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Kashmir : Terrorist Attacks in Srinagar |
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As normalcy is returning to Jammu and Kashmir at the political level, terrorists are increasing their attacks to disrupt the process. Unnerved by the massive participation in the civic elections in the state recently, separatists and their terrorist supporters have been stepping up suicide attacks in the Kashmir valley. A major incident took place on February 24, when two terrorists attacked the Divisional Commissioner’s office in Srinagar, resulting in the death of eight persons. They included three civilians, three persons belonging to the security forces and the two militants. The multi-building complex houses the offices of the Divisional Commissioner, the Dy. Commissioner and also a branch of the Jammu and Kashmir bank. Around 400 people including employees and members of the general public were in the complex at the time of the attack. The building is in the vicinity of the Old Secretariat and the High Court. The security forces launched the operation to flush out the terrorists and succeeded in their efforts within a few hours, but in the process three of their own men and three civilians were killed.
Observers say that the terrorists are aiming at soft targets as their fire power in the Kashmir valley has been largely restricted by the steps taken by the security forces. The fencing of the Line of Control has upset the terrorists as they are not able to get reinforcements and arms supplies from across the Line of Control quickly. In the circumstances, they are carrying out attacks on soft targets in a bid to show their presence in the valley.
Pak espionage ring busted
Delhi Police have arrested two Kashmiri militants operating an espionage ring in the national capital. The police seized sensitive documents relating to Army operations, planning of patrolling and maps of border areas of Jammu and Kashmir showing deployment of Army units.
In another development, Delhi University lecturer, Syed Abdul Rehman Geelani, who was injured in an attack by an unidentified gunman earlier this month has been discharged by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. Speaking to newspersons, he again blamed the Delhi Police for the attack on his life. Geelani was an accused in the Parliament attack case, but was acquitted by courts.
Delhi Police have denied the charges made by Geelani and have announced a reward of Rs. 50,000 for anyone providing information leading to identification and arrest of his assailant. The Supreme Court has asked the Delhi Police to provide adequate security to Geelani. It has also asked the police if it would have any objection if Rajasthan Police personnel guard the Delhi University lecturer.
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