The State Investigation Agency (SIA) has intensified its crackdown on suspected terror-related activities in Kashmir, conducting multiple raids targeting alleged "sleeper cells". These actions are part of an ongoing effort to dismantle terror networks and maintain peace in the region.
On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the SIA, with the assistance of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), carried out simultaneous raids at multiple locations across the Kashmir Valley. These locations included Srinagar, Ganderbal, Handwara, Sopore, and Baramulla. The raids are a continuation of the investigating agency's efforts against terrorists, their over-ground workers (OGWs), and sympathizers.
Just days prior, on May 11, 2025, the SIA conducted raids at 20 locations in South Kashmir, including areas in Anantnag, Pulwama, Kulgam, and Shopian. These raids were connected to a case involving the sharing of sensitive information about security forces and vital installations through messaging applications. The SIA stated that these individuals were conveying sensitive and strategic information about security forces and vital installations via messaging apps including but not limited to WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal.
During the recent raids, the SIA seized incriminating materials and detained several suspects for questioning. Preliminary investigations suggest that these individuals are involved in terrorist conspiracies and are propagating anti-India narratives aimed at challenging India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. They are also accused of inciting disaffection, public disorder, and communal hatred.
The SIA's investigations have revealed that many of these "sleeper cells" are in direct contact with handlers based in Pakistan. These handlers are believed to be associated with terrorist organizations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammad. The terror associates are also allegedly involved in online radical propaganda at the behest of these terrorist commanders, which impinges upon national security and integrity.
The SIA was established in 2021 as the nodal agency for coordinating with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other central agencies. Its mandate is to ensure speedy and effective investigation and prosecution of terrorism-related cases. The agency has been involved in investigating high-profile terror attacks, including the murder of advocate Babar Qadri in 2020.
Authorities have emphasized that these firm measures are essential to uproot terrorism and restore peace in Jammu and Kashmir. The raids are being conducted in the presence of executive magistrates and are part of an ongoing effort to dismantle terror networks active in the region.
