Fear and Surveillance: Indian Forces Intensify Operations in IIOJK

Under the guise of intelligence-based operations, Indian forces continue their aggressive campaigns in IIOJK, deepening fear among civilians and tightening control over the occupied region.

Indian forces have escalated their large-scale search operations in the forested regions of Reasi and Kathua districts in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), raising fresh concerns over the ongoing militarization of the territory.

Since Late Wednesday night, a joint operation involving the Indian Army, paramilitary forces, and local police was launched in the Bhaga area of Reasi district. Backed by aerial surveillance, the search continues in full force, with security personnel combing through vast stretches of forest.

Meanwhile, in Kathua district, a similar military campaign entered its second consecutive day in the Gaghwal area. Armed units remain deployed as the operation intensifies, adding to the heavy presence of security forces already entrenched across the region.

Authorities in India claim that these operations are triggered by intelligence inputs pointing to suspicious movements. However, such justifications are not new and have often been used to conduct sweeping military actions in the region.

Local observers and rights advocates argue that these so-called security measures are merely pretexts for a broader agenda—to intimidate the Kashmiri population and tighten India’s grip over the disputed territory. They say these operations are designed less for security and more for psychological warfare.

By deploying massive forces and utilizing aerial monitoring in civilian zones, Indian authorities foster an atmosphere of fear and suppression. Civilians are frequently subjected to house raids, questioning, and restrictions on movement during such operations.

This pattern of excessive militarization has become a hallmark of New Delhi’s approach in IIOJK. Instead of addressing the underlying political and humanitarian issues, the Indian government continues to resort to force, treating civilian areas as war zones.

Analysts argue that such operations deepen resentment among the local population and further alienate Kashmiri youth. Instead of bringing stability, these tactics contribute to a cycle of anger, trauma, and resistance.

The ongoing search campaigns in Reasi and Kathua are yet another example of India’s heavy-handed approach in IIOJK. Despite claiming to act on security intelligence, the lack of transparency and the impact on civilian life tell a different story—one of control, fear, and suppression.

As international attention on IIOJK continues to wane, the people of the region are left to endure the consequences of unchecked military power. The need for global awareness and intervention remains critical, especially as such operations become routine.