New Delhi: The months following the death of Hizbul commander Burhan Wani in July 2016 were marked with upheaval in the Kashmir valley, particularly in the districts of South Kashmir. As a result, the Indian Army had focused most of its anti-insurgency operations in the year 2017 in South Kashmir. But in the New Year, the action will shift North, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Bipin Rawat said on Friday.
“After Burhan Wani's death, the situation worsened in South Kashmir. In 2017, our focus was on South Kashmir, which is a heavily urbanised area. We have to ensure that there are no human rights violations, which is why Indian Army's Human Rights record is so good. We sometimes take on casualties because we don't want any violation of human rights. This is because of our rules of engagement. First, we give a chance to the terrorists to surrender. Their parents are also engaged in the surrender efforts. 39 terrorists have been taken in alive,” the Army Chief said.
The Army Chief also expressed concern over what he described as “radicalisation” through a “misinformation campaign” in the Kashmir valley. “A lot of radicalisation is happening in Jammu and Kashmir on social media. In schools, some teachers are teaching something that should perhaps not be taught. In schools, you see two maps. One of India, one of J&K. Why should there be two maps? Most misguided youth come from schools where they are being radicalised. Some control also has to be exercised on Madrasas and Masjids that spread misinformation,” he said.
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