrupt celebrations, military sources said. However, these mercenaries from Pakistan are finding it difficult to infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir due to prevailing climatic conditions and increased surveillance and patrolling by the army.

Despite the climatic and military constraints, some groups have managed to enter and leave Indian territory. Interestingly, Kashmiri youth are no longer keen on siding with militants, sources explained. The army has been particularly successful in counter-insurgency operations around Kupwara district.

A number of arms have been recovered following interrogation of captured militants. The army’s role along border areas in J&K, involves guarding the Line of Control, preventing infiltration and fighting insurgents. Of late, its thrust is on counter-insurgency.