CEASEFIRE IN J&K DURING RAMZAN

New Delhi, May 16: Security forces will not launch any operations in Jammu and Kashmir during the holy month of Ramzan but they reserve the right to retaliate if attacked, the home ministry said on Wednesday.

In a significant initiative aimed at reaching out to the people of the Kashmir Valley, the Centre on Wednesday announced a conditional ceasefire directing the security forces not to launch any fresh counter-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir during the holy month of Ramzan, that is likely to begin on Thursday. The announcement comes before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to the state on Saturday.

However, the security forces will have the right to retaliate in self-defence if attacked or to save the lives of innocent people. Union home minister Rajnath Singh personally spoke to Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and informed her about the Centre’s decision. MHA officials said the decision was taken to “help the peace-loving Muslims observe Ramzan in a peaceful environment”.

“It is extremely important to isolate the forces that bring a bad name to Islam by resorting to mindless violence and terror. We expect people to cooperate in this initiative and help Muslim brothers and sisters to observe Ramzan peacefully and without difficulties,” a senior official said.