JK vulnerable to threats from across the border: Chidambaram

The government on Friday said the country, especially Jammu and Kashmir, remains vulnerable to terrorist attacks sponsored by forces from across the border.

Complimenting the Jammu and Kashmir Police and Central Reserve Police Force for successfully eliminating two terrorists in Lal Chowk area of Srinagar on Wednesday, Home Minister P Chidambaram said the terrorists were in communication with their handlers outside the country.

"The incident highlights the fact that the country, especially Jammu and Kashmir, remains vulnerable to terrorist attacks sponsored by forces from across the border," he said in a statement.

The Home Minister said at the same time the country's capacity to neutralise a terrorist attack has also increased considerably.

"I would emphasise once again that the country, especially the security forces, must remain in high level of vigilance but there is no cause for panic. We must remain calm and confident that our security forces can face any challenge," he said.

The Home Minister noted the swift action by Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF personnel in neutralising the two militants without suffering any casualties.

"They also evacuated nearly 600 civilians to safety. It is noteworthy that the Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF conducted the operations without calling the NSG or Special Forces of the Army," he said.

Security forces killed the two LeT terrorists, including a Pakistani, after storming a hotel in busy Lal Chowk area.

A policeman and a civilian were killed while 11 persons, including two CRPF jawans, were injured in the encounter.