Are Terror Links Found at Ratle Hydro Project? Jammu & Kashmir Police Sound Alarm

New Delhi: A major security controversy has arisen regarding the 850 MW Ratle Hydro Electric Project being built in the Kishtwar district of J&K. The police have sent a letter to MEIL (Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited) stating that there are indications that 29 personnel working on this project may have terrorist or criminal backgrounds. The police have clearly written that the appointment of such people may put the security of the project at risk.” 

What have the police said?

In a letter dated November 1, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Naresh Singh informed the General Manager of MEIL that a local police investigation had revealed the names of 29 people against whom “suspicious activities” and possible links with terrorist organizations were found. Police have asked the company to keep an eye on these personnel and inform them immediately of any suspicious activity. 

Who are these 29 people?

Of the 29 people included in the list, allegations of association with extremist organizations have been made against 5. These include a relative of an old local militant, the son of a suspected overground worker, and the son of a surrendered militant. The remaining 23 people have criminal cases registered against them, such as illegal entry, damage to property, etc. Police have said that these people are working in junior positions, and their inclusion in the project gives rise to security concerns. 

Did the company listen to the police?

MEIL Chief Operating Officer (COO) Harpal Singh has confirmed receiving the letter from the police. He said that the company has assured the police that they will monitor the activities of these 29 employees and bring any “suspicious” work to the notice of the police. However, he also raised questions as to how companies can fire these workers without any court decision. He believes that a person's crime cannot be merely that his parents or relatives are terrorists.

Why did political allegations and counter-allegations increase?

Meanwhile, local BJP MLA Shagun Parihar has strengthened his point by citing this letter from the police. He had already raised questions on the appointment of personnel in the project, and now the police warning has come as "verified" his statement. On the other hand, the project administration is also being accused of delaying the project due to Parihar's interference, which has been rejected by MEIL officials. 

Why has the Ratle project been controversial?

Work on the Ratle Hydro Project started in the year 2008. It was earlier taken up as a state project, but work was halted in 2014 due to local protests and security situations. Later it was decided to pursue it as a joint venture between the Central Government and the State. However, now it is again embroiled in controversies due to a mixture of security, administration, and political allegations. 

Could this pose a security threat?

The police have clarified in their letter that projects of “strategic and national importance” often come in the list of high-risk operations. In such a situation, if people with dubious backgrounds are involved, it can be a matter of concern from a security point of view. It is clear from this statement of the police that the local authorities are now keeping a closer eye on this project.