Q9. The banning of ‘Jammat-e-Islami’ in Jammu and Kashmir brought into focus the role of over-ground workers (OGWs) in assisting terrorist organizations. Examine the role played by OGWs in assisting terrorist organizations in insurgency-affected areas. Discuss measures to neutralize the influence of OGWs.

Model Answer:

Introduction

The banning of Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) in Jammu and Kashmir highlights the complex dynamics of insurgency in the region, particularly concerning the role of over-ground workers (OGWs). OGWs are individuals who, while not directly engaged in violence, support and facilitate terrorist organizations through various means. Their influence poses significant challenges to security forces and necessitates a comprehensive approach to neutralization.

Role of OGWs in Assisting Terrorist Organizations

  1. Logistical Support: OGWs provide essential logistical support, including the supply of food, shelter, and transportation for militants, facilitating their movements and operations within the region.
  2. Recruitment and Radicalization: They play a critical role in recruiting local youth into militant groups, often through persuasive narratives that exploit grievances and socio-economic disparities.
  3. Intelligence Gathering: OGWs gather and relay vital intelligence to terrorist organizations regarding the movements of security forces, enabling militants to evade capture and carry out attacks.
  4. Propaganda Dissemination: They aid in the dissemination of extremist propaganda, utilizing social media and local networks to radicalize individuals and promote anti-state sentiments.
  5. Community Relations: By embedding themselves within local communities, OGWs can foster support for militancy, manipulating cultural and religious sentiments to legitimize terrorist actions.

Measures to Neutralize the Influence of OGWs

  1. Enhanced Intelligence Operations: Strengthening intelligence networks to identify and monitor OGWs is crucial for preemptive action against their activities.
  2. Community Engagement Initiatives: Building trust within local communities through development projects and dialogue can counter the influence of OGWs by addressing grievances and providing alternatives to militancy.
  3. Counter-Radicalization Programs: Implementing comprehensive counter-radicalization programs targeting vulnerable youth can mitigate recruitment efforts by undermining the narratives propagated by OGWs.
  4. Legal Action: Enforcing stringent legal measures against individuals identified as OGWs can deter potential supporters of terrorism, thereby disrupting their networks.
  5. Inter-Agency Coordination: Improving coordination between various security and intelligence agencies ensures a more unified response to OGW activities, enhancing overall efficacy in combating insurgency.

Conclusion

The role of OGWs in assisting terrorist organizations in Jammu and Kashmir underscores the multifaceted nature of insurgency in the region. Addressing their influence requires a holistic strategy that combines intelligence operations, community engagement, and legal measures. By dismantling the support structures that OGWs provide, authorities can significantly undermine the operational capabilities of terrorist organizations and foster a more secure environment.

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