Police To Attach Properties Of Those Who Shelter Militants.

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday warned that properties of people providing shelter to militants or their associates will be attached under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

J&K Police said that it has started the process for the attachment of several immovable properties which have been used for purpose of militancy.

SSP, Srinagar, Rakesh Balwal told some reporters that the houses where encounters took place, and houses where militants took shelter and planned attacks on the security forces and the civilians will be attached.

“So far, during 2020-2021, over one dozen such houses have been identified in downtown, Soura, Pantha Chowk, Batmaloo, Nowgam, Harwan etc,” he said. The process of attachment of such properties is being started from Srinagar district in the Valley.

A senior officer said that after attachment of property, 19 UAPA will be invoked. “Section 19- Punishment for harbouring, etc—Whoever voluntarily harbours or conceals, or attempts to harbour or conceal any person knowing that such person is a terrorist shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than three years but which may extend to imprisonment for life, and shall also be liable to fine,” the officer explained.

In February last year, a total of 61 vehicles, 5 houses, 6 shops, besides land and cash were subsequently seized or attached under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The properties included that of separatist leaders and their associates. The permission was granted in 46 cases to restrict the terror activities.

SSP Srinagar has urged the people not to harbour militants and keep a strict vigil on their children. “Time and again we are urging the people to desist from harbouring terrorists,” he said. “We urge them not allow terrorists and their associates anymore,” the SSP said.