NEW DELHI: Two government employees in Jammu and Kashmir were fired Friday for alleged connections to terrorism, officials said. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha dismissed Abdul Rehman Naika, a health department pharmacist, and Zahir Abbas, a school education department teacher, using Article 311 (2) (c) of the Constitution.
Investigations by law enforcement and intelligence agencies “clearly established their terror links,” officials stated, as quoted by news agency PTI.
Naika, from Kulgam district, was allegedly involved in the 2021 killing of Ghulam Hassan Lone, described by officials as a “staunch nationalist.” The investigation linked Naika to the Hizbul Mujahideen and revealed his alleged role in planning the attack. Officials say Naika also provided logistical support to terrorists, including reconnaissance and securing escape routes. He was reportedly caught with grenades and AK-47 ammunition. During interrogation, Naika allegedly confessed to receiving orders from Pakistani handlers to attack security forces and political figures in Kulgam.
Meanwhile, Abbas, a former Aligarh Muslim University graduate and teacher in Kishtwar district, was arrested in 2020 for allegedly sheltering Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists. Officials say he provided information about hideouts and other operatives, as well as force movements, to handlers in Pakistan. Officials also claim Abbas provided terrorists with food, shelter, and weapons. They stated, “His presence in a school where he had the potential to influence, indoctrinate and radicalise students fundamentally contradicts the principles of education and poses a direct threat to the stability and security of the nation.” Even now, officials allege Abbas continues “radical activities” in jail.
Officials say these dismissals demonstrate how Pakistani intelligence and terror groups infiltrate the system and finance their activities.
Several other government employees have also been terminated in recent years under the same constitutional provision.
Later, addressing the terrorism in the state, LG Sinha pledged to eradicate terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir and called for public support in this effort. He spoke at a function in Reasi district while attending the “Ati Vishnu Mahayagya.” Sinha honored martyred soldiers and police personnel and thanked Pujya Sant Shri Bal Yogeshwar Maharaj for organizing the event.
Sinha said, “The terror ecosystem will be completely neutralised and terrorists will be wiped out from Jammu and Kashmir. We call upon every section of society to fulfil their responsibilities and join the fight against terrorism to secure J-K’s future.”
He also stated that while neighboring countries attempt to disrupt peace, the army, police, and CRPF have been empowered to combat terrorism. He also added, “The nation will forever remain indebted to the brave soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for unity, integrity, peace, and progress. We have worked with sincerity and honesty to build a progressive and modern J-K of their dreams.”
Sinha further highlighted the region’s progress in the past 50 months attributing it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, citing infrastructure development, a business-friendly environment, and investments in various sectors.
He also mentioned government policies focused on empowering youth, women, farmers, and marginalized groups.