Amid continuing criticism over the announcement of a unilateral ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday once again asserted and clarified that the government hasn’t tied the hands of the security forces. On May 16, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs announced that security forces would not engage in any anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir during Ramzan.

The Ministry had, however, clarified that the security forces reserve the right to take retaliatory action if they are attacked or if it is necessary to protect the lives of innocent civilians. Singh today refused to call it a ceasefire choosing to describe it as suspension of operations. The technical term for this is NICO – Non-Initiation of Combat Operations.

“It wasn't a ceasefire, but suspension of operation in view of Ramzan. But it was clearly said that we will resume operations if any terror activity takes place. We haven't tied the hands of our security forces. Our forces killed five terrorists when an attack took place,” the Home Minister said.

Last Friday, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat said the government could extend the suspension of combat operations in the Kashmir Valley if the continues to see an atmosphere of peace. Gen Rawat, however, made it clear that the government would be forced to do an immediate rethink in case of any action by terrorists.

The Army Chief also said that Pakistan needed to stop infiltrating terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir if it was interested in peace.

“If Pakistan really wants peace, then we will want them to take the first step by stopping infiltration of terrorists into our side. The ceasefire violation mostly takes place to aid infiltration,” Gen Rawat told reporters during a visit to the Kashmir valley to review security situation there.

 “When such an action takes place, we also have to respond. We cannot sit idle. If there is ceasefire violation, then there will be action from our side,” he added.