Umaisar Gull Ganie
Srinagar, Feb 1: January 2025 recorded the lowest number of killings over the past two decades, with just 3 fatalities—1 security force personnel and 2 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, official data revealed on Saturday.
According to official data, in previous years, the number of killings in January varied significantly.
In January 2024, 3 killings were also recorded, with 2 security force members and 1 terrorist among the victims. No civilian casualties were reported in January 2024.
In January 2023, the total number of killings was 11, which included 7 civilians, 4 terrorists, and no security forces.
In January 2022, 24 people were killed, all of whom were terrorists, with no reported civilian casualties. Security forces suffered 2 fatalities.
The trend continued with fewer killings in subsequent years. January 2021 saw 11 killings, with 10 terrorists and one security force personnel among the victims, and no civilian deaths.
January 2020 had 26 killings, including 4 security forces and 22 terrorists, but no civilians were killed.
Earlier years such as 2019 and 2018 showed similar fluctuations in the number of fatalities, with a mix of terrorists and security forces among the casualties, but relatively fewer civilian deaths.
The pattern indicates that while terrorist killings remained high over the years, civilian and security force deaths significantly decreased in recent years, especially after 2017.
In 2017, there were 16 reported killings. The number remained low in 2016 with 6 killings. In 2015, the total was 15, followed by 8 in 2014.
The trend continued with 4 killings in both 2012 and 2013, and 6 in 2011. In 2010, the total was 24, and it dropped to 26 in 2009.
The numbers decreased further with 34 in 2008, 43 in 2007, and 70 in 2006. In 2005, the killings were down to 120, and 2004 saw 136 total killings.
The numbers started to surge in 2003 with 176 killings, continuing to 288 in 2002. The year 2001 recorded the highest fatalities at 203, including 64 civilians, 41 security forces, and 98 militants. In 2000, there were no reported killings.
Heightened security vigilance
Meanwhile, a security official stated that heightened security vigilance in Jammu and Kashmir has contributed to maintaining law and order stability.
He also stated that the Union Home Ministry has passed clear instructions to prevent any civilian or security forces personnel killings. Additionally, the MHA has ordered large-scale operations against terrorists.
In a recent high-level meeting, Union Home Minister Amit Shah instructed all security agencies to work together in a coordinated effort to eliminate terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir. He emphasized the urgent implementation of the Area Domination Plan and Zero Terror Plan.
“The Union Home Minister assured that all necessary resources would be made available to security agencies in J&K to achieve a terror-free region,” he added.
Another official stated that there is a strict vigil along the Line of Control across Jammu & Kashmir.,” Terrorists attempting to disrupt peace by crossing into this side are being eliminated. Our border security grid is conducting round-the-clock patrols, closely monitoring everything, leaving no room for any lapses in security,” he added.
The official further said that the latest technology is being deployed along the borders, including CCTV surveillance, drone jammers, and other advanced equipment. These technological measures are enhancing border security, ensuring real-time monitoring and quick response to any potential threats.
