–More than 400 companies deployed in held-Kashmir ahead of local bodies elections
–Over 40 cops quit, more resignations feared after their videos go viral on social media
SRINAGAR: The authorities in Indian occupied Kashmir have decided to block internet services in an attempt at damage control after over 40 police officials quit their jobs with their resignation videos going viral on social media.
If the trend goes on unchecked, India fears that a heavy chunk of Kashmir police, if not entire, may follow the course as the policemen are facing a lot of pressure from their families to quit the job.
Though Indian authorities in Kashmir admitted to a resignation spree in the region, the government in New Delhi dubbed the videos “propaganda” by the pro-freedom circles.
In a bid to play down the scenario, Chief Secretary BVR Subramanium said the number [of resigned officials] is negligible as compared to the total strength of the force. “Jammu and Kashmir has over 30,000 SPOs [special police officers]. If you compare the number of people [over 40] who have resigned, it’s negligible,” he added.
However, the administration is contemplating new SOPs for the special police officers, including an increase in salary.
MORE TROOPS AHEAD OF POLLS:
Meanwhile, New Delhi is planning to deploy over 400 companies of paramilitary forces, in addition to an already present police force, ahead of local bodies election in spite of calls from two major parties to boycott the polls.
“Security arrangements have been done at unprecedented scale. 400 companies of paramilitary forces will be deployed for these polls in addition to what we already have in the form of police and other paramilitary forces,” BVR Subrahmanyam said while addressing a press conference in Srinagar.
“Unprecedented” arrangements are in place to ensure the four-phase polls starting October 8,” media reports quoted Subrahmanyam as saying.
The chief secretary said that the authorities would provide security to all the candidates on request and facilitate their campaign as well. “We have arranged accommodation for the candidates who want it at various places across the valley,” Subrahmanyam said.
