PoK terror launchpads full with terrorists attempting infiltration every night: Army commander
Pakistan-based terrorists are making daily attempts at night to infiltrate every night since the government scrapped Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.
Lt Gen KJS Dhillon, the commander of the Srinagar-based 15 Corp, told India Today TV that infiltrations attempts are continuing but there have been no ceasefire violations. However, locals living in several areas want bunkers to protect them against shelling by Pakistan army.
“Terror launchpads in Pakistan occupied Kashmir is full of terrorists. They are attempting to infiltrate every night but we are able to detect and stop them,” he said.
Speaking on Pakistan’s attempts to pump in terrorists to exploit the situation after the removal of Article 370, he explained that all activities of Pakistan at LoC and also in the hinterland are being closely watched.
“We are apprised of what they are attempting. Whatever action Pakistan takes we are fully prepared to respond,” he said.
He said that on July 30, Pakistan resorted to artillery firing and the matter was raised on a hotline message. “When they did not stop we also retaliated,” he added.
Lt Gen Dhillon said there has been no terror-related incident after the removal of Article 370, but there have been some stray incidents of youth indulging in stone pelting.
Talking about the restrictions on movement, he said things are getting normal and people and move around freely now.
“Shops for daily needs are open, ATMs are working and hospitals are also functioning normally. People are free to move around in cars, two-wheelers, buses and on foot.”
He said there was no doubt that Eid would be celebrated with fervour on Monday.
When asked about when communication networks will be restored, he said that is a decision the civil administration will take.
For almost a week now there has been no internet, mobile or landline network in Kashmir.
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has been camping in the Valley meeting civilians in South Kashmir a terror hotbed and reviewing the security situation meeting officials and people in several parts of the Valley.
