Vohra for close synergy of security forces in J

Srinagar, Jul 22 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra today called for close synergy between various security agencies engaged in the counter-militancy operations in the state and observed that the security grid had to be further strengthened in view of ensuing elections to the State Assembly.

Chairing the Combined Unified Headquarters Meeting here, the Governor stressed the need for enhancing vigil, particularly in the wake of recent acts of violence perpetrated by terrorists.

He cautioned that while the militants should be tackled sternly, all precautions should be taken against collateral damages.

The Governor reiterated his commitment that the administration would fully gear up for ensuring free and fair elections and underscored the need for creating a stable security environment for smooth conduct of all activities relating to the elections.

He observed that the people of the state are yearning for peace and hoped that the Security Forces would take every possible step to instill confidence among them. He also called for extra-vigil along the borders to foil all attempts of infiltration.

Mr Vohra complimented security forces for continuing to bear the stress of tackling challenges of security meeting the situation with courage and fortitude and paid rich tributes to the personnel who had laid down their lives in anti-militancy operations.

Earlier, GOC-in-C Northern Command, Lt General P C Bhardwaj, General Officer Commanding 15 Corp Lt General Mukesh Sabharwal, General Officer Commanding 16 Corps Lt General R K Karwal, Director General of police Kuldeep Khuda and heads of various security forces and intelligence agencies gave their assessment of the situation obtaining in the state.

Chief Secretary S S Kapur gave an overview of some of the steps taken in the past two weeks to strengthen the security arrangements. Principal Secretary Home Anil Goswami also spoke on the occasion.

Divisional Commissioners of the state, Inspectors General of Police, IGP CID, IG (OPS) CRPF, IGs BSF, Jammu and Srinagar and the state-level heads of various intelligence agencies were also present in the meeting.

UNI BAS SW MIR KP1916