Jammu, Nov 24 : Pakistan is making attempts to push foreign terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir, according to Northern Army commander Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi. The army commander highlighted the presence of retired soldiers from Pakistan in militant ranks and emphasized the intensified operations in the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch to clear the region of over two dozen foreign terrorists within a year.
Following the killing of two terrorists, including a top Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander trained in Afghanistan, during an encounter in the Bajimaal area of Rajouri district’s Dharmsal belt, Lt. Gen. Dwivedi revealed that some special forces’ personnel of Pakistan were identified among terrorist ranks. He noted that Pakistan’s attempts to push foreign terrorists into the region were due to a lack of support from the local population.
Lt. Gen. Dwivedi stated that the army’s efforts are focused on neutralizing foreign terrorists, and he acknowledged the sacrifice of the five soldiers who led to the neutralization of the two dreaded terrorists. He affirmed that the intensified operations by the army, police, and intelligence agencies will control the situation within a year.
When asked about the possibility of Pakistan pushing more terrorists to disrupt upcoming elections, including Lok Sabha polls, Lt. Gen. Dwivedi indicated an affirmative response without providing details. He mentioned that the number of terrorists in the Rajouri-Poonch belt fluctuates but expressed confidence in controlling the situation through coordinated efforts.
The army commander praised the bravery of the soldiers involved in the Bajimaal encounter, highlighting the importance of neutralizing the terrorists responsible for civilian killings and attacks on security forces. Lt. Gen. Dwivedi also lauded the local populace for their support, stating that the success was a result of their collaboration with the army.
