As the Government works towards building “Naya Kashmir” challenges galore
In the wake of escalating terror incidents in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday delivered a resolute message at a high-level security meeting held at Raj Bhawan in Srinagar. Chairing the Unified Headquarters — the apex security grid of the Union Territory — Shah underscored the need for a “zero-tolerance” approach to terrorism and vowed to ensure “zero infiltration” across the border. The Home Minister’s visit comes amid a three-day tour of the Union Territory, during which he reviewed both developmental progress and the volatile security scenario.
Shah has urged all security agencies to work in complete synergy to eliminate the last vestiges of terrorism, particularly in the Jammu division, which has seen a recent uptick in militant activities. He reiterated that there will be no compromise in the mission to root out terrorism from J and K. The goal is zero infiltration, zero tolerance.
While acknowledging the operational successes of security forces, Shah emphasised that complacency cannot be afforded. The Home Minister also took stock of the preparations for the annual Amarnath Yatra and the anticipated surge in tourism during the summer months — a critical period for the UT’s economy and public safety.
Shah also chaired a developmental review meeting alongside LG Manoj Sinha to take stock of the development work. The session focused on expediting infrastructure projects and enhancing governance mechanisms in alignment with the government’s vision of a “Naya Kashmir.” He also had a private meeting with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, signaling a broader political engagement during his visit.
Amit Shah’s visit to the Valley is both timely and important from the security point of view. With the beginning of the summer season infiltration bids also reaches a high. The Border Security Force (BSF) in the Kashmir Valley faces significant challenges in countering infiltration attempts, particularly during periods of geopolitical sensitivity and seasonal changes. The melting of snow reopens traditional infiltration routes along the Line of Control (LoC), providing opportunities for militants to cross into Indian territory. Additionally, adversaries aim to exploit the heightened focus on internal affairs of the country to destabilise the region.
The abrogation of Article 370 and the subsequent bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir have further intensified the security dynamics, rendering the Indo-Pak border more sensitive and prompting continuous infiltration attempts by militants. Moreover, the successful hosting of international events, like the G20 summit in Kashmir, has been met with frustration by Pakistan’s ISI, leading to a surge in infiltration bids as a means to undermine the prevailing peace and stability. In response, the BSF, in collaboration with the Indian Army and intelligence agencies, has bolstered vigilance and area domination exercises to thwart these infiltration attempts and maintain regional security.
The heightened security is already bearing fruit. Shah highlighted that three more organisations had severed ties with the separatist Hurriyat Conference and pledged allegiance to the Constitution of India. Indeed, it is time to have a cordial atmosphere in the Valley so that the support to the infiltrators can be minimised. In this scenario development plays a very significant role. And this was the second big concern for Amit Shah. He called it “a growing endorsement of the Prime Minister’s vision of a peaceful, progressive Naya Kashmir.”
As terrorism continues to pose challenges in the region, Shah’s visit has sent a clear message: the Centre remains uncompromising in its mission to restore peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir. With the focus squarely on coordination, counter-terror strategy, and public welfare, the government’s resolve appears firmer than ever.
