In a decisive move that underscores the Government’s commitment to safeguarding national security, four employees, including two policemen, a school teacher and a Jal Shakti Department worker, have been dismissed from their services for alleged involvement in anti-national activities. This step, executed under the orders of the LG, reflects a stringent approach towards elements within the state apparatus that threaten the integrity and security of the nation. The Government’s decision to dismiss the four employees sends a clear message: involvement in activities prejudicial to the state’s interests, particularly those linked to terrorism, will not be tolerated. The charges against these individuals are severe, ranging from the transportation and supply of illegal arms and ammunition to providing material support to terrorists and maintaining direct associations with proscribed terrorist organisations.
Abdul Rehman Dar and GhulamRasoolBhat, both hailing from Pulwama, were found guilty of leveraging their positions within the police force to aid terrorist activities. Dar was involved in transporting illegal arms and ammunition and providing camouflage uniforms and other materials to terrorists. His actions, which involved exploiting his status as a policeman, highlight a grave betrayal of trust. Similarly, Bhat, who worked in the armoury, was accused of supplying ammunition and weapons to terrorists over an extended period. His activities were facilitated through a network of OGWs connected to terrorist outfits based in Pakistan. The case of Shabeer Ahmad Wani, a teacher from Kulgam, illustrates a different facet of anti-national involvement. Wani was an active member of Jamaat-e-Islami, a banned separatist organisation with links to terrorism. His role in strengthening JeI’s network and inciting violence during the 2016 unrest through unlawful assemblies marks a direct attempt to destabilise societal peace. Wani’s continued affiliation with terror outfits, notably HizbulMujahideen, and his involvement in facilitating attacks and gathering intelligence for terrorists further compounded his culpability. Anayatullah Shah Pirzada, an employee of the Jal Shakti Department from Baramulla, was identified as a terrorist associate of Al-BadrMujahideen. His covert support for terrorists, including association with notorious commanders and involvement in incidents involving satellite phones and hand grenades, underscores the insidious ways in which state employees can undermine national security.
The dismissals underscore the Government’s zero-tolerance policy towards anti-national elements within its ranks. The decision to dismiss these individuals without the need for inquiries reflects the gravity of their actions and the weight of the evidence against them, thanks to intelligence agencies and JKP. This approach ensures that the security of the UT remains uncompromised. While the dismissal of these employees may seem like a drastic measure, it is a necessary one. The integrity of the State apparatus is paramount, and any breach, particularly one involving terrorism, must be addressed swiftly and decisively. The Government’s action not only removes immediate threats but also serves as a deterrent to others who might consider similar actions.
However, this development raises critical questions about recruitment, monitoring, and accountability mechanisms. Ensuring that state employees are vetted rigorously and that their activities are monitored regularly can help prevent such breaches in the future. The use of technology and intelligence to track and investigate suspicious activities within the state apparatus must be intensified. The fight against terrorism is an ongoing effort that leaves no room for complacency. Enemies of humanity are constantly on the lookout, always devising nefarious plans to strike. Security agencies must remain one step ahead of them at all times.
Over the past five years, J&K has undergone a significant transformation. The Government has steadfastly adhered to a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, resulting in profound and visible changes on the ground. Routine stone-pelting and shutdowns have become relics of the past. Radicalised Government employees must recognise this shift and adapt accordingly. There is no room for any support of terrorism. The sooner these influenced employees acknowledge the changing reality, the better it will be for them.