Srinagar, August 1: Amid prevalent tensions in Jammu & Kashmir over the rumoured intent of Narendra Modi government to scrap Article 35-A of the Indian Constitution, the Centre has decided to rush 25,000 additional paramilitary troopers to the Valley. The deployment comes a week after 10,000 more soldiers were rushed to the frontier state.

The sudden deployment is likely to further boost anxiety and fear among Valley residents, who have raised apprehensions over the speculations to abrogate Article 35-A -- which defines the permanent residents of the state. J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik Dispels 'Rumour' on 35-A, Calls Speculations Baseless

Political parties in J&K have called for unity and joint opposition against the Centre to defend the abrogation of the law. Former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti has called upon the workers of her People's Democratic Party (PDP) to reach all households irrespective of their political affiliations.

"Speculations are rife that an attack could made on (Article) 35-A. To prevent that, we all have to unite. Not just political leaders, but political workers of all parties, whether they are of the National Conference, Congress, BJP or PDP," Mufti said.

"Our workers should go to all households and inform the residents that at this moment, we need to keep our political differences aside. To safeguard 35-A, we need to be ready to sacrifice our assets and lives," she added.

Speculations of a possible abrogation of Article-35A gained pace after 10,000 additional troops were dispatched to the Valley, shortly after National Security Advisor Ajit Doval's visit to the state.

Governor Satya Pal Malik has, however, asked J&K residents to not to pay heed to rumours. The speculations are baseless, he said, adding that the Centre has not discussed with him about any such move.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 01, 2019 11:25 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).