Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh is likely to visit strife-torn Jammu and Kashmir next week to review security situation after unilateral Ramadan ceasefire announced by the government. Highly placed sources, including the State BJP leaders, said Singh is likely to arrive on a two-day visit to the State next week.
This decision was taken after tension on the border increased over the weekend after Pakistan troops opened fire in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district. India’s home minister will also meet J&K chief minister Mahbooba Mufti on the security situation in the state and efforts to engage the youth in development projects.
“The dates for Home Minister’s visit are being finalised,” they said. He will chair a high level meeting of top security officials in the State and will be briefed about the prevailing security situation, especially in the Valley.
Rajnath Singh is due to visit the state either on Wednesday or Thursday. Last week India and Pakistan DGMs troops had concluded a 2003 ceasefire agreement according to the two sides decided not to engage in cross-border firing. However, on Sunday Pakistan troops opened fire on Indian troops along the LoC leading to the death of 2 BSF personnel.
There has been no civilian killing during anti-militancy operations, as troops have stopped Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs) and intelligence- based Search and Destroy Operations (SADO). Sources said after taking inputs from top security officials, Singh would hold talks with union home ministry officials to decide whether ceasefire can be extended during the 60-day Amarnath yatra period, which begins from June 28.
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