DODA/JAMMU, Jan 11: A police official reported on Saturday that all security units in Doda are now on “maximum alert” in anticipation of Republic Day and due to the identified presence of two terrorist groups in the hilly areas of the district last year.
Doda Senior Superintendent of Police Sandeep Mehta also mentioned that law enforcement has ramped up operations against anti-national elements, particularly focusing on over ground workers (OGWs) who have been supporting militants. In the last two weeks, police have filed charges against nine such individuals.
Last year, Doda witnessed the deaths of five security personnel and four terrorists, indicating a rising trend in militancy within the region.
“Doda is adjacent to several districts and Himachal Pradesh, making it challenging to provide precise numbers of terrorists active in the area … The enhanced security protocols are aimed at combating militancy,” stated the SSP.
He affirmed that previous attacks confirmed the existence of two groups in the higher elevations last year.
“All security checkposts are functioning at heightened alert, particularly with Republic Day approaching. Security formations along the district’s periphery are on maximum alert, with our primary focus being on neutralizing anti-national elements to dismantle the terror ecosystem,” Mehta remarked.
Discussing the chargesheet submitted against the nine arrested OGWs, he emphasized the intent to sever logistical support to terrorists, thereby diminishing their operational capabilities.
“This crackdown is part of a larger strategy to guarantee the safety and security of the residents in the region,” he added.
The SSP noted that all suspects have provided both overt and covert assistance to terrorist groups in the district by supplying food and other logistical necessities.
