Major blow to terrorism: Hizbul chief Syed Salahuddin, hiding in Pakistan for 34 years, declared absconder

Srinagar (The Uttam Hindu): In the ongoing decisive fight against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, security forces have recorded another important development. A special court in North Kashmir has declared Mohammad Yusuf Shah, also known as Syed Salahuddin, the head of the banned terrorist outfit Hizbul Mujahideen, an absconder. Salahuddin, who has reportedly been hiding in Pakistan for about 34 years, being declared absconder will help police tighten the net around him and his associates.

A senior police officer said on Friday that this action relates to a case registered at Dangiwacha, Sopore police station in 2012. He added that this is not the first time Salahuddin has been declared an absconder — similar declarations were earlier made in cases registered in Budgam and Srinagar districts.

The police officer emphasised that the fight to eliminate terrorism will continue until its complete eradication. He said, “Getting this declaration from the court against Salahuddin is part of our campaign to clamp down on terrorists and their leaders. Our agenda is clear: no terrorist, wherever he runs or hides, will be spared. He will face the law, and this action proves our commitment.”

The officer also noted that the Hizbul commander, originally from Soibugh in Budgam district, may think he can escape by taking refuge in Pakistan, but that will not happen. Wherever he hides in the world, legal action against him will continue.