Security Govt’s prime concern in J-K: Advani

Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani today said that the strength of paramilitary forces in Jammu and Kashmir will be reduced to the ‘‘pre-election level’’ and more companies could be deployed later if needed. According to sources, chief minister-designate Mufti Mohammad Sayeed had requested Advani not to withdraw the paramilitary forces in large numbers from the state as yet.

On the North-East states, from where companies had been withdrawn for deployment in J-K, asking for more troops, Advani assured redeployment would be done gradually and security would not be allowed to suffer.

Arriving at Tirupati airport, Advani said that the security concerns of J-K will remain the Centre’s prime concern. He hoped for cooperation from the new Congress-PDP government. ‘‘Cooperation between the Centre and J-K government will be crucial in overcoming cross-border terrorism and bringing development to the state,’’ he said.