JAMMU: The recent assassination attempt on National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah in Jammu has triggered political reactions and renewed debates over security arrangements in Jammu and Kashmir, even as officials and observers caution against drawing premature conclusions or equating the incident with a terror attack.
The attack attempt, which took place during a private wedding function in a posh area of Jammu, is being viewed by investigators as a revenge-driven act by an individual rather than an organised terrorist strike. Authorities have maintained that the matter remains under investigation and is sub-judice. The accused has been remanded to five days’ custody for questioning, and the exact motive and possible linkages are yet to be conclusively established.
Despite the ongoing probe, several political leaders from different parties have used the incident to raise the fresh demands for enhanced personal security cover.
Security experts warn that such reactions, if driven by political considerations rather than genuine threat assessments, could place an unnecessary burden on the already stretched security apparatus in the Union Territory.
Officials point out that indiscriminate expansion of VIP security cover may divert manpower from safeguarding vulnerable installations and maintaining general law and order. Jammu and Kashmir continues to face complex security challenges, including counter-terror operations, border vigilance and protection of critical infrastructure. In this context, the J&K Police and Central forces have been operating with heightened professionalism and alertness.
Security analysts underlined that the thwarting of the attack itself demonstrates the effectiveness of the existing protection framework. The Close Protection Team (CPT), a crucial component of the VVIP security system, played a decisive role in neutralising the threat.
“Typically comprising a minimum section of highly trained personnel drawn from the J&K Police or Central Paramilitary Forces, the CPT acts as the last line of defence when other security layers are breached”, the experts said.
“Threat perception remains the key determinant for assigning the strength and composition of a CPT. A higher risk level translates into a larger and more specialised team. The CPT functions in close coordination with other elements such as personal security officers (PSOs), escort parties and Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), forming a multi-layered security grid around protectees” they added.
In the latest incident, the attacker reportedly managed to breach outer security arrangements and reached close proximity to the Dr Abdullah, even pointing a firearm towards him. However, the swift intervention of the CPT personnel, including members from the National Security Guard (NSG) and the J&K Police, prevented any harm. The assailant was overpowered, his weapon seized and he was subsequently handed over to the local police for further legal action.
Experts further stressed that the protectee should also adhere to the security protocols and follow the advice of the security managers as some gaps were cited in case of attack on Dr Abdullah when he allegedly violates security norms and arrived at the marriage venue in a private vehicle instead of the designated bulletproof government Scorpio, which is part of his official security protocol.
Observers stressed that the rare episode should serve as a reminder of the need to strengthen institutional security mechanisms rather than politicise isolated incidents. With investigations still underway, authorities have urged restraint and responsible public discourse until the full facts emerge.
