The counter-intelligence wing of the Jammu and Kashmir Police carried out coordinated raids at 12 locations across several districts of the Kashmir Valley on Tuesday, detaining 12 suspected individuals for questioning in connection with alleged terror-related activities.

According to officials, the suspects are accused of radicalising youth, attempting to disturb public order in a systematic manner, and spreading false narratives that glorify terrorism and terrorists. The operation was part of a broader effort to counter activities seen as a threat to the security and stability of the Union Territory. The raids were carried out simultaneously in Srinagar, Baramulla, Anantnag, Pulwama, Kupwara, Budgam, and Shopian districts, reflecting the wide geographical spread of the investigation. Police officials said the searches were conducted in connection with a case registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) at the Counter-Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) police station.

Authorities confirmed that the raids were conducted after a special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Srinagar issued search warrants, allowing security agencies to proceed with legal action against the suspects. In an official statement, the Counter-Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) said it had received credible intelligence inputs indicating that certain individuals in Jammu and Kashmir were allegedly involved in activities that could harm the nation’s sovereignty and security. The statement said the suspects were misusing platforms linked to mass media, social media, human rights advocacy, environmental causes, and women's empowerment as a cover to carry out activities described as “gravely prejudicial to the sovereignty, integrity and security of India.”

According to CIK, these platforms were allegedly being exploited to push misleading narratives, promote extremist ideology, and create an atmosphere of unrest, especially among young people in the Valley. The CIK further claimed that some of the detained individuals were allegedly in contact with terror handlers based in Pakistan. Officials said these contacts were maintained using encrypted communication applications, making it difficult to track their activities through conventional monitoring methods.

Security agencies believe such communication networks are often used to coordinate propaganda efforts, share instructions, and influence vulnerable individuals, particularly youth, to support or glorify terrorism. While officials did not disclose specific details of the communication exchanges, they stressed that the intelligence gathered pointed to a coordinated and deliberate attempt to undermine peace and stability in the region.

The 12 suspects have been detained for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation. Officials clarified that the action is aimed at preventing the spread of radical ideologies and disrupting networks that seek to destabilise the region through misinformation and extremist propaganda. Police sources said further action will depend on the outcome of the questioning and the evidence collected during the raids. The seized materials, including electronic devices and documents, are being examined as part of the probe.

The raids come amid repeated warnings from the Union Territory administration against those spreading “false narratives” and misinformation. Authorities have maintained that strict legal action would be taken against individuals or groups found to be promoting narratives that could disturb public order or threaten national unity.

Earlier this month, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had publicly warned against attempts to revive separatist thinking or misinformation campaigns. On December 11, Sinha said that certain elements “from the dying terror ecosystem” were trying to “spread misinformation or negative narratives against the country.” Emphasising the administration’s firm stance, the Lieutenant Governor said, “We have not bought peace, but established peace. Those fanning separatism and threatening national unity will face the action as per the law.” His remarks were seen as a clear message that the administration would not tolerate activities that challenge India’s sovereignty or seek to destabilise the region.

Security agencies have consistently stated that while the overall situation in Jammu and Kashmir has improved in recent years, attempts to revive extremist ideology through indirect means continue. Officials believe that online platforms and social campaigns are increasingly being misused to spread propaganda and influence public opinion.

The latest operation by the counter-intelligence wing highlights the government’s focus on preventive action, particularly against efforts to radicalise youth and glorify terrorism under the guise of activism or advocacy. The case registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the matter. Officials said the law provides the necessary framework to deal with activities that threaten national security and public order.

Security forces and intelligence agencies have reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace, protecting civilians, and ensuring that democratic and lawful activities are not misused for extremist purposes. As the investigation continues, officials said further updates would be shared based on verified information and legal procedures.