Jammu Under Siege: Senior Congress Leader Calls for Strategic Army Realignment

In response to recent terror attacks in Jammu, Dr. Karan Singh calls for realigning Jammu Division of the Army with the Northern Command. His comments come as four Indian Army soldiers were killed in action during a terrorist encounter in Doda district.

Amid a surge in terror attacks in the Jammu region, senior Congress leader Dr. Karan Singh has expressed serious concerns, noting that terrorists have now turned their focus towards Jammu. 'There is no doubt that it is a matter of grave concern. For years, terrorists executed their actions in the Kashmir valley. With great difficulty and courage, they were brought under control,' Singh said. 'It seems that now they have started focusing on Jammu,' he added.

Highlighting the need for a strategic realignment, Singh suggested reattaching the Jammu Division of the Army to the Northern Command in Nagrota, rather than the Western Command. 'We have lost several of our jawans and people in the last six months. This is a very serious matter. It means that the administration doesn't have full control over the situation. This should not happen,' he emphasised. Singh added, 'A few years ago, the Jammu Division was separated and attached to the Western Command. If brought back to Nagrota, it will unify our efforts.'

The remarks follow the tragic loss of four Indian Army soldiers, including an officer, who were killed during an encounter with terrorists in Jammu & Kashmir's Doda district. 'The operations are still ongoing,' defence officials reported. A joint operation by the Army and Jammu and Kashmir police was launched on Monday evening, with additional troops called in to tighten the cordon.

Also, on July 15, Jammu and Kashmir Police recovered old-rusted arms from a terrorist hideout in Reasi district. Recovered items included 30 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, one magazine, and a HE-36 hand grenade. This recovery aligns with recent surge in terror activities, including an attack on the army convoy in Kathua and encounters in Doda and Udhampur.