High alert in JK after Pak warns of terror attack targeting Amarnath Yatra

The state of Jammu and Kashmir has been put on high alert following an intelligence input issued by the neighbouring Pakistan of a possible terror attack to avenge the killing of Zakir Musa, chief of Ansar Ghazwatul Hind (AGH), who was shot dead recently in an encounter with security forces.

Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir): The state of Jammu and Kashmir has been put on high alert Sunday after security agencies received an intelligence input by the neighbouring Pakistan of a possible terror attack targeting the Amarnath Yatra.

The input warns of a terror attack to be carried out by Al Qaeda in Awantipora area of South Kashmir's Pulwama district, either before or during the Amarnath Yatra beginning July 1. The attack is reportedly to avenge the killing of Zakir Musa, chief of Ansar Ghazwatul Hind (AGH), who was shot dead recently in an encounter with security forces.

"The input has been shared with all security forces engaged in counter-insurgency operations in the state. A high alert has been sounded, although security is already on maximum alert because of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra," said an official on condition of anonymity.

The input has been shared with the Army, CRPF, BSF, ITBP, SSB and the state police.

"About 450 additional companies of central armed police forces (CAPF) are being deployed for the overall security of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. This is in addition to the security grid engaged in anti-militancy operations," he added.

"The input says Al Qaeda is planning the attack to avenge the killing of Zakir Musa, chief of AGH, a proclaimed affiliate of the global terror network. There is no question of lowering the guard," said the official.

The route taken by pilgrims to the Amarnath holy cave passes through the Awantipora district.