Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Highlights Ongoing Encounters in 2026
In a subtle dig at the BJP’s claim that terrorism would cease after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah pointed out that encounters are still occurring in 2026. This statement comes following the recent killings of three Pakistani terrorists in encounters with security forces in the higher reaches of Ramnagar in Udhampur and Chatroo in Kishtwar districts.
The death toll in nine gunfights in the Jammu region over the past three weeks has now reached five, with one Pakistani terrorist killed in Kathua on January 23 and an Army paratrooper losing his life in a gunfight in Kishtwar on January 18.
Abdullah expressed concerns about the continuous cycle of violence, questioning the origins of the terrorists and how they managed to reach Udhampur. Despite expectations that terrorism would diminish post-2019, the chief minister noted that incidents are still prevalent, even in areas previously free of such activities.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s Visit and Cancer Incidence
Referring to the upcoming visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Abdullah preferred not to disclose details to the media, emphasizing the need for face-to-face discussions on various pressing issues. He also addressed the rise in cancer cases in the Union Territory, acknowledging the escalating incidence and the necessity for medical experts to investigate the underlying causes.
Abdullah outlined the government’s approach to combatting the rising number of cancer cases, emphasizing increased funding for research and development, strengthening healthcare systems, and providing financial support to economically disadvantaged individuals struggling with the high costs of cancer treatment.
He mentioned the government’s plans to introduce a special package for such patients in the near future, aiming to alleviate the financial burden associated with cancer care.
Overall, Abdullah’s remarks shed light on the ongoing security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir, the upcoming discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the government’s efforts to address the rising cancer incidence in the region.
