Five days after the BSF foiled an infiltration bid at the international border in Samba, Defence Minister A K Antony said that such attempts were likely to increase in the next few months. While visiting the troops at the border in the Punjab sector, Antony said the next few months were likely to be “crucial” particularly because of the upcoming Kashmir elections. “Infiltrations are not a new development; there have been a few cases in the past as well. However, now the militants are trying to sneak in through new points. Till April, our borders were by and large peaceful, but now serious attempts at infiltration have started again,” he said.

Antony explained that infiltrations were not limited only to the LOC but also occur through the borders that India shares with other countries.

Antony said the upcoming summer season would see an increased number of infiltration attempts. “Once the snow melts, such attempts are likely to increase. Also, with Kashmir entering into election mode, the next few months could be crucial. The Armed Forces are extremely vigilant and I assure you that all measures are in place to protect the country from such threats. Troops currently deployed in Kashmir are fully capable and prepared to defeat our enemies,” he added.

Antony assured that the upcoming elections in Kashmir would be free and fair. “Obviously, our enemies do not want this and hence, the next few months are of the utmost importance,” he said indicating that infiltrations were aimed at disrupting the election process in Kashmir.

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