Centre on Wednesday asked the forces not to launch operations in Jammu and Kashmir during the month of Ramadhan. However, forces have been given the right to retaliate “if attacked or if essential to protect the lives of innocent people.”
“The Centre asks Security Forces not to launch operations in Jammu & Kashmir during the holy month of Ramzan. Decision taken to help the peace loving Muslims observe Ramzan in a peaceful environment,” Home Ministry said on Twitter.
In a series of tweets, it said that home minister Rajnath Singh has informed the Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti of the Centre’s decision.
“It is important to isolate the forces that bring a bad name to Islam by resorting to mindless violence and terror. Government expects everyone to cooperate in this initiative and help the Muslim brothers & sisters to observe Ramzan peacefully and without any difficulties,” it said.
However, the forces “reserve the right to retaliate if attacked or if essential to protect the lives of innocent people.”
The announcement comes just a week after Mehbooba Mufti convened an all-party meeting in Srinagar which called for ceasefire during Ramadhan.