By :- Ms. Riya Ramesh Chaubey
The grenade attack on 3rd November 2024 in Srinagar’s bustling Sunday market has once again underscored the fragile security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. This heinous act resulted in injuries to 12 civilians, creating an atmosphere of fear and instability among the populace. As an Indian terrorism analyst, it is crucial to delve into the incident, identify the likely perpetrators, and suggest effective measures to prevent such attacks in the future.
On Sunday 3rd November 2024, a grenade exploded in the crowded market near the Tourist Reception Centre in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. The explosion injured 12 civilians, including eight men and one woman, who were promptly transported to the Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital (SMHS) for treatment. The injured were reported to be in stable condition by Medical Superintendent Dr. Tasneem Showkat. The security forces, including the police and paramilitary personnel, swiftly initiated a search operation to apprehend the terrorists responsible for the attack. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures to prevent such incidents.
Several militant groups have been active in Jammu and Kashmir, each with its own motives and modus operandi. Based on historical patterns and recent activities, the following groups are considered the most likely perpetrators: Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), and Al-Badr.
Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based militant organization, has been a prominent player in the Kashmir conflict. LeT aims to annex Kashmir to Pakistan and establish Islamic rule. The timing of the attack, shortly after the neutralization of a top Lashkar commander, Usman, suggests a retaliatory motive. LeT is known for using grenades and other explosives in crowded areas to maximize casualties and spread fear. Historically, LeT has claimed responsibility for similar attacks, making it the prime suspect in this case.
Jaish-e-Mohammed shares similar objectives with LeT regarding the Kashmir conflict. JeM has been actively recruiting and training militants for attacks in Kashmir. Their involvement in recent encounters and the death of key figures indicate their capability and intent. JeM employs tactics similar to LeT, including the use of grenades in public places. JeM often claims responsibility for attacks on security forces and civilian targets, positioning itself as a significant threat in the region.
Hizbul Mujahideen, a local Kashmiri militant group, has strong support within certain local communities. HM aims to end Indian rule in Jammu and Kashmir. The group has been involved in numerous attacks on security forces and has a substantial presence in rural areas of Kashmir. HM typically uses guerrilla tactics, including grenade attacks in crowded markets. The group frequently issues statements and takes responsibility for attacks, especially those targeting security forces and political figures.
Al-Badr is a smaller but active militant group in Kashmir, aligned with larger organizations like LeT and JeM. Al-Badr has been involved in various violent activities, including attacks on civilians and security personnel. The group utilizes similar methods as other terrorist organizations in the region, including grenade attacks. While less prominent, Al-Badr has claimed responsibility for attacks in the past, seeking to establish its presence in the conflict.
Based on the context and historical patterns of militant activities in Kashmir, Lashkar-e-Taiba emerges as the most likely perpetrator of the grenade attack in Srinagar. The attack’s timing, following the neutralization of a key Lashkar commander, supports the hypothesis of a retaliatory strike. Additionally, LeT’s established modus operandi aligns with the nature of the attack. However, other groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Hizbul Mujahideen, and Al-Badr also remain potential suspects given their active involvement in the region and similar tactics.
To prevent such incidents in the future, several measures need to be implemented. Strengthening local intelligence networks to gather actionable information on potential threats is crucial. Increasing the use of technology, such as CCTV cameras and drones, for continuous monitoring of crowded places can significantly improve surveillance. Additionally, intercepting communication channels and monitoring social media for any claims of responsibility or chatter indicating future attacks will aid in preemptive action.
Deploying additional security personnel in high-risk areas, especially during peak times in crowded markets and public spaces, can deter potential attackers. Implementing random security checks and patrolling will also enhance the security presence and deter militants. Fostering collaboration between security forces and local communities to improve information sharing and trust is vital. Conducting awareness programs to educate civilians on how to report suspicious activities can lead to timely interventions. Building a cooperative relationship with the local populace will enhance the effectiveness of intelligence gathering and response.
Regularly training security forces in counter-terrorism tactics and emergency response procedures will ensure they are well-prepared for any situation. Conducting mock drills in crowded areas will help security forces and civilians alike to be ready for real incidents, reducing panic and improving response times. Installing security barriers and checkpoints at strategic locations to control access to crowded areas can prevent unauthorized entry and mitigate risks. Improving emergency medical infrastructure to provide rapid treatment to casualties will save lives and reduce the impact of attacks.
Developing comprehensive policies that outline preventive measures and response strategies for potential attacks is necessary. Ensuring coordination between various security agencies and streamlining communication channels will enable efficient and effective responses to any incidents. The grenade attack in Srinagar highlights critical vulnerabilities in the current security framework. By implementing the recommended measures, authorities can enhance preventive capabilities, improve response times, and ensure greater safety for civilians in Jammu and Kashmir. Continuous assessment and adaptation of these strategies will be crucial in mitigating future threats and maintaining public security. The commitment of security forces, political leaders, and local communities to these measures will be instrumental in fostering a safer and more secure environment in the region.
The recent grenade attack in Srinagar serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in maintaining security in Jammu and Kashmir. By addressing the identified gaps and enhancing preventive measures, we can work towards a safer and more stable region. The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, including security forces, local communities, and political leaders, will be key in achieving this goal.
Author – Ms. Riya Ramesh Chaubey
riyachaubey402@gmail.com
