Parliamentary Panel Urges Integrated Security for Jammu and Kashmir Tourism

The Department Related Standing Committee on Home Affairs has recommended the implementation of an integrated security and surveillance framework for all major tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. The proposed system includes comprehensive CCTV coverage, centralized monitoring facilities, regular vulnerability assessments, and periodic security audits.

These recommendations follow an April 22, 2025, terrorist attack in Pahalgam's Baisaran valley, where Pakistani terrorists killed 26 people, including 25 tourists and a pony operator. The event triggered a four-day armed conflict between India and Pakistan. To prevent future incidents, the panel called for dedicated emergency response units, trauma-care facilities at high-footfall sites, and clear inter-agency standard operating procedures to be reviewed before the Amarnath Yatra and peak tourist seasons.

During assessments in Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Drass, and Kargil, the committee expressed appreciation for existing arrangements by the Jammu and Kashmir Police but emphasized the need for a unified command-and-control framework. In Ladakh, the panel noted satisfaction with current advanced weapon systems but urged the Ministry of Defence to ensure sustained investment in counter-drone systems, high-altitude technologies, and all-weather infrastructure for sensitive border sectors.