Chidambaram compliments security forces for Srinagar operation

New Delhi, Jan 8 (ANI): Union Home Minister P.Chidambaram on Friday complimented the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for Thursday's successful operation against militants in Srinagar.

In a statement issued by the Union Home Ministry, Chidambaram said the country remains vulnerable to militant attacks, but there is no cause for panic.

"I compliment the J and K police and the CRPF for the successful operation in Srinagar. I offer my sincere condolences to the families of the two victims of the attack," Chidambaram stated.

On Wednesday, based on intelligence inputs, the J and K police were conducting frisk and search operations, when two militants opened fire and then fled into a nearby building.

In the initial burst of fire, one policeman was killed and 11 persons were injured. One of the civilian later succumbed to his injuries.

The alert J and K police, assisted by the CRPF, immediately swung into action. In a brilliant operation, executed with great skill and patience, they neutralised the two militants without suffering any casualties.

They also evacuated nearly 600 civilians to safety.

In his statement Chidambaram appreciated the J and K police and the CRPF conducted the operations without calling upon the National Security Guard (NSG) or the Special Forces of the Army.

"Our capacity to neutralise a militant attack has also increased considerably. I would emphasise once again that the country, especially the security forces, must maintain a high level of vigilance; but there is no cause for panic," Chidambaram said.

"We must remain calm and confident that our security forces can face any challenge," he added.

The two militants who were killed were in communication with their handlers outside India.

"The incident highlights the fact that the country, especially Jammu and Kashmir, remains vulnerable to militant attacks sponsored by forces from across the border," Chidambaram said. (ANI)