Centre declares ceasefire during Ramzan in J&K

New Delhi, May 16
The Centre on Wednesday decided to declare unilateral ceasefire of its operations in Jammu and Kashmir during Ramzan.

A senior official confirmed that the security forces in the state have been asked not to “launch” operations in J&K during the holy month of Ramzan.
It’s also learnt that the Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti in this regard and intimated her about the Centre’s decision.
“The decision has been taken to help the peace loving Muslims in the state to observe Ramazan in a peaceful environment,” the official said adding that the security forces however reserve the right to retaliate if attacked or if it would be essential to protect the lives of innocent.
“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,” the Home Ministry said in a tweet on Wednesday evening.
“Security Forces to reserve the right to retaliate if attacked or if essential to protect the lives of innocent people. Government expects everyone to cooperate in this initiative and help the Muslim brothers & sisters to observe Ramzan peacefully and without any difficulties,” another tweet read. “It is important to isolate the forces that bring a bad name to Islam by resorting to mindless violence and terror.”
An army spokesperson said: “Our concerns have been addressed. The military can retaliate in case of an attack”.
Ramzan begins on Wednesday, May 16, evening and will end on June 14.