J&K Assembly Polls 2024: Village Defence Groups (VDGs) Armed with Automatic Weapons Amid Rising Terror Threats

Over 200 Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs) are being distributed to VDG members, replacing the outdated .303 rifles that have long been in use. The SLRs, known for their semi-automatic capabilities, will enable VDG members to respond more effectively to threats, providing them with a much-needed upgrade in firepower. In addition to this, the Ministry has also sanctioned the induction of 400 new VDG members, a move designed to enhance security in the hinterlands where the presence of terrorists remains a constant threat.

In a significant move aimed at bolstering the security apparatus in Jammu and Kashmir, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has approved the distribution of automatic weapons to Village Defence Groups (VDGs) across the region. This decision comes in the wake of escalating terrorist activities, particularly in the Jammu region, where back-to-back attacks have heightened concerns about the safety of civilians in vulnerable areas.

This decision, coming ahead of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls, is expected to significantly aid the forces in ensuring peaceful elections. By equipping VDG members with more advanced weaponry, the government aims to secure even the most vulnerable areas, thereby creating a safer environment for voters and election personnel alike.

Satish Kumar, a VDG member from Khour, expressed relief and optimism following the upgrade. “Earlier, we had the .303, a single-shot weapon. Now, with this SLR, we are better equipped to defend our villages. This weapon will help us fight the enemy more effectively,” he stated, reflecting the broader sentiment of the VDGs, who have long been the first line of defense in many remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir.

The decision to arm VDGs with automatic weapons was approved last month by the Ministry of Home Affairs after a series of terror attacks underscored the urgent need for better-equipped defense forces in the region. The step is seen as a crucial measure to empower local defense units, allowing them to tackle increasingly sophisticated and aggressive terror operations that have plagued the region.

As the distribution of these weapons begins, the focus remains on ensuring that the VDGs are not only well-armed but also adequately trained to handle these advanced weapons systems. The Home Ministry’s decision underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding the lives of those living in terror-infested areas, as the region braces for a potentially turbulent election season.