JAMMU/SRINAGAR: The over ail situation in the Jammu province is firmly under control, despite attempts to destabilize peace in the region.

This impression was given by Lt. Gen MS. Bhullar, Go C-in-C, 16 Corps while talking to visiting Press persons last week.

Bhullar said that the situation in Rajouri was totally under control and that in Doda too, militancy was fast declining.

While Maj Gen P.K, Puri gave an overall situation report, Maj Gen G.K. Duggar gave a detailed report of the activities and situation in the Rajour Sector.

Maj Gen Yogi Bahal dwelt at length about the situation in Doda district, ~ saying although the terrain and other ‘geographical areas of Doda were very fault, the Rashtriya Riffles and “Delta Force have checked militancy to a great extent.

Lt, Gen Bhullar said the concerted efforts of PoK based militant groups to infiltrate, have been thwarted by the effective domination of the Line of Control.

He said the meager number of infiltration has not received support from the local population, resulting in deep frustration amongst the ISI and militant cadres.

Gen Bhullar said that attempts to foster and sustain Pakistan sponsored militancy in Akhnoor sector was unlikely to succeed due to the demography.

He said that security forces have adopted a multipronged strategy to tackle the militancy in Doda district, the basic theme being “an eye for the militants and a heart for the innocents.”

This strategy, coupled with humane conduct and intensive operation ‘against armed cadres, have produced ‘encouraging results, he added. In the meeting between the Army chief and the Governor, the latter expressed satisfaction over the success of these well targeted operations, an official spokesperson said.

He said after reviewing the strategy, the Army chief and the Governor decided to pursue the present strategy to enlist greater cooperation of the people and organize operations in such a manner which could ensure minimum inconvenience to the common men.

The Governor said there had been ‘perceptible improvement in the security situation in the valley and the public were disenchanted with militant violence, and were longing for peace to return.

Gen Rao also expressed satisfaction over the level of public cooperation forthcoming to the security forces for eliminating militancy. He hoped that this cooperation will be available in greater measure for further improvement in the situation.

It was decided to pursue the present strategy to enlist greater cooperation of the people and organize operations in such a manner which could ensure minimum inconvenience to the common man.

Article extracted from this publication >>  September 29, 1995