Terrorists waiting at LoC launch pads to infiltrate Kashmir: IG BSF Frontiers

Srinagar, Sep 27: Amid heightened security along the border, Inspector General (IG) of Border Security Force (BSF) Kashmir Frontier, Ashok Yadav, on Saturday said that the presence of terrorists at launch pads across the Line of Control (LoC), poised to infiltrate into the Kashmir Valley.

He, however, reassured that the security forces remain fully alert and prepared to thwart any such attempts.

Addressing reporters in Srinagar, IG Yadav outlined the prevailing security situation along the LoC, particularly in the sensitive sectors of Bandipora and Kupwara. He said that infiltration attempts generally increase during this period as terrorist groups try to push cadres into Indian territory before heavy snowfall renders the mountainous passes impassable.

“There are always attempts to infiltrate before snowfall. There are still about two months until the high passes close, and the terrorists are aware that their chances will diminish significantly for the next six months. That’s why they intensify their efforts during this window,” he said.

IG Yadav noted that despite the persistent threat, the BSF and the Indian Army have established a strong, technologically advanced surveillance and security grid along the LoC. This includes the deployment of cutting-edge surveillance tools and an aggressive patrolling strategy to prevent any breach.

“Terrorists are waiting at the launch pads across the LoC, particularly opposite our Area of Responsibility in Bandipora and Kupwara. They look for windows of opportunity — such as bad weather or reduced visibility — to attempt infiltration. But the security is extremely tight, and we are fully alert for any eventuality,” he added.

Highlighting the ongoing synergy between the BSF and the Army, the IG stressed that joint operations and coordinated vigilance have significantly strengthened the counter-infiltration posture along the LoC.

“We are dominating the LoC very effectively with the Army’s support. So far this year, we have successfully foiled two infiltration bids in our sector. It is extremely difficult to cross our area now due to our alertness, the professional manner in which we perform our duties, and the new methodology we’ve adopted using advanced surveillance systems,” Yadav said.

The prevailing security scenario at the LoC has seen intermittent ceasefire violations in past years, although a renewed ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan since February 2021 has brought relative calm. However, the presence of terrorist infrastructure across the border continues to pose a serious challenge.

Security agencies estimate that multiple terror outfits backed by Pakistan-based handlers remain active at launch pads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), ready to infiltrate operatives into Jammu and Kashmir under the cover of darkness and bad weather. These infiltration attempts are often synchronized with increased activity in the hinterland, including encounters and targeted killings.

Given the strategic importance of the Kupwara and Bandipora sectors — which have historically served as major infiltration routes — security establishment has continued to bolster troop deployment, surveillance systems, and response readiness in the region. The IG’s remarks come as part of the broader security forces’ efforts to maintain a tight vigil ahead of the winter season, which not only affects infiltration routes but also plays a crucial role in determining the tactical options available to terrorist groups operating from across the border.