Kashmir police chief directs crackdown on militant overground networks

Senior police officials in Kashmir have been instructed to prioritize action against overground militant networks and hybrid terrorist cells operating across the valley. The directive emerged following a high-level assessment of current security challenges and existing policing capabilities in the region.

The Inspector General emphasized the need for strengthened intelligence collection and real-time surveillance of emerging security threats. Officials have been tasked with bolstering coordination between various law enforcement agencies to prevent militant recruitment and operational planning.

The review focused on identifying gaps in security preparedness and refining protocols for identifying and neutralizing overground support structures. These networks, which operate without overt militant affiliation, have been identified as critical logistics and recruitment pipelines for armed groups.

Authorities have signaled plans to enhance monitoring of hybrid operatives—individuals engaged in part-time militant activities while maintaining civilian cover. The strategy aims to disrupt the supply chain that sustains active militant operations through financial support, intelligence sharing, and logistical assistance.

The police leadership has directed field units to increase community engagement while strengthening intelligence networks to identify potential recruits and support members before they can be operationalized by militant organizations.