Increased security measures have been implemented in north Kashmir as preparations are underway for a forthcoming G20 meeting in the region later this month. Officials stated on Sunday that the heightened security response follows a series of consecutive encounters with militants, resulting in the elimination of five individuals.
To bolster security, additional personnel have been deployed on the ground, while drones are being utilized for aerial surveillance. Sniffer dogs are also being employed to assist security forces in inspecting vehicles at various checkpoints, with the aim of preventing the movement of militants or dangerous materials, as officials explained.
The decision to intensify the security apparatus comes in light of the upcoming third G20 Tourism Working Group meeting scheduled to take place in Kashmir. Concerns have arisen due to the recent surge in clashes between security forces and militants in north Kashmir over the past five days, resulting in the demise of five ultras. Notably, three out of the five ultras were traced back to south Kashmir. The presence of these individuals in close proximity to the popular Gulmarg tourist resort has raised fears of a potential major terrorist incident in the valley, according to the officials.
Law enforcement authorities emphasized their vigilance and readiness to counter any planned attacks leading up to the event. Amod Ashok Nagpure, the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Baramulla, acknowledged the diligent efforts of the intelligence network, highlighting the successful neutralization of threats by security forces. Nagpure further assured that due to their preparedness, security agencies have confidence in the peaceful and successful execution of the summit.
In terms of recent encounters, the first took place on Wednesday when security forces thwarted an infiltration attempt near the Line of Control (LoC) in the Machil sector, resulting in the elimination of two militants. Subsequently, two more militants were killed in an encounter on Thursday in the Wanigam Payeen Kreeri area of Baramulla district. Lastly, a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militant was neutralized in an encounter on Saturday in the Karhama Kunzer area of Baramulla.
The encounter on Wednesday occurred shortly after a joint meeting chaired by Vijay Kumar, the Additional Director General of Police of Kashmir, with police officers, intelligence agencies, and security forces. The meeting primarily aimed to discuss comprehensive security arrangements for the G20 event. During the session, specific anti-terrorist operations were instructed based on reliable intelligence inputs. Officials were also directed to coordinate with other law enforcement and intelligence agencies to gather relevant information regarding potential security threats, enabling necessary actions to be taken to mitigate them.
Key aspects addressed during the security review for the G20 event included the deployment of security personnel, traffic management, crowd control measures, and counter-drone strategies. Officials emphasized the importance of implementing security measures well in advance of the summit while minimizing inconvenience to local residents and tourists.
Kumar stressed the need for constant vigilance and proactive measures to avert any untoward incidents during the summit. He underlined the significance of maintaining control over rivers and lakes to ensure the security of the event. To this end, the deployment of Marine Commandos (MARCOS) was highlighted to provide robust security coverage for the water bodies surrounding the summit venues. Additionally, the authorities plan to utilize a National Security Guard (NSG) team to counter any potential fidayeen attacks, in conjunction with the Special Operations Group (SOG) of J-K Police. Furthermore, specialized NSG teams will be strategically positioned at all venues to monitor and address drone activities.