'Govt to deploy hi-tech surveillance system along LoC to thwart intrusion ': Home minister Amit Shah

NEW DELHI: Union home minister Amit Shah on Monday said that electronic surveillance systems will be deployed along the Line of Control between India and Pakistan to dismantle the cross-border tunnels and thwart repeated incidents of intrusion in Jammu and Kashmir.
While addressing BSF personnel during his visit to border outpost 'Vinay' near in Hiranagar sector of Kathua district, Shah claimed that the new technology will help the security forces to respond to any action from the enemy side.
"We are deploying the electronic surveillance system on the borders, having two models. If anything happens (from the enemy side), you will be able to respond immediately," he said.
"And at the same time, to identify and dismantle underground tunnels, technical means would be put in place," he added.
Shah also commended the dedication and devotion of the BSF in safeguarding the borders throughout the year and said "the real challenge is understood only when one visits the place."
"In cold, rain or extreme heat when temperatures cross 45 degrees Celsius, you remain on guard 365 days and 24 hours on the forward posts keeping an eye on enemy activities," he said.
This comes days after a group of five terrorists, affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed, who had infiltrated into the Indian side of the International Border in the Kathua district were engaged by a team of local police in an encounter in Sanyal village, 4 km inside the IB.
2 terrorists were killed in a gunfight with the security forces that lasted more than 20 hours. Additionally, 4 police men were killed in action after the confrontation which erupted when a search team was ambushed by Pakistani terrorists hiding in the woods.
Kathua district has been a key route for militants for over three decades due to its strategic location. It connects Doda and Udhampur districts to the north, providing a passage to Kashmir valley.
According to security experts, the district’s proximity to the Pakistan border and its rugged terrain with dense forests provide ideal hiding spots for terrorists.