RPF officer's letter alerts Railways staff on ‘emergency situation’ in Kashmir Valley

A letter purportedly issued by the office of the Senior Divisional Security Commissioner, Railway Protection Force (RPF), Srinagar, asking employees to stock ration and drinking water, not to keep their families in Kashmir, and to restrict leave due to the “emergency situation” has added to the fear and speculation in the Valley. The Ministry of Railways immediately “revoked” the letter and said the officer “was not authorised to issue such a letter and did not have the approval of the competent authority to do so either”. According to a clarification issued by the ministry, the Senior Divisional Security Commissioner of Firozpur Railway Division had proceeded on one-year study leave last week. The officer who issued the letter was “next in line” to occupy that post.