Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has ordered the dismissal of five government employees following allegations of links with terror outfits and coordination with Pakistan-based commanders working with the ISI. The move, undertaken under Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution, reflects the administration’s zero-tolerance approach toward employees suspected of involvement in anti-national activities.
Among the terminated employees are laboratory technician Tariq Ahmad Rah and forest field worker Farooq Ahmad Bhat, both hailing from Anantnag. Alongside them, ex-MLA Gul Mohammad Akhoon is also implicated in the case. The five employees were allegedly involved in aiding Hizbul Mujahideen (Hizb) divisional commander Mohammad Amin Baba, alias Aabid, in criminal activities targeting national security.
According to official reports, the employees are accused of providing logistical support and facilitating the escape of Mohammad Amin Baba to Pakistan in 2005 through the Attari-Wagah border. The case was taken over by the Jammu & Kashmir State Investigation Agency (SIA) in September 2023 for further investigation, which found evidence suggesting active participation of these employees in terror-related activities.
The administration acted decisively after reviewing the findings of the investigation. The decision to terminate the employees under Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution allows immediate dismissal without inquiry when the action is deemed necessary in the interest of public service and security. The move has been described by officials as part of a larger effort to ensure that government institutions remain free from individuals with links to terrorism.
Security analysts note that this action sends a strong message regarding vigilance within government departments, emphasizing that involvement in activities threatening national security will result in strict consequences. The SIA continues to investigate other possible links between employees and terrorist organizations to prevent further infiltration.
The dismissed employees’ alleged links to Pakistan-based commanders and the ISI highlight ongoing security challenges in Jammu & Kashmir. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining the integrity of state institutions and ensuring that government employees uphold the highest standards of loyalty and conduct.
Political observers suggest that the move also strengthens public confidence in the administration’s commitment to national security. By acting promptly on the investigation findings, the J&K administration aims to deter any potential misuse of official positions by individuals with anti-national affiliations.
Officials have confirmed that the investigation and terminations are separate from ongoing criminal proceedings, which will continue against the individuals involved. The J&K government has assured that all procedural and legal measures are being followed to ensure transparency and fairness while safeguarding national security interests.
This development underscores the importance of vigilance, intelligence coordination, and administrative action in addressing threats posed by terrorism, particularly in sensitive regions like Jammu & Kashmir.
