Kashmir: Over 2,500 Detained, Homes of Two LeT Operatives Demolished After Police Officer’s Killing
In a major security operation following the killing of a police officer, over 2,500 individuals have been detained for questioning in Kashmir. Security forces also demolished the homes of two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists overnight, according to official sources.
The demolitions and mass detentions are part of a broader effort to dismantle support networks for militant groups in the region. The operation comes days after a police officer was killed in an attack that authorities have attributed to LeT operatives.
Officials stated that the detained individuals are being questioned to identify and apprehend other militants and their collaborators. The demolished houses belonged to two LeT terrorists who were allegedly involved in planning and executing attacks on security forces.
Meanwhile, security arrangements for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage have been reviewed and strengthened in light of the recent incident. Thousands of pilgrims travel to the shrine each year, and maintaining security is a top priority for the administration.
The mass detentions and house demolitions have drawn criticism from political leaders in the region. They argue that such measures are counter-productive and could alienate local communities. Some have called for a more calibrated approach that targets only those directly involved in militant activities.
Human rights groups have also expressed concern over the demolitions, stating that they violate due process and collective punishment norms. Legal challenges to the demolitions are expected.
The government, however, maintains that these actions are necessary to uphold law and order and to prevent further attacks. Authorities have urged the public to cooperate with security forces and report any suspicious activity.
Kashmir has experienced a long-standing insurgency, with multiple militant groups operating in the region. The security forces regularly conduct operations to curb militant activities, though such large-scale detentions and demolitions are relatively rare.
