27 Jun 2024 | 01:46 PM UTC
India: Authorities to tighten security in parts of Jammu and Kashmir through mid-August to facilitate annual Hindu pilgrimage /update 2
Tightened security in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, India, through mid-August to facilitate annual Amarnath Yatra and amid recent violence.
Officials will maintain a heightened security posture in parts of Jammu and Kashmir through mid-August to facilitate the annual Amarnath Yatra Hindu pilgrimage amid a recent increase in insurgent violence. In recent weeks, the government has warned about possible militant attacks targeting security forces following several assaults over a short duration, particularly concentrated in the Jammu region. Authorities have repeatedly tightened security, especially near government installations and military camps in several areas of Jammu and Rajouri districts; such areas have also historically remained highly susceptible to tensions.
As of June 27, the government will deploy thousands of security personnel to facilitate the annual Amarnath Yatra events, which is slated to occur June 29-Aug. 19. The primary pilgrimage route will begin from either Pahalgam or Baltal base camps, passing through key locations like Chandanwari, Sheshnag, Panchtarni, and before reaching the Amarnath Cave in the southern Himalayan region. The religious event typically attracts hundreds of thousands of attendees annually.
Officials could expand their existing security presence in the affected areas to encompass additional areas based on the severity of the perceived threat. Enhanced security restrictions, including temporary public movement and telecommunication curbs, are possible. Related protests could occur near police stations, checkpoints, government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Isolated clashes and security incidents, including further targeted assaults, cannot be ruled out. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are highly likely.
Exercise extreme caution if operating in or near the impacted regions. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Plan accordingly for potential localized transport and business disruptions. Always carry proper identification documents. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
The heightened security vigilance underscores the persistent threat posed by insurgents in parts of Jammu and Kashmir. In recent days, militants have carried out several assaults. On June 11, militants launched two separate attacks targeting security personnel in Doda and Kathua. In Doda, assailants attacked a checkpoint, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire. In Kathua, militants targeted the Saida Sukhal area, leaving one civilian wounded. Officials launched a search operation and killed two assailants.
A few days prior, assailants used gunfire to target a bus carrying pilgrims from a shrine in Reasi District, leaving ten people killed and 33 others injured. Various insurgent groups have claimed responsibility for the incidents.
