Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized on Monday that eradicating militancy in Jammu and Kashmir necessitates public support. He affirmed his government’s collaboration with the Union Home Ministry to maintain peace in the union territory.
“While security is primarily the responsibility of the central government, I reiterate that militancy cannot be eliminated without the cooperation of the people,” Abdullah stated to reporters outside the assembly. “The elected government is actively supporting the Lieutenant Governor to ensure the situation remains stable and peaceful.”
Regarding the ongoing anti-terrorist operation in Sanyal, near the International Border in the Hiranagar sector of Kathua district, he said, “Such incidents are not unprecedented. Currently, based on reports of suspicious movement, a search and cordon operation is underway. As far as I’m aware, no contact has yet been made with terrorists. We’ll monitor the situation’s progression.”
He further noted that the operation’s location, a border village, suggests potential cross-border infiltration. “Any definitive statement at this stage would be premature. We must await further developments,” he said.
Addressing the recurring terrorist activity in Kathua and Billawar, the Chief Minister acknowledged that several areas within the Jammu region, including Rajouri and Poonch, have experienced similar incidents in recent years. “Their objective is clearly to disrupt peace,” he concluded.
