After more than two decades of iron-fist response to insurgency in Kashmir, Army is upbeat over its image makeover owing to recently introduced 'people friendly' measures across the valley.
From changing the convoy timings to engaging with people from village to village, from the Ji-Jinab etiquettes of interaction to sweating it out with youth in cricket grounds, the measures, army believes, have started to create a 'positive image in the minds' of people towards the force.
The submission came from Lt Gen SA Hasnain, the General Officer Commanding of strategic Chinar corps on the eve of relinquishing his Command in presence of GOC designate Lt Gen Om Prakash.
"When I came in the aftermath of 2010, the situation was very challenging. But now after 19 months we all know situation has changed to a great extent," said Hasnain. "The peace has prevailed owing to joint efforts of security forces, government and the awaam. And in all this army is being seen in a different light now," he believed.
He said that the 'stray cases of people and army confrontation' were subdued owing to the transparency of the force. "The positive environment was possible because we did not hide anything. Whenever there was mistake on our part we acknowledged that and took action," said Hasnain.
The outgoing GOC said that the introduction of some 'people friendly methods' after 2010 has given a boost to its image makeover. "Now not only the people at the helm of affairs but the common people give us much respect," he said.
{{/usCountry}}The outgoing GOC said that the introduction of some 'people friendly methods' after 2010 has given a boost to its image makeover. "Now not only the people at the helm of affairs but the common people give us much respect," he said.
{{/usCountry}}The General, however clarified that the 'measures were not personality specific but a policy change of the army.' "And this will continue," Hasnain pitched.
The GOC designate Om Prakash, who belongs to Kumaon regiment and has also commanded Siachen Brigade, confirmed the utterances of Hasnain. "We have an established system to follow. Let me assure you that the introduction of pro people behavior will continue in future as well," Lieutenant General, Prakash said.