Almost everyday there is an encounter between forces and militants reported across Kashmir. The Police claimed that more than 100 militants both locals and foreigners have been killed. Despite the pressure from forces, militants are able to strike at will wherever they want.
Infact the targeted killings have made officials rethink their strategy. After more than 12 targeted killings in the last few months especially the killing of Kashmiri pandit migrant employee Rahul Bhat, then bank manager Vijay Kumar and the brick kiln laborer Dilkush and 36-year-old teacher Rajni Bala from Jammu was shot dead on a school campus at Kulgam’s Gopalpora have even left New Delhi perturbed and Lt Governor Manoj Sinha was called to New Delhi where Home Minister Amit Shah and other senior officials discussed current situation with Sinha.
The meeting gains significance as the annual Amarnath yatra begins next month and there are some security concerns especially when a large number of pilgrims are planning to visit the holy cave up in the mountains of south Kashmir.
Despite the attacks, the Lt Governor played down the attacks which took place in Kashmir and promoted non local and Kashmiri pandit employees to seek their relocation from Valley to safer places.
Manoj Sinha compared militancy in Kashmir to a candle, about to burn out, flaring bright.
Sinha, while talking to reporters on the sidelines of the function, said that the people in Kashmir have understood and are openly condemning the unfortunate incidents of targeted killing of civilians in the valley. He said that religious leaders have also condemned it. The LG further said that the elements across the LoC are trying to revive the old days of militancy but the forces were also preparing to their capacity. He said that they are trying to bring back the old days but I think the administration and security forces are preparing to their capacity. He also said that these elements are not happy with the growing economy here. On Sunday, the LG Sinha had said that the innocent killings in Kashmir are being done to influence security forces for some ‘desperate action’ and assured people that no action will be taken against any innocent.
But the statements are not mere enough to tackle the situation. There are constant threats on the ground and people are suffering due to growing incidents of violence. The LG administration must walk the talk and ensure peace and security is of paramount importance. Without peace and security, talking economy is insignificant.
