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The Pulwama attack

refers to a tragic incident that occurred on February 14, 2019, in the Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. A suicide bombing targeted a convoy of Indian paramilitary personnel, resulting in the loss of many lives. The convoy was carrying Indian Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, and a vehicle laden with explosives was detonated near one of the buses in the convoy.

The militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed claimed responsibility for the attack. The incident escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, as Jaish-e-Mohammed is based in Pakistan. In response to the Pulwama attack, India conducted airstrikes in the Balakot region of Pakistan, targeting what they described as a terrorist training camp.

Key factors that played a role

1. Kashmir Conflict: The attack took place in the context of the long-standing Kashmir conflict, a territorial dispute between India and Pakistan. Both countries claim Kashmir in its entirety but control different parts, leading to ongoing tensions.
2. Militancy in the Region: The presence of militant groups, including Jaish-e-Mohammed, in the region added to the volatility. These groups often operate from the Pakistani side of the border, and the attack was claimed by Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based militant organization.
3. Radicalization and Terrorism: The attackers were reportedly radicalized individuals who saw violence as a means to achieve their goals. The recruitment and radicalization of individuals for acts of terrorism remain challenges in conflict zones.
4. Retaliatory Dynamics: The attack triggered a strong emotional response within India, leading to calls for retaliation. India conducted airstrikes in Pakistan’s Balakot region, escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
5. Political Climate: The attack occurred during a period of heightened political tension between India and Pakistan. Political and diplomatic factors, as well as domestic considerations in both countries, played a role in shaping the responses to the incident.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) dispatched a 12-member team to probe the attack, working with the Jammu and Kashmir Police.

Investigation

Initial investigations suggested the car was carrying more than 300 kilograms (660 lb) of explosives,  including 80 kilograms (180 lb) of RDX, a high explosive, and ammonium nitrate. Lt Gen Hooda said that the explosives might have been stolen from a construction site. He initially said that it was not possible that they were smuggled from across the border, but later said that he could not rule it out.

National Investigation Agency was able to establish and confirm the identity of suicide bomber as DNA samples from “meagre fragments of the car” used in suicide attack matched with Adil Ahmad Dar’s father. However, even after a year of investigation, NIA was unable to trace the source of explosives. The charge-sheet filed by the NIA in August 2020 named 19 accused.

And then Balakot

The Balakot airstrike refers to a military action conducted by the Indian Air Force on February 26, 2019. The strike targeted what India described as a terrorist training camp in Balakot, a town in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. This action came in response to the Pulwama attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

The events surrounding the Balakot airstrike remain sensitive, and interpretations can vary based on geopolitical perspectives. It underscores the complex dynamics and challenges in the India-Pakistan relationship.

Indian Army

Indian Armed Forces, plays a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s security. It is one of the largest and oldest standing armies in the world, with a rich history and a diverse range of responsibilities, both in times of war and peace. The Indian Army has earned respect for its professionalism, discipline, and commitment to service. We strongly support our soldiers.

JAI HIND

An article arranged by #teamanswerwala

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