The Defence Ministry has stated that ambulances are not halted during military or paramilitary convoy movements on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway.
The statement, delivered by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth in the Lok Sabha today, emphasized that civilian traffic is regulated temporarily at select points solely for security reasons.
Responding to concerns raised by Jammu Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, Seth acknowledged the regular movement of convoys on the highway for operational purposes.
He stated, “To address security risks and prevent incidents like convoy attacks or ambushes, Road Opening Parties are deployed before any Security Forces Convoy movement. Traffic regulation is temporary, particularly at intersections and U-turns along NH 44.”
Seth stressed that ambulances are always given priority and are not stopped by security forces under any circumstances.
He further clarified that civilian traffic management is overseen by state authorities, including the Jammu Kashmir Police.
MP Mehdi had earlier expressed concerns about frequent stoppages during convoy movements, alleging that even ambulances faced delays, which he claimed could amount to a violation of human rights.
The government’s response sought to assure that efforts are made to strike a balance between operational security and minimizing inconvenience to civilians on the critical highway connecting Jammu and Srinagar.