Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Monday said that around 60 per cent of terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir last year were of Pakistani origin, while briefing the media on the situation at the Line of Control (LoC). He also noted that around 80 per cent of the terrorists still present in J&K are Pakistanis.
Gen Dwivedi said, “The situation in Jammu and Kashmir is firmly under control. On the Line of Control, the ceasefire which has been effective since February 2021 is holding. However, terror infrastructure across the border remains intact.”
Despite the ceasefire, Gen Dwivedi noted that infiltration attempts continue, including along the International Border (IB). He highlighted the ongoing use of drones to smuggle weapons and narcotics into India.
The Army Chief acknowledged an uptick in terrorist activities in North Kashmir and the Doda-Kishtwar belt in recent months but stressed that overall violence levels remain “under control.”
He cited the peaceful conduct of the Amarnath Yatra, which saw over 500,000 pilgrims this year, and elections for the Lok Sabha and Assembly as indicators of improving stability in the region. “The theme of terrorism to tourism is gradually taking shape,” he remarked.
Situation Along the LAC
Addressing the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Gen Dwivedi described it as “stable” but “sensitive.” His comments follow recent disengagement between Indian and Chinese troops from the last two friction points in eastern Ladakh.
“Patrolling and grazing in traditional areas has started in Depsang and Demchok in eastern Ladakh,” he said.
Gen Dwivedi emphasised the Army’s focus on enhancing border infrastructure and capability development. “Our deployment is balanced and robust; we are capable of handling any situation,” he affirmed.
India and China have been working to restore bilateral ties, which were significantly strained following the Galwan Valley clashes in 2020.
Gen Dwivedi, who assumed charge as the 30th Chief of the Army Staff in June last year, underscored the Army’s readiness to address challenges along both the western and eastern frontiers.
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