New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said he was confident that the Army will wipe out terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir and urged the troops to ensure no civilian is hurt during its operation, news agency PTI reported. He further said that it is the responsibility of the troops to win the hearts of the people while performing their duty. Singh, who is on a day-long visit to Rajouri also met the families of the three civilians, allegedly picked up by the Army for questioning, were found dead.
Four soldiers lost their lives and three others were injured when their vehicles were ambushed by terrorists Dhera Ki Gali and Buffliaz in the Surankote area of Poonch on December 21. The three civilians were allegedly picked up for interrogation following the attack.
Rajnath Singh assured justice to the bereaved families. He was accompanied by Army chief General Manoj Pande and Lt Governor Manoj Sinha.
“The defence minister met the families of the civilians, civil society and assured action against the guilty after an inquiry into the incident,” former MLC Shahnaz Ganai told PTI.
“While condemning this incident, we also pay our tributes to our brave soldiers and express our condolences to their families. We the people of Rajouri-Poonch will not allow the inimical elements within or outside the country to take benefit of such type of incidents,” Ganai added.
Addressing the troops in Rajouri, Singh said he was confident that the Army will successfully flush out terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir. However, he urged them to not make any “mistake” that may hurt the citizens.
"Such incidents (ambush) cannot be taken for granted. I know you are alert to the situation but feel more alertness is required. I want to assure you that the government stands with you and your welfare is our top priority," PTI quoted Rajnath Singh as saying.
His remarks came in the wake of an outrage over the civilian deaths as people demanded justice, compensation and job for the kin of the deceased.