INDIAN ARMY TO BUILD MODEL VILLAGE WITH MOSQUE, CHURCH AS PART OF ITS COUNTER-TERRORISM INITIATIVE

Bihar, 10 Dhulqo’dah 1436/25 August 2016 (MINA ) – As a part of its counter-terrorism drills held in the eastern state of Bihar, the Indian Army announced plans to create a model village with a mosque and church in its newest officers’ training academy in Gaya, the Economic Times reported.

The new counter-terrorism village will replace operations in the northeast and Jammu & Kashmir, according to an officer. IINA reported as quoted by Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA).

“The idea is to replicate the situation that exists during real combat missions,” army officer said.

“This will give young personnel under training a chance to hone their skills before they go off for specialized training.”

Smaller versions of training academies in the new village will feature several bamboo and stone huts, besides a pond and hidden areas where weapons and stores can be located.

Co-constructed with the US, villages created during exercises and joint training missions will be one of the few permanent installations at the training academy.

Earlier this year, a video of a mock terror drill showing extremists dressed up as Muslims drew the ire of Indian Muslims and officials, who condemned the provocative video for stigmatizing the religious minority, according to OnIslam net.

In September 2012, another terror drill infuriated Indian Muslim and Hindu activists after portraying Muslims as extremist who wear skullcaps.

Muslims have been sensing increasing prejudice in the country After Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) formed the national government last year. . (T/P008/R03)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)