NSA Ajit Doval: Safety & security of Kashmiris is paramount for govt

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Saturday sent out a strong message about the current situation in Kashmir. In a formal interaction with the foreign media, the NSA reiterated that the safety and security of Kashmiris is paramount for the government, adding that the government will take no chances when it comes to the security scenario in the Valley. Pakistan still remains an irritant where they are making deliberate attempts to foment trouble in the Valley.

“We are determined to protect the Kashmiris from Pakistani terrorists even if we have to impose restrictions. Terror is the only instrument Pakistan has to create unrest. In fact, there is constant attempt made by Pakistan to infiltrate terrorists across the border. 230 Pakistani terrorists were spotted, some of them have infiltrated, some arrested,” NSA Doval said.

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Analysing the situation after the historic decision of scrapping Article 370 and Article 35A by the Centre, NSA Doval maintained that there is a huge population in the Valley which is supporting the decision of the government.

He added, “I am totally convinced that majority of Kashmiris support the abrogation of article 370. They see greater opportunities, economic progress and employment opportunities. Only a few miscreants are opposing it.”

NSA Doval further asserted that the government has taken cognisance of the problems that the people in the Valley have faced due to communication blockade. 

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"The government has taken cognisance of the difficulties faced by Kashmiris due to the communication blockade. However, active measures are being taken to ease out the situation. Out of 199 police station areas in J&K only 10 have prohibitory orders in place, rest have no restrictions. 100 percent landline connections are operational in the state,” the NSA added.

NSA Doval also strongly objected reports of alleged atrocities committed by the Indian Army. “No question arises of Army atrocities. Only J&K Police and some central forces are handling public order. Indian army is there to fight terrorists.”

On the hugely contentious issue of detention of political leaders, NSA Doval said that everything is being done within the framework of the law. “They are in preventive detention, there could have been problems in maintaining law and order in case there were gatherings, terrorists would have used the situation,” said NSA Doval.

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