MHA Equipped Village Defence Guards in Jammu with Automatic Weapons to Combat Terrorism
Jammu, September 1: In a strategic move to bolster the Village Defence Guards (VDGs) against the rising threat of terrorism in the Jammu region, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has equipped the guards with automatic weapons and additional resources.
According to reliable sources within the security establishment, over 200 self-loading rifles (SLRs) have been distributed to VDG members across Jammu. Additionally, 400 new members have been inducted to reinforce security in the hinterlands.
This development follows the recent approval by the MHA to arm VDGs in Jammu, particularly in districts like Rajouri, Poonch, Kathua, and Reasi, where there has been an uptick in terrorist activities. The move is part of a broader effort to curb terrorism and protect civilians in these areas.
Jammu and Kashmir DGP R.R. Swain has consistently emphasized the critical role of VDGs as the first line of defense against terrorism in the region. The past three years have seen a significant increase in terror-related incidents, with foreign terrorists operating in the forests of Rajouri, Poonch, Kathua, Reasi, and Doda districts. These militants have been carrying out calculated attacks on security forces, resulting in the loss of 43 soldiers’ lives during this period.
Sources from the MHA indicated that there was a strong demand from the VDGs for upgraded weaponry to enhance their capabilities. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been proactive in ensuring the empowerment of VDGs, aiming to equip them with the necessary tools to tackle terrorism more effectively.
“Previously, VDGs were provided with basic rifles, but the new automatic weapons will significantly boost their morale and effectiveness in combating terrorism,” a source stated. “As the first line of defense, these well-armed VDGs will now be better positioned to thwart terror plots targeting innocent civilians in the villages.”
Security forces are also providing specialized training to VDGs to ensure they are fully prepared to confront the threat posed by terrorists, who have been known to target civilians while seeking food and supplies before retreating to the forests.
The enhancement of VDGs is expected to deter terrorists from approaching villages, thereby increasing the safety and security of residents in these vulnerable areas.
