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.
‘Unfortunate’
Terming these recent incidents as “unfortunate”, Mr. Singh directed all ranks to undertake operations based on credible intelligence, in accordance with established procedures aided by niche technology.
“All commanders should have zero tolerance for violations of the well-established standard operating procedures [SOPs],” he said.
Mr. Singh said there is a need to remain extra vigilant so no untoward incident occurs in the future. “There should be zero tolerance to terrorism,” he said.
He also met with the families of those who died at Topa Peer village of Bufliaz in Poonch district and assured the victims’ families of an “expeditious investigation into the incident, culminating into deliverance of justice”.
‘Can’t bring back the dead’
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah urged the Defence Minister to ensure that such incidents did not recur. “The incident of civilian deaths should not be repeated. It’s good that the Defence Minister arrived here but the visit can’t bring back the dead,” said Dr. Abdullah, a former Chief Minister of J&K.
The Defence Minister also complimented the local people for their steadfastness and contribution to joining the Union government’s mainstreaming efforts. “The unity in thought process, alignment and collective resolve for the good of the nation is the most important foundation for achievement of shared aspirations of peace & development in the UT,” he said.
Mr. Singh said that there was a need to remain extra vigilant so that no untoward incident occurs in the future. “There should be zero tolerance to terrorism,” he said. “Additional efforts are being made to bolster the security and intelligence framework,” he added.
‘Wipe out terrorism’
The Defence Minister also prayed for the speedy recovery of the army personnel who sustained injuries. “Each of our army personnel is important to us. Every soldier is like a member of our family. We cannot tolerate anyone looking down on our soldiers,” he said.
Affirming his faith in the security forces’ efforts to wipe out terrorism from J&K, Mr. Singh said, “I believe in your bravery and steadfastness. Terrorism should be finished from J&K and you need to move forward with this commitment. I have full faith that you will achieve victory.”
Spike in militancy
During his visit to Rajouri, he met senior officials to assess the security situation after the region witnessed a spurt in militancy. He was accompanied by the Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Lt. Gen. Upendra Dwivedi.
A detailed brief on the prevalent security situation, counter-infiltration grid and operational preparedness was presented to the Defence minister, an official spokesman said. Mr. Singh discussed operational challenges with ground commanders, calling for professional conduct and due diligence while carrying out operations, the spokesman said.
The Pir Panjal region has witnessed six major encounters this year, which have resulted in the deaths of 21 soldiers, including officers.
