Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha of Jammu and Kashmir has directed a sustained and aggressive campaign against terror modules operating within the region. The directive came during a high-level security review meeting held in Srinagar on Friday, which included the participation of deputy commissioners, senior superintendents of police (SSPs), and other key officials from the Kashmir division. The meeting was convened to thoroughly assess the prevailing security situation and to formulate future strategies aimed at ensuring peace and stability.
Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the deliberations focused on enhancing operational preparedness, refining security strategies, and outlining actionable plans to maintain a tranquil environment across the Kashmir valley. Lieutenant Governor Sinha underscored the imperative of intensifying counter-infiltration efforts and fostering robust synergy among the district administration, Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Army, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to effectively execute counter-terror operations. He stressed that these actions must be both sustained and aggressive in their approach to dismantling terror networks.
During the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor specifically instructed deputy commissioners and SSPs to maintain vigilant oversight of anti-national elements present within the administrative framework. A significant emphasis was placed on prioritizing efforts to combat radicalization, a key factor in the recruitment and sustenance of terror groups. Furthermore, Mr. Sinha mandated monthly reviews concerning the attachment of properties belonging to narco-terrorists and their associated support ecosystems. The administration’s commitment to eradicating the drug menace was reiterated, with a call for unabated action against narco-terrorists, drug smugglers, and peddlers, aligning with the overarching vision of a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir.
The importance of fostering a strong and responsive connection between citizens, the police, and the administration was also highlighted by the Lieutenant Governor. He emphasized that the swift resolution of public grievances is paramount to building trust and ensuring effective governance. In a statement, an official conveyed that Mr. Sinha asserted, “Under no circumstances should communal harmony and the law-and-order situation be allowed to deteriorate. We must institutionalize best practices and implement District Convergence Plans to ensure sustainable peace and development.” This sentiment underscores the administration’s commitment to a holistic approach to security and development.
To counter the spread of misinformation and propaganda, the Lieutenant Governor called for the establishment of district-level social media cells. These units are expected to play a crucial role in swiftly addressing and neutralizing false narratives that could potentially disrupt peace or incite unrest. The meeting also took into account the approaching winter season, with the Lieutenant Governor issuing directives to ensure adequate stock and availability of essential commodities. Robust snow-clearance mechanisms were also emphasized to maintain connectivity and essential services during the challenging winter months.
In addition to security matters, the review meeting encompassed an assessment of the progress of key infrastructure projects being undertaken across the Kashmir division. This indicates a broader focus on development initiatives alongside security imperatives. The comprehensive nature of the meeting, involving a wide array of senior officials, signals the administration’s multi-pronged strategy to address the complex challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir, aiming for both immediate security enhancements and long-term sustainable peace and development.
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.