Pak is using social media to mobilize Kashmiri youth: Lt. General

Udhampur: The general officer commanding-in-chief of the northern command, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, said on Thursday the Pakistani army has been using social media to mobilize support among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to instigate them towards terrorism.

He said Pakistan is trying to develop narratives to alter public opinion in Kashmir to disrupt peace and stability. "It is matter of concern for us. We are seized of this concern." He also said that terrorist infrastructure continues to remain intact in PoK and Pakistan.

He said the Pakistani army has been exploiting social media platforms to influence the youth of the Valley to join militancy.

"Radicalization is not only a concern in India but a global concern," Lt Gen Singh told reporters here.

However, he added, the Indian Army has developed effective counter-terrorism capabilities and the fight against terrorism has now entered "an important phase".

"We are using technology and artificial-based solutions to counter the message, so that youth do not fall prey to the designs of the Pakistan army. I am hopeful that in the coming year, we will be able to see peace, prosperity and development in the state," he said.

Singh also said that options for another "surgical strike" on terrorist bases are open.

"Surgical strikes were a tactical operation to give a strategic message that Indian Army has the capability to do acts which are unpredictable. We were successful in conveying that message," he added.

On the investigation into sepoy Aurangzeb's killing in south Kashmir last year, he said, "We got information that one or two jawans intentionally or unknowingly passed information about his movement."

"Perhaps the terrorists picked up the news and took benefit of it," he said adding that an investigation is still going on.

Meanwhile this news has made defence generals run in action as it may have serious implications on the security and solidarity of India.