As polls draw closer, Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh chaired a meeting of all agencies at BB Cant here and worked out a joint security strategy for the coming parliamentary elections. The first phase of elections is scheduled on April 11 and Baramulla constituency, spread over 15 Assembly segments in three districts of Baramulla, Kupwara and Bandipora, is going to polls in Kashmir Valley.A defence ministry spokesman here said the prevailing security challenges were discussed during the meeting. “A joint security strategy was evolved for the coming summer months including maintaining a secure environment during the forthcoming parliamentary elections,’ the spokesman said, continuing, “The empowering atmosphere for the public to observe normalcy was highlighted. Efforts to continually achieve such benign conditions was also acknowledged.” The Army Commander was also briefed about the situation on the Line of the Control including the “befitting response” being given to unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan, resulting in heavy casualties on them, the spokesman said. Earlier Lt Gen Ranbir Singh accompanied by the Chinar Corps Commander Lt Gen KJS Dhillon visited the hinterland formations where he reviewed the prevailing security situation and strategy for counter militancy operations in North Kashmir.Later, the Army Commander visited the formations and units deployed in South Kashmir. “The local commanders briefed him on existing security situation and the close coordination between all government agencies towards maintaining vigil and peace in the Valley.”During interaction with soldiers, the Army Commander was appreciative of the round the clock efforts towards giving a sense of normalcy through dedicated, synergised and tireless endeavours, the spokesman added. (GNS)