Director General of Police J&K, R.R. Swain, revealed on Sunday that there is a high likelihood that terrorists are utilising underground tunnels to infiltrate Jammu and Kashmir.
He suggested that such sophisticated operations would be challenging to execute without technological assistance, indicating possible involvement from the Pakistani army.
In an interview with a national weekly magazine, Swain addressed questions about Pakistani support in the terror attacks in Jammu.
“Can a tunnel be dug from the other side without the knowledge or support of the Pakistan army? Usually, the length of these tunnels varies between 350 to 600 meters, and it takes at least 30 days to dig one,” he explained.
Swain maintained that these activities are difficult to conceal, requiring substantial manpower, logistics, and operational support.
He added that the presence of such tunnels would inevitably result in detectable movements in the area, making it implausible for these operations to proceed without backing from the Pakistani army.
When asked if the terrorists were from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan, Swain confirmed that two suicide attackers, who attempted an attack ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu, were likely from that region.
He noted that these attackers spoke Pashto, indicating they were neither Urdu nor Sindhi speakers.
“Pakistan has a significant Pashto-speaking population, particularly in areas bordering Afghanistan,” Swain said.
Regarding the security situation for the upcoming Assembly elections, Swain expressed confidence, citing the successful and peaceful conduct of the parliamentary elections earlier this year.
“We managed to overcome all challenges during the parliamentary polls held in April-May this year, with a significant voter turnout,” he added.
Swain highlighted ongoing measures to enhance security, including support for Village Defence Guards (VDGs) and the establishment of police stations along the border.
He noted that VDGs are being equipped with night vision devices, improved equipment, and advanced technology to strengthen deterrence against terrorists.
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