The Jammu and Kashmir administration has intensified its campaign to root out alleged terror links within the government machinery, leading to the dismissal of nearly 80 employees over the last five years.
Since August 2020, the Union Territory administration under Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has invoked provisions of the Constitution to terminate employees accused of maintaining links with militant outfits or supporting separatist activities.
The latest action came on Friday when two government employees were dismissed from service. They were identified as Khurshid Ahmed Rather, a teacher posted in Karnah, and Siyad Ahmad Khan, serving as Assistant Stockman in the Sheep Husbandry Department, Keran.
A senior government functionary confirmed that the dismissals were carried out under Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution of India, which empowers the government to remove employees without holding an inquiry if their continuation in service is deemed detrimental to the security of the state.
Over the past few years, the administration has invoked these provisions against dozens of employees, including teachers, police personnel, revenue officials, and others. Officials argue that these individuals had either alleged direct links with militant organizations or were accused of providing logistical and ideological support.
“The government has adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards any employee found involved in activities that undermine national security. These actions are not only punitive but also preventive, aimed at dismantling the support ecosystem that allows militancy to sustain,” the official told news agency KINS.
The crackdown has been accompanied by stringent vetting procedures for new recruits in government departments. Police verification has been made mandatory before appointments, a move that officials claim has minimized internal sabotage risks and discouraged sympathizers of militant groups from entering the system.
Observers said that the termination of employees has also sent a strong message within the bureaucratic structure, creating a deterrent effect.
“The dismissals are part of a broader counter-terror strategy aimed at curbing overground networks, which, according to security agencies, provide essential support to militant operations in Jammu and Kashmir,” the official said.
While the government maintains that such actions are vital for safeguarding peace and stability, critics have at times raised concerns over transparency and the absence of formal inquiries. However, the administration insists that every case is carefully scrutinized before invoking constitutional provisions.
With Friday’s action, the number of government employees dismissed on security grounds since 2020 has reached around 80. (KINS) Ishtiyaq Kar
