In a tragic incident on Sunday evening, a terror attack in Reasi, Jammu, claimed the lives of ten Hindu pilgrims en route to Vaishno Devi, with another 33 individuals sustaining injuries. The attack occurred when jihadists opened fire on the bus carrying the pilgrims, causing it to plunge into a gorge.
Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) is purportedly behind the assault, as claimed by the front group TRF associated with LeT. The timing of the attack, deliberately coinciding with the swearing-in ceremony of Modi 3.0 at Reasi, underscores its sinister intent.
Official sources reveal that around 12 jihadists are believed to be operating within the Rajouri-Poonch forests in the Jammu region, with the group comprising Pakistani nationals. Despite denials of the existence of a cross-LoC tunnel by Indian security forces and the army, concerns persist regarding the infiltration routes utilized by the perpetrators.
The Poonch-Rajouri sector has been a hotspot for skirmishes between the Indian Army and jihadists over the past five years, with casualties on the Indian side being notably high due to the element of surprise and swift movement by the terrorists.
In response to the attack, the Modi government, including Home Minister Amit Shah, has taken the matter seriously, especially with the impending commencement of the Amarnath yatra on June 29. Efforts to enhance counter-insurgency operations in the Rajouri-Poonch sector are underway, albeit hindered by the challenging terrain.
While India vows to retaliate to the Reasi attack, the imperative remains for the Jammu and Kashmir Police, paramilitary forces, and the Indian Army to collaborate effectively to neutralize the threat posed by the Pakistani group. With significant deployments in the Jammu sector, minimizing civilian and military casualties is paramount.
As investigations continue into the Reasi terror attack, the nation remains resolute in its determination to combat terrorism and safeguard the lives of its citizens.
Background of LeT:
Lashkar e taiba (LeT), designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) since December 26, 2001, underpins the sinister attack. Led by Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, LeT has orchestrated numerous deadly assaults, including the infamous 2008 Mumbai attacks.
Global Impact and Continued Activity:
Despite bans and restrictions, LeT maintains operational networks in South Asia, posing a significant threat to regional stability and security. Its continued activity, despite being banned by the Pakistani government, underscores the urgency for international cooperation to dismantle its networks.
With LeT persisting in its nefarious activities, a unified call to action resonates across the international community. The imperative for collaborative efforts to eradicate this pervasive threat is emphasized, underscoring the importance of proactive measures against terrorism in all forms.