A local Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander, Junaid Ramzan Bhat, gained notoriety after being involved in the harrowing attack at a tunnel construction site on October 20, 2024, which left six migrant workers and one doctor dead. Bhat, who resided in Kulgam, was identified as the perpetrator when surveillance footage showed him carrying out the assault, dressed in black and wrapped in a gray shawl.
The gunfight leading to Bhat's demise took place on November 11, 2024, during a joint operation conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in the Dachigram area of Jammu and Kashmir. The operation was initiated following credible intelligence reports indicating the presence of Bhat and possibly another accomplice.
Upon launching the operation, police tweeted, "Based on specific intelligence input, joint parties of security forces launched a cordon and search operation (CASO) in the upper reaches of Dachigam forest. Contact established. Operation is underway. Details to follow." This led to heightened security measures in the area, as two terrorists were believed to be holed up.
Bhat had not only been involved in the Ganderbal attack but had also participated in previous terror acts on civilians across various locations, raising alarms among local authorities. A senior police officer revealed, "A Lashkar terrorist identified as Junaid Ahmed Bhat, who was listed as 'A' category terrorist, was eliminated. He was involved in killing civilians at Gagangir, Ganderbal and several other areas." The police said Bhat had gone missing for about a year before resurfacing, clearly indicating his involvement with extremist groups.
The recent encounter sparked broader concerns about the potential resurgence of local youths joining militant groups, echoing fears circulating among intelligence officers and civil populations alike. Following the encounter, Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, convened high-level security meetings with senior police officials. He highlighted the pressing need to curtail the re-emergence of extremist influences, stating, "We must remain vigilant to prevent any resurgence of radical groups targeting local populations."
Security forces had been closely monitoring the Dachigam region, known for its national park located on the outskirts of Srinagar, where Bhat was reportedly hiding. Undercover operatives noted increased local support for the LeT, particularly after the high-profile killings.
Meanwhile, two women suspected of being associates of terrorist organizations, who have been identified only as Maryama Begum and Arshad Begum, were detained under the Public Safety Act. Police stated, "Their continuous actions posed serious risks to public safety and tranquility," referencing their alleged logistical support for terrorist operations.
Days following the encounter in Dachigam, police reported the disruption of another terrorist hideout located within the Baramulla district where weapons were recovered. This once again confirmed the presence of active terrorists seeking to destabilize local peace.
The increasing incidents related to terror activity, like the attack on the construction site and the suspected involvement of local youth, reveal growing concerns for Jammu and Kashmir's fragile security environment. Security forces continue to ramp up efforts to neutralize any growing threats, with encounters becoming increasingly common as they seek to track down other wanted terrorists.
The security situation remains tense, with continuous monitoring suggested by the police as well as the participation of community leaders to inform local residents about the risks of radicalization and recruitment efforts by terrorist groups operating within the region. The recent encounters hint at the volatile balance between security forces and terrorist organizations, as both sides recalibrate their strategies to survive amid the increasing pressures.
While the immediate threat of Bhat and his accomplice has been neutralized, the police continue to face considerable challenges coordinating both physical operations and intelligence to prevent future incidents. The actions taken following this case may serve as pivotal moments as regional authorities strive to combat the influences of radical groups.
Ensuring safety and security within Jammu and Kashmir necessitates not only decisive operational responses but also the engagement of local communities to create preventive measures against the recruitment and radicalization of youth.
