J&K police chief holds Jaish responsible for Tuesday attacks

Stating that Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militant outfit was responsible for series of terror attacks in south Kashmir last night, State Police Chief Shesh Paul Vaid Wednesday assured that foolproof security would be ensured for upcoming Amarnath Yatra.

“Hizbul Mujahideen has larger presence (in south Kashmir) but yesterday’s incidents (attacks) were carried out by Jaish-e-Mohammad, as per our intelligence reports,” Vaid told reporters here.

The police chief said there would be unprecedented security arrangements for the annual pilgrimage to holy Amarnath cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas, starting from June 29. “There will be no problem to pilgrims undertaking the yatra this year,” he assured.

Asked about the surge in militant activities in the Valley, Vaid said, “Majority of the militants operating in South Kashmir are locals and have support from civilians. It is opposite in north Kashmir where most of the active militants are foreigners.”

Nine CRPF men, four policemen and two army soldiers were wounded in a series of six attacks carried out by the militants in south Kashmir on Tuesday night. A high alert was sounded across Kashmir valley following the attacks.