Security forces are maintaining a strict vigil on approximately 120 terrorists positioned across 69 launch pads along the Line of Control (LoC), a top Border Security Force (BSF) official stated on Monday. The officer warned that the next phase of Operation Sindoor will be activated immediately if Pakistan attempts any cross-border "misadventure."
Operation Sindoor's Impact and Pakistani Relocation
During the BSF Kashmir frontier's annual briefing, Inspector General Ashok Yadav revealed that Pakistan moved several of these terrorist launch pads deeper inside its own territory following precise Indian air and artillery strikes between May 7 and May 10. These strikes, codenamed Operation Sindoor, were a direct retaliation for the Pahalgam massacre on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians.
"We caused heavy damage during Op Sindoor. Some launch pads were shifted from forward areas to keep them out of the firing range of the Indian Army and BSF," Yadav explained. He emphasized that despite this strategic relocation, all 69 pads remain under constant and close surveillance. The officer issued a clear warning: "Whenever there is any misadventure from Pakistan, we are ready to give a befitting reply."
Heavy Casualties Inflicted and Infiltration Drop
Detailing the May offensive, IG Yadav said BSF units, in synergy with Army formations, executed "heavy and accurate" fire assaults on Pakistani posts and the terrorist launch pads. "Our units, including artillery regiments, inflicted huge casualties on Pakistani troops, damaged forward posts, and destroyed several terrorist pads along the LoC," he stated.
When questioned why all 69 pads weren't targeted earlier, Yadav cited operational constraints like terrain and distance. "We had them under radar. Location and depth from the LoC matter. From some points, it is difficult to target all launch pads," he clarified.
The proactive operations have yielded significant results. Yadav reported a sharp decline in infiltration attempts this year along the Kashmir frontier. Only four attempts have been recorded—two before and two after Operation Sindoor—involving 13 infiltrators. "Eight were eliminated by the Army, five retreated," he confirmed.
Internal Security and Continued Vigilance
While the broader pattern of infiltration attempts remains unchanged, the BSF has noted the emergence of new routes, which are now being covered jointly with the Army. Within the Kashmir valley, the BSF has 13 companies working closely with the Army and police.
IG Yadav also highlighted the concerning issue of "silent recruitment" of terrorists and stated that security forces are focusing on institutions acting as "radicalisation centres." Alerts on such activities are promptly shared with agencies responsible for the hinterland, with "complete synergy" among all security forces.
In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, specialized BSF teams were deployed in the popular Gulmarg tourist bowl to reinforce security for visitors. "Our teams are operating professionally and effectively," Yadav assured.
Despite the challenges posed by harsh terrain, snowbound areas, and constant threats from Pakistani Border Action Teams (BAT), sniping, and ceasefire violations, BSF personnel continue their duties on the LoC with "full zeal and devotion," the IG concluded.
