SSP Sandeep Mehta orders crackdown on terror ecosystem and crime in Doda

Security has been tightened across the hilly district of Doda after senior police officials ordered enhanced vigilance to prevent any attempt to disturb peace in the region.

The directive came during a security review meeting chaired by Sandeep Mehta , Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Doda. The meeting was attended by Additional Superintendents of Police, supervisory officers, Station House Officers, and in-charges of various police posts across the district, according to a police spokesperson on Sunday.

During the meeting, Mehta instructed officers to step up surveillance and maintain a high level of alertness , particularly in areas considered sensitive. He directed the police force to focus monitoring efforts on tourist destinations, religious sites, critical installations, and other identified hotspots in the district.

To strengthen security measures, officers were asked to increase foot patrols, deploy both long-range and short-range patrol teams, and establish surprise checkpoints at strategic locations . These steps, he said, would help ensure effective area domination and prevent any attempts by disruptive elements to create unrest.

The SSP also stressed the need for heightened vigilance in minority-populated areas and encouraged officers to maintain people-friendly policing while remaining firm against unlawful activities.

Officials explained that the term “ anti-national elements ” generally refers to individuals or groups suspected of supporting or assisting militant networks, promoting separatist agendas, spreading radical propaganda, or engaging in activities aimed at destabilising law and order or threatening national security.

Mehta further directed strict action against those involved in NDPS-related offences and bovine smuggling , and ordered officers to initiate property attachment proceedings against habitual offenders as part of efforts to curb criminal networks operating in the district.

The police leadership emphasised that constant monitoring and proactive policing remain key to maintaining peace and security in the region.