SRINAGAR: Union Home Minister Amit Shah concluded his two-day visit to Jammu on Thursday. He reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Shah’s visit, focused on support for families affected by recent Pakistani shelling, security review for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, and interaction with Border Security Force (BSF) personnel involved in Operation Sindoor.
Meets shelling-hit families in Poonch
Shah met families affected by cross-border shelling from Pakistan between May 7 and 10. The shelling killed 13 civilians, including four children, and damaged homes and religious sites.
At Dak Bungalow in Poonch, he offered condolences, listened to the grievances of residents, and handed over job appointment letters to the next of kin of those who died.
“I came to Poonch to share the grief of the damage inflicted on our people and religious places, including a gurudwara, a temple, and a mosque. The nation stands with you during this time,” Shah said.
Subhash Chandra, father-in-law of BSF jawan Rambabu Singh who died in the line of duty, said, “The Home Minister’s assurance and the government job offer bring some relief to our family.”
Visits Singh Sabha Gurudwara
Shah visited the Singh Sabha Gurudwara in Poonch, one of the religious places damaged in the shelling. He offered prayers and assured government support for restoration.
“An attack on our religious places is an attack on our shared heritage. The government will ensure their restoration and protection,” Shah said.
Commends BSF’s response
At the 144 Battalion Headquarters of the BSF in Khanetar, about 9 km from Poonch city, Shah addressed a Sainik Sammelan. He praised the BSF jawans for their role in Operation Sindoor.
“Destroying 118 enemy posts in three days shows the BSF’s courage and precision,” Shah said.
“When Pakistan targeted civilian areas, BSF jawans from the Jammu frontier responded with full force.”
He said BSF remains India’s first line of defence and faces both covert and open attacks. “Your efforts are recognised across the country and show India’s resolve to protect its borders,” he said.
Reviews security, Yatra preparedness
Shah’s visit followed a security meeting held in Jammu on May 29. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, DGP Nalin Prabhat, and senior officials from the Army, BSF, CRPF, and intelligence agencies attended.
The review focused on counter-terror operations, Operation Sindoor, and preparations for the Amarnath Yatra.
This was Shah’s third visit to Jammu and Kashmir since April 6, and the first after the launch of Operation Sindoor. (KNO)
