24 Jun 2022 | 06:31 AM UTC
India: Tight security in Jammu and Kashmir for Hindu pilgrimage June 30-Aug. 11
Tight security in Jammu and Kashmir, India, for Hindu pilgrimage June 30-Aug. 11. Localized transport disruptions likely. Attacks possible.
Event
Hindu pilgrims will embark on the annual Amarnath Yatra to the Amarnath Cave Shrine in Jammu and Kashmir State, June 30-Aug. 11. Authorities expect around 800,000 pilgrims to make the 43-km trek via the twin routes through Chandanwari in Pahalgam District and Baltal in Ganderbal District.
Security Concerns
Security forces are on high alert due to the persistent threat of militant attacks. The Resistance Front - a separatist militant outfit Indian agencies claim is linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) - issued a threat to the the event in late May. Officials have also warned the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) group or its affiliates may conduct grenade attacks targeting pilgrim vehicles, especially along the Sonmarg-Baltal route. Other Kashmiri separatist groups, as well as domestic and Pakistan-based Islamist groups, could also attempt to launch attacks.
The Indian government has deployed over 80,000 police, paramilitary, and military personnel to secure the event. Authorities will establish security cordons, conduct stringent vehicle checks, as well as track pilgrims and vehicles digitally. Tighter security along pilgrimage routes could encourage attacks at major gathering points such as Jammu and Srinagar. Bombings, grenade attacks, and shootings could also occur along bus routes to Baltal and Pahalgam from Srinagar and Jammu, including on National Highway (NH) 44.
Security arrangements for the Amarnath Yatra are unlikely to affect multinational business interests, but some temporary transport disruptions are possible, particularly along pilgrimage routes or if militants stage any significant attacks. Services such as hotels and private transport will be in high demand due to the arrival of pilgrims.
Context
The Amarnath Yatra is one of the most guarded pilgrimages in the world and passes through strategically sensitive areas like Pahalgam, Pulwama, Anantnag, Kathua, and Sambha districts. Terrorist groups have targeted the pilgrimage in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2007, and 2017, resulting in dozens of casualties. Indian forces have intensified security operations in the region in 2021, after a spike in targeted killings of Hindus and migrant workers from other states. Authorities are also likely to remain on high alert in the lead up to, and during major commemorations including the lifting of autonomous status to the Jammu and Kashmir region Aug. 5, and the Indian Independence Day Aug. 15.
Advice
Consider avoiding pilgrimage gathering points due to possible attacks. Limit exposure to large crowds and concentrations of security personnel to the extent possible. Plan for transport delays due to security checks on major pilgrimage routes; carry identification and travel documents. Heed the advice of security forces and avoid possible militant targets. If possible, consider deferring non-essential travel along NH-44 during the pilgrimage due to the threat of attacks. Confirm all transport and hotel reservations if traveling to the area.
