Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Oct 26: General Officer Commanding (GOC) 15 Corps Lieutenant General BS Raju today warned the local militants asking them to either “switch-off” the path of militancy or face tough action.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of Yusmarg festival in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district, the GOC 15 Corps BS Raju asked the local militants to switch off the militancy. “Otherwise whosoever will contest Army with weapon in his hand will be dealt hardheartedly”, he warned.
The Army officer, however, maintained that those who shun the path of militancy and violence will be facilitated to return to their homes.
He appealed local militants to say good-bye to militancy and start a peaceful and dignified life. “I appeal to youth who are ready to shun militancy to return to their homes as environment is favorable for them for starting a peaceful and dignified life”, he said.
Last week GOC Kilo Force Major General HS Sahi told media that Army has sent its recommendations to Government regarding surrender cum rehabilitation policy for the militants willing to switch-off the militancy and join the mainstream, however, there was no final draft ready yet.
Terming bloodshed and destruction in Kashmir repercussion of militancy, Lt General Raju said that “militancy has devastated the entire Jammu and Kashmir”.
The GOC asserted that situation in South Kashmir has started limping back to normalcy as economical activities have started to accelerate. “Situation in Southern parts of Kashmir including Kulgam, Anantnag, Pulwama and Shopian districts are comprehensively normal. Economic activities have started to take up. Fruit growers are busy in sending their crop outside markets. We hope our children will soon join schools if COVID-19 pandemic will not stay more here”, the GOC said.
To a query, he asserted that overall situation in Valley is peaceful. “The overall situation in Kashmir valley is peaceful. Militancy related activities have declined as compared to past. Youth have started to concentrate on their future as many have shined in professional examinations recently which is really a good sign of the situation”, he added.
While reiterating the assertions of combating infiltration along the LoC, the GOC said that this year Army has been able to plug the infiltration to a large extent but maintained that ahead of snowfall and winters, the attempts may increase, but our forces are alert and maintaining tight vigil to frustrate the bids.
He said the Army is organizing Yusmarg festival every year aimed to provide a platform to local youth to express their talent. “We have recorded sound participation of people in the festival this year as compared to past. Several medical experts and NGOs participated in the event and alerted people about the drug menace”, he said.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
