The recent banning of Jamaat-e-Islami in J&K highlighted the critical threat posed by over-ground workers (OGWs) who form the backbone of terrorist operations while maintaining civilian facades.

Role of OGWs in Assisting Terrorist Organizations

Logistical Support Network

• Safe Houses & Transportation: Providing hideouts, vehicles, and secure movement corridors for active terrorists
• Weapons & Supplies: Storing arms, ammunition, explosives, and arranging food, medicines for terror groups
• Communication Network: Operating as messengers and maintaining contact between terror cells
• Local Knowledge: Exploiting intimate knowledge of terrain, security patterns, and escape routes
• Recruitment Activities: Identifying vulnerable youth for radicalization and active participation

Intelligence & Reconnaissance

• Security Force Monitoring: Tracking movement patterns, strength, and operational plans of forces
• Target Identification: Conducting surveys of potential targets including security installations
• Early Warning Systems: Alerting terrorists about security operations and raids
• Information Collection: Gathering data on VIPs, government officials, and infrastructure
• Counter-Intelligence: Misleading security forces with false information

Measures to Neutralize OGW Influence

Intelligence-Based Operations

• Human Intelligence Networks: Developing local informants and community sources
• Digital Surveillance: Monitoring communications, financial transactions, social media activities
• Database Creation: Maintaining comprehensive records of suspected OGWs and their associates
• Inter-Agency Coordination: Integrating intelligence sharing between NIA, IB, and state police
• Preventive Detention: Using UAPA provisions for timely arrests and interrogations

Legal & Administrative Framework

• Strengthened Legislation: Implementing stricter provisions under UAPA and NIA Act
• Asset Freezing: Blocking financial resources and properties linked to OGWs
• Travel Restrictions: Monitoring and controlling movement of suspected individuals
• Background Verification: Enhanced screening for government jobs and sensitive positions
• Swift Justice: Fast-track courts for quicker prosecution of terror-related cases

Community-Centric Approach

• Socio-Economic Development: Creating employment opportunities in affected regions through schemes like BADP
• De-radicalization Programs: Counseling and rehabilitation initiatives for reformed OGWs
• Community Policing: Engaging local leaders, civil society in counter-terrorism efforts
• Educational Reforms: Promoting secular education and countering extremist narratives
• Youth Engagement: Sports, skill development programs to channel youth energy positively

The success in Operation All-Out in J&K (2017-2024) demonstrates that systematic targeting of OGW networks through coordinated intelligence operations and community engagement significantly weakens terrorist infrastructure and operational capabilities.