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Fear factor in Rajouri
Safety major worry for voters in border belt 
Shariq Majeed
Tribune News Service

Dharamsaal-Kalakote (Rajouri), March 29
It’s not a good sign for democracy. Ahead of the parliamentary elections, fear has gripped local residents following increased activity of militants in the area.
In the past three months there have been two fierce encounters. Also, the reports of dreaded Lashkar-e-Toiba militant outfit issuing clear cut directions to disrupt the parliamentary elections in the state, has added to the worries of people, who otherwise are eagerly looking forward to cast their ballot on April 16.
“Militants have increased their activity in our area. Nomads in the higher reaches have revealed that they are spotting militants frequently. We are concerned about our safety on the voting day. It seems too risky business,” says Muhammad Sadiq, a resident of Brebi.
“Two days back when encounter started between security forces and militants at Baaji Maal, most of the villagers migrated to the safer places.
People are quite eager to send their representative to the Lok Sabha who can highlight their sufferings and problems. The government should step up security here to ensure good turnout,” he added.
Intelligence sources too confirmed that the militants have increased activity in the higher reaches of Buddhal and Mahore areas in this border district. Militants may try to disrupt the election process but security forces are well aware of their evil designs and wowuld give them befitting reply, they added. “Security forces have managed to maintain constant pressure on the militants in the area. Just because of two encounters, locals should not be scared. We will take good care of their safety on the V-date,” said a polcie officer in the area.