JAMMU, Jun 4: Panun Kashmir on Thursday expressed serious concern over what it described as the evolving and increasingly sophisticated nature of jihadi terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, urging the Government of India to undertake a comprehensive review of the security situation and address the ideological dimensions of terrorism in the region.
Addressing a press conference at the Press Club Jammu, Dr. Ajay Chrungoo, Chairman of Panun Kashmir, said that recent terrorist encounters, prolonged anti-terror operations, and casualties among security personnel indicate a significant enhancement in the operational capabilities of terrorist groups and their support networks.
He observed that several recent encounters have resembled well-planned military-style ambushes rather than conventional anti-terror engagements, reflecting improved tactical planning, intelligence gathering, communication systems, and survival capabilities among terrorist outfits. Referring to the ongoing anti-terror operation in Rajouri, Dr. Chrungoo said it underlined the changing nature of the security challenge confronting the region.
Panun Kashmir also expressed concern over the continued existence of what it termed a sophisticated over-ground support structure facilitating terrorism. According to the organization, advanced communication networks, logistics support, local facilitation, reconnaissance, and ideological mobilization indicate the presence of an organized ecosystem sustaining terrorist activities. It warned that the threat becomes even more significant with the annual Amarnath Yatra approaching.
The organization urged authorities to remain vigilant in light of recent statements and threats emanating from Pakistan, stating that tourists, pilgrims, and other vulnerable civilian populations continue to face security risks. It referred to the Pahalgam massacre as a tragic reminder of the dangers posed by terrorism.
Welcoming the Jammu and Kashmir Administration’s actions against the drug mafia and illegal encroachments on reserved Raika Forest land in the Bhatindi-Sidhra belt of Jammu, Panun Kashmir said these initiatives demonstrate that determined state action can effectively confront entrenched criminal networks. It stressed that the rule of law must prevail against all criminal and anti-national structures, including those supporting terrorism.
Dr. Chrungoo further stated that the remaining Hindu population in Kashmir continues to be vulnerable to targeted violence. He cited incidents such as the Dhangri killings, attacks on pilgrims, the Shivkhori attack, targeted killings in the Kashmir Valley, and repeated terrorist attacks in Rajouri, Poonch, Kathua, Udhampur, Doda, and Kishtwar as evidence of a continuing security concern.
The organization maintained that existing security reviews require a fundamental overhaul to adequately address the changing nature of terrorism. It argued that tourism promotion and narratives of normalcy cannot serve as substitutes for robust security measures and effective counter-terrorism strategies.
Panun Kashmir also reiterated its long-standing position that terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir has ideological dimensions that must be acknowledged and addressed. The organization called for recognition of what it described as the genocide and ethnic cleansing of Kashmiri Hindus and advocated measures for their secure rehabilitation, restoration of rights, and preservation of their cultural heritage.
Reaffirming its demand for a secure Homeland for Kashmiri Hindus within Kashmir as envisaged in the Margdarshan-91 Resolution, Panun Kashmir said such a framework would facilitate secure return, rehabilitation, and long-term protection of the displaced community.
In its appeal to the Government of India, the organization called for a review of the evolving security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, dismantling of over-ground support networks of terrorism, enhanced protection for tourists and pilgrims, recognition of the ideological dimensions of terrorism, and steps to address the consequences faced by displaced Kashmiri Hindus.
Dr. Ajay Chrungoo emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses not only terrorist groups but also the support networks, ideological influences, and long-term consequences of violence in Jammu and Kashmir.