Premium

Pushkar Dhami: ‘‘No one wants tension at borders, but we have to destroy terrorist centres… PM has our support’

"Our state sends almost 70% of the armed personnel. We have a strong military tradition and we are a Dev Bhoomi. We have a responsibility," says Uttarakhand CM

On Friday, Uttarakhand took a series of preventive measures in light of the Indo-Pak conflict. (Facebook/Pushkar Singh Dhami)

On high alert amidst tensions between India and Pakistan, Uttarakhand Friday took a series of preventive measures and put the health sector on alert. The security along the Char Dham Yatra route has also been beefed up. In an interview with The Indian Express, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami speaks about the measures taken by the border state. Excerpts:

* How are you preparing in light of the high tensions with Pakistan?

We have held high-level review meetings. We are on high alert. Security has been enhanced at hospitals, energy plants, religious places… Char Dham Yatra is on, so we have taken extra precautions and increased security. We have conducted mock drills. Since we share borders with China and Nepal, we have to be extra cautious. We are also in touch with the ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police) and the BSF (Border Security Force).

We have taken steps to bolster security preparedness. It is crucial that we are prepared to face any situation. We are fully prepared to extend support as well.

* How concerned are you about the situation?

Our state sends almost 70% of the armed personnel. We have a strong military tradition and we are a Dev Bhoomi. We have a responsibility. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is fighting against terrorism. We have to support him and extend our moral support to the armed forces too. The country is united in this war against terrorism and we are contributing to it as a state.

… After the Union Home Minister’s video conference (with CMs), I immediately convened a high-level meeting to give the required instructions. I am constantly in touch with ministers and officials. We are also in touch with the Central government. All government officials and the police personnel are on alert. The government has given instructions to District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police to strengthen arrangements in their jurisdictions.

* What message do you want to send out to the people in your state?

Pakistan has been indulging in terrorism and has always sheltered and nurtured terrorists in its land. We have to fight against it. No one wants tension at borders, but we have to destroy the terrorist centres. PM Modi has taken up this war against terrorism and we have to extend our support to it.

Liz Mathew

Have been in journalism covering national politics for 23 years. Have covered six consecutive Lok Sabha elections and assembly polls in almost all the states. Currently writes on ruling BJP. Always loves to understand what's cooking in the national politics (And ventures into the act only in kitchen at home). ... Read More