Terror-linked civilian deaths dropped by over 80% in J&K under Modi govt: MHA

Civilian casualties due to terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir have declined by more than 80% during the last decade under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as compared to the previous UPA regime, official data revealed on Tuesday.

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According to figures compiled by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, 344 civilians were killed in terror-related incidents between 2014 and 2024 — a stark contrast to the 1,769 civilian deaths reported during the Congress-led UPA government from 2004 to 2014.

The data also showed a significant reduction in security force casualties. While 1,060 personnel were martyred in anti-terror operations during the UPA tenure, the number dropped to 576 — nearly 46% lower — in the subsequent 10-year period under the BJP government.

Though the region continues to grapple with sporadic terror activities, the number of such incidents has halved over the past decade. From 16,463 incidents of violence reported between 2004 and 2014, the count reduced to 7,744 between 2014 and 2024.

One of the most significant shifts has been the complete eradication of stone pelting — a persistent law and order challenge for decades. Comparing data from 2010 and 2024, the latter recorded zero incidents or casualties related to stone pelting, according to officials.

The government has also highlighted increased democratic participation in Jammu and Kashmir. A record 98.3% voter turnout was registered in the 2019 Block Development Council elections — the highest in the region’s recent history.

Since 2019, 34,260 grassroots representatives have been elected across panchayats, urban local bodies, and district councils. Notably, both the BDC and urban body polls witnessed zero incidents of election-related violence.

Following the revocation of Article 370 and 35A in August 2019, Jammu and Kashmir has undergone major political and administrative reforms. From ending the expensive Darbar Move practice — saving the exchequer Rs 400 crore annually — to reviving cinema halls after over three decades, the region has witnessed significant transformation.

The administration has also taken a hard line against terrorism sympathisers. Public funerals for militants have been banned, and government employees found supporting terrorism have been dismissed. Individuals with proven terror links now face disqualification from jobs, contracts, passports and even Bar Council membership.

The 2024 Parliamentary and Assembly elections in J&K were conducted peacefully, with voter turnout of 58.46% and 63%, respectively — considered encouraging numbers in a region once marred by boycott calls and militant threats.