Srinagar, April 18, 2025 – In a heartfelt address at the closing ceremony of the 4th UNIPEACE-2025 and the 2nd J&K Police Martyrs Memorial T-20 Cricket Tournament in Srinagar, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha lauded the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) for their exemplary professionalism, declaring them a force admired across India. This recognition underscores the JKP’s pivotal role in fostering peace, combating terrorism, and addressing social challenges like drug peddling, while also highlighting their efforts to engage communities through initiatives like sports tournaments.
A Legacy of Service
Founded in 1873, the Jammu and Kashmir Police began as a modest force with one Kotwal and 14 Thanedars overseeing Srinagar. Over the past 150 years, it has evolved into a robust organization with over 83,000 personnel, tasked with maintaining law and order in a region marked by complex security challenges (J&K Police History). From its early days managing crime with community support to its modern role in counter-terrorism, the JKP has consistently adapted to meet the needs of the union territory.
The force’s growth is evident in its historical milestones. By 1889, the JKP had 1,040 personnel, increasing to 3,179 by 1943, and now stands as one of India’s largest police forces. This expansion reflects its critical role in addressing both conventional crime and the unique challenges posed by insurgency and cross-border threats.
Counter-Terrorism: A Frontline Force
The JKP’s contributions to counter-terrorism have been instrumental in stabilizing Jammu and Kashmir. Operating in a region that has faced decades of militancy, the police work alongside armed forces to neutralize threats and dismantle terror networks. A notable example is the October 2024 operation by the Counter-Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) wing, which dismantled Tehreek Labaik Ya Muslim (TLM), an offshoot of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba, through coordinated raids across multiple districts (Outlook India). This operation targeted recruitment modules, preventing the mobilization of youth into militant activities.
The JKP’s bravery has not gone unnoticed. On India’s 75th Independence Day, the force received 108 gallantry medals, the highest among all Indian states, recognizing their courage in joint operations with security forces (Wikipedia). Individual honors, such as the posthumous Ashok Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra awarded to officers like Assistant Sub-Inspector Babu Ram, Constable Altaf Hussain Bhat, and Special Police Officer Shahbaz Ahmad, highlight the personal sacrifices made in the line of duty.
Recent efforts to strengthen the counter-terrorism grid, as noted by Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat in April 2025, include enhanced intelligence-gathering and coordination with central agencies (Kashmir Age). These initiatives aim to address the evolving nature of threats, including cybercrime, ensuring a proactive approach to security.
| Counter-Terrorism Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
| TLM Dismantlement (2024) | Raids across Srinagar, Ganderbal, Bandipora, Kulgam, Budgam, Anantnag, and Pulwama neutralized a Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot. |
| Gallantry Medals (2022) | 108 medals awarded, highest in India, for bravery in anti-terror operations. |
| Individual Honors | Ashok Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra awarded posthumously to JKP officers. |
Combating the Drug Menace
Drug abuse has emerged as a significant challenge in J&K, with an estimated 14.09 lakh individuals affected by substance abuse (New Indian Express). The JKP has responded with vigorous anti-drug operations, aligning with the administration’s “Nasha Mukt J&K” (drug-free J&K) campaign, launched by LG Sinha in 2022 (Greater Kashmir).
In April 2025, the JKP’s “Cleanup” operation in Jammu led to the detention of 35 drug peddlers in a single day, contributing to 77 detentions over two days (Kashmir Observer). This operation targeted local supply chains, particularly those exploiting vulnerable youth. Over the past 15 months, the police registered 1,978 drug-related cases, arresting over 2,800 individuals, demonstrating a zero-tolerance policy.
The Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), established in 2020, has been pivotal in these efforts. Between April and August 2024, law enforcement agencies registered 20 cases under the NDPS Act, arrested 35 individuals, and seized 139 kg of heroin, alongside destroying 82 kanals of wild cannabis (Greater Kashmir). District Monitoring Committees, established in 2025, further enhance oversight of NDPS Act implementation, ensuring accountability and addressing investigative gaps (IBTimes India).
| Anti-Drug Operations (2024-2025) | Details |
|---|---|
| Operation Cleanup (April 2025) | 77 drug peddlers detained in Jammu over two days. |
| NDPS Cases (April-August 2024) | 20 cases registered, 35 arrests, 139 kg heroin seized. |
| Total Cases (15 Months) | 1,978 cases, over 2,800 arrests, 76 detentions in Q1 2025. |
Honoring Martyrs Through Community Engagement
The JKP’s commitment extends beyond security to community engagement, exemplified by events like the J&K Police Martyrs Memorial T-20 Cricket Tournament. These tournaments honor fallen officers while fostering unity and sportsmanship among youth. The 2nd edition, held in 2025, saw significant participation, with nearly 90 teams, including a girls’ team, competing in Kishtwar alone (Gulistan News). Such initiatives provide a platform for young talent and promote positive activities, steering youth away from drugs and other vices.
The 4th UNIPEACE-2025, though less documented, appears to be a complementary event focused on peace-building, possibly organized in collaboration with local or regional bodies. Together, these events reflect the JKP’s holistic approach to security and social development, reinforcing their role as community partners.
A Vision for International Cricket
LG Sinha’s optimism about hosting international cricket events in J&K signals a broader vision for the region’s integration into global cultural and sporting arenas. The Sher-i-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Srinagar, which last hosted an international match in 1986, is a potential venue for such events (ABP Live). While reports of hosting ICC World Cup matches in 2023 were debunked (Latestly), the 2024 Legends League Cricket brought international players like Chris Gayle to Kashmir, marking a significant milestone after 38 years (News18).
The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) supports this vision by hosting domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy and improving infrastructure (JKCA). While no international matches are confirmed for 2025, the region’s improving security and growing sports culture make it a promising candidate for future events, aligning with Sinha’s aspirations for prosperity and global engagement.
Conclusion
The Jammu and Kashmir Police stand as a beacon of professionalism, courage, and community service. Their efforts in counter-terrorism, anti-drug operations, and community engagement have not only earned them nationwide admiration but also paved the way for a safer and more prosperous J&K. As the region looks to host international events and embrace development, the JKP’s role remains central, embodying resilience and hope for a brighter future.