By Wani Majid
Srinagar July 28 :- In times of conflict, rumours spread faster than facts. That is why every public statement, especially from those who have held high constitutional offices, must be based on truth and responsibility rather than assumptions or political narratives.The recent anti-terror operation at Chanapora, Shopian, stands as a testimony to the professionalism and restraint displayed by the security forces.
For nearly eight days, the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF carried out a painstaking operation that ultimately led to the elimination of a top Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. Despite the tense security situation, one thing remained untouched, the religious faith of the people.Throughout the operation, the call to prayer continued to echo from the mosques. The Muezzin performed the Azaan without interruption. Worshippers walked to the mosques and offered their prayers peacefully. Daily religious activities continued as they always had. No one came forward to allege that they were prevented from practising their faith or performing their religious obligations.
This was not by chance. It reflected the discipline and sensitivity with which the security forces conducted the operation while ensuring that innocent civilians were respected and protected.It is therefore deeply disappointing that allegations were made suggesting restrictions on religious practices during the security operation at the revered shrine in Pakherpora, Budgam on Friday.
Those present at the Friday prayers have stated that while a cordon and search operation was underway, prayers were conducted normally. Security personnel followed established Standard Operating Procedures, including checking identity cards, a routine security measure intended to prevent terrorists from exploiting religious gatherings or civilian areas to escape or cause harm.*
The painful reality of Jammu and Kashmir is that terrorists do not announce where they hide. They often seek refuge among civilian populations, making every operation extremely sensitive. In such situations, security forces face an enormous responsibility. They must eliminate the threat while ensuring that innocent lives, places of worship and the dignity of civilians remain protected. Every decision they make carries the weight of life and death.
The relationship between the Army and the people of Kashmir has never been built solely on security operations. It has been built over decades through countless acts of compassion, sacrifice and humanity. When devastating floods submerged villages, it was Army personnel who carried children and elderly people to safety through chest-deep waters.
When heavy snowfall cut off remote habitations, they opened roads, delivered food and medicines and rescued stranded families. During landslides, cloudbursts and other natural disasters, they have repeatedly risked their own lives to save complete strangers.The Army has also worked tirelessly to create hope where despair once existed. From organising medical camps in far-flung villages to conducting educational programmes, sports tournaments and youth engagement initiatives, they have consistently encouraged young people to choose education, sports and employment over drugs, violence and radicalisation.
Thousands of Kashmiri families have directly benefited from these efforts, creating a bond that extends far beyond uniforms and weapons.That bond cannot be measured in headlines or political speeches. It is reflected in the gratitude of a family rescued during a snowstorm, the smile of a child receiving medical care in a remote village, the confidence of a young athlete representing his district after participating in Army-sponsored sports events, and the silent respect shared between soldiers and villagers who have stood together during difficult times.
Public leaders have every democratic right to question government policies or security measures. However, serious allegations that touch upon the religious sentiments of people and the integrity of security forces must be supported by verified facts. Unverified claims have the potential to create unnecessary fear, damage communal harmony and weaken the trust that countless soldiers and civilians have built together through years of shared hardships and sacrifices.
At a time when our brave soldiers continue to lay down their lives to protect innocent civilians from terrorism, and when local people themselves have repeatedly condemned violence and stood against terror, attempts to spread unverified narratives serve no one’s interest except those who wish to divide society.The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve peace.
They deserve truth. They deserve responsible leadership that places facts above politics and unity above division.Before making statements capable of influencing public opinion, every leader has a moral responsibility to verify the facts. Words spoken from positions of influence carry immense weight. They should heal wounds, strengthen trust and bring people together, not create confusion or cast doubt on those who continue to sacrifice everything for the safety and security of the nation.
The bond between the Army and the people of Kashmir has been forged through sacrifice, compassion, courage and mutual respect. It is far stronger than rumours, far deeper than politics, and it deserves to be protected with the same sincerity with which it has been built over the years.