J&K forces on alert as ultras ready to infiltrate

SRINAGAR: Fresh combing operations have been launched by the security forces in the upper reaches of north Kashmir after intelligence inputs suggested that some of the newly-infiltrated ultras might be hiding in these inaccessible areas and planning new attacks.

Focus of the security forces is particularly on Lolaab valley and Bandipora belt which could prove to be the launching pads for the ultras to carry out their activities in other parts. “Four militants were recently killed in one of the operations in Lolaab area,” said north Kashmir range DIG B Srinivas.

With summer setting in and snow starting to melt on the mountains, the security forces are combing the upper reaches in a bid to prevent militants from setting up their bases. What have prompted for the renewed operations are the reports that militants are waiting to cross over to this side from across the line of control.

With elections just five months away, the security forces are leaving nothing to chance. They have devised a multi-pronged strategy to deal with the threat and ensure violence-free democratic process. Intelligence reports suggest some of the militants might have sneaked in to sabotage the polls. “However, they have been directed to lie low and wait for the orders so that they are not identified and tracked by the security forces”, said an intelligence officer. 

According to sources, there are 19 camps operational on the other side of LoC and nearly 400 ultras are waiting to infiltrate.
h_ishfaq@dnaindia.net