The Jammu and Kashmir police have announced a bounty of Rs lakh for clues about those involved in rising braid-chopping cases that have also led to protests and mob justice across the Valley. The scale of alarm can be understood from the fact that the bounty on the heads of "A category" militants in the restive state is Rs 5 lakh.

Cases of hair of women and girls being chopped have led to a law and order problem with residents thrashing suspects in many areas. The Jammu division alone has witnessed 100 cases, while Kashmir recorded 45, including unsuccessful attempts.

What however have alarmed the government are apprehensions that militants and separatists might use braid chopping as a pretext to whip up passions against security forces in the Valley.

Hurriyat hawk Syed Ali Geelani already has pointed fingers at security forces, and asked people to "act accordingly and expose agencies involved in this heinous crime".

However, nobody has been arrested in the Valley so far, prompting the police to double the reward money from Rs three lakh for any information leading to mysterious braid chopper(s).

"The name and other details of person or persons giving information will be kept secret", said a police spokesperson.

The police have also established helplines in every district, and general public has been advised to use them if it finds any suspicious person and movement. Special Investigation Teams have also been formed to bring culprits to justice.

A notorious motorcycle thief from Budgam, two security personnel on covert duties, two insane persons and a migrant labourer have so far been caught by people on suspicion.

"The labourer was beaten to a pulp when he was found smoking in the shades of a boundary wall. He was later taken to hospital by the same people who thrashed him after he was recognised by his house owner", said a police officer.

Under pressure, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti issued instructions to officials to nab those involved in braid-chopping incidents. She asked the DGP to constitute special teams in every district, and track down the culprits spreading fear among young women by chopping their hair.