Scrapping Art 370 historic step: Army chief

NEW DELHI: Army chief Gen MM Naravane on Wednesday hailed the abrogation of provisions of Article 370 as a “historic step” and said the move has disrupted plans of the “western neighbour and its proxies,” in a clear reference to Pakistan.
The armed forces have “zero tolerance against terrorism”, he said at the 72nd Army Day function held at the Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi Cantonment.
“We have many options to counter those who promote terrorism and we will not hesitate to use them,” he said.
“Abrogation of Article 370 is a historic step. It will prove to be important in integrating Jammu and Kashmir in the national mainstream. This decision has disrupted the plans of our western neighbour and its proxies,” he said.
Gen Naravane said that the country had to face some security challenges last year.
“Not only it countered proxy war but also other situations. Whether it is the LoC (Line of Control) or LAC (Line of Actual Control), we have ensured security with activeness and strength,” he said, adding that the situation at the northern borders (China border) is relatively peaceful.
The Army chief said that the situation along the LoC is linked to the situation in Jammu and Kashmir.
“In last few days, some of our soldiers achieved martyrdom due to avalanche. We will always remember their sacrifice,” he noted.
On the insurgency in the North East, he said the army and the Assam Rifles have worked together and “the situation has improved a lot” in the region.”And to establish peaceful atmosphere, pressure is being maintained on insurgent groups,” Naravane said.
Captain Tania Sher Gill, the first woman Parade Adjutant, led all-men contingents during the Army Day parade, drawing praises from senior officers and loud cheers from the audience. (PTI)