JAMMU, Nov 12: Shiv Sena Dogra Front President Ashok Gupta has strongly condemned the recent terror-related incidents in Kishtwar and Kulgam, describing them as a serious threat to peace, security and national unity in Jammu and Kashmir. He called for strict action against terrorist networks and their supporters.
Expressing grief over the killing of two Special Police Officers (SPOs), Rachpal Kumar and Bobby Chand, in the Dachhan area of Kishtwar, Gupta said the recovery of their bullet-riddled bodies on November 12 was deeply disturbing. The two SPOs had reportedly gone missing while moving through the area on November 11. He also expressed concern over the disappearance of their service weapons and demanded a high-level investigation into the incident, along with exemplary punishment for those responsible.
Gupta also condemned the attack on CRPF personnel in the Akhran area near Mir Bazar in Kulgam on November 11. According to the statement, two suspected terrorists opened fire on a CRPF checkpoint at around 2:15 pm, injuring three personnel, one of whom was critically injured. The attackers reportedly fled towards a nearby forested area.
Expressing solidarity with the injured personnel, Gupta wished them a speedy recovery and paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of security forces personnel serving under challenging circumstances.
Questioning the promotion of separatist narratives, Gupta said that while security personnel were sacrificing their lives to protect the country, demands for Kashmir’s separation from India were also being raised. He questioned the position of those supporting such political narratives on matters concerning national security and the sacrifices of soldiers.
Referring to the controversy surrounding Neha Bohra and the demand for Kashmir’s freedom, Gupta questioned the rationale behind such demands and urged political parties and their leaders to clearly state their stand on India’s unity and territorial integrity.
He said freedom of expression was a constitutional right but should not be used as a pretext to undermine the country’s sovereignty and integrity. He urged political parties to rise above vote-bank politics and demonstrate an unequivocal commitment to national unity.
The Shiv Sena Dogra Front President demanded a high-level probe into the killing of the two SPOs, strict action against those involved in the Kulgam attack, and the identification and dismantling of terrorist networks and their support structures. He also called for stronger security arrangements in vulnerable areas of Jammu and Kashmir and clear statements from political leaders against terrorism and separatism.
Reiterating his organisation’s commitment to India’s unity and sovereignty, Gupta said the Shiv Sena Dogra Front would continue its fight against anti-national activities through democratic and peaceful means. He added that terrorism and separatism had no place in Jammu and Kashmir and that those who sacrificed their lives for the nation deserved the highest respect.