In a stern message, Union Defence Minister Arun Jaitley on Friday called for adopting “a tough policy” towards the growing militancy in the Kashmir Valley.
“We will go very tough on the militants, especially those who crossed over from the other side,” said Mr. Jaitley in Srinagar, while referring to Pakistan-backed infiltrators.
Mr. Jaitley, who also holds the finance portfolio, was here to primarily attend a two-day meeting of the GST (Goods and Services Tax) Council which began on Thursday.
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Holds meeting
The Minister held a meeting with senior Army commanders at a forward post along the Line of Control in north Kashmir, and reviewed the security situation in the Valley which has been witnessing spiralling violence.
He later conducted an aerial survey along the LoC and interacted with troops in Rampur sector where he told them to maintain vigil and foil any misadventure from across the border, an army official said.
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Stating that terrorism and militancy were aimed at India and its sovereignty, Mr Jiatley said, “Those who take violence to this magnitude will certainly be accountable for their actions.”
Mr. Jaitley said violence impacts not only security apparatus “but lives of innocents too”.
Army prepared
After reviewing the security situation, the Union Defence Minister tweeted, “The aggressive domination and readiness of the troops for befitting response to any misadventure by enemy are very satisfying,” said the Minister.
The statement assumes significance as border skirmishes and ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Jammu saw a spike this week.
Quoting the Defence Minister, Srinagar-based Army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia said, “The entire country recognised the challenging circumstances the troops were operating in and stood behind them in their endeavour.”