RTI Data Reveals Surge in Terrorist Incursions and Soldier Fatalities in India

Surat : Disturbing revelations from a Right To Information (RTI) query have shed light on the escalating challenges faced by Indian security forces due to surge in terrorist incursions. The data, extracted by Surat-based RTI Activist Sanjay Ezhava from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Jammu and Kashmir, underscores a concerning surge in terrorist infiltrations and soldier casualties in recent years.

During the BJP-led NDA government’s tenure from 2015 to 2022, a staggering 1,273 terrorists were eliminated, while 437 soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice. In stark contrast, the Congress-led UPA government from 2011 to 2014 saw 349 terrorists neutralized and 147 soldiers martyred.

The figures reveal a distressing trend. On average, 159 terrorists were eliminated annually during the BJP regime, significantly higher than the average of 87 terrorists per year during the Congress tenure.

These revelations come at a critical juncture, sparking scrutiny amid claims of the Modi-led government’s ability to curb terrorism. Despite high-profile measures such as demonetization, surgical strikes, and the abrogation of Article 370 aimed at combating terrorism, the consistent sacrifice of Indian soldiers continues at the border in the fight against insurgents.

Sanjay Ezhava, the RTI Activist behind this inquiry, expressed deep concern, stating, “More terrorists are entering India during the NDA tenure compared to the UPA regime. It’s distressing that India continues to lose its brave soldiers in the ongoing struggle against terrorism.”

The increase in terrorist casualties under the NDA does not necessarily indicate heightened success for Indian forces. Instead, it reflects a more troubling reality – an escalation in terrorist incursions, leading to an elevated toll on Indian soldiers.

This data underscores the ongoing challenges faced by India’s security apparatus and raises critical questions about the efficacy of counterterrorism strategies in preventing the infiltration of terrorists across Indian borders.