Recent covert operations and militant activities have been indicated in Jammu and Kashmir. This shows a significant escalation of violence, particularly involving Pakistan-backed groups. In July 2024, several attacks were reported which included a notable incident in the Doda district where four Indian soldiers were killed in a gunfight with suspected militants. This was followed by an ambush on an army convoy in Kathua district which resulted in the deaths of five soldiers and caused injuries to five others.
Source- The Economic Times
What caused the attack?
The Resistance Front (TRF), a Pakistan-backed militant group, claimed responsibility for a terror attack on a bus carrying pilgrims in Reasi district. They claimed the attack killed nine people and injured 33 others. This attack is said to be part of a broader strategy by militants to shift their operations from the Kashmir Valley to the Jammu region, exploiting the difficult terrain and less connectivity to launch guerrilla-style attacks.
600 SSG commandos tracked in Jammu and Kashmir
Officials in India have identified these militants as foreigners from Pakistan. This ended up putting accusations on Islamabad for training and funding these groups. The recent surge in attacks is seen as an attempt to disrupt upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, which are the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
What do we know about covert war ?
The term “covert war” between India and Pakistan typically refers to the clandestine activities and proxy conflicts that have previously occurred between the two nations. This largely centered around the disputed region of Kashmir. These activities include espionage, sabotage, and support for insurgent groups, rather than open military engagement.
Source- The Economic Times
Key aspects of this covert conflict include:
Kashmir Conflict: Both countries claim the region of Kashmir, leading to numerous wars and ongoing skirmishes. Covert operations often aim to destabilize the opposing side’s control and power in this region.
Support for Insurgents: There have been allegations from both sides of supporting militant groups within each other’s territory. India has accused Pakistan for supporting militant groups in Kashmir, while Pakistan has accused India for providing support to the separatist movements within Pakistan.
Espionage: Both countries have extensive intelligence networks that control and execute espionage against each other. High-profile espionage cases have occasionally come to light, with individuals who were charged with spying.
Cyber Warfare: In recent years, both nations have also engaged in cyber espionage and attacks, targeting critical infrastructure and government networks.
Source- ABC News
The covert war aspect remains a significant, though less visible, component of the broader conflict between India and Pakistan.
Recent reports indicate that the Indian Army has foiled multiple infiltration attempts by Pakistani commandos, including the Special Services Group (SSG), along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. These operations have resulted in encounters where several SSG commandos were killed. The Indian Army has heightened its vigilance and continues to monitor the situation closely to prevent further infiltration attempts.
