Pulwama terror attack: Army deploys 9 security columns in Jammu after protests

Jammu: Officials from the Indian Army have said that they have deployed nine security columns with air support in Jammu. This was after several protests broke out over the terror attack in Pulwama that killed 40 CRPF personnel.

"The Army has reacted promptly. Nine Internal Security Columns (ISCs) of the Army from Tiger division were deployed in Gujjar Nagar, Janipur, Shahidi Chowk, Talab Khatika and other areas of Jammu city. They have been provided air support from the White Knight Corps," a senior army officer said.

He also said that flag marches were conducted by the security columns. The official also mentioned that the proactive approach by the state police has ensured that the situation remains in control.

"The proactive approach of the state police, divisional commissioner, collector's office and the Army has ensured that the situation remains in control," he said.

The officer said helicopters and utility armoured vehicles of the Army were also deployed to monitor the situation.

Earlier in the day, incidents of stone pelting and clashes between different factions were reported. The police resorted to cane charge and teargas shelling to disperse crowds. Nine persons were injured in the clashes, officials said. Curfew had been imposed in the city after stray incidents of violence and torching of vehicles took place.

The Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) had called for a complete shutdown of Jammu city on Friday, protesting the death of CRPF men. The bandh was marked by processions by various political parties, he said.

On February 14, an SUV carrying over 300 kg of explosives rammed into convoy that was ferrying over 2,500 CRPF personnel to Srinagar. The Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) outfit has claimed responsibility for the attack. The attacker was all of 20 years and had joined the terror outfit about a year ago.

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