Terrorists have been seen at 3 large public gatherings in Kashmir valley.
The sight of gun-toting terrorists at public rallies have become the fresh cause of concern in Kashmir Valley, which had been witnessing unrest for almost a month, since the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Burhan Wani.
So far, the terrorists have been spotted at large public gatherings at three different places -- Pulwama, Anantnag and Kulgam districts.
On Wednesday, the terrorists addressed public meetings at Arwani in south Kashmir, asking people to follow the protest and strike calendar issued by the separatist leaders of the Hurriyat.
Government and security forces officials say the request is an indicator of a complete breakdown in law and order.
According to the Central Reserve Police Force, steps are being taken to address this challenge.
"It is a very serious matter. I'm sure some steps are being taken... It is unfortunate, but things will change for the good," said SN Srinvastava, a senior officer.
More than 50 people have died in clashes with security forces and over 3,000 have been injured over the last four weeks.
The police, who have been ordered to show restraint to avoid more civilian casualties, are clearly on the backfoot.
Unable to tackle the large crowds beyond a point, they have been forced to abandon their pickets at several places after mobs attacked them. In Arwani, mobs have set a police station on fire, forcing the officers and a CRPF platoon deployed there to abandon their position.
It is a situation Kashmir has never witnessed before. Not even in 1990, when the entire law and order machinery collapsed after massive uprising.
Ironically, Pakistan-based terror leader Syed Salahudin has now asked terrorists to stay away from public gatherings in the valley -- a statement that has thrown up more questions.