Following Kashmir government's announcement asking tourists and Amarnath yatris to leave the Valley immediately, an air of panic has prevailed among the residents, who were seen lining up at departmental stores stocking up dry ration and essentials. Long queues were also seen at Petrol pumps fearing long law and order disturbance.
An order issued by Principal Secretary, Home Department, Shaleen Kabra stated, "Keeping in view the latest intelligence inputs of terror threats with specific targeting of the Amarnath Yatra, and given the prevailing security situation in the Kashmir Valley, in the interest of safety and security of the tourists and Amarnath Yatris, it is advised that they may curtail their stay in the valley immediately and take necessary measures to return as soon as possible."
The order only led to increase in fright among the locals as the valley was already tensed due to Centre's ordered to deploy 100 companies of additional troops in Kashmir.
However, Jammu & Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik stated that the advisory issued for Amarnath yatris is only a security measure and urged the political leaders of the state not to believe in rumours and maintain calm.
The Governor met a delegation of political leaders including PDP President Mehbooba Mufti, JK Peoples Movement President Dr Shah Faesal, Peoples Conference (PC) Chairman Sajjad Lone and another PC leader Imran Raza Ansari late last night .
During the meet, the delegation sought clarifications about the advisor and developments thereafter. Governor Malik informed the delegation that there were serious and credible inputs which were available to the security agencies regarding terrorist attacks on the Amarnath Yatra.
On Friday, Army's Corps Commander and State Police Chief detailed about the seriousness of these threats at a joint press conference .
