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Pakistan and those supported by it are behind the recent protests, Nirmal Kumar Singh said.
Saying that while security forces have been asked to exercise restraint in the Valley, where violent protests erupted after the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani, Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Kumar Singh Thursday said anti-national activities won’t be tolerated.
He said the administration was going to keep a close watch on the Friday prayers to ensure that nothing untoward happens, and also ensure that the Amarnath Yatra continues without any hitch.
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“Yes, we have asked the forces to exercise maximum restraint, but anti-national activities won’t be tolerated. We are aware that Pakistan-backed elements are behind fanning of violence. They are trying to revive militancy,” Singh, the most senior BJP representative in the Mehbooba Mufti government, told The Indian Express over phone.
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“Pakistan and those supported by it are behind the recent protests. Pakistan, which knows that it has lost the proxy war that it has been waging in the state, is playing dirty games through some elements on its rolls. Look at the Pakistan government’s statements and actions in the last few days. Do we need more proof? We are aware and action is being taken. The highest number of militants have been killed. Every recent incident of protest, be it over the Sainik Colony in Kashmir or others, have been the handiwork of Pakistan-supported elements,” he said.
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Singh said “a section of the local youth active on social media” was behind attempts to “turn a terrorist into a hero”: “He (Burhan Wani) was a militant, responsible for deaths of innocent persons. There should not be any doubt. However, some local youth active on social media are trying to portray him as a hero. That won’t be allowed.”
Asked about the focus of the state government in the coming days, Singh said, “Our first priority is tomorrow’s prayers. Anti-national elements can’t be allowed to stoke passions among common people. Peaceful continuation of the Amarnath Yatra is also our top priority.”
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On why Jammu has remained peaceful in contrast to the massive protests during the 2010 stir, Singh said the BJP took the initiative to ensure that rumours were not allowed to result in peace being disturbed.
“We were very alert this time. Many of my colleagues and I remained stationed in Jammu, formed local committees to explain the situation to the people. And, the results are there for everyone to see.”
