Avinash Azad
Congress leader Ch. Lal Singh lambasted the BJP-led Union Government for its “failure” to eradicate terrorism and strengthen the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP).
Speaking to the media in Kathua on Friday, Singh emphasized that while his party supports the government on matters of national security, the government’s incompetence has led to the loss of both civilian lives and security personnel.
Singh criticized both the Home Ministry and the Defence Ministry, stating they have failed to deliver on the Government of India’s promise of a “new J&K.” “Despite our borders being well-equipped with highly sophisticated technology, how are terrorists still crossing into our territory and killing our people—be it civilians or security forces?” he questioned.
He highlighted the loss of three JKP personnel, underscoring the force’s challenges. “We don’t have new recruits in the JKP to fight terrorists. For the last ten years, no recruitment has taken place. Those recruited over a decade ago couldn’t undergo proper training due to a severe shortage of personnel,” he explained.
Singh further noted that the JKP currently relies on Havildars (head constables) and Special Police Officers (SPOs) to combat terrorism. “SPOs are not well-trained, and most head constables are beyond the age to effectively fight terrorists,” he said.
Despite these shortcomings, he praised the JKP’s resolve, adding, “I salute their motivation. Even with limited resources, they face enemy bullets head-on to protect our nation instead of turning their backs.”
He urged the government to take decisive action to secure the region, arguing that merely blaming Pakistan is insufficient.
“The Congress party does not interfere when it comes to national security. However, we need to address our own failures instead of pointing fingers at our neighbor. We know Pakistan won’t change its ways, but we cannot allow it to continue bleeding our soil with the blood of our people,” Singh concluded.
Meanwhile, local youths, frustrated by the rising terrorist attacks in Kathua and other parts of the Jammu division, confronted former State President Ravinder Raina during his visit to Kathua. Raina, who was accompanied by MLA Jastrota Arvind Jasrotia and other party leaders, faced backlash from the agitated crowd. The youths questioned the government’s failure to prevent recurring terror incidents in the region, demanding answers on why Kathua has become a frequent target of such attacks.
