JAMMU: Farooq Abdullah, the president of the National Conference, said on Friday that the Army was to blame for the deaths of three civilians and expressed optimism that the families would receive justice, as promised by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Abdullah emphasised the critical role that public support plays in overcoming a variety of obstacles and the possible impact that such incidents may have on public trust in the system. “It is regrettable that innocent people are being killed by our army in our nation. Rajnath Singh, our Minister of Defence, had arrived. He has promised that a thorough investigation will be conducted and that those responsible will face consequences. Abdullah told reporters in this location, “We hope that action will be taken against them and that such incidents would not be repeated.”After they were allegedly picked up by the Army for questioning in relation to a terrorist ambush earlier this month that resulted in the deaths of four soldiers in the Poonch district, three civilians were found dead and five injured. “They are innocent people. How terrorists have come here? Where have they come from? Why have they come here? What can we do, if they come to our houses with guns? They (people) do not have weapons. They don’t have anyone to protect them,” Abdullah said after meeting with the injured civilians in Poonch. He also referred to them as victims of terrorism and questioned the circumstances of terrorists’ cross-border infiltration. Abdullah expressed worry about the effects of abuse by the military, saying that a nation cannot develop without the participation of its civilian population.“You strike them, causing bleeding. There have been three fatalities. Will such deeds strengthen our nation? In the face of such incidents, people tend to lose faith in the system. He cautioned, “This is a dangerous trend for the nation.” Abdullah highlighted the importance of public support in winning wars, citing a lieutenant general. Reiterating his opposition to terrorism, he acknowledged the difficulties presented by skilled terrorists who target police and army officers. It’s important to remember that you can win the war if the people support you. Love and empathy for the people around you. There are terrorists entering. Nothing is stopping them. They have extensive training. They are murdering our army and police officers,” he declared. Endorsing dialogue with Pakistan as the sole means of resolving disputes, Abdullah conveyed optimism for a resumption of talks following elections in both nations. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has announced jobs and compensation for the families of the fallen civilians. With full support and cooperation for the investigation, the Army has ordered a thorough internal investigation.
