Srinagar: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has cautioned against the dangers of isolated approaches to security matters, highlighting the need for better coordination between security forces and elected officials. Abdullah emphasized that resolving the region’s security issues requires a holistic perspective that goes beyond purely military solutions.
Abdullah, while speaking to a news agency, reflected on the aftermath of the Pahalgam massacre, where 26 people were killed by terrorists. He discussed the complexities of counter-terrorism and the revitalization of tourism, stressing that excluding the elected government from the law-and-order system impedes the flow of crucial information. According to Abdullah, dealing with security situations as purely security matters is ineffective, as the causes and effects of terrorism are deeply interconnected with the broader community. As per information available with TahirRihat.com, Abdullah believes that operating in silos, where the elected government and representatives are disconnected from security and law enforcement, leads to problematic situations.
Abdullah pointed out the existing disconnect between law enforcement and elected officials. He noted that even basic courtesies, such as a police officer saluting an elected official, have become fraught with professional hesitation. Abdullah humorously described a scenario where a police officer second-guesses saluting an MLA, minister, or chief minister, fearing potential repercussions. He added that this ambiguity extends to participation in civil functions of the elected government, further hindering information exchange. Abdullah reiterated that addressing terror or law and order requires more than a purely security-focused approach.
Abdullah highlighted the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, as an example of a broader approach to a security-related issue. While drug trafficking is primarily a security and enforcement problem, the initiative involves the general population through foot marches, recognizing the societal aspects of the issue. Abdullah argued that terrorism, similarly, is not solely a security problem but also a societal one with law and order implications.
Regarding the rise of terror modules and intelligence gathering, Abdullah revealed his limited access to sensitive data, stating that he relies on Twitter for intelligence. He emphasized the exclusion of the elected government from the security loop, underscoring the challenges it poses to effective governance.
Abdullah criticized the strategy of treating terror purely as a security issue without involving the broader community through their representatives, deeming it a flawed approach. He stressed the importance of integrating local knowledge and perspectives into security strategies.
Addressing the revival of tourism, Abdullah acknowledged the setback caused by the incident at Baisaran, Pahalgam, on April 22 of the previous year. While domestic tourist arrivals have increased, he noted that the sector remains vulnerable to geopolitical factors. He mentioned the conflict in Iran as having a dampening effect on bookings, with potential travelers fearing Covid-style lockdowns. Abdullah expressed his desire to move beyond solely focusing on numbers and arrivals, aiming to avoid the hype that contributed to instability in the previous year.
Abdullah emphasized that restoring tourist confidence is a gradual process, requiring sustained efforts. While acknowledging improved confidence compared to the previous year, he recognized the need for further action. The chief minister affirmed his government’s awareness of the limitations they face but reiterated their commitment to reducing fear and ensuring the return of trekkers and domestic tourists to the valley in substantial numbers. According to Daily Excelsior, the chief minister said his government remains committed to improving the overall atmosphere for tourists despite existing challenges.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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