Even as the security forces are bracing for a major showdown with the terrorists since the Ramzan ceasefire with Pakistan is officially off, the Mehbooba Mufti-led People's Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed its disappointment in the Centre's decision.
"I always wanted that the ceasefire should continue. In fact, PDP had also demanded that it should be extended. However, it is the domain of the central government, which after taking an overall review of the situation, has decided not to extend it. Our stand, though remains the same that it should have been extended," said Mohammad Yousuf Bhat, PDP MLA from Shopian, one of the worst-affected districts in the region.
There were around 60 terrorism-related incidents, including 18 grenade blasts, in the valley during the Ramzan ceasefire. Around 24 terrorists and nine security men were killed in these incidents. Five civilians were also killed in the last one month. Additionally, 57 people — including 27 security men — were reported injured. Terrorists even looted two banks and snatched six rifles from police officers.
In an opposing reaction, the BJP leaders in the valley welcomed the end of the ceasefire. "BJP welcomes the decision (to withdraw truce). We had taken the decision keeping in view the holy month of Ramzan. It was not a ceasefire, but suspension of operations. We had made it clear that we will not fire first, but if we are attacked, we will respond. Now, an operation similar to operation All Out will be launched against the militants," said Kavinder Gupta, J&K deputy chief minister.
Meanwhile, though PDP spokesperson and works minister Naeem Akhtar regretted the end of the ceasefire, he added, "Sad, important measure that could have set stage for purposeful dialogue not reciprocated except with provocative attacks. It could have led to way out of bloodshed, destruction. But for that everyone had to be on board."
Former chief minister Omar Abdullah also took to Twitter saying that the "ceasefire or NICO was the Centre's initiative and yet these people are celebrating its failure as if it had been announced by their enemies. Its failure is the failure of everyone who wanted to give peace a chance."
Now, the security forces are bracing for the resumption of operations against terrorists. "Whenever we get information, we will launch the operations," said Dr Shesh Paul Vaid, director general of police, Jammu and Kashmir.
SECURITY FORCES READY FOR OPERATIONS
- Now, the security forces are bracing for the resumption of operations against terrorists.
- “Whenever we get information, we will launch the operations,” said Dr SP Vaid, DGP, J&K
- IG of CRPF, Srinagar Sector, Ravideep Sahi said area domination operations have already started. “Now onwards, if we get some information, certainly we will launch an operation. Area domination operations have already started.”
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