Security around migrants’ colonies in various parts of the Kashmir valley has been increased following the recent killings of members of the valley’s minority community. Bunkers of additional forces have been set up in and around the colonies and nobody is allowed to enter the premises without proper verification.
A proper record along with the vehicle number, Aadhaar number and other relevant details are being recorded by the security personnel deployed for the purpose. In many districts, liaison officers have been appointed to listen to the problems faced by the members of the minority community. It is worth mentioning that 25 target killings have taken place in Kashmir valley in the last nine months and of late, members of the minority community were also targeted. While noted businessman M.L. Bindroo was shot dead at his clinic on 5 October, two days later, two teachers—Supinder Kour and Deepak Chand—were isolated and shot dead in a government higher secondary school in Eidgah area of downtown Srinagar.
Sources told The Daily Guardian that the Home Ministry has taken very serious note of the killings and a strict word has gone down the line asking security agencies to take a proactive approach and stop such killings. On Monday morning, TRF terrorists Imtiyaz Dar was killed by the security forces in the Shahgund area of Bandipora. Dar was held responsible by police for the target killing of a transporter Mohamad Shafi in the same area on 5 October.
In Kupwara, where there is a good presence of Kashmiri Pandits, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Imam Din said that security cover for the minority communities have been increased in the district, adding that no element will be allowed to damage the social fabric and communal harmony in the district. DC Kupwara condemned the recent target killings of minorities and said that unscrupulous elements have attempted to damage the communal fabric of the society in J&K which upholds a long history of brotherhood and hospitality.
SSP Kupwara interacted with the migrant community, both residing at the Migrant Colony and other places and various issues were discussed on the spot with them. The security cover has also been increased for the community. On the demand of residents, solar lights have also been installed in the Migrant Colony.
Authorities have assured all necessary support to the migrant community from administration, police and public about their safety and security, adding that there is no need to panic. A nodal officer has also been designated to keep close liaison with the migrant community for instant redressal of their issues. DC Kupwara appealed to all stakeholders to come together and denounce the nefarious elements who are hell bent on damaging the peaceful atmosphere. SSP Kupwara, too, has assured full cooperation to the community and said that the police will not allow any element to damage the peace and congenial atmosphere in the district. He said that necessary security has been provided wherever required.