Pahalgam attack fallout: 90 booked under PSA, 2800 detained

Srinagar, May 4: In the aftermath of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 25 tourists and one local resident, Jammu and Kashmir Police have launched an intensified crackdown across the Valley, targeting Over Ground Workers (OGWs), sympathisers, and individuals with an "inimical mindset." The action is being taken as part of a wide-ranging counter-terror strategy and action would intensified further. According to Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, V K Birdi, at least 90 individuals have been booked under the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA), while 2,800 suspected OGWs have been rounded up for questioning or preventive detention.

“So far, 90 people have been booked under PSA from different parts of Kashmir,” V K Birdi told Greater Kashmir. “As many as  2,800 OGWs have also been detained. The crackdown against OGWs and people with inimical mindset will be intensified further in the coming days.”

The police action comes days after the brazen terror attack on a tourist in the Pahalgam area of Anantnag district, which left 25 tourists and one local dead. The attack, has triggered widespread outrage and concern over a resurgence in terror activities targeting civilians in Kashmir.

Another senior police officer said that multiple raids have been conducted on the residences of terrorists and their associates across Kashmir. “Involved won't be spared at any cost,” the officer said. “The operations are broad-based and involves joint teams of J&K Police, CRPF, and Army.”

He added that surveillance has been significantly strengthened, especially in sensitive areas and suspected terrorist corridors. “We have increased the use of drones, night-vision surveillance, and human intelligence inputs to keep track of suspects,” the officer added.

Sources in the security establishment told Greater Kashmir that frequent cordon-and-search operations (CASOs) are being conducted in several pockets of Kashmir. "Area domination patrols have been increased and security forces are maintaining a high level of alert," an official said. "Checkpoints have been erected at key intersections, and mobile phone surveillance is also being used to track movement and communication between suspects." “Every element that poses a threat to peace and public safety will be dealt with sternly. There will be no compromise.”

Police have also appealed the general public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “Public cooperation is crucial in defeating the nefarious designs of terrorists and their supporters,” the senior police officer said adding that no innocent is being harassed. The Pahalgam attack marks one of the deadliest assaults on civilians in recent years.  Security experts say that targeting tourists appears to be a deliberate tactic aimed at disrupting the tourism revival in Kashmir, which has seen record footfalls in recent months.