Intensified Search Operations Continue in Poonch and Kathua Districts of IIOJK

A fresh wave of cordon and search operations by Indian forces in Poonch and Kathua districts has triggered fear and unrest among the civilian population of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), raising concerns of widespread human rights violations.

Indian troops have launched aggressive cordon and search operations (CASOs) in various areas of Poonch and Kathua districts, reportedly targeting civilian homes and local communities under the pretext of security measures in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

The latest operation began in the Lasana-Surankote region of Poonch, following an earlier attack on Indian forces. However, instead of focusing solely on the suspected attackers, Indian troops have reportedly subjected entire neighborhoods to sweeping crackdowns.

Witnesses from the area describe scenes of house-to-house searches, where families were forced out of their homes while soldiers conducted invasive checks. Locals have alleged harassment and intimidation, with women and elderly individuals being among those affected.

In coordination with the Special Operations Group (SOG), the Indian Troops have expanded these operations, using the incident as a justification for collective punishment in the region. This has led to growing outrage among human rights observers and local communities.

Similar actions have been reported in Kathua district, where Indian forces continue to raid homes and restrict the movement of villagers. These operations have disrupted normal life, leading to school closures, blocked roads, and a climate of constant surveillance.

The military is deploying sniffer dogs and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) not just for tracking suspects but for monitoring entire villages. Many locals fear this level of scrutiny is part of a broader strategy to silence dissent and suppress the population.

Residents have expressed deep concerns about the psychological toll these operations are taking, especially on children. The aggressive posture of the forces, combined with the ongoing militarization of public spaces, has only intensified the trauma experienced by civilians.

While Indian authorities claim the operations are aimed at ensuring security, the civilian population continues to bear the brunt. These actions are increasingly being viewed as part of a larger pattern of repression in IIOJK.

As these developments unfold, the international community is being urged to pay closer attention to the escalating military aggression against unarmed civilians in the occupied region.