Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Gov. Manoj Sinha has dismissed two government employees for alleged links to terrorist activities, invoking Article 311(2)(c) of the Indian Constitution to terminate their services in the interest of state security.

The individuals, identified as Abdul Rehman Naika, a pharmacist, and Zahir Abbas, a schoolteacher, were found to have ties to Hizbul Mujahideen following extensive investigations by law enforcement and intelligence agencies, according to officials.

Naika, a resident of Kulgam, was reportedly linked to the assassination of nationalist leader Ghulam Hassan Lone in August 2021. Investigators alleged that Naika facilitated the killing by surveilling Lone's movements and enabling a safe escape route for the attackers. Police also discovered Naika's involvement in nurturing a network of overground workers (OGWs) in Kulgam, Shopian, and Anantnag, creating a support ecosystem for terrorism.

Naika was arrested with a hand grenade and AK-47 ammunition and confessed during interrogation to receiving orders from handlers in Pakistan to carry out attacks, officials said. His actions, they noted, exploited his position as a government employee to further terrorism while drawing a taxpayer-funded salary.

Abbas, a teacher in Kishtwar, was arrested in 2020 for harboring Hizbul Mujahideen operatives and aiding their logistical needs. Currently detained in Kot Bhalwal jail, Abbas reportedly provided critical intelligence on security force movements and assisted in hiding arms and ammunition.

Authorities have raised concerns about Abbas' influence as a teacher, alleging he posed a risk of radicalizing students. Even while in custody, intelligence suggests Abbas remains involved in radical activities, law enforcement sources said.

Lt. Gov. Sinha, during a recent security review, reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating terrorism and its supporters within government institutions. "This action underscores our resolve to protect the nation from those undermining its security from within," a top official said.