Two Government Employees Dismissed in J&K for Terror Links; Crackdown Reinforces Zero-Tolerance Policy

SRINAGAR, Aug 22:In a decisive action that underscores Jammu and Kashmir’s uncompromising stance against terrorism, two government employees have been dismissed from service after investigations revealed their active involvement with Pakistan-based terror outfits, particularly Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT). The move, executed under Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution, reflects the administration’s commitment to uprooting terrorism and dismantling its support ecosystem within state institutions.

One of the dismissed employees, Khurshid Ahmad Rather, a teacher appointed in 2003 and regularized in 2008, was found to have been working as an Over Ground Worker (OGW) for LeT. Investigations revealed that he was tasked by Pakistani handlers to procure arms, ammunition, and narcotics, which were later supplied to active militants in the Valley. His direct links with LeT operatives across the Line of Control facilitated several consignments. During interrogations, recoveries of 5 AK-type rifles, an AK-47, pistols, magazines, and live rounds were made through his network. Currently, he remains lodged in Kupwara jail. Authorities expressed concern over how individuals like Khurshid misused their trusted roles in the education system while acting as Pakistani proxies.

The second employee, Siyad Ahmad Khan, an Assistant Stockman in the Sheep Husbandry Department since 2004, was similarly exposed for aiding infiltration and providing shelter and logistics to militants. He was also found engaged in narcotics smuggling to finance terror operations. Arrested earlier this year in Kupwara’s Keran sector, Siyad was caught with arms including an AK-47 and a pistol, besides being linked to cross-border handler Basharat Ahmed Khan. He too remains in custody at Kupwara jail.

Officials condemned such employees as “parasites feeding on the government exchequer while serving terror networks.” The administration stressed that such actions not only betray public trust but also endanger national security.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reiterated his zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, reaffirming that the strategy involves not only aggressive operations against militants but also a systematic crackdown on their supporters and facilitators. The approach includes dismantling support networks, strict legal action against collaborators, and stronger community engagement to foster peace.

Crackdown Reinforces Zero-Tolerance Policy
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