Agencies
New Delhi, Aug 29: Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat is scheduled to visit Srinagar tomorrow, for the first time after Article 370 was repealed from Jammu & Kashmir. Gen Rawat's visit is aimed at reviewing the security preparedness in the Valley, where large number of troopers have already been deployed to contain any attempts to stoke unrest.
Kashmir Valley has remained under a communication blockade since August 5, when the Centre stripped J&K's autonomy in a shock move. So far, two instances of stone-pelting protests have been reported, which erupted in Srinagar's Soura after locals gathered to offer Friday's congregational prayers.
With landline telephone routes gradually opening up, and the administration considering to further easen the restrictions in some parts, Gen Rawat would be reviewing the state of security to prevent any untoward incident in the near future Jammu & Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik has lauded the state's administration as well as the security personnel for ensuring "no casualties" in the aftermath of Article 370 abrogation.
Speaking to reporters earlier this week, the Governor said clamping down of telephone lines is justified if it leads to saving of lives. The communication routes, mostly mobile and internet, have been used on earlier occasions by militants and anti-social elements to stoke unrest, he said.
"Restrictions will not remain forever. Once the situation is completely under control, the communication lines would be gradually opened across J&K," said an official of the state administration.
Meanwhile, the Army chief's visit also comes amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, with the latter threatening to "go to any extent" to liberate the people of Kashmir".
New Delhi has also warned of a befitting retaliation if Islamabad resorts to misadventure at the borders. |
