VDGs emerged as first line of defense: Dr Nirmal Singh

Dr Nirmal Singh, former Dy. Chief minister, Parliamentary Cluster Incharge and Incharge of village defense guard cell, ex-servicemen and border development cell of BJP J&K, while addressing the VDG members said that village defense guard has emerged as a formidable first line of defense in providing security at the door steps of the people against Pakistan sponsored terrorism. Singh further said that during the peak of militancy in most parts of Jammu division, especially the hilly and far-flung areas of Udhampur, Reasi and Kathua districts, the VDCs played a significant role in combating militancy.

They are the most-feared armed groups among militants in areas where no road connectivity delays the arrival of security forces and added that the villagers, well-versed with the local topography, averted many militant attacks and helped in their capture and killings.

Dr Singh emphasized that VDGs has come a long way in instilling a sense of security and confidence in the villagers and also serves as a deterrent to the terrorists who would expect stiff resistance if they ever ventured to attack the villagers.

He said that VDGs being largely ex-servicemen, armed with automatic weapons, coupled with training, is an asset in taking on terrorists.

 In addition to this VDG also serve as sources for the collection of intelligence against the militant activities in the upper reaches of the state.

Dr Nirmal assured the VDG members that their issues shall be taken up with Union Govt on priority after the elections.

It is pertinent to mention here that more than 1000 VDG members from Chasana, Mahore, Pouni, Reasi, Katra, Gulabgarh, Chana, Arnas, Bomag, Ransu Shiv Khori of District Reasi attended the Sammelan.

Rakesh Mahajan all cells incharge said that VDG is playing a vital role in curbing the militancy by providing a strategic support to the paramilitary forces and infuses a sense of security among the people.

Basant Raj Thakur convenor VDG cell BJP J&K also spoke on the occasion and assured the members that the case of unpaid VDG members would be taken up with the administration.

Meanwhile VDG members thanked PM Narendra Modi, HM Amit Shah and LG J&K for regularizing Village Defense Committees and assured their full support to the party in the coming general elections. The Sammelan ended with a large procession at Reasi in which all the members participated.