In a recent ambush in India’s Poonch-Rajouri region, four Indian soldiers were killed by terrorists, resulting in an increased lead against India in the terrorist fight. Since December 21, this attack was the sixth on Indian military forces in the region this year, which included a plan to strengthen its counter-terrorism operations by increasing troop strength. After Chinese pressure, much of India’s counter-insurgency troops, the Rashtriya Rifles, were moved to the eastern border. In an interview with The Epoch Times, counter-terrorism expert and author Abhinav Pandya stated that the reason behind the rising attacks is due to the strength of the China-Pakistan axis. This axis has become a new threat to India’s territorial security and peace, as terrorists have become more advanced and have shown heightened attacks on Indian armed personnel.
The mountainous terrains and forests these terrorists are residing in have given them an edge in planning and conducting surprise attacks, leading to more severe casualties. The terrorists are displaying advanced levels of military knowledge, where foreign terrorists have been found with Chinese weapons. The attacks coincidentally started after the pandemic and worse after the bloody Galwan conflict, causing India to become wary of its largest neighbor. This resulted in China implementing a long-term strategy to keep India militarily distracted through terrorism and subversion, all with the aim to influence the results of the upcoming parliamentary elections. This shift in India’s foreign policy may likely occur if new leaders are chosen to be in power in 2024. India has managed to remain resilient in its counter-terrorism operations, although the China-Pakistan axis remains the greatest challenge to India’s future.