INDIA
The situation in Kashmir remains tense but under control with authorities imposing curfew-like restrictions in most parts of the valley, fearing that the killing of Sabzar Bhat would spark trouble in the state.
A 29-year-old militant Riyaz Naikoo, with a bounty of Rs 12 lakh for information for his arrest, has reportedly been identified as the next Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) commander after Sabzar Bhat was killed in an encounter in Saimu Tral sector of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday.
Riyaz Naikoo, a tech-savvy militant, is a native of Durbug in Awantipora in Pulwama district, according to a Times of India report.
The report said that Naikoo favours a secular society in the valley and speaks contrary to the deposed Hizbul commander Zakir Musa.
"We will welcome them (Kashmiri Pandits) warmly and there is always place for them in our hearts. They are part of our nation. We are their protectors and not their enemies," Naikoo, alias Zubair reportedly said in a 11-minute video address a few months ago.
The report added that Hizbul Mujahideen is likely to nominate Naikoo as its new chief and that the Pakistan-based leadership is under tremendous pressure from ISI after deposed Hizb commander Zakir Musa last week spoke about establishing a Caliphate in the Valley.
Naikoo is rated as a 'A++' category militant and may attract impressionable minds towards militancy through social networks.
The death of Sabazar Bhat, who succeeded Burhan Wani has triggered protests, shutdown and curfew-like situation in Kashmir. The Tral operation was a coordinated effort of the Rashtriya Rifles (RR), the JKP, Special Operation Group (SOG) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).