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19 Dec 2025·Source: The Indian Express
2 min
Polity & GovernancePolity & GovernanceNEWS

J&K Leadership Vows to Neutralize All Terrorists and Supporters

J&K's L-G and DGP affirm a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism and its support network.

J&K Leadership Vows to Neutralize All Terrorists and Supporters

Photo by Viorel Vașadi

Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and DGP have reiterated a firm stance against terrorism, stating that "every terrorist and their supporter must be neutralised." This strong declaration underscores the government's unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism and its ecosystem in the region. The strategy involves not only neutralizing active terrorists but also dismantling their support networks, which include overground workers and financial facilitators.

This comprehensive approach is crucial for restoring lasting peace and stability in J&K, addressing both the symptoms and root causes of militancy. It reflects a continued focus on internal security and intelligence-led operations.

Key Facts

1.

J&K L-G and DGP vow to neutralize all terrorists and supporters

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

Role and powers of Lieutenant Governor in Union Territories, especially J&K.

2.

Internal security challenges in India, particularly terrorism and insurgency.

3.

Legal framework for counter-terrorism (e.g., UAPA, PMLA).

4.

Centre-State relations and the unique governance model of J&K as a UT with a legislature.

5.

Impact of security policies on human rights and civil liberties.

6.

Strategies for de-radicalization and rehabilitation.

Visual Insights

Jammu & Kashmir: A Strategic Union Territory in Focus

This map highlights the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, the geographical context for the government's firm stance against terrorism. Its strategic location, bordering Pakistan, makes it a critical region for India's internal security.

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📍Jammu and Kashmir📍Ladakh📍New Delhi
More Information

Background

Jammu and Kashmir has a long history of insurgency and cross-border terrorism, significantly impacting its socio-economic fabric. The abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and the reorganization of the state into two Union Territories (J&K and Ladakh) marked a significant shift in its governance and security architecture. Since then, the focus has been on integrating J&K more closely with the Indian Union, promoting development, and decisively tackling terrorism.

Latest Developments

The recent statement by the Lieutenant Governor and DGP of J&K reiterates a 'zero-tolerance' policy towards terrorism. This goes beyond merely neutralizing active terrorists to dismantling the entire 'ecosystem' of terrorism, which includes Overground Workers (OGWs), financial facilitators, and ideological supporters. This comprehensive approach signifies a strategic shift towards addressing the root causes and support structures that sustain militancy, relying heavily on intelligence-led operations and internal security mechanisms.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. With reference to the governance of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), consider the following statements: 1. The Lieutenant Governor (LG) of J&K is appointed by the President of India and acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers in matters within the legislative competence of the Assembly. 2. 'Public Order' and 'Police' are subjects exclusively under the control of the Lieutenant Governor, not the elected government of J&K. 3. The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh serves as the common High Court for both Union Territories. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

Statement 1: The LG of J&K is indeed appointed by the President and acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers for subjects within the legislative competence of the Assembly, similar to Puducherry. However, there are specific exceptions. Statement 2: As per the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, 'Public Order' and 'Police' are reserved subjects under the direct control of the Lieutenant Governor, not the elected government of J&K. This is a key distinction from other UTs with legislatures like Puducherry, where these subjects are generally with the elected government. Statement 3: The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh was established to serve as the common High Court for both the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh. Therefore, all three statements are correct.

2. In the context of India's counter-terrorism strategy, which of the following statements regarding 'Overground Workers' (OGWs) is NOT correct?

  • A.OGWs provide logistical support, intelligence, and shelter to active terrorists, operating within civilian populations.
  • B.The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, can be invoked against individuals identified as OGWs for their support activities.
  • C.OGWs are typically foreign nationals who infiltrate across borders to aid terrorist groups.
  • D.Dismantling the network of OGWs is considered crucial for disrupting the ecosystem of terrorism.
Show Answer

Answer: C

Statement A is correct: OGWs are crucial for the survival and operation of terrorist groups, providing various forms of support while blending into the local population. Statement B is correct: The UAPA is a comprehensive anti-terrorism law that allows for the prosecution of individuals involved in supporting terrorist activities, including those acting as OGWs. Statement C is NOT correct: While foreign nationals can be involved in terrorism, OGWs are predominantly local residents who provide support to terrorist organizations, often motivated by ideology, coercion, or financial incentives. They are distinct from active, armed terrorists, but are integral to their operations. Statement D is correct: The current strategy emphasizes targeting the entire ecosystem, and OGWs form a critical part of this support structure, making their neutralization vital for long-term peace. Therefore, option C is the incorrect statement.

3. Consider the following measures often adopted as part of a comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy: 1. Intelligence-led operations and real-time information sharing. 2. Strengthening border management and surveillance. 3. Financial intelligence and disruption of terror financing networks. 4. Community engagement and de-radicalization programs. 5. Exclusive reliance on military solutions to eliminate active militants. Which of the above measures are generally considered essential components of a modern, holistic counter-terrorism approach?

  • A.1, 2 and 5 only
  • B.2, 3, 4 and 5 only
  • C.1, 2, 3 and 4 only
  • D.1, 3, 4 and 5 only
Show Answer

Answer: C

A modern, holistic counter-terrorism approach is multi-faceted and goes beyond mere kinetic operations. 1. Intelligence-led operations and real-time information sharing are crucial for preventing attacks and targeting terrorist networks effectively. (Correct) 2. Strengthening border management and surveillance is vital to prevent infiltration of terrorists and smuggling of arms. (Correct) 3. Financial intelligence and disruption of terror financing networks cut off the lifeblood of terrorist organizations. (Correct) 4. Community engagement and de-radicalization programs address the ideological roots of terrorism and prevent recruitment. (Correct) 5. Exclusive reliance on military solutions is generally NOT considered a holistic approach. While military action against active militants is often necessary, an 'exclusive reliance' ignores the socio-economic, ideological, and support aspects of terrorism, which are equally critical to address for lasting peace. Modern strategies emphasize a 'whole-of-government' and 'whole-of-society' approach. (Incorrect) Therefore, measures 1, 2, 3, and 4 are essential components.

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