Infiltration not sensational or worrrisome, but on: Army

Srinagar, Sep 10 (UNI) The Army today said the infiltration level was marginally higher but not ''worrisome or sensational'' this year as compared to the corresponding period in 2005.

''Infiltration is going on. The level this year is marginally higher than last year, but it is not something very sensational. The trend continues,'' General Officer-in-Commanding (GOC) XV Corps Lt Gen S S Dhillon told reporters at Awantipora in south Kashmir after inaugurating a cricket stadium there.

However, he said the final stock of the overall level of infiltration of militants from across the Line of Control (LoC) would be taken at the end of the year.

''Some months, there is a spurt in infiltration and some months there is a reduction. It is suitable to take final stock of the infiltration at the end of the year,'' Gen Dhillon added.

However, he said the level of infiltration was not worrisome.

Gen Dhillon said the level of violence had decreased this year.

''There is no doubt...there is a consensus that the violence level is less this year than in 2005. During the past four-five years there has been a consistent reduction in the militancy-related incidents. Sporadic incidents do take place, but there is a groundswell and yearning for peace,'' he added.

Asked if ceasefire would be announced during the coming Islamic month of fasting (Ramadhan), the Corps Commander said the decision to this effect has to taken at the political level.

''The Centre and the state government have to take the decision and work out the details...We will only comply with the instructions,'' he added.

UNI AG VA KN1640