Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Services (JKPSC)

• 23 Nov 2024

Forest Fire & Landmine Explosions in Jammu and Kashmir

Why in News?

In Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, a forest fire along the Line of Control (LoC) triggered the explosion of nearly half a dozen landmines, which were part of an anti-infiltration obstacle system.

Key Points

• Explosions Triggered by Forest Fire:
  • The explosions were triggered by a forest fire that spread to Indian territory in the Krishna Ghati sector, Mendhar sub-division.
  • The fire began on the other side of the border before spreading to Indian forward areas.
  • Authorities are investigating the cause, with speculation of deliberate attempts from across the border to damage India’s anti-infiltration obstacle system.
• Casualties and Control Measures:
  • No casualties have been reported and efforts to control the flames are actively ongoing.
• Army Response:
  • The Indian Army stationed along the LoC is on high alert to prevent potential infiltration attempts by terrorists.

Line of Control

• The Line of Control (LoC) emerged from the 1948 ceasefire line negotiated by the United Nations (UN) after the Kashmir War.
• It was designated as the LoC in 1972, following the Shimla Agreement between the two countries.
• LoC is demarcated upto the Siachen Glacier (Point NJ9842)- the world's highest battlefield.
• LoC is delineated on a map signed by the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of both armies and has the international sanctity of a legal agreement.

Investigation into Allegations of “Ill-Treatment” of Civilians

Why in News?

The Army initiated an investigation into allegations of “ill-treatment” of civilians during search operations for militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district.

Key Points

• Launch of Operation:
  • The Rashtriya Rifles initiated an operation in the Kishtwar Sector, based on specific intelligence about terrorist movements.
  • The White Knight Corps confirmed the operation and ongoing monitoring of the terrorist group.
• Allegations of Civilian Ill-Treatment:
  • Allegations surfaced regarding the ill-treatment of four men from Kuath village, who were reportedly called to an Army camp.
  • Sources suggest the allegations include accusations of torture in custody.
• The Army announced an investigation to verify the claims and assured necessary follow-up actions.
• Past Allegations:
  • In December 2023 three civilians were allegedly killed in custody in connection with a terror attack in Poonch.
  • Following an inquiry, lapses in personnel conduct were reported, and the involved Army unit was relocated out of the district.
  • This situation underscores ongoing tensions and challenges in managing counter-terrorism operations while addressing allegations of human rights violations.

The Rashtriya Rifles

• It is a counter-insurgency force in India, formed in 1990, to deal with internal security in the Jammu and Kashmir region.
• They maintain public order by drawing powers from the Armed Forces (Jammu and Kashmir) Special Powers Act, 1990 (AFSPA).
• The force operates under the Ministry of Defence. The Indian Army describes RR as their "specialist elite force to combat insurgency".
• The RR is headquartered at Northern Command in Udhampur and commanded by an Additional Director General of Rashtriya Rifles (ADG RR).