Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Mar 3: Inspector General of Central Reserve Police Force, M S Bhatia, today said that the security forces are taking stringent measures to provide security to the minority community in Kashmir.
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Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a function at Anantnag, Bhatia said: “Minority pickets of CRPF are on alert, we review the security regularly. Our endeavour is to keep all the minorities in south Kashmir safe and we are in touch with them on a regular basis.”
He was speaking in reference to the target killing of minority community in Kashmir. Sanjay Sharma, an ATM guard, was shot barely 100 metres from his residence in Achan area of Pulwama where there were armed guards posted.
The IG said every measure will be taken to provide security to the community. “I want to assure that we are taking stringent security measures to provide a sense of security to them and everything will be done for their security,” he said.
To a question about the security measures for the Amarnath Yatra, beginning in June, Bhatia said security agencies have started assessing the security measures for the annual pilgrimage.
“Last year, the yatra concluded peacefully and a huge number of yatris came. This year too, we hope for a huge number of yatris. Stringent security measures will be put in place, including use of technology like drones. Also, ROPs, bullet-proof vehicles will be used in such a manner that the yatris have a wonderful experience,” he said.
The officer said whatever steps need to be taken to facilitate the yatris will be taken like the last year.
“CRPF’s helpline ‘Madadgar’ proved very helpful last year and this year too, we are ready to work in the same manner,” he added.
The CRPF officer refused to give number of militants operating in South Kashmir but said that the security forces have an upper hand. “It is difficult to give the exact number of militants as it keeps on changing,” he said.
“All the security forces are working in coordination and the results are there for everyone to see,” he added.
Bhatia said it is our responsibility to keep our men safe and for that, whatever technological upgradation is necessary, like the critical situation response vehicle, JCB, bullet-proof, technological equipment, etc. “we will take that”.
“Our aim is to neutralise enemies without incurring any own losses,” he said.
On reports that the Army would be removed from the hinterland areas in some parts of the Valley and the CRPF will be given that responsibility, Bhatia said such a decision is for the Centre to take and “we will do whatever role is given to us”.
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