Jammu, Dec 31 (IANS): Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik said on Monday that speaking for militants was a political compulsion for PDP leader and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti.

Mehbooba Mufti had warned on Sunday the Governor-led administration of dire consequences if families of militants were harassed by police.

Speaking on the sidelines of a function here, Governor Malik said: "I do not mind what Mehbooba has said because she is my friend's daughter. But one thing is clear that speaking for militants is their compulsion in view of upcoming Assembly elections."

The Governor said if anything wrong had happened anywhere he would order a high-level probe.

"We have nothing personal against families of militants and strict instructions have been issued to the government forces to be careful during counter insurgency operations."

He termed 2018 year as an overall successful year in many aspects as halted developmental schemes were resumed and people had started realizing that if peace prevails, progress will automatically take place.

He also spoke of the successful and peaceful conduct of Panchayat and civic urban bodies elections held this year under the Governor's rule.