November 21, 2001

'5'

    The Central Government in concert with the State Government is continuing with its multi-pronged strategy to curb militancy/terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir. This strategy, besides having a security dimension, also concentrates on accelerating economic development and redressing genuine grievances of the people. The Government has also kept its doors open for talks with all people in J&K who eschew the path of violence.

    Government has often stated that Pakistan should demonstrate its adherence to the Shimla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration and abandon its sponsorship of cross border terrorism.

    Diplomatically government has appropriately and effectively brought to the attention of the international community facts pertaining to Pakistan’s sponsorship of cross border terrorism in India. The International community openly acknowledges Pakistan sponsorship of cross border terrorism in J&K and elsewhere in India. This is often reflected in the media coverage on Pakistan. To contain terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir, the government has adopted a multi-pronged approach which includes, inter alia, strengthening border management, pro-active against terrorist in the hinterland, gearing up intelligence machinery, greater functional integration through and institutional frame work of Operation Groups and Intelligence Groups of the UHQ at all levels, improved technology, weapons and equipments for security forces.

    Steps are being taken to flush out terrorists and curb their activities including close vigil on border, establishment of naka parties and pickets, intensive patrolling etc.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Home, Shri Ch. Vidyasagar Rao in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.