Asif Iqbal Naik
Jammu Jan 2, 2026: A Village Defence Guard (VDG) member fired a few warning shots from his assigned rifle after noticing suspicious activity near his residence in the Dessa area of Doda district, police said on [day].
Immediately after the incident, security forces rushed reinforcement to the area to ensure peace and prevent any untoward situation. The situation remains under control.
Village Defence Guards are locally recruited volunteers trained and armed to act as a first line of defence in remote and sensitive areas. Their role is to observe, report, and provide early response support to security forces during potential terror threats until professional forces arrive, bolstering community-level security in parts of Jammu and Kashmir that have seen militant movements and operations. This boost to grassroots security comes as counter-terror operations continue in the Chenab Valley, especially in Doda and neighbouring Kishtwar districts, where forces have stepped up surveillance and search efforts following sightings and reports of suspected militant activity. In the recent past, terrorists have targeted VDG members in the region, including the abduction and killing of two guards in Kishtwar, highlighting the risks faced by these volunteers in volatile zones. 
As a precautionary measure, residents have been advised to remain vigilant, stay calm, and cooperate with the police and other security agencies. People have also been requested to avoid unnecessary movement.
Meanwhile, VDG members of nearby areas have been properly briefed and sensitized to remain alert and extend full cooperation to the security forces whenever required.
