J&K LG Manoj Sinha Dismisses Two More Govt Employees Basharat Ahmad Mir and Ishtiyak Ahmed Malik Over Alleged Terror Links

In a continued crackdown on individuals with suspected ties to terrorism, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha on Thursday dismissed two more government employees for their alleged involvement in terror-related activities. This action is part of the administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and efforts to dismantle networks supporting extremist elements in the region.

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According to official sources, the two employees—Basharat Ahmad Mir, an assistant wireless operator in the Jammu and Kashmir Police Department, and Ishtiyak Ahmed Malik, a senior assistant in the Public Works (Roads and Buildings) Department—were terminated under Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution of India. This provision allows dismissal without an inquiry in the interest of state security.

Allegations Against Basharat Ahmad Mir

Mir, a resident of the Upper-Brein area in Srinagar, was originally appointed as a police constable operator in 2010. He served in various units until 2017. After a legal battle over the status of certain constables, Mir was laid off but was later reinstated in 2018 as a wireless assistant following another court ruling.

In December 2023, intelligence agencies reportedly received credible inputs indicating that Mir was in contact with Pakistani intelligence operatives. He allegedly shared sensitive information with adversaries while being posted at a highly sensitive location, raising serious concerns about national security. His dismissal was deemed necessary to protect the integrity and sovereignty of the country, sources said.

Allegations Against Ishtiyak Ahmed Malik

Malik, a resident of Shitroo village in Larnoo, Anantnag district, joined the government service in 2000. Despite being a public servant, he allegedly developed close ties with the banned Jamaat-e-Islami and the terrorist outfit Hizbul Mujahideen. Officials claim that he played a significant role in establishing a local network of sympathisers who later became Over-Ground Workers (OGWs) for militants.

Malik is accused of providing logistical support, including shelter, food, and transportation of arms, to active militants. His name surfaced during the investigation of Hizbul terrorist Mohammad Ishaq, who was arrested in May 2022. Ishaq reportedly revealed Malik’s involvement during interrogation.

Further investigations indicated that Malik was also responsible for mobilising violent mobs, especially after the killing of Hizbul commander Burhan Wani in 2016. On July 9 of that year, he is said to have led a mob armed with stones and petrol bombs in an attack on the Larnoo police post.

A Part of Larger Security Strategy

With these latest dismissals, over 70 government employees have now been terminated by LG Manoj Sinha since he assumed office in August 2020. The moves align with the Modi government’s broader strategy to neutralise threats posed by individuals involved in terror networks, either directly or indirectly.

A senior official said, “These actions are not just punitive; they are strategic measures to uproot the support system that sustains terrorism in the Valley—be it ideological, logistical, or financial.”

On February 15, Sinha had similarly dismissed three government employees, including a jailed policeman, over similar charges.

Terrorism “Breathing Its Last”

The LG has consistently stressed the need to root out terrorism from the Union Territory. Recently, he directed security forces to intensify operations against terrorists and their supporters. According to the administration, terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir is “breathing its last” due to the combined efforts of the security forces and administrative measures aimed at eliminating internal threats.