On Sunday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a crucial security meeting in New Delhi to assess the security arrangements for the upcoming annual pilgrimage of Shri Amarnath Yatra and to address the current security situation in the Jammu region, particularly in light of recent terrorist activities.
The meeting, attended by top security officials including Army Chief General Manoj Pande, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla, Director of Intelligence Bureau Tapan Deka, and DG CRPF Anish Dayal Singh, also saw participation from Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Secretary Atal Duloo, DGP RR Swain, and senior army officers from the region, alongside intelligence officers and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
Local news agency sources familiar with the proceedings indicated that Home Minister Shah received a comprehensive briefing on the prevailing security scenario in Jammu. He called for stringent measures to “combat terrorism in the region” and stressed the need for enhanced security for pilgrims visiting Vaishno Devi, Shiv Kohri, and other shrines.
Following recent incidents, including the attack on Shiv Kohri pilgrims, Shah directed robust security measures along highways and vulnerable points crucial for the safe movement of security forces and pilgrims.
“The Home Minister expressed concern over the support networks aiding terrorists in Jammu and underscored the imperative to prevent any resurgence of terrorism in the region,” news agency KDC quoted sources as saying.
He said the elements “supporting terrorists in Jammu should be dealt with iron hand and the revival of terrorism shouldn’t be allowed in the region at any cost.”
“He also stressed on plugging the points where from the foreign terrorists have managed to enter into this side,” the sources said.
Regarding the Amarnath Yatra scheduled from June 29 to August 19, Shah stressed the implementation of a multi-tier security cover to ensure the safety of every pilgrim. He highlighted the importance of securing Yatra routes up to base camps, ensuring a secure environment for the pilgrimage.
The meeting also addressed security measures for tourist spots and sites across Kashmir and Jammu, with a focus on preventing potential attacks.
