Union Minister of Home Affairs, Amit Shah, announced on Sunday a stringent measure aimed at deterring terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that family members of terrorists and stone pelters would be ineligible for government jobs. Shah’s remarks conveyed to PTI, outlined a policy where individuals joining terrorist organizations or engaging in stone-pelting activities would face repercussions extending to their relatives’ employment prospects within the government.
He additionally stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has not only focused on neutralizing terrorists but has also eradicated the ecosystem that sustains terrorism. This comprehensive approach has led to a significant decrease in terrorist activities across the nation.
The Home Minister emphasized the importance of cooperation from the community, offering a reprieve to those who voluntarily disclose information about family members involved in extremist activities. He highlighted a protocol where terrorists, when cornered by security forces, are given an opportunity to surrender, often involving appeals from their own kin. Amit Shah underscored the government’s resolve in neutralizing terrorist threats, stating, “If he does not listen, he dies.”
Addressing another aspect, Shah discussed the dignified burial of militants in isolated locations, curtailing the public spectacle of funeral processions. He credited the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for disrupting political funding to terrorist groups in the region, signalling a multi-pronged approach to counter-terrorism under the Modi administration.
Citing data from the Home Ministry, Amit Shah noted a significant decline in terrorist-initiated incidents, gunfights, and casualties in Jammu and Kashmir over recent years. The figures revealed a drastic reduction in civilian and security personnel casualties, reflecting the efficacy of government measures in combating terrorism.
The context of Shah’s statements lies within the backdrop of the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution on August 5, 2019, which revoked the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir. This move marked a pivotal shift in the region’s governance framework, underlining the government’s commitment to addressing security challenges through comprehensive policy measures.
