Jaitley in Srinagar to review security situation

Defence Minister Arun Jaitley today began his two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir during which he will review the security situation with the state government and senior military officials.

Accompanied by Army chief General Bikram Singh, Jaitley arrived here on his maiden visit since assuming charge as Defence Minister last month and will be meeting Governor N N Vohra and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

"The Defence Minister accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Bikram Singh arrived here for a two-day visit of Jammu and Kashmir," a defence spokesman said.

The Defence Minister will be briefed by top army officers posted in the state about the anti-militancy operations along the Line of Control to check infiltration of ultras from Pakistan-Occupied of Kashmir (PoK) and in the hinterland.

The other issues likely to come up for discussion are the security arrangements for the upcoming annual Amarnath Yatra and rehabilitation and return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley, the officials said.

During his stay in the state, Jaitley is also scheduled to visit some forward areas along the LoC where he will interact with local Army officers, they added.