'Beirut-type' bombing, new dimension to J&K militancy

By Shujaat Bukhari

SRINAGAR, APRIL 20. Wednesday's blast outside the 15 Corps headquarters has not only introduced the militant organisation of Moulana Masood Azhar, but also the suicide bombers to the 11-year-old struggle in Kashmir. Security experts are worried about the new dimension of militancy.

``We were caught unawares,'' said an official. Making the Army headquarters his first target, the bomber has tried to introduce this new culture in a big way to invite the attention world over.

The incident has panicked the people in the Valley. More security forces were deployed near important points in the city today. Vehicles were note allowed to cross the important points.

This is the second time, in last one year, militants have gone through in taking on the security forces. In July 1999, the Lashkar-e-Taiba introduced the `Fidayeen' concept of militancy - when the first suicide squad attacked the BSF headquarter at Bandipore killing the DIG and three others. The `Fidayeen' - considered to be highly motivated act - where militants would sneak into the security camps to achieve their `target'.

Suicide attacks have been continuing and the 15 Corps headquarters was earlier targetted on November 3, last when the LeT members stormed into the cantonment, killing the then PRO (Defence) Major Pramod Purushottam and seven others. However, the `Beirut-type' suicide bombing has given a new dimension to militancy. Authorities insist that there was nothing to worry on this account. ``Like yesterday the forces foiled the attempts without having any idea about it. We will be able to foil their plans,'' said an officer.

At the same time the Jaish-e-Mohammad, (JeM), reportedly found by Moulana Masood Azhar, has started its activities in the Valley. Authorities have confirmed that Azhar has formed his own `organisation' to revive jehad in Kashmir.

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