The Army says as per intelligence reports the militants have picked up the Bakerwal dialect and the terrorists could sneak into Ladakh from Suru in the guise of grazers. The move, as per Army, is not based on any suspicion against the nomadic community, but only to prevent terrorists from mixing with Pojwals. Infact, Army has recalled the patriotic role of Pojwal guides in September 1948), when Zanskar and Suru Valley was overrun by Pakistanis. Bhagga, a Pojwal was one of their reliable sources and was with advance patrol which went to Suru in September 1948. 

The Army has tried to explain its stand by arguing that local Muslims and Buddhists of the area are petrified at the mere thought of entry of grazers into the area. Recalling the last year's incident when three Buddhist monks and a German tourist were killed, it said that this has placed the local population under great stress and fear. General Ray has said that permission for grazing could trigger a mass exodus of Buddhists from the region and suggested that Bakerwals must be provided alternate grazing grounds in Western Valley, in South of Zanskar. GOC Arjan Ray said that the Chief Minister had agreed to his stand of not allowing the grazers and said "mission is force militancy from Ladakh". The decision has also been welcomed by Kargilis. Meanwhile Zanskaris have been gripped by fear that militants could strike again in the region. This followed intercepting of some wireless messages. Zanskaris are sore over the state government that it has "failed to create a sense of security in the region". 

Zanskar is linked to Doda through Umasila and Poatla passes and Army fears that militants easily slip back into Doda. Last year 21 statues were stolen from Zangla monastery in the region. 

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