Jammu, Mar 19: Union Minister of State for Defence Chaman Lal Gupta has assured the people of Ind and other militancy-affected areas that terrorism would be dealt with severely and it is the duty of the government to ensure their safety and security. Talking to inhabitants of Ind village during his visit today, Gupta assured them that all possible steps would be taken to curb the menace of terrorism. Ind village was the site of massive terrorist attack on the night of March 15/16, when several persons were killed and many others injured. The terrorists had also burnt seven houses after over-running the police post there. Gupta said the state government authorities should have a fresh look on their policies, and identify the shortcomings which resulted in this incident. The minister appreciated the courage of the local people in their support to the security forces in dealing with the Pak-sponsored terrorists and said the villagers, who have been bearing the brunt of this proxy war, deserve a salute from the entire nation.
The Pak-instigated proxy war is bound to face a defeat, like its previous three attempts in the past 50 years to grab Jammu and Kashmir by use of force, he said.
Gupta visited the site of damaged STF post and also the village houses, which were burnt in the attack.
Meanwhile, villagers submitted a memorandum to the minister, listing their demands, which included construction of a road link to Ind, strengthening of the security measures and providing modern weapons to the VDCs and government's initiatives to other problems of the areas. Bureau Report