Several youths participated in the recruitment rally for Army's Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI) Regimental Centre at Rangreth Srinagar. | Photo Credit: Times Now

Srinagar: In a move that can be seen as a slap to those who attempt to create a fear psychosis in the state, hundreds of youths in Jammy and Kashmir have joined the Indian Army’s recruitment drive in Srinagar. Several youths and relatives of former army-men and serving soldiers participated in the recruitment rally for Army's Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI) Regimental Centre at Rangreth Srinagar.

The rally was conducted especially for the relatives – sons, and brothers – of ex-servicemen, especially those linked to the Army. A massive response was reported for the recruitment rally for the Indian Army. In August, a total of 215 Kashmiri men were inducted into the Indian Army at the 115th passing out parade in Srinagar, with the recruits joining the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI).

The Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI) regiment was formed in 1947 when Pakistan had attempted to infiltrate and capture the state of Kashmir. The locals volunteered to face the intruders and fought against the Pakistani forces. The JKLI was known as the Malaysian force at that time.

​Later, the regiment was inducted in the Indian Army in 1972 and was christened as the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry. The JKLI happens to be the most decorated regiment in the Army and played a crucial role in the Kargil war.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the Punjab Police questioned two Kashmiri youths over their suspected links with a Special Police Officer (SPO) who deserted his post and fled from a PDP MLA’s residence in Srinagar, along with a cache of arms, including seven AK-47 rifles. He later reportedly joined the terror outfit, Hizbul Mujahideen, in the state.

