Introspecting counter-terrorism after Operation Sindoor : 24 May 2025

Editorial 1: Introspecting counter-terrorism after Operation Sindoor

Context

While focusing on India’s foreign policy and military strength, what’s often missed is the internalisation of terrorismin Jammu and Kashmir.

Introduction

The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 by Pakistan-backed groups, and India’s response through Operation Sindoor on May 7, have reshaped regional security. Though the operation was a tactical success, its long-term impact on terrorism is unclear. Current debates mostly focus on foreign policy and external military force, ignoring the internal growth of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The real goal should be securing Kashmir, not just defeating Pakistan.

The complex reality of terrorism in J&K

1. Pakistan’s Responsibility & Internal Dynamics

Pakistan has long been responsible for the unstable security situation in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K).
After 1989, terrorism shifted from being local-led to foreign-supported (especially by mid-1990s).
Despite foreign involvement, local issues like identity, marginalisation, repression, and political exclusion have played key roles.
These local issues enable Pakistan to exploit the situation.
There’s a complex web of external support and internal weaknesses—making simple military solutions ineffective.

2. Achievements of Security Forces

Since 1989, security forces have made major gains.
Fatalities have dropped significantly—from over 4,000 in 2001 to 127 in 2024 (SATP data).
This is due to:
- Better security grid
- Government outreach to locals
- Pakistan’s weakened proxy war capacity

3. Effectiveness of Deterrence

Kinetic actions (e.g., 2016 surgical strikes, 2019 Balakot strike) did not deter Pakistan.
Fatalities increased after these strikes, showing limited strategic deterrence.
Even Operation Sindoor, though more advanced, may not prevent future escalation.

4. Current Status of Local Terrorism

Fewer local terrorists now compared to the Burhan Wani era.
But their role still matters—foreign terrorists rely on them for local support and logistics.
After the Pahalgam attack, many local-terrorist links to foreign groups have been identified.

5. Security Gaps & Local Support

Troop movement to Galwan created security gaps in Jammu region.
New terror groups like The Resistance Front, People’s Anti-Fascist Front, and Kashmir Tigers exploited these gaps.
Kill ratios now favour terrorists in some areas.
Local support for terrorism and lack of human intelligence (HUMINT) remain serious concerns.

Strategic Insights on Public Sentiment and Counterterrorism in J&K

Parameter	Important reasons
Public Reaction	Bipartisan and spontaneous support from locals after Pahalgam massacre was unprecedented.
Strategic Opportunity	This support offers a rare window to build trust and stability, not to be wasted.
Counterproductive Measures	Actions like house demolitions and mass arrests risk alienating the population.
Externalisation of Terrorism	Military responses (e.g., Operation Sindoor) are important but can shift focus away from local issues.
Expert Concerns	Post-Operation Sindoor analysis shows a trend of oversimplifying terrorism, focusing only on externals.
Root Causes	Real challenge lies in addressing both Pakistan's sponsorship and internal grievances in J&K.

Conclusion

Operation Sindoor showcases India’s rising strength in kinetic non-contact warfare, but it must be paired with non-kinetic strategies for a stronger deterrent against Pakistan. The key is to focus on a multidimensional approach centered on the people as the core. Combining sustained political engagement, economic growth, social integration, and security measures forms a complete strategy. True deterrence requires this comprehensive approach supported by national resolve.

24 May 2025 : Introspecting counter-terrorism after Operation Sindoor