Villagers against withdrawal of army camp in Kashmir

Notwithstanding separatists' demand for shifting of security camps and bunkers in Kashmir valley, a village in Kupwada district today lodged a protest against the proposed withdrawal of an army camp.
    
The people of Gadbad village located in Lolab valley blocked all roads leading away from the camp to prevent troops from moving, official sources said.
    
The villagers also petitioned senior officers including commander 8 Sector Rashtriya Rifles pleading for retaining the camp in the area.
    
"We do not want the army to shift its camp. They have protected us from militants and their excesses. We do not want the dark days to return. If required we will approach the highest authority in Delhi," 75-year-old Ghulam Ahmad Sheikh said.
    
Sheikh's two daughters were killed by militants in late 90s.
    
Lolab Valley, 100 kms from here, was a hotbed of militancy till the establishment of Rashtriya Rifles camps in the area.
    
When contacted, defence ministry spokesperson Lt Col J S Brar said, "re-adjustment of troops in active counter insurgency operations is a dynamic and ongoing process. However, this is a very heartening development. The senior officers are aware of the matter and the security grid will not be affected".