Indian Army launches Operation Sarvashakti against Pak-sponsored terrorists in J&K

SRINAGAR: The Indian Army is set to initiate ‘Operation Sarvashakti’ to counter Pakistani-sponsored terrorists in the Jammu and Kashmir region. The operation will target terrorists functioning on both sides of the Pir Panjal mountain ranges.

Reports indicate that terrorist groups supported by Pakistan have been attempting to revive terrorism in the South of Pir Panjal ranges, particularly in the Rajouri Poonch sector. In recent attacks, around 20 Army jawans lost their lives, with four martyred on December 21 in the Dera ki Gali area.

“Under Operation Sarvashakti security forces will carry out combined counter-terrorist operations from both sides of the Pir Panjal ranges in which the formations of Srinagar-based Chinar Corps along with the Nagrota-headquartered White Knight Corps would be carrying out simultaneous operations.

“The Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, Special Operations Group, and intelligence agencies are working closely to thwart Pakistani designs to revive terrorist activities in the UT, especially in the Rajouri Poonch sector,” an Official source stated.

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This operation is expected to follow a similar approach to Operation Sarpvinash launched in 2003 to eliminate terrorists in the same areas south of the Pir Panjal range.

Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande, noting the decline in terrorist activities since 2003, highlighted that the western adversary is attempting to revive terrorism in the area. Discussions with Corps Commanders were held to strategise ways to tackle the threat from Pakistan-sponsored terrorist outfits.

The operations are closely monitored by the Army Headquarters and the Northern Army Command in Udhampur. Sources reveal that the operations were planned following a security meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, which included National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, the Army, intelligence agencies, and police officials from both UT and central agencies.

Northern Army Commander Lt General Upendra Dwivedi has conducted coordination meetings with top security forces brass in both the Jammu and Kashmir regions for a coordinated action against terrorists. Moreover, the Indian Army has initiated the process of inducting more Army Jawans in the Rajouri-Poonch sector.