Sudden spurt in Valley violence leaves security forces baffled

SRINAGAR: The sudden spurt in militant attacks in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of the October assembly elections has left security forces baffled.

The explosions have brought back grim memories of the militant charge in the run-up to the 2002 assembly polls, when several political workers and party candidates were killed in a bid to instill fear among locals.

To prevent a repeat, the security forces are re-devising anti-militant tactics. “There is a need to enhance vigil. While militants should be sternly dealt with, precaution should be taken to avoid collateral damage,” governor NN Vohra said after chairing a combined unified headquarters meeting here.

He underscored the need to create a secure environment for smooth conduct of the electoral process. “People of the state are yearning for peace. We hope the security forces will take every possible step to instill confidence among them. There is also a need to maintain extra vigil along the borders to foil infiltration attempts,” Vohra said.
In the last one week, militants have stepped up attacks on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, killing over 11 army men, including a major, and injuring over 20.

They have also renewed attacks on tourists, labourers, former militants and Amaranth pilgrims and killed 11 people, including nine from two families.

“Usually in June and July infiltration shoots up and as a result, militant activities also increase. Militants have once again raised their ugly heads after eight months of relative peace,” deputy inspector general of police (central Kashmir) Mohammad Subhan Lone said.

Director general of police Kuldeep Khoda said the militants had directives from across the border to vitiate the atmosphere in the Kashmir valley ahead of the polls. “But we are fully prepared to meet the challenge. Every effort will be made to foil the designs of the militants and maintain order,” he said.

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