The Indian government on Wednesday announced it would halt military operations against militants during the holy month of Ramazan in the Indian-held Kashmir.
“The Centre asks security forces not to launch operations in Jammu and Kashmir during the holy month of Ramazan. Decision taken to help the peace-loving Muslims observe Ramazan in a peaceful environment,” Home Minister Rajnath Singh wrote on Twitter.
However, Singh said the security forces would retaliate if they came under any militant attack. “Security forces to reserve the right to retaliate if attacked or if essential to protect the lives of innocent people,” he said, adding that he expects cooperation from the stakeholders. “Government expects everyone to cooperate in this initiative and help the Muslim brothers and sisters to observe Ramazan peacefully and without any difficulties,” Singh said. “It is important to isolate the forces that bring a bad name to Islam by resorting to mindless violence and terror.”
Indian-held Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has welcomed the federal government’s move. She said such a decision will go a long way in creating a peaceful and amicable environment for a sustained dialogue process.
Published in Daily Times, May 17th 2018.
