Security forces reshuffle ground deployment to strength 3 tier defence

Srinagar, Aug 23: In the backdrop of back to back terror attacks in Jammu division, security forces in Jammu have initiated a significant reshuffle in their ground deployment to reinforce the three-tier security arrangement.

The move comes as security forces face escalating challenges, with the death toll among security forces in Jammu rising sharply this year. The Army has suffered severe losses in terror incidents in various parts of Pir Panchal since last some.

This troubling trend has prompted the Army to deploy a brigade-sized force, complemented by two companies of the Special Forces, totalling around 500 commandos.

“These units, seasoned in counter-insurgency operations, are now actively engaged in hills as well as hinterland along with J&K police,” a senior official of security establishment told Greater Kashmir.

Additionally, he said the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), known for its experience in handling low-intensity conflicts, has also been mobilized to strengthen security measures. Pertinently, two battalions of the Assam Rifles, traditionally stationed in the Northeast, have been reassigned to Jammu, further bolstering the paramilitary presence in the area.

The official said that there are some several factors contributing to the current situation. “These include a reduced troop presence on the ground, limited intelligence inputs, and a tactical shift in terrorist strategies,” the senior official said. “The areas which were once under the watch of a full battalion of around 800 troops, is now managed by just two companies, comprising approximately 260 personnel.”

The counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism (CICT) grid, which previously included the Rashtriya Rifles formations such as the Delta Force in Doda, the Uniform Force, and the Romeo Force in Rajouri, has undergone changes as well.

The Uniform Force, previously a critical component of the three-tier deployment, has been redeployed to the northern borders, leaving gaps that are now being addressed through this recent redeployment effort.

The recent spate of terror attacks in Jammu, coupled with the rising casualty count among security forces. “The focus is on restoring the robust security posture that existed before 2020, with an emphasis on integrating various uniformed forces into a cohesive CICT grid,” the official said adding that the aim is to counter the evolving terrorist threats in Jammu division more effectively and prevent further loss of life among security personnel.

This renewed focus on security comes in the wake of a series of terror incidents in Jammu. These include the deadly attack on an Army camp in Poonch earlier this year, where five soldiers were killed.

The increased terrorist activity in Jammu, including infiltration attempts and targeted attacks on security personnel, has raised alarm bells within the security establishment. In response, the deployment of additional forces and the reorganization of the CICT grid are seen as essential steps to address these challenges and restore stability in Division.