Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh toured J&K on Wednesday in the wake of the recent militant attack, and directed troops to win the hearts of citizens while fighting terrorists and promised justice in recent alleged instances of torture of civilians by the security forces.
“We will eradicate terrorism. Indian Army is not an ordinary army. The soldiers are our protectors. It is their duty to not only safeguard national interests, but also to win the hearts of the people,” Mr. Singh, while addressing the troops in Rajouri, said.
His statement came in the backdrop of the widescale allegations of torture of civilians by the security forces after the militant attack at Dera Ki Gali in Poonch on December 21, which left four soldiers dead. Three civilians were found dead in the area after the Indian Army allegedly detained them for questioning. Several injured civilians are being treated in hospitals in Poonch and Rajouri. The Army’s actions sparked outrage among locals and political parties in J&K.
