New Police Chief Reviews Srinagar Security Setup Before Friday Namaz, Asks Citizens for Support.

Srinagar, J & K : Sujit Kumar, who took over as the new Inspector General of Police for the Kashmir Zone on Thursday, stated on Friday that fighting terrorism and insurgency will remain the security establishment’s primary objective across the valley.

The IGP made these comments during his first on-ground inspection in Srinagar since taking charge. During this visit, he assessed the security measures put in place for the weekly Friday congregational prayers, which were being observed following the celebrations of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW).

The top police officer also evaluated the positioning of personnel and the level of synergy between the Jammu and Kashmir Police and other security forces at locations anticipated to draw large crowds.

While addressing journalists, Kumar emphasized that anti-terror efforts have consistently been a major focus for the security apparatus and will keep receiving undivided attention.

“Operations were our number one concern in the past, and they will remain our number one concern going forward,” the IGP stated when asked about the recent uptick in anti-insurgency activities across different areas of Kashmir.

He further noted that security forces have conducted multiple operations throughout the valley over the past few days, resulting in substantial seizures of arms and other materials.

During his visit to Srinagar, IGP Kumar examined the security protocols, crowd-control strategies, and inter-agency collaboration at sites anticipating high footfalls for the Friday prayers.

He mentioned that a key immediate goal of his tour was to observe how police teams and other security units were functioning together on the ground.

“I assumed charge yesterday, and today our first task is to check the ground-level coordination between our police personnel and other agencies,” he explained.

Kumar added that similar evaluations were being carried out at other significant prayer gathering points in Srinagar to ensure hassle-free public movement, effective crowd handling, and the upkeep of public order.

The police chief also appealed to residents to offer their support to law enforcement and security staff, especially given the heightened security measures and traffic diversions implemented near major prayer venues.

Kumar acknowledged that these extra security steps might cause short-term difficulties for travelers and locals, but urged people to extend their cooperation to the authorities.

“A large number of devotees are offering prayers today, so we ask for your understanding. We recognize that commuting has become challenging for the public,” he said.

He reassured the populace that the Kashmir Zonal Police would remain committed to safeguarding their lives and property, while implementing all necessary steps to preserve peace, safety, and stability throughout the region.

“I extend my greetings to everyone and want to give my assurance that the Zonal Police is constantly available for your service,” Kumar affirmed.

Sujit Kumar officially assumed his duties as IGP of the Kashmir Zone on Thursday evening. Shortly after taking over, he initiated a review of the security landscape, troop deployments, and operational readiness in various parts of the valley.

Report By – Mudasir Maqbool