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Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria arrived in Delhi on Saturday for consultations with senior officials and leadership over the Pulwama terror attack, sources said.

The Indian envoy has been called for consultations at a time when the government is looking at options for giving a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-party-meeting-on-saturday-to-deliberate-upon-pulwama-terror-attack-197655">befitting reply to Pakistan</a> over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/explainer-jaish-e-mohammad-the-pakistan-based-militants-at-heart-of-tension-with-india-197647">dastardly terror attack in Pulwama</a> which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel.

In the wake of the attack, the Centre on Friday announced its decision to withdraw the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status granted unilaterally to Pakistan while asserting that there is “incontrovertible evidence” about Islamabad`s involvement in the gruesome terror attack."Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan stands withdrawn," said Finance Minister Arun Jaitley after a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Friday.

India will also make all possible efforts to ensure “complete isolation” of Pakistan in the international community and work for early adoption of the long-pending Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT), which is pending before the United Nations, he added.

India had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never accorded the same status to India.

Under the international trade rules, MFN is a treatment accorded to a trade partner to ensure non-discriminatory trade between two countries.

A CRPF convoy, while moving from Jammu to Srinagar, was attacked by a suicide bomber in Lethpora area on the national highway at around 3.15 pm on Thursday.

Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) claimed responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;

Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria arrived in Delhi on Saturday for consultations with senior officials and leadership over the Pulwama terror attack, sources said.

Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria arrived in Delhi on Saturday for consultations with senior officials and leadership over the Pulwama terror attack, sources said. The Indian envoy has been called for consultations at a time when the government is looking at options for giving a befitting reply to Pakistan over the dastardly terror attack in Pulwama which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel. In the wake of the attack, the Centre on Friday announced its decision to withdraw the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status granted unilaterally to Pakistan while asserting that there is “incontrovertible evidence” about Islamabad`s involvement in the gruesome terror attack."Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan stands withdrawn," said Finance Minister Arun Jaitley after a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Friday. India will also make all possible efforts to ensure “complete isolation” of Pakistan in the international community and work for early adoption of the long-pending Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT), which is pending before the United Nations, he added. India had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never accorded the same status to India. Under the international trade rules, MFN is a treatment accorded to a trade partner to ensure non-discriminatory trade between two countries. A CRPF convoy, while moving from Jammu to Srinagar, was attacked by a suicide bomber in Lethpora area on the national highway at around 3.15 pm on Thursday. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) claimed responsibility for the attack.

Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan arrives in Delhi for consultations on Pulwama terror attack

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Saturday took to the streets on Saturday to extend solidarity with the over 40 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-diplomacy-takes-centerstage-as-india-prepares-to-isolate-pakistan-197623">CRPF martyrs&nbsp;of the Pulwama terror attack</a>.

Banerjee, along with hundreds of Trinamool Congress supporters, took out a candlelight march from Hazra in South Kolkata to Mahatma Gandhi’s statue in Esplanade to pay their respects to the martyrs.

Besides Banerjee, other senior leaders were also seen joining the solidarity rally without any party flags and slogans. Leaders holding on to candles had covered their faces with a black stripe to register their protest against the terror attack.

At the Gandhi statue, Banerjee and party cadres raised slogans of ‘Jai Hindi’ and ‘Vande Mataram’.

“All of us are united. This is united India. Terrorism has no religion. We do not support any kind of terrorism be it in the country or in the world. We stand united with the families of the CRPF jawans who lost their lives in the line of duty,” said Banerjee.

This apart, party chief Banerjee asked leaders to take out a silent protest on Sunday&nbsp;in their respective blocks to show solidarity with the jawans.

“In between 2-3pm, take out a silent rally in your respective areas. Also, keep in mind that no microphones or speakers can be used as students are appearing for Madhyamik (mid-term) examinations,” she added.

A suicide bomber from the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group had <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-jem-terrorist-carried-out-ghastly-pulwama-attack-sources-tell-wion-197810">rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a CRPF bus</a> in Pulwama district&nbsp;on Thursday evening killing around 40 personnel and leaving many critically wounded.&nbsp;

Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-summons-pakistan-high-commission-lodges-strong-protest-197574">Narendra Modi</a> strongly&nbsp;condemned&nbsp;the incident and said&nbsp;all Indians are angry right now.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Saturday took to the streets on Saturday to extend solidarity with the over 40 CRPF martyrs of the Pulwama terror attack.

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Saturday took to the streets on Saturday to extend solidarity with the over 40 CRPF martyrs of the Pulwama terror attack. Banerjee, along with hundreds of Trinamool Congress supporters, took out a candlelight march from Hazra in South Kolkata to Mahatma Gandhi’s statue in Esplanade to pay their respects to the martyrs. Besides Banerjee, other senior leaders were also seen joining the solidarity rally without any party flags and slogans. Leaders holding on to candles had covered their faces with a black stripe to register their protest against the terror attack. At the Gandhi statue, Banerjee and party cadres raised slogans of ‘Jai Hindi’ and ‘Vande Mataram’. “All of us are united. This is united India. Terrorism has no religion. We do not support any kind of terrorism be it in the country or in the world. We stand united with the families of the CRPF jawans who lost their lives in the line of duty,” said Banerjee. This apart, party chief Banerjee asked leaders to take out a silent protest on Sunday in their respective blocks to show solidarity with the jawans. “In between 2-3pm, take out a silent rally in your respective areas. Also, keep in mind that no microphones or speakers can be used as students are appearing for Madhyamik (mid-term) examinations,” she added. A suicide bomber from the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group had rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a CRPF bus in Pulwama district on Thursday evening killing around 40 personnel and leaving many critically wounded. Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the incident and said all Indians are angry right now.

Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee joins candlelight march in solidarity with Pulwama terror attack martyrs

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday announced ex-gratia of Rs 12 lakh and a government job to the kin of CRPF jawans from the state, who were martyred in Pulwama terror attack.

Among the deceased, four CRPF jawans--Kulwinder Singh, Jaimal Singh, Sukhjinder Singh and Maninder Singhand--were from Punjab.

"Even though we can never compensate the loss of these brave sons of Punjab, my government has announced a compensation of Rs 12 lakh and a job to next of kin of the martyrs belonging to Punjab. I stand by the families of these brave-hearts who made the supreme sacrifice in #Pulwama," the Chief Minister tweeted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-jharkhand-cm-announces-compensation-of-rs-10-lakh-job-to-family-of-deceased-soldier-197695">Pulwama attack: Jharkhand CM announces compensation of Rs 10 lakh, job to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-jharkhand-cm-announces-compensation-of-rs-10-lakh-job-to-family-of-deceased-soldier-197695">family</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-jharkhand-cm-announces-compensation-of-rs-10-lakh-job-to-family-of-deceased-soldier-197695"> of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-jharkhand-cm-announces-compensation-of-rs-10-lakh-job-to-family-of-deceased-soldier-197695">deceased</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-jharkhand-cm-announces-compensation-of-rs-10-lakh-job-to-family-of-deceased-soldier-197695"> soldier</a>

Around 40 CRPF personnel were killed after a suicide bomber rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus carrying them on Thursday.

The bus was extensively damaged in the blast.

The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

Soon after the attack, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which is based in Pakistan and backed by Islamabad, claimed the responsibility for the attack and said it was carried out by its suicide bomber.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday announced ex-gratia of Rs 12 lakh and a government job to the kin of CRPF jawans from the state, who were martyred in Pulwama terror attack.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday announced ex-gratia of Rs 12 lakh and a government job to the kin of CRPF jawans from the state, who were martyred in Pulwama terror attack. Among the deceased, four CRPF jawans--Kulwinder Singh, Jaimal Singh, Sukhjinder Singh and Maninder Singhand--were from Punjab. "Even though we can never compensate the loss of these brave sons of Punjab, my government has announced a compensation of Rs 12 lakh and a job to next of kin of the martyrs belonging to Punjab. I stand by the families of these brave-hearts who made the supreme sacrifice in #Pulwama," the Chief Minister tweeted. Also read: Pulwama attack: Jharkhand CM announces compensation of Rs 10 lakh, job to family of deceased soldier Around 40 CRPF personnel were killed after a suicide bomber rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus carrying them on Thursday. The bus was extensively damaged in the blast. The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Soon after the attack, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which is based in Pakistan and backed by Islamabad, claimed the responsibility for the attack and said it was carried out by its suicide bomber.

Pulwama terror attack: Punjab CM announces Rs 12 lakh ex gratia, job to next of kin of slain CRPF jawans

The Pulwama terror attack has shown that it is now time to penetrate into Pakistan directly, said Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday.

&nbsp;"This is not just a terrorist attack but an incursion of our intelligence agencies. If India had no prior information about such a major attack, then the question arises. What is the role of the intelligence agencies? If an intelligence failure led to the terrorist attack on the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy then those who were in charge should be removed," Uddhav Thackeray said while speaking to media persons on the ghastly terror attack on CRPF convoy in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir."

"After surgical strikes of 2016, it is now time to penetrate into Pakistan directly," he added.&nbsp;

Appealing the whole nation to stand together against Pakistan, Thackrey said, "In the whole country, people should come together to tell Pakistan that our country will not bend and we will teach them a lesson. Those who are in powers, if they do not understand what they are doing then they should be removed from their positions. We had made surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir but now have to penetrate into Pakistan directly."

"Elections and every other thing is secondary but it is most important to give a tit-for-tat response to Pakistan," he added.&nbsp;

As many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed after a suicide bomber attacked a CRPF convoy in Pulwama district with a vehicle laden with explosives.

The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.&nbsp;

The slain CRPF personnel were travelling in a bus which came under the terror attack.JeM, a Pakistan-based terrorist group, has claimed the responsibility for the attack which left the bus extensively damaged.&nbsp;

The Pulwama terror attack has shown that it is now time to penetrate into Pakistan directly, said Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday. "This is not just a terrorist attack but an incursion of our intelligence agencies.

The Pulwama terror attack has shown that it is now time to penetrate into Pakistan directly, said Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday. "This is not just a terrorist attack but an incursion of our intelligence agencies. If India had no prior information about such a major attack, then the question arises. What is the role of the intelligence agencies? If an intelligence failure led to the terrorist attack on the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy then those who were in charge should be removed," Uddhav Thackeray said while speaking to media persons on the ghastly terror attack on CRPF convoy in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir." "After surgical strikes of 2016, it is now time to penetrate into Pakistan directly," he added. Appealing the whole nation to stand together against Pakistan, Thackrey said, "In the whole country, people should come together to tell Pakistan that our country will not bend and we will teach them a lesson. Those who are in powers, if they do not understand what they are doing then they should be removed from their positions. We had made surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir but now have to penetrate into Pakistan directly." "Elections and every other thing is secondary but it is most important to give a tit-for-tat response to Pakistan," he added. As many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed after a suicide bomber attacked a CRPF convoy in Pulwama district with a vehicle laden with explosives. The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. The slain CRPF personnel were travelling in a bus which came under the terror attack.JeM, a Pakistan-based terrorist group, has claimed the responsibility for the attack which left the bus extensively damaged.

It's time to penetrate into Pakistan directly: Uddhav Thackeray on Pulwama terror attack

In view of the terror attack in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, WION is withdrawing its invitation to all the speakers from Pakistan who were to participate in the Global Summit: South Asia Edition that is scheduled to take place in Dubai on February 20.

We believe this heinous attack has vitiated the atmosphere and any deliberation on collective prosperity with Pakistan is untenable.

Among those who will not be joining us now is Mr Fawad Chaudhry, Minister of Information and Broadcasting in the Govt of Pakistan, whose statements on the Pulwama attack we unequivocally condemn.

General Pervez Musharraf, former President and Army Chief of Pakistan, Mr Abdul Basit, former High Commissioner of Pakistan to India and Mr Salman Bashir, former Foreign Secretary of Pakistan will also not be part of the Summit now.

However, the other sessions of the Global Summit on unleashing the collective potential of South Asia, the strategic balances and alliances in the region, the India-Maldives partnership, sustainable growth, the role of women in nation building and the changing face of media will be held as scheduled.

WION remains committed to presenting India’s perspective to the world, and that includes taking a stand against entities and individuals trying to hurt India.

We salute the martyrs of Pulwama. Our thoughts and prayers remain with their families.

In view of the terror attack in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, WION is withdrawing its invitation to all the speakers from Pakistan who were to participate in the Global Summit: South Asia Edition that is scheduled to take place in Dubai on February 20.

In view of the terror attack in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, WION is withdrawing its invitation to all the speakers from Pakistan who were to participate in the Global Summit: South Asia Edition that is scheduled to take place in Dubai on February 20. We believe this heinous attack has vitiated the atmosphere and any deliberation on collective prosperity with Pakistan is untenable. Among those who will not be joining us now is Mr Fawad Chaudhry, Minister of Information and Broadcasting in the Govt of Pakistan, whose statements on the Pulwama attack we unequivocally condemn. General Pervez Musharraf, former President and Army Chief of Pakistan, Mr Abdul Basit, former High Commissioner of Pakistan to India and Mr Salman Bashir, former Foreign Secretary of Pakistan will also not be part of the Summit now. However, the other sessions of the Global Summit on unleashing the collective potential of South Asia, the strategic balances and alliances in the region, the India-Maldives partnership, sustainable growth, the role of women in nation building and the changing face of media will be held as scheduled. WION remains committed to presenting India’s perspective to the world, and that includes taking a stand against entities and individuals trying to hurt India. We salute the martyrs of Pulwama. Our thoughts and prayers remain with their families.

WION withdraws invitation to Pervez Musharraf and Fawad Chaudhry from its Global Summit in Dubai

The first train carrying Nepal-bound transit containers under the new simplified trans-shipment procedure was on Friday jointly flagged off from Kolkata by Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar, Commissioner of Customs, Kolkata and CG Nepal.

On Friday, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs introduced the trans-shipment procedure using the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS), a new procedure facilitating the transport of Nepal bound transit containers from Kolkata/Haldia port.

This modality has been introduced on a pilot basis on rail route from Kolkata/Haldia to Birgunj via Raxual LCS and Biratnagar via Bathnaha Railway Station and Jogbani LCS, said a statement by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.

A similar facility for Nepal-bound transit cargo had been previously introduced on a pilot basis from Vishakhapatnam port in August last year.

"This is a significant step towards automating Customs transit facilitation between two countries and renews the commitment of Indian government to improve the transit facilities for Nepalese trade. Under this new modality, the need for Nepalese traders to seek permission and file transit declaration is done away with," the statement added.

The ECTS offers the facility of sealing the containers using high-security electronic seals, having tracking functionality embedded in them, it said.

The Nepalese traders would immensely benefit out of the new modality as it would ensure safe and secure transit, simplified border formalities reduction in transit time and transaction cost and improved shipment visibility.

The first train carrying Nepal-bound transit containers under the new simplified trans-shipment procedure was on Friday jointly flagged off from Kolkata by Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar, Commissioner of Customs, Kolkata and CG Nepal.

The first train carrying Nepal-bound transit containers under the new simplified trans-shipment procedure was on Friday jointly flagged off from Kolkata by Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar, Commissioner of Customs, Kolkata and CG Nepal. On Friday, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs introduced the trans-shipment procedure using the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS), a new procedure facilitating the transport of Nepal bound transit containers from Kolkata/Haldia port. This modality has been introduced on a pilot basis on rail route from Kolkata/Haldia to Birgunj via Raxual LCS and Biratnagar via Bathnaha Railway Station and Jogbani LCS, said a statement by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. A similar facility for Nepal-bound transit cargo had been previously introduced on a pilot basis from Vishakhapatnam port in August last year. "This is a significant step towards automating Customs transit facilitation between two countries and renews the commitment of Indian government to improve the transit facilities for Nepalese trade. Under this new modality, the need for Nepalese traders to seek permission and file transit declaration is done away with," the statement added. The ECTS offers the facility of sealing the containers using high-security electronic seals, having tracking functionality embedded in them, it said. The Nepalese traders would immensely benefit out of the new modality as it would ensure safe and secure transit, simplified border formalities reduction in transit time and transaction cost and improved shipment visibility.

First Nepal-bound container train under ECTS flagged off

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-postpones-presidential-parliamentary-election-for-one-week-197707">Nigeria postpones presidential, parliamentary election hours before polls due to open</a>

Nigeria's electoral watchdog on Saturday postponed presidential and parliamentary elections for one week, just hours before polls were due to open.

The voting has been rescheduled on February 23.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pulwama-attack-india-slams-pakistan-yet-again-says-islamabad-cannot-claim-its-unaware-of-jem-presence-197702">Pulwama attack: India says Islamabad cannot be blind to JeM presence in its soil</a>

India slammed Pakistan Foreign Secretary (FS) Tehmina Janjua on Friday after the latter in his briefing to ambassador of permanent five (P5) members of United Nations security council (UNSC) rejected Pakistan's involvement in the Pulwama attack. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/five-dead-multiple-wounded-in-us-mass-shooting-police-197682">Five dead, multiple wounded in US mass shooting: Police</a>

Five people were killed and multiple police officers shot Friday when a gunman opened fire in an industrial area on the outskirts of Chicago, the latest mass shooting to hit the United States.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mueller-seeks-tough-sentence-for-ex-trump-campaign-chairman-manafort-197689">Special Counsel Mueller seeks </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mueller-seeks-tough-sentence-for-ex-trump-campaign-chairman-manafort-197689">tough</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mueller-seeks-tough-sentence-for-ex-trump-campaign-chairman-manafort-197689"> sentence for ex-Trump campaign chairman Manafort</a>

Prosecutors for Special Counsel Robert Mueller urged a federal judge in Virginia on Friday to impose a strict prison sentence for President Donald Trump's former campaign manager Paul Manafort, after a jury last year convicted him on eight counts of bank and tax fraud.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-raises-pressure-on-venezuelas-maduro-via-sanctions-aid-airlift-197708">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-raises-pressure-on-venezuelas-maduro-via-sanctions-aid-airlift-197708"> raises pressure on Venezuela's Maduro via sanctions, aid airlift</a>

The United States ratcheted up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday by sanctioning some of his top security officials and the head of the state oil company, and unveiling plans to airlift over 200 tons of aid to the Colombian border.

Nigeria postpones presidential, parliamentary election hours before polls due to open Nigeria's electoral watchdog on Saturday postponed presidential and parliamentary elections for one week, just hours before polls were due to open.

Nigeria postpones presidential, parliamentary election hours before polls due to open Nigeria's electoral watchdog on Saturday postponed presidential and parliamentary elections for one week, just hours before polls were due to open. The voting has been rescheduled on February 23. Pulwama attack: India says Islamabad cannot be blind to JeM presence in its soil India slammed Pakistan Foreign Secretary (FS) Tehmina Janjua on Friday after the latter in his briefing to ambassador of permanent five (P5) members of United Nations security council (UNSC) rejected Pakistan's involvement in the Pulwama attack. Five dead, multiple wounded in US mass shooting: Police Five people were killed and multiple police officers shot Friday when a gunman opened fire in an industrial area on the outskirts of Chicago, the latest mass shooting to hit the United States. Special Counsel Mueller seeks tough sentence for ex-Trump campaign chairman Manafort Prosecutors for Special Counsel Robert Mueller urged a federal judge in Virginia on Friday to impose a strict prison sentence for President Donald Trump's former campaign manager Paul Manafort, after a jury last year convicted him on eight counts of bank and tax fraud. US raises pressure on Venezuela's Maduro via sanctions, aid airlift The United States ratcheted up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday by sanctioning some of his top security officials and the head of the state oil company, and unveiling plans to airlift over 200 tons of aid to the Colombian border.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday announced that customs duty on all goods imported from Pakistan will be hiked to 200 per cent with immediate effect.

The move comes a day after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mfn-status-to-pakistan-what-it-means-how-it-impacts-trade-197569">India scrapped MFN (Most Favoured Nation) status to Pakistan</a> in the wake of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi has also decided to give a dossier to FATF, an international terror financing watchdog, to expose the neighbouring country's links with terrorism and seeking its blacklisting, news agency PTI reported.

According to reports, security agencies are preparing the dossier with the evidence gathered so far related to the attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad and the help being provided to the outfit by the country.

This will be a dossier on Pakistani agencies' links with the JeM and how the terror group is being aided by them, a security official said. The details of the terror attacks carried out by the JeM in the past will be mentioned in the document, PTI reported.

The Paris-headquartered Financial Action Task Force (FATF) will also be told through the dossier how the Pakistani agencies are providing funds to the JeM, an official told PTI.

In the next meeting of the FATF, India will also press for the blacklisting of Pakistan so that that action can be taken against the country, another official said. The FATF plenary and working group meetings will be held in Paris next week.

Earlier in the day, an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/leaders-at-all-party-meeting-strongly-condemn-dastardly-terror-act-of-14th-february-197746">all-party meeting called by Centre</a> to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''.&nbsp;

The meeting chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&amp;K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost".

The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country.

Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758">Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist</a> rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

The Central government has also stepped up <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-continues-its-diplomatic-campaign-for-second-day-briefs-gulf-asean-and-african-envoys-197780">diplomatic efforts to mount pressure on the Government of Pakistan</a> to take action against those who have been indulging in exporting terror to India.

(With inputs from PTI)

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday announced that customs duty on all goods imported from Pakistan will be hiked to 200 per cent with immediate effect. The move comes a day after India scrapped MFN (Most Favoured Nation) status to Pakistan in the wake of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday announced that customs duty on all goods imported from Pakistan will be hiked to 200 per cent with immediate effect. The move comes a day after India scrapped MFN (Most Favoured Nation) status to Pakistan in the wake of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi has also decided to give a dossier to FATF, an international terror financing watchdog, to expose the neighbouring country's links with terrorism and seeking its blacklisting, news agency PTI reported. According to reports, security agencies are preparing the dossier with the evidence gathered so far related to the attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad and the help being provided to the outfit by the country. This will be a dossier on Pakistani agencies' links with the JeM and how the terror group is being aided by them, a security official said. The details of the terror attacks carried out by the JeM in the past will be mentioned in the document, PTI reported. The Paris-headquartered Financial Action Task Force (FATF) will also be told through the dossier how the Pakistani agencies are providing funds to the JeM, an official told PTI. In the next meeting of the FATF, India will also press for the blacklisting of Pakistan so that that action can be taken against the country, another official said. The FATF plenary and working group meetings will be held in Paris next week. Earlier in the day, an all-party meeting called by Centre to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''. The meeting chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost". The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country. Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. The Central government has also stepped up diplomatic efforts to mount pressure on the Government of Pakistan to take action against those who have been indulging in exporting terror to India. (With inputs from PTI)

Pulwama attack: After scrapping MNF status, Government hikes customs duty on all Pak imports to 200%

Noting that the entire country is angry over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758">Pulwama terror attack</a>, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said "all tears will be avenged"&nbsp;as India’s armed forces "do not forgive any culprit".

"Today, I have come here at a time when the entire nation is angry over the terrorist attack on our jawans in Pulwama. On one side the country is angry, on the other, all eyes are numb,"&nbsp;he said while addressing a rally here.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/customs-duty-on-all-goods-imported-from-pakistan-hiked-to-200-arun-jaitley-197808">Also read: After scrapping MNF status, Government hikes customs duty on all Pak imports to 200%</a>

"This is the time for restraint and mourning. But I want to assure all the families of slain soldiers that all their tears will be avenged,"&nbsp;the Prime Minister asserted.

Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed on Thursday when their convoy was targeted by a suicide bomber of Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Pulwama district on Srinagar-Jammu national highway.

He noted that Maharashtra also lost a few of its children in the attack.

“India is a country of new customs and new policies. The world is experiencing this. Our security forces do not forgive any culprit. This has been the policy of India that we do not tease anybody. But I want to make it clear that we don't forgive anyone also if someone tries to tease us,” Modi said.

He lauded the security forces, saying they work for the nation selflessly.

Earlier today, the all-party meeting was called by the Central Government to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack. The meeting was chaired by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh.&nbsp;

Several political parties including TMC, BJP and the Congress even protested against the Pulwama attack across various places. (ANI)

Noting that the entire country is angry over the Pulwama terror attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said "all tears will be avenged" as India’s armed forces "do not forgive any culprit".

Noting that the entire country is angry over the Pulwama terror attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said "all tears will be avenged" as India’s armed forces "do not forgive any culprit". "Today, I have come here at a time when the entire nation is angry over the terrorist attack on our jawans in Pulwama. On one side the country is angry, on the other, all eyes are numb," he said while addressing a rally here. Also read: After scrapping MNF status, Government hikes customs duty on all Pak imports to 200% "This is the time for restraint and mourning. But I want to assure all the families of slain soldiers that all their tears will be avenged," the Prime Minister asserted. Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed on Thursday when their convoy was targeted by a suicide bomber of Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Pulwama district on Srinagar-Jammu national highway. He noted that Maharashtra also lost a few of its children in the attack. “India is a country of new customs and new policies. The world is experiencing this. Our security forces do not forgive any culprit. This has been the policy of India that we do not tease anybody. But I want to make it clear that we don't forgive anyone also if someone tries to tease us,” Modi said. He lauded the security forces, saying they work for the nation selflessly. Earlier today, the all-party meeting was called by the Central Government to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack. The meeting was chaired by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. Several political parties including TMC, BJP and the Congress even protested against the Pulwama attack across various places. (ANI)

All tears will be avenged, our armed forces do not forgive any culprit: PM Narendra Modi on Pulwama attack

One more person died of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/79-fresh-cases-of-swine-flu-detected-in-rajasthan-death-toll-touches-112-196787">swine flu in Rajasthan</a> on Friday, taking the total death toll to 126 in the state so far this year.

The patient who lost life was from Barmer district of the state.

Also, 74 new cases have been reported in the state, taking the tally of patients to 3,359 in 46 days.

Amongst the fresh cases, Jaipur witnessed the highest number of 29 patients, followed by Udaipur where seven people were tested positive. Five cases each were reported from Tonk, Kota, and Alwar. Four positive cases were reported from Ganganagar. Three cases each were reported in Karauli, Jodhpur, and Barmer. Two cases each were reported from Ajmer and Churu and one case each was reported from Hanumangarh, Dausa, Jhunjhnu, Pali, Jalore and Chittorgarh.

Swine flu is an infection caused by one of the several swine influenza viruses (SIV), with the H1N1 strain being the most common across the country. H1N1 virus spreads when an individual touched an infected or breathes droplets of coughs and sneezes that are in the air.

The symptoms are the same as the seasonal flu, also known as viral fever. This includes a cough, sore throat, and body ache.

One more person died of swine flu in Rajasthan on Friday, taking the total death toll to 126 in the state so far this year. The patient who lost life was from Barmer district of the state.

One more person died of swine flu in Rajasthan on Friday, taking the total death toll to 126 in the state so far this year. The patient who lost life was from Barmer district of the state. Also, 74 new cases have been reported in the state, taking the tally of patients to 3,359 in 46 days. Amongst the fresh cases, Jaipur witnessed the highest number of 29 patients, followed by Udaipur where seven people were tested positive. Five cases each were reported from Tonk, Kota, and Alwar. Four positive cases were reported from Ganganagar. Three cases each were reported in Karauli, Jodhpur, and Barmer. Two cases each were reported from Ajmer and Churu and one case each was reported from Hanumangarh, Dausa, Jhunjhnu, Pali, Jalore and Chittorgarh. Swine flu is an infection caused by one of the several swine influenza viruses (SIV), with the H1N1 strain being the most common across the country. H1N1 virus spreads when an individual touched an infected or breathes droplets of coughs and sneezes that are in the air. The symptoms are the same as the seasonal flu, also known as viral fever. This includes a cough, sore throat, and body ache.

Swine flu: Death toll touches 126 in Rajasthan with one more death

Robert Vadra's interim bail was Saturday extended till March 2 in a money laundering case by a Delhi court which asked him to join the probe whenever asked to, after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleged that he was not cooperating in the matter.&nbsp;

Vadra, who appeared in court, sought an extension of the interim bail after the ED requested for more time to file a reply to his anticipatory bail plea.

Special judge Arvind Kumar granted the relief to Vadra, the brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, and said the interim orders of protection from arrest will continue till the next date of hearing.

The court also extended the protection from arrest granted to his close aide and co-accused in the case, Manoj Arora, till the next date of hearing i.E., March 2.

ED's Special Public Prosecutors D P Singh and Nitesh Rana told the court that it needed to question Vadra in the case and opposed his anticipatory bail plea, saying that he was not cooperating in the case.

The agency also said that Vadra has been summoned for further questioning on Tuesday.

"Vadra is not cooperating and giving evasive replies," Nitesh Rana told the court.

The businessman, represented through senior advocate KTS Tulsi, however, denied the charge and said he was ready to come for questioning as and when called.

"The counsel submitted that the applicant <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bikaner-land-case-ed-attaches-assets-worth-rs-462-crore-of-vadras-company-197664">Robert Vadra</a> has already joined the investigation and has cooperated during the investigation. Counsel submitted that the applicant will join the investigation as and when directed by the investigating officer and is ready to cooperate. Under the facts and circumstances, the applicant is directed to join the investigation as and when called by the IO," the court said.

Singh told the court that Vadra is accompanied by a 'baraat' (wedding procession) wherever he goes, whether to the agency office or to the court.

"There are some people who always come with a 'baraat', Vadra is one of them," he said, adding that by 'baraat' he was referring to the media.

The lawyer alleged that Vadra was using social media, including Facebook, for writing about the case and highlighting the matter.&nbsp;

Vadra had filed an anticipatory bail application in the case linked to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million pounds. The property is allegedly owned by him.

The agency had earlier said it has received information about various new properties in London which allegedly belong to Vadra, including two houses of five and four million pounds, each, six other flats and more properties.

In his anticipatory bail plea, Vadra had alleged that he was being subjected to "unwarranted, unjustified and malicious criminal prosecution which on the face of it is completely politically motivated and is being carried out for reasons other than those prescribed under the law".

The plea had said Vadra's office was raided by the ED on December 7, 2018, and, therefore, he seriously apprehends that his liberty may be curtailed by the investigating agency.

"The petitioner (Vadra) is being subjected to a farce criminal prosecution which actually is beset with nothing else except political vendetta and most, unfortunately, the respondent (ED) being the law enforcement agency is a party to the unethical and illegal exercise.

"It is stated that the petitioner's (Vadra's) firm through its authorised representative Manoj Arora has already joined investigation with the ED conducting investigation into the affairs of the firm in Rajasthan with their offices at Jaipur on many occasions and has supplied all the relevant documents to the satisfaction of the officials of the ED," the plea had said.

Arora, an employee of Vadra's Skylight Hospitality LLP, was a key person in the case and he was aware of the latter's overseas undeclared assets and was instrumental in arranging funds, the ED had alleged.

Vadra had alleged that he is being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends.

"It is stated the petitioner has the highest regard for the due process of law and is always willing to cooperate with the investigation. In the highly charged political atmosphere and political contours of the present investigation, he seriously apprehends arrest by the investigating authorities," his plea read.

Arora had alleged before the court that the case was foisted on him by the NDA government out of "political vendetta".

However, the ED had refuted the allegations, asking that "should no authority investigate any political bigwig because that will be called a political vendetta?"

The agency had told the court that it lodged the money laundering case against Arora after his role came up during the probe of another case by the Income Tax Department under the newly enacted Black Money Act and tax law against absconding arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari.

It had alleged that the London-based property was bought by Bhandari for GBP 1.9 million and sold in 2010 for the same amount despite incurring additional expenses of approximately GBP 65,900 on its renovation.

"This gives credence to the fact that Bhandari was not the actual owner of the property but it was beneficially owned by Vadra who was incurring expenditure on the renovation of this property," the ED had told the court.

Robert Vadra's interim bail was Saturday extended till March 2 in a money laundering case by a Delhi court which asked him to join the probe whenever asked to, after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleged that he was not cooperating in the matter.

Robert Vadra's interim bail was Saturday extended till March 2 in a money laundering case by a Delhi court which asked him to join the probe whenever asked to, after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleged that he was not cooperating in the matter. Vadra, who appeared in court, sought an extension of the interim bail after the ED requested for more time to file a reply to his anticipatory bail plea. Special judge Arvind Kumar granted the relief to Vadra, the brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, and said the interim orders of protection from arrest will continue till the next date of hearing. The court also extended the protection from arrest granted to his close aide and co-accused in the case, Manoj Arora, till the next date of hearing i.E., March 2. ED's Special Public Prosecutors D P Singh and Nitesh Rana told the court that it needed to question Vadra in the case and opposed his anticipatory bail plea, saying that he was not cooperating in the case. The agency also said that Vadra has been summoned for further questioning on Tuesday. "Vadra is not cooperating and giving evasive replies," Nitesh Rana told the court. The businessman, represented through senior advocate KTS Tulsi, however, denied the charge and said he was ready to come for questioning as and when called. "The counsel submitted that the applicant Robert Vadra has already joined the investigation and has cooperated during the investigation. Counsel submitted that the applicant will join the investigation as and when directed by the investigating officer and is ready to cooperate. Under the facts and circumstances, the applicant is directed to join the investigation as and when called by the IO," the court said. Singh told the court that Vadra is accompanied by a 'baraat' (wedding procession) wherever he goes, whether to the agency office or to the court. "There are some people who always come with a 'baraat', Vadra is one of them," he said, adding that by 'baraat' he was referring to the media. The lawyer alleged that Vadra was using social media, including Facebook, for writing about the case and highlighting the matter. Vadra had filed an anticipatory bail application in the case linked to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million pounds. The property is allegedly owned by him. The agency had earlier said it has received information about various new properties in London which allegedly belong to Vadra, including two houses of five and four million pounds, each, six other flats and more properties. In his anticipatory bail plea, Vadra had alleged that he was being subjected to "unwarranted, unjustified and malicious criminal prosecution which on the face of it is completely politically motivated and is being carried out for reasons other than those prescribed under the law". The plea had said Vadra's office was raided by the ED on December 7, 2018, and, therefore, he seriously apprehends that his liberty may be curtailed by the investigating agency. "The petitioner (Vadra) is being subjected to a farce criminal prosecution which actually is beset with nothing else except political vendetta and most, unfortunately, the respondent (ED) being the law enforcement agency is a party to the unethical and illegal exercise. "It is stated that the petitioner's (Vadra's) firm through its authorised representative Manoj Arora has already joined investigation with the ED conducting investigation into the affairs of the firm in Rajasthan with their offices at Jaipur on many occasions and has supplied all the relevant documents to the satisfaction of the officials of the ED," the plea had said. Arora, an employee of Vadra's Skylight Hospitality LLP, was a key person in the case and he was aware of the latter's overseas undeclared assets and was instrumental in arranging funds, the ED had alleged. Vadra had alleged that he is being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends. "It is stated the petitioner has the highest regard for the due process of law and is always willing to cooperate with the investigation. In the highly charged political atmosphere and political contours of the present investigation, he seriously apprehends arrest by the investigating authorities," his plea read. Arora had alleged before the court that the case was foisted on him by the NDA government out of "political vendetta". However, the ED had refuted the allegations, asking that "should no authority investigate any political bigwig because that will be called a political vendetta?" The agency had told the court that it lodged the money laundering case against Arora after his role came up during the probe of another case by the Income Tax Department under the newly enacted Black Money Act and tax law against absconding arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. It had alleged that the London-based property was bought by Bhandari for GBP 1.9 million and sold in 2010 for the same amount despite incurring additional expenses of approximately GBP 65,900 on its renovation. "This gives credence to the fact that Bhandari was not the actual owner of the property but it was beneficially owned by Vadra who was incurring expenditure on the renovation of this property," the ED had told the court.

Delhi: Court extends Robert Vadra's interim bail till March 2, directs him to join probe

The Central government has called an all-party meeting in Delhi on Saturday to deliberate upon the situations arising out of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-diplomacy-takes-centerstage-as-india-prepares-to-isolate-pakistan-197623">Pulwama terror attack</a>, said Finance Minister Arun Jaitley after the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Friday.

In the meeting, the Central government will brief the opposition leaders about the action being taken to deal with the situations arising out Pulwama terror attack,” sources said. The meeting is scheduled to take place at 11 am in the Parliament Library. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

India on Friday also announced the withdrawal of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mfn-status-to-pakistan-what-it-means-how-it-impacts-trade-197569">most favoured nation (MFN) status</a> to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated.

The Central government has also stepped up diplomatic efforts to mount pressure on the Government of Pakistan to take action against those who are indulged in exporting terror to India. For long, India has sought the help of the global community in fighting against Pak sponsored terrorism. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nearly 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over 100-kg explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

JeM, a terror outfit based in Pakistan and led by Masood Azhar, has carried out several terror attacks in India including the attack on Pathankot airbase in 2016. Masood was released by then Central government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee in exchange for hostages on board flight IC-814 in December 1999. India has approached the United Nations to list Masood as a global terrorist, but China always vetoes New Delhi’s bid in this regard.&nbsp;

The Central government has called an all-party meeting in Delhi on Saturday to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack, said Finance Minister Arun Jaitley after the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Friday.

The Central government has called an all-party meeting in Delhi on Saturday to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack, said Finance Minister Arun Jaitley after the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Friday. In the meeting, the Central government will brief the opposition leaders about the action being taken to deal with the situations arising out Pulwama terror attack,” sources said. The meeting is scheduled to take place at 11 am in the Parliament Library. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the meeting. India on Friday also announced the withdrawal of most favoured nation (MFN) status to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated. The Central government has also stepped up diplomatic efforts to mount pressure on the Government of Pakistan to take action against those who are indulged in exporting terror to India. For long, India has sought the help of the global community in fighting against Pak sponsored terrorism. Nearly 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over 100-kg explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. JeM, a terror outfit based in Pakistan and led by Masood Azhar, has carried out several terror attacks in India including the attack on Pathankot airbase in 2016. Masood was released by then Central government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee in exchange for hostages on board flight IC-814 in December 1999. India has approached the United Nations to list Masood as a global terrorist, but China always vetoes New Delhi’s bid in this regard.

All-party meeting today to deliberate upon Pulwama terror attack

Argentina's President Mauricio Macri will be in India from Sunday on a 3-day visit that will end on Tuesday. The Argentine President will be accompanied by Argentina's First Lady Juliana Awada, Chamber of Deputies Speaker, Emilio Monzo and Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie, among other officials.&nbsp;

The visit comes at a time when both the countries are celebrating the 70th year of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Argentina.

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "This visit will provide an opportunity to both sides to review progress in bilateral ties and to explore new avenues of cooperation".

Ahead of the visit, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-will-do-pretty-well-in-hosting-g20-summit-2022-argentine-envoy-to-wion-197766">Argentina's envoy to India Daniel Chuburu spoke to WION</a> and said, "We are good friends with India and have worked politically for many many years in a lot of different places, we firmly believe, the potential our relations can achieve is not being done."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Argentina's President in 2018 in Buenos Aires on the sidelines of G20 summit from November 30 to December 1. India will be hosting G20 summit in 2022. Argentina, which became the first Latin American country to host G20 last year, assured full support to New Delhi.

"We are at the disposal of India to share any kind of and all the experience we have. It's the job you do in the whole year, the summit is just last expression. India will do it pretty well, you have a lot of experience. There will be no problem", Chuburu said.

The visit comes amid the Venezuelan crisis which has been the focus in South America. Argentina has recognised the opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the Venezuelan president. New Delhi has taken a cautious stand on the Venezuelan crisis since Caracas is a crucial oil exporter to India.&nbsp;

There may be some special declaration on Pulwama attacks by the Argentine President during his India visit.

On Sunday, he will visit Agra while Monday will be the main day of engagement when he will meet Prime Minister Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind. He will end his visit in Mumbai on February 19. &nbsp;

Bilateral trade between both the countries at present is around $3 billion with India exporting two-wheelers, iron and steel, agrochemicals, yarn, organic chemicals, bulk drugs and drug intermediates and motor vehicles to the South American country. Argentina's exports to India has been mainly vegetable oils, finished leather, cereals, residual chemicals and allied products and pulses.

Several Indian companies have invested in IT, agro-chemical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors in Argentina; total Indian investments stand at $1 billion.

Argentina's President Mauricio Macri will be in India from Sunday on a 3-day visit that will end on Tuesday. The Argentine President will be accompanied by Argentina's First Lady Juliana Awada, Chamber of Deputies Speaker, Emilio Monzo and Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie, among other officials.

Argentina's President Mauricio Macri will be in India from Sunday on a 3-day visit that will end on Tuesday. The Argentine President will be accompanied by Argentina's First Lady Juliana Awada, Chamber of Deputies Speaker, Emilio Monzo and Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie, among other officials. The visit comes at a time when both the countries are celebrating the 70th year of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Argentina. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "This visit will provide an opportunity to both sides to review progress in bilateral ties and to explore new avenues of cooperation". Ahead of the visit, Argentina's envoy to India Daniel Chuburu spoke to WION and said, "We are good friends with India and have worked politically for many many years in a lot of different places, we firmly believe, the potential our relations can achieve is not being done." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Argentina's President in 2018 in Buenos Aires on the sidelines of G20 summit from November 30 to December 1. India will be hosting G20 summit in 2022. Argentina, which became the first Latin American country to host G20 last year, assured full support to New Delhi. "We are at the disposal of India to share any kind of and all the experience we have. It's the job you do in the whole year, the summit is just last expression. India will do it pretty well, you have a lot of experience. There will be no problem", Chuburu said. The visit comes amid the Venezuelan crisis which has been the focus in South America. Argentina has recognised the opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the Venezuelan president. New Delhi has taken a cautious stand on the Venezuelan crisis since Caracas is a crucial oil exporter to India. There may be some special declaration on Pulwama attacks by the Argentine President during his India visit. On Sunday, he will visit Agra while Monday will be the main day of engagement when he will meet Prime Minister Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind. He will end his visit in Mumbai on February 19. Bilateral trade between both the countries at present is around $3 billion with India exporting two-wheelers, iron and steel, agrochemicals, yarn, organic chemicals, bulk drugs and drug intermediates and motor vehicles to the South American country. Argentina's exports to India has been mainly vegetable oils, finished leather, cereals, residual chemicals and allied products and pulses. Several Indian companies have invested in IT, agro-chemical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors in Argentina; total Indian investments stand at $1 billion.

Argentine President Macri to visit India from February 17 to 19

Argentine President Mauricio Macri will be visiting India on Sunday. The visit comes after PM Modi's visit to the South American country last year in November for the G20 Summit. Ahead of the visit, WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal spoke to Argentina's envoy to India Daniel Chuburu.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see bilateral ties with India?

Chuburu: As you know, this year is the 70th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between Argentina and India. So it is a great occasion to think about the relationship where it stands and where we are looking to go with all the partnership we have with India. Let me tell you, we are good friends with India, and have worked politically for many many years in a lot of different places. We firmly believe the potential our relations can achieve is not being done. We have small trade, concentrated in one product; we have to step up the relationship, strengthen it and step up on the quality of the relationship.&nbsp;

WION: What is the programme of the President?&nbsp;

Chuburu: The official programme is on February 18 when he is in Delhi. On February 19 he will be in Mumbai. First is a protocol visit, meeting with the PM, dinner with the President, lunch with the PM. In addition to that, a series of discussions between the two delegations will take place. We have to make a strategic partnership. Three issues will be discussed: One is sectoral agricultural on food security. One is in the field of energy, taking into consideration energy security. The third one is in cooperation with high technology. We will be discussing the agreement in the areas of defence, nuclear energy, in the peaceful use of outer space. The President will take part in the business forum.&nbsp;

WION: What is the focus area during the visit?&nbsp;

Chuburu: Common focus is to have a strategic partnership. We can't do anything about the distance (over 15,000kms) that separate both of the countries, that is the reality of life. We are working on an MoU on air services. We have to work on the quality of the relationship. &nbsp;

WION: You hosted G20, any suggestion for India?&nbsp;

Chuburu: We are at the disposal of India to share any kind of and all the experience that we have. When you have the summit you have 30 leaders visiting your country. Summit is just the last expression. Question is how you plan the whole year. It is a lot of work. India will do it pretty well, you have a lot of experience. There will be no problem.&nbsp;

Argentine President Mauricio Macri will be visiting India on Sunday. The visit comes after PM Modi's visit to the South American country last year in November for the G20 Summit.

Argentine President Mauricio Macri will be visiting India on Sunday. The visit comes after PM Modi's visit to the South American country last year in November for the G20 Summit. Ahead of the visit, WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal spoke to Argentina's envoy to India Daniel Chuburu. WION: How do you see bilateral ties with India? Chuburu: As you know, this year is the 70th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between Argentina and India. So it is a great occasion to think about the relationship where it stands and where we are looking to go with all the partnership we have with India. Let me tell you, we are good friends with India, and have worked politically for many many years in a lot of different places. We firmly believe the potential our relations can achieve is not being done. We have small trade, concentrated in one product; we have to step up the relationship, strengthen it and step up on the quality of the relationship. WION: What is the programme of the President? Chuburu: The official programme is on February 18 when he is in Delhi. On February 19 he will be in Mumbai. First is a protocol visit, meeting with the PM, dinner with the President, lunch with the PM. In addition to that, a series of discussions between the two delegations will take place. We have to make a strategic partnership. Three issues will be discussed: One is sectoral agricultural on food security. One is in the field of energy, taking into consideration energy security. The third one is in cooperation with high technology. We will be discussing the agreement in the areas of defence, nuclear energy, in the peaceful use of outer space. The President will take part in the business forum. WION: What is the focus area during the visit? Chuburu: Common focus is to have a strategic partnership. We can't do anything about the distance (over 15,000kms) that separate both of the countries, that is the reality of life. We are working on an MoU on air services. We have to work on the quality of the relationship. WION: You hosted G20, any suggestion for India? Chuburu: We are at the disposal of India to share any kind of and all the experience that we have. When you have the summit you have 30 leaders visiting your country. Summit is just the last expression. Question is how you plan the whole year. It is a lot of work. India will do it pretty well, you have a lot of experience. There will be no problem.

India will do pretty well in hosting G20 summit 2022: Argentine envoy to WION

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-continues-its-diplomatic-campaign-for-second-day-briefs-gulf-asean-and-african-envoys-197780">Pulwama attack: India continues its diplomatic campaign for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-continues-its-diplomatic-campaign-for-second-day-briefs-gulf-asean-and-african-envoys-197780">second</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-continues-its-diplomatic-campaign-for-second-day-briefs-gulf-asean-and-african-envoys-197780"> day; briefs Gulf, ASEAN and African envoys&nbsp;</a>

India's diplomatic campaign continued for the second day on Saturday as diplomats from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Central Asia, ASEAN, Africa and non-permanent members of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) were briefed at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) post-Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/last-islamic-state-holdout-on-verge-of-defeat-in-east-syria-197782">Last Islamic State holdout on verge of defeat in east Syria</a>

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) will capture Islamic State's last enclave in eastern Syria "in a very short time", the battle commander said on Saturday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758">JeM</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758"> commanders responsible for Pulwama terror attack identified, traced in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758">Tral</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758">: Sources</a>

Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists responsible for the ghastly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama have been identified as Rashid Ghazi and Kamran, the main commanders of the terror outfit, sources told WION. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pence-calls-for-eu-to-leave-iran-nuclear-deal-recognise-guaido-as-venezualan-president-197767">Pence calls for EU to leave Iran nuclear deal, recognise Guaido as Venezuelan president</a>

US Vice President Mike Pence pressed European countries on Saturday to withdraw from a nuclear deal between Iran and major powers and urged them to be wary of using telecoms equipment supplied by Chinese provider Huawei.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vvip-chopper-case-delhi-court-dismisses-christian-michels-bail-plea-197759">VVIP Chopper case: Delhi court dismisses Christian Michel's bail plea</a>

A Delhi court Saturday dismissed the bail plea of Christian Michel, arrested in connection with an alleged scam in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal.

&nbsp;

Pulwama attack: India continues its diplomatic campaign for second day; briefs Gulf, ASEAN and African envoys India's diplomatic campaign continued for the second day on Saturday as diplomats from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Central Asia, ASEAN, Africa and non-permanent members of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) were briefed at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) post-Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel.

Pulwama attack: India continues its diplomatic campaign for second day; briefs Gulf, ASEAN and African envoys India's diplomatic campaign continued for the second day on Saturday as diplomats from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Central Asia, ASEAN, Africa and non-permanent members of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) were briefed at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) post-Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel. Last Islamic State holdout on verge of defeat in east Syria The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) will capture Islamic State's last enclave in eastern Syria "in a very short time", the battle commander said on Saturday. JeM commanders responsible for Pulwama terror attack identified, traced in Tral: Sources Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists responsible for the ghastly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama have been identified as Rashid Ghazi and Kamran, the main commanders of the terror outfit, sources told WION. Pence calls for EU to leave Iran nuclear deal, recognise Guaido as Venezuelan president US Vice President Mike Pence pressed European countries on Saturday to withdraw from a nuclear deal between Iran and major powers and urged them to be wary of using telecoms equipment supplied by Chinese provider Huawei. VVIP Chopper case: Delhi court dismisses Christian Michel's bail plea A Delhi court Saturday dismissed the bail plea of Christian Michel, arrested in connection with an alleged scam in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal.

Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists responsible for the ghastly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama have been identified as Rashid Ghazi and Kamran, the main commanders of the terror outfit, sources told WION. &nbsp;

Both, Ghazi and Kamran, are believed to be located in and around Jammu and Kashmir's Tral. The duo is believed to have trained <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">Adil Ahmad Dar</a>, who carried out the terror attack on Thursday.

Sources also informed that Ghazi is said to have fought in Afghanistan and was handpicked by JeM chief Masood Azhar. Ghazi is believed to be an expert in Improvised Explosive Device (IED)

As per sources, the motive of the attack was to avenge the death of Azhar's nephews.

Meanwhile, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/leaders-at-all-party-meeting-strongly-condemn-dastardly-terror-act-of-14th-february-197746">an all-party meeting</a> called by Centre to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''.&nbsp;

The meeting chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&amp;K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost".

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The resolution passed at the all-party meeting: We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&amp;K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost. <a href="https://t.co/0OjGkgS6He">pic.twitter.com/0OjGkgS6He</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096676273647173633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country.

"India has displayed both firmness and resilience in dealing with these challenges. The entire nation speaks in one voice to express its determination to fight these challenges. Today, we stand united in solidarity with our security forces in fighting terrorism and in defending the unity and integrity of India," it said.

Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

Following the attack, India on Friday announced the withdrawal of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated.

Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists responsible for the ghastly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama have been identified as Rashid Ghazi and Kamran, the main commanders of the terror outfit, sources told WION.

Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists responsible for the ghastly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama have been identified as Rashid Ghazi and Kamran, the main commanders of the terror outfit, sources told WION. Both, Ghazi and Kamran, are believed to be located in and around Jammu and Kashmir's Tral. The duo is believed to have trained Adil Ahmad Dar, who carried out the terror attack on Thursday. Sources also informed that Ghazi is said to have fought in Afghanistan and was handpicked by JeM chief Masood Azhar. Ghazi is believed to be an expert in Improvised Explosive Device (IED) As per sources, the motive of the attack was to avenge the death of Azhar's nephews. Meanwhile, an all-party meeting called by Centre to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''. The meeting chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost". The resolution passed at the all-party meeting: We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost. pic.twitter.com/0OjGkgS6He — ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2019 × The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country. "India has displayed both firmness and resilience in dealing with these challenges. The entire nation speaks in one voice to express its determination to fight these challenges. Today, we stand united in solidarity with our security forces in fighting terrorism and in defending the unity and integrity of India," it said. Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Following the attack, India on Friday announced the withdrawal of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated.

JeM commanders responsible for Pulwama terror attack identified, traced in Tral: Sources

An all-party meeting called by Centre to deliberate upon the situations arising out of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pulwama-attack-india-slams-pakistan-yet-again-says-islamabad-cannot-claim-its-unaware-of-jem-presence-197702">Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir</a>&nbsp;passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''.&nbsp;

The meeting chaired&nbsp;by&nbsp;Home Minister Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/army-deploys-9-security-columns-in-jammu-197709">dastardly terror</a> act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&amp;K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost".

The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country.

"India has displayed both firmness and resilience in dealing with these challenges. The entire nation speaks in one voice to express its determination to fight these challenges. Today, we stand united in solidarity with our security forces in fighting terrorism and in defending the unity and integrity of India," it said.

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The resolution passed at the all-party meeting: We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&amp;K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost. <a href="https://t.co/0OjGkgS6He">pic.twitter.com/0OjGkgS6He</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096676273647173633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said that they had requested Rajnath Singh to request the prime minister to convene a meeting of presidents of all national and regional parties.&nbsp;

Azad said his view was supported by other parties too.

Leaders from different political parties including&nbsp;Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar, Congress leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad, Anand Sharma, Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan, National Conference patron Farooq Abdullah, Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Narendra Singh Tomar among many leaders attended the meeting.

Nearly 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

Following the attack, India on Friday&nbsp;announced the withdrawal of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated.

The Central government has also stepped up diplomatic efforts to mount pressure on the Government of Pakistan to take action against those who have been indulging in exporting terror to India.

For long, India has sought the help of the global community in fighting against Pakistan sponsored terrorism.

(With inputs from agencies)

An all-party meeting called by Centre to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''.

An all-party meeting called by Centre to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''. The meeting chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost". The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country. "India has displayed both firmness and resilience in dealing with these challenges. The entire nation speaks in one voice to express its determination to fight these challenges. Today, we stand united in solidarity with our security forces in fighting terrorism and in defending the unity and integrity of India," it said. The resolution passed at the all-party meeting: We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost. pic.twitter.com/0OjGkgS6He — ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2019 × Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said that they had requested Rajnath Singh to request the prime minister to convene a meeting of presidents of all national and regional parties. Azad said his view was supported by other parties too. Leaders from different political parties including Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar, Congress leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad, Anand Sharma, Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan, National Conference patron Farooq Abdullah, Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Narendra Singh Tomar among many leaders attended the meeting. Nearly 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Following the attack, India on Friday announced the withdrawal of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated. The Central government has also stepped up diplomatic efforts to mount pressure on the Government of Pakistan to take action against those who have been indulging in exporting terror to India. For long, India has sought the help of the global community in fighting against Pakistan sponsored terrorism. (With inputs from agencies)

Pulwama attack: All-party meet chaired by Rajnath Singh strongly condemns 'dastardly terror act'

A Delhi court Saturday dismissed the bail plea of Christian Michel, arrested in connection with an alleged scam in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal.

Special judge Arvind Kumar rejected Michel's plea in the cases filed by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vvip-chopper-case-christian-michel-moves-delhi-court-seeking-bail-196040">On February&nbsp;8, Michel moved a Delhi court</a> seeking bail in cases by the CBI and the ED, saying the charge sheet against him was not filed within the stipulated time frame of 60 days.

The bail application said that the probe is complete.

"Since, the charge sheet was not filed against him within the stipulated 60-day period under section 167(2) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). The probe is complete. I'm in custody since December 22, 2018," Michel said in the petition.

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Agusta Westland case: Delhi's Patiala House Court dismisses the bail plea of alleged middleman Christian Michel in both CBI &amp; ED cases against him
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Michel, extradited from Dubai, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on December 22 last year.

On January 5, Michel was sent to judicial custody in the ED case. He is also lodged in judicial custody in the CBI case related to the scam.

Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the case by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The others are Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa.&nbsp;

A Delhi court Saturday dismissed the bail plea of Christian Michel, arrested in connection with an alleged scam in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal.

A Delhi court Saturday dismissed the bail plea of Christian Michel, arrested in connection with an alleged scam in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal. Special judge Arvind Kumar rejected Michel's plea in the cases filed by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate. On February 8, Michel moved a Delhi court seeking bail in cases by the CBI and the ED, saying the charge sheet against him was not filed within the stipulated time frame of 60 days. The bail application said that the probe is complete. "Since, the charge sheet was not filed against him within the stipulated 60-day period under section 167(2) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). The probe is complete. I'm in custody since December 22, 2018," Michel said in the petition. Agusta Westland case: Delhi's Patiala House Court dismisses the bail plea of alleged middleman Christian Michel in both CBI & ED cases against him — ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2019 × Michel, extradited from Dubai, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on December 22 last year. On January 5, Michel was sent to judicial custody in the ED case. He is also lodged in judicial custody in the CBI case related to the scam. Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the case by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The others are Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa.

VVIP Chopper case: Delhi court dismisses Christian Michel's bail plea

24 hours after the Pulwama terror attack, US National Security Advisor (NSA) John Bolton in a telephone conversation with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval extended support to New Delhi's "right to self-defence against cross border terrorism" and offered assistance to bring the perpetrators to justice.&nbsp;

In a release, the minister of external affairs (MEA) said, "Ambassador Bolton supported India's right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism. He offered all assistance to India to bring the perpetrators and backers of the attack promptly to justice. NSA Doval appreciated U.S. support."

Both the NSAs "vowed to work together" to ensure that Pakistan "cease to be a safe haven" for Jaish-e-Muhammad (JEM) and other terrorist groups.

Jaish-e-Muhammad claimed responsibility for the terror attack.

India and US also "resolved to hold Pakistan to account" for its "obligations under UN resolutions and to remove all obstacles to designating" JeM leader Masood Azhar as a global terrorist.

India approached United Nation Security Council's 1267 Committee in 2016 to designate Azhar as a global terrorist but Bejing blocked it citing lack of consensus.&nbsp;

The United States was one of the first countries to condemn the terror attack and called out Pakistan not to provide safe haven to terrorists. The White House in a statement called on "Pakistan to end immediately the support and safe haven provided to all terrorist groups operating on its soil, whose only goal is to sow chaos, violence, and terror in the region."&nbsp;

The US state department in a statement said, "The UN designated, Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Muhammad has claimed responsibility for this heinous act. We call on all countries to uphold their responsibilities pursuant to UN Security Council resolutions to deny safe haven and support for terrorists."&nbsp;

Earlier, in a tweet, US Secretary of state, Mike Pompeo said, "The U.S. condemns yesterday’s horrific terror attack on Indian security forces. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We stand with #India as it confronts terrorism. Pakistan must not provide safe haven for terrorists to threaten international security."

48 Countries including US, Germany, Russia, France, China, UK, South Korea, Israel have condemned the Pulwama terror attack.&nbsp;

24 hours after the Pulwama terror attack, US National Security Advisor (NSA) John Bolton in a telephone conversation with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval extended support to New Delhi's "right to self-defence against cross border terrorism" and offered assistance to bring the perpetrators to justice.

24 hours after the Pulwama terror attack, US National Security Advisor (NSA) John Bolton in a telephone conversation with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval extended support to New Delhi's "right to self-defence against cross border terrorism" and offered assistance to bring the perpetrators to justice. In a release, the minister of external affairs (MEA) said, "Ambassador Bolton supported India's right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism. He offered all assistance to India to bring the perpetrators and backers of the attack promptly to justice. NSA Doval appreciated U.S. support." Both the NSAs "vowed to work together" to ensure that Pakistan "cease to be a safe haven" for Jaish-e-Muhammad (JEM) and other terrorist groups. Jaish-e-Muhammad claimed responsibility for the terror attack. India and US also "resolved to hold Pakistan to account" for its "obligations under UN resolutions and to remove all obstacles to designating" JeM leader Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. India approached United Nation Security Council's 1267 Committee in 2016 to designate Azhar as a global terrorist but Bejing blocked it citing lack of consensus. The United States was one of the first countries to condemn the terror attack and called out Pakistan not to provide safe haven to terrorists. The White House in a statement called on "Pakistan to end immediately the support and safe haven provided to all terrorist groups operating on its soil, whose only goal is to sow chaos, violence, and terror in the region." The US state department in a statement said, "The UN designated, Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Muhammad has claimed responsibility for this heinous act. We call on all countries to uphold their responsibilities pursuant to UN Security Council resolutions to deny safe haven and support for terrorists." Earlier, in a tweet, US Secretary of state, Mike Pompeo said, "The U.S. condemns yesterday’s horrific terror attack on Indian security forces. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We stand with #India as it confronts terrorism. Pakistan must not provide safe haven for terrorists to threaten international security." 48 Countries including US, Germany, Russia, France, China, UK, South Korea, Israel have condemned the Pulwama terror attack.

Pulwama attack: US supports India's right to self-defence, offers help to bring perpetrators to justice 

India on Saturday briefed Heads of Missions of Arab countries about Islamabad's role in sponsoring terror outfit—Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) that orchestrated the terror attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday.

Ambassadors of UAE, Iran, Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, Morocco, Egypt and Kuwait arrived for the Ministry of External Affairs briefing.

The meeting comes a day after the MEA apprised around 25 Heads of Mission (HoM) including representatives from South Korea, Sweden, Slovakia, France, Spain, Bhutan, Germany, Hungary, Italy, European Union, Canada, Britain, Russia, Israel, Australia, and Japan.

On Friday, India lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over Pulwama terror attack and its High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood was summoned by the Foreign Secretary in connection with the attack.

According to sources, Gokhale issued a strong demarche in connection with the terrorist attack in Pulwama and conveyed that Pakistan must take immediate and verifiable action against JeM.

He also conveyed to Mahmood that Pakistan must immediately stop any groups or individuals associated with terrorism from operating from its territories, the source added.

The Foreign Secretary also rejected the statement made by the Foreign Ministry of Pakistan on Thursday with regards to the attack.

Nearly 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over 100-kg explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora.

The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

JeM, a terror outfit based in Pakistan and led by Masood Azhar, has carried out several terror attacks in India including the attack on Pathankot airbase in 2016.

Masood was released by the then government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee in exchange for hostages on board flight IC-814 in December 1999.

India has approached the United Nations to list Masood as a global terrorist, but China always vetoes New Delhi’s bid in this regard.&nbsp;

India on Saturday briefed Heads of Missions of Arab countries about Islamabad's role in sponsoring terror outfit—Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) that orchestrated the terror attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday.

India on Saturday briefed Heads of Missions of Arab countries about Islamabad's role in sponsoring terror outfit—Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) that orchestrated the terror attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday. Ambassadors of UAE, Iran, Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, Morocco, Egypt and Kuwait arrived for the Ministry of External Affairs briefing. The meeting comes a day after the MEA apprised around 25 Heads of Mission (HoM) including representatives from South Korea, Sweden, Slovakia, France, Spain, Bhutan, Germany, Hungary, Italy, European Union, Canada, Britain, Russia, Israel, Australia, and Japan. On Friday, India lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over Pulwama terror attack and its High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood was summoned by the Foreign Secretary in connection with the attack. According to sources, Gokhale issued a strong demarche in connection with the terrorist attack in Pulwama and conveyed that Pakistan must take immediate and verifiable action against JeM. He also conveyed to Mahmood that Pakistan must immediately stop any groups or individuals associated with terrorism from operating from its territories, the source added. The Foreign Secretary also rejected the statement made by the Foreign Ministry of Pakistan on Thursday with regards to the attack. Nearly 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over 100-kg explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. JeM, a terror outfit based in Pakistan and led by Masood Azhar, has carried out several terror attacks in India including the attack on Pathankot airbase in 2016. Masood was released by the then government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee in exchange for hostages on board flight IC-814 in December 1999. India has approached the United Nations to list Masood as a global terrorist, but China always vetoes New Delhi’s bid in this regard.

India briefs Heads of Missions of Arab countries on Pakistan's role in Pulwama attack

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Friday announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the family of CRPF jawan Vijay Soreng, a soldier from the state who was killed in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-nia-begins-investigation-7-detained-after-raids-197621">Pulwama terror attack</a>.

Das also assured a job to the kin of the martyr.

The chief minister while paying tribute to the deceased soldiers, said, "Martyrs don't die, they attain heaven. Our government will give Rs 10 lakh and a job to the kin of Vijay Soreng, the jawaan from Jharkhand who got martyred in Pulwama."

In the deadliest attack on security forces in Kashmir, over 40 CRPF personnel were killed on Thursday when their convoy was targeted by a suspected suicide bomber of Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammad in Pulwama district on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway.

The convoy of 78 buses, in which around 2500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar, came under attack at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora.

Earlier in September 2016, an Army camp was stormed by terrorists in Uri, killing 19 soldiers.

Prior to that, 28 BSF personnel were killed in an attack on a convoy of the paramilitary force in 2004.

&nbsp;

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Friday announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the family of CRPF jawan Vijay Soreng, a soldier from the state who was killed in the Pulwama terror attack.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Friday announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the family of CRPF jawan Vijay Soreng, a soldier from the state who was killed in the Pulwama terror attack. Das also assured a job to the kin of the martyr. The chief minister while paying tribute to the deceased soldiers, said, "Martyrs don't die, they attain heaven. Our government will give Rs 10 lakh and a job to the kin of Vijay Soreng, the jawaan from Jharkhand who got martyred in Pulwama." In the deadliest attack on security forces in Kashmir, over 40 CRPF personnel were killed on Thursday when their convoy was targeted by a suspected suicide bomber of Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammad in Pulwama district on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. The convoy of 78 buses, in which around 2500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar, came under attack at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. Earlier in September 2016, an Army camp was stormed by terrorists in Uri, killing 19 soldiers. Prior to that, 28 BSF personnel were killed in an attack on a convoy of the paramilitary force in 2004.

Pulwama attack: Jharkhand CM announces solatium, job to family of deceased soldier

The Army has deployed nine security columns with air support in Jammu following massive protests over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-rajnath-singh-helped-carry-coffin-of-crpf-jawan-who-lost-life-in-pulwama-attack-197599">terror attack in Pulwama</a> in the Valley in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, officials said.

Earlier, curfew was imposed in the city after stray incidents of violence and torching of vehicles.

"The Army has reacted promptly. Nine Internal Security Columns (ISCs) of the Army from Tiger division were deployed in Gujjar Nagar, Janipur, Shahidi Chowk, Talab Khatika and other areas of Jammu city. They have been provided air support from the White Knight Corps," a senior army officer said.

Flag marches were conducted by the security columns, he said.

"The proactive approach of the state police, divisional commissioner, collector's office and the Army has ensured that the situation remains in control," he said.

The officer said helicopters and utility armoured vehicles of the Army were also deployed to monitor the situation.

Earlier in the day, incidents of stone pelting and clashes between different factions were reported. The police resorted to cane charge and teargas shelling to disperse crowds. Nine persons were injured in the clashes, officials said.

The Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) had called for a complete shut down of Jammu city on Friday, protesting the death of CRPF men.

The bandh was marked by processions by various political parties, he said.

The Army has deployed nine security columns with air support in Jammu following massive protests over the terror attack in Pulwama in the Valley in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, officials said.

The Army has deployed nine security columns with air support in Jammu following massive protests over the terror attack in Pulwama in the Valley in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, officials said. Earlier, curfew was imposed in the city after stray incidents of violence and torching of vehicles. "The Army has reacted promptly. Nine Internal Security Columns (ISCs) of the Army from Tiger division were deployed in Gujjar Nagar, Janipur, Shahidi Chowk, Talab Khatika and other areas of Jammu city. They have been provided air support from the White Knight Corps," a senior army officer said. Flag marches were conducted by the security columns, he said. "The proactive approach of the state police, divisional commissioner, collector's office and the Army has ensured that the situation remains in control," he said. The officer said helicopters and utility armoured vehicles of the Army were also deployed to monitor the situation. Earlier in the day, incidents of stone pelting and clashes between different factions were reported. The police resorted to cane charge and teargas shelling to disperse crowds. Nine persons were injured in the clashes, officials said. The Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) had called for a complete shut down of Jammu city on Friday, protesting the death of CRPF men. The bandh was marked by processions by various political parties, he said.

Army deploys 9 security columns in Jammu following massive protests over Pulwama terror attack

The involvement of Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM) in Thursday's<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/reject-insinuation-by-india-to-link-pulwama-attack-to-pak-without-investigation-pak-government-197496"> terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir </a>has raised serious questions about the role of the Pakistani spy agency, ISI, in it, American experts on South Asia have said.

The Pakistan-based JeM has claimed responsibility for the attack that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-countries-should-uphold-responsibility-to-deny-safe-haven-to-terrorists-says-us-after-pulwama-attack-197497">left over 40 CRPF</a> personnel dead and many critically wounded.&nbsp;

The experts said the terror strike shows the United States has failed to persuade Pakistan to act against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">Jaish-e-Mohammad</a> and other terrorist groups.

"The self-proclaimed involvement of JeM in the attack raises serious questions about the role of the ISI in supporting the masterminds of this operation," Bruce Riedel, a former CIA analyst, told PTI.

The terrorist attack, which has direct footprints inside Pakistan, poses the first major challenges to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, said Riedel, who is now a scholar at the Brookings Institute think-tank.&nbsp;

"This will be a real challenge for Imran Khan, the first serious challenge of his administration," he said.

Anish Goel, a former National Security Council official in the previous Obama administration, said the horrific attack highlights just how actively Pakistan-based terrorist groups still operate in Kashmir.

"By claiming such quick credit for the attack, Jaish-e-Mohammed is clearly indicating that they will continue to cause trouble in the region and stoke tensions between Pakistan and India," he said.

"In the wake of this attack, there will likely be increased pressure on Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi to take action against all militant groups still active in Kashmir," said Goel.

Alyssa Ayres from the Council on Foreign Relations said, "Unfortunately, the attack also shows the limits of US and international policy efforts to date to persuade Pakistan to take serious action against these groups. The urgent question is what else the international community can do."

According to Moeed Yusuf from the US Institute of Peace, the current situation has all the making of an India-Pakistan crisis.&nbsp;

"Prime Minister Modi cannot take it lying down but Pakistan isn't going to be able to absorb any Indian action either. Things are simply too tense between India and Pakistan," he said.

Ironically, the biggest deterrent to any escalation is the presence of Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman in the region, he said.&nbsp;

"Salman arrives in Pakistan on Friday and is coming to India too. His visit will be seriously overshadowed. The Saudi relationship is too important for either side to want that to happen," he noted.

"I think the damage to India-Pakistan relations is going to be immense, even if the situation doesn't escalate. The hope was that India and Pakistan will get back to talking after the Indian elections later this year. I think the hawks on both sides are going to make it very difficult for that to happen now," Yusuf said.&nbsp;

"Terrorist attacks as in Kashmir are not possible without an ideology or theology that justifies terrorism and brainwashes its followers that massacring others leads a person to paradise. The terrorist mindset must be removed along with the terrorist infrastructure on the ground," said noted Hindu scholar David Frawley.

The latest attack by Jaish-e-Mohammed is another example of how Pakistan's intelligence services continue to sponsor terrorist incursions into India, Washington-based Hindu American Foundation said.

"While it's heartening to see that a wide swath of the international community is unequivocally condemning the attack, such statements of solidarity must be backed up by actions which help bring to an end the ability of such terrorist groups to kill with impunity and destabilize the region," the foundation said.

Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP)-USA in a statement demanded that United Nations designate Masood Azhar as global terrorist.

"China should be ashamed of itself in blocking Azhar's ban at the UN. Indian diaspora demands that if Pakistan is sincere in seeking peace with India, it should arrest Maulana Masood Azhar and his cohorts and disband all terrorist organisations station in Pakistan."&nbsp;

"Pakistan is a pariah nation anyhow and if it wants to exist in the real world, it should not play games, resort to lies, and abet terrorism. It should get rid of all terrorist organization from its soil," it said. &nbsp;

The involvement of Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM) in Thursday's terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir has raised serious questions about the role of the Pakistani spy agency, ISI, in it, American experts on South Asia have said.

The involvement of Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM) in Thursday's terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir has raised serious questions about the role of the Pakistani spy agency, ISI, in it, American experts on South Asia have said. The Pakistan-based JeM has claimed responsibility for the attack that left over 40 CRPF personnel dead and many critically wounded. The experts said the terror strike shows the United States has failed to persuade Pakistan to act against Jaish-e-Mohammad and other terrorist groups. "The self-proclaimed involvement of JeM in the attack raises serious questions about the role of the ISI in supporting the masterminds of this operation," Bruce Riedel, a former CIA analyst, told PTI. The terrorist attack, which has direct footprints inside Pakistan, poses the first major challenges to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, said Riedel, who is now a scholar at the Brookings Institute think-tank. "This will be a real challenge for Imran Khan, the first serious challenge of his administration," he said. Anish Goel, a former National Security Council official in the previous Obama administration, said the horrific attack highlights just how actively Pakistan-based terrorist groups still operate in Kashmir. "By claiming such quick credit for the attack, Jaish-e-Mohammed is clearly indicating that they will continue to cause trouble in the region and stoke tensions between Pakistan and India," he said. "In the wake of this attack, there will likely be increased pressure on Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi to take action against all militant groups still active in Kashmir," said Goel. Alyssa Ayres from the Council on Foreign Relations said, "Unfortunately, the attack also shows the limits of US and international policy efforts to date to persuade Pakistan to take serious action against these groups. The urgent question is what else the international community can do." According to Moeed Yusuf from the US Institute of Peace, the current situation has all the making of an India-Pakistan crisis. "Prime Minister Modi cannot take it lying down but Pakistan isn't going to be able to absorb any Indian action either. Things are simply too tense between India and Pakistan," he said. Ironically, the biggest deterrent to any escalation is the presence of Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman in the region, he said. "Salman arrives in Pakistan on Friday and is coming to India too. His visit will be seriously overshadowed. The Saudi relationship is too important for either side to want that to happen," he noted. "I think the damage to India-Pakistan relations is going to be immense, even if the situation doesn't escalate. The hope was that India and Pakistan will get back to talking after the Indian elections later this year. I think the hawks on both sides are going to make it very difficult for that to happen now," Yusuf said. "Terrorist attacks as in Kashmir are not possible without an ideology or theology that justifies terrorism and brainwashes its followers that massacring others leads a person to paradise. The terrorist mindset must be removed along with the terrorist infrastructure on the ground," said noted Hindu scholar David Frawley. The latest attack by Jaish-e-Mohammed is another example of how Pakistan's intelligence services continue to sponsor terrorist incursions into India, Washington-based Hindu American Foundation said. "While it's heartening to see that a wide swath of the international community is unequivocally condemning the attack, such statements of solidarity must be backed up by actions which help bring to an end the ability of such terrorist groups to kill with impunity and destabilize the region," the foundation said. Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP)-USA in a statement demanded that United Nations designate Masood Azhar as global terrorist. "China should be ashamed of itself in blocking Azhar's ban at the UN. Indian diaspora demands that if Pakistan is sincere in seeking peace with India, it should arrest Maulana Masood Azhar and his cohorts and disband all terrorist organisations station in Pakistan." "Pakistan is a pariah nation anyhow and if it wants to exist in the real world, it should not play games, resort to lies, and abet terrorism. It should get rid of all terrorist organization from its soil," it said.

Involvement of JeM raises Pak's ISI role in Pulwama attack: Ex-CIA analyst

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has slammed Pakistan yet again for commenting on the situation of minorities in India but also drawn parallels how New Delhi refrains to comment on the situation of minorities in other regional countries.&nbsp;

Asked about the deteriorating situation of Uyghurs minorities in China, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We have taken note of reports on this matter. Normally, it is not our practice to comment on matters pertaining to the internal affairs of another country. I might add here that on the contrary Pakistan and its leadership have this compulsive habit."

He further added, "suggest that Pakistan may be asked this question as they have been commenting on the status of minorities in India and have meddled in the internal affairs of its neighbours."

The developments come days after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said his country doesn't treat its minorities as second class citizens as India does.

India immediately hit out at Pakistan PM saying remarks are an "egregious insult to all citizens of India" &amp; "Pakistan’s Prime Minister has yet again demonstrated his lack of understanding about India’s secular polity and ethos."

Earlier also Pakistan's PM has many times commented on the situation of minorities in India. In December he said he will "show Modi government how to treat minorities" while on December 25 2018, the birth anniversary of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the man who partitioned India, Khan tweeted, "Naya Pakistan is Quaid’s Pakistan and will ensure that our minorities are treated as equal citizens, unlike what is happening in India".

Although Pakistan has been keen to comment on the situation of minorities in India, it has been silent on the situation of Uyghur minorities in China. Uyghurs live in Western China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region &amp; practise Islam. Many media reports have suggested that Chinese authorities are subjecting Uyghurs with torture and political brainwashing in internment camps and prisons.&nbsp;

Recently, Turkish foreign ministry issued a statement condemning the situation of Uyghur minorities in China and said, "The reintroduction of internment camps in the 21st century and the policy of systematic assimilation against the Uighur Turks carried out by the authorities of China is a great shame for humanity."

It further added, "We call on the international community and the Secretary-General of the United Nations to take effective measures in order to bring to an end this human tragedy in Xinjiang."

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has slammed Pakistan yet again for commenting on the situation of minorities in India but also drawn parallels how New Delhi refrains to comment on the situation of minorities in other regional countries.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has slammed Pakistan yet again for commenting on the situation of minorities in India but also drawn parallels how New Delhi refrains to comment on the situation of minorities in other regional countries. Asked about the deteriorating situation of Uyghurs minorities in China, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We have taken note of reports on this matter. Normally, it is not our practice to comment on matters pertaining to the internal affairs of another country. I might add here that on the contrary Pakistan and its leadership have this compulsive habit." He further added, "suggest that Pakistan may be asked this question as they have been commenting on the status of minorities in India and have meddled in the internal affairs of its neighbours." The developments come days after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said his country doesn't treat its minorities as second class citizens as India does. India immediately hit out at Pakistan PM saying remarks are an "egregious insult to all citizens of India" & "Pakistan’s Prime Minister has yet again demonstrated his lack of understanding about India’s secular polity and ethos." Earlier also Pakistan's PM has many times commented on the situation of minorities in India. In December he said he will "show Modi government how to treat minorities" while on December 25 2018, the birth anniversary of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the man who partitioned India, Khan tweeted, "Naya Pakistan is Quaid’s Pakistan and will ensure that our minorities are treated as equal citizens, unlike what is happening in India". Although Pakistan has been keen to comment on the situation of minorities in India, it has been silent on the situation of Uyghur minorities in China. Uyghurs live in Western China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region & practise Islam. Many media reports have suggested that Chinese authorities are subjecting Uyghurs with torture and political brainwashing in internment camps and prisons. Recently, Turkish foreign ministry issued a statement condemning the situation of Uyghur minorities in China and said, "The reintroduction of internment camps in the 21st century and the policy of systematic assimilation against the Uighur Turks carried out by the authorities of China is a great shame for humanity." It further added, "We call on the international community and the Secretary-General of the United Nations to take effective measures in order to bring to an end this human tragedy in Xinjiang."

Ask Pakistan, they have a habit of commenting on status of minorities, India says when asked about China's Uighurs

A Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-what-we-know-so-far-197443">rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a bus ferrying CRPF jawans</a> on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama.&nbsp;The attack left 40 people dead.&nbsp;

Officials said there were a total of 42 people in the bus including the driver.&nbsp;The attack on the bus — it was travelling in a convoy — took place at 3.15 pm near Awantipora.&nbsp;There had been 70 vehicles in the convoy which had been transporting 2,500 personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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K Vijay Kumar, Advisor to J&amp;K Govt to ANI: Death toll in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pulwamaattack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pulwamaattack</a> is around 40 <a href="https://t.co/mUPCRcZnhz">pic.twitter.com/mUPCRcZnhz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096051185356820481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The attack also left dozens injured — body parts could be seen strewn around the site of the attack — and a steadily-climbing death toll. The first reports had said eight CRPF personnel had died; that figure quickly turned into 12, and then continued to climb upwards.&nbsp;

The death toll makes this the worst terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir in decades. Nineteen Indian soldiers had died in the attack on the army camp in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri in September 2016, which led to India's surgical strikes.&nbsp;

Officials said the terrorist was carrying over a 100 kgs of explosive in his vehicle. He had been driving on the wrong side of the road and rammed head-on into the CRPF bus.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Jaish-e-Mohammed claimed responsibility for the attack in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS.

The terrorist who carried out the attack was identified as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">Adil Ahmad Dar from Kakapora in Pulwama</a>; pictures and video of him began to flood social media soon after the attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sacrifices-of-our-brave-security-personnel-shall-not-go-in-vain-modi-says-after-pulwama-attack-197456">"despicable" and "dastardly" attack</a>, saying "the sacrifices of our brave security personnel shall not go in vain".&nbsp;

Modi added that he had spoken with Home Minister Rajnath Singh about the situation in Kashmir.&nbsp;

He also spoke with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval who, ANI reported, was overseeing the situation in Kashmir and being briefed by senior CRPF officials.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Home Minister Rajnath Singh, says,"The attack was carried out by Pakistan backed Jaish e Mohammed. A strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PulwamaAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PulwamaAttack</a> <a href="https://t.co/OdhLUtNK8h">pic.twitter.com/OdhLUtNK8h</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096070940755148801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Singh meanwhile said that "the attack was carried out by the Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed".

He added that "a strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this".&nbsp;

K Vijay Kumar, adviser to the government of Jammu and Kashmir, told ANI that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) would join the investigation into the attack.&nbsp;

Sources meanwhile said the Cabinet Committee on Security would meet at 9:15 am on Friday.&nbsp;

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Sources: Cabinet Committee on Security to meet at 9:15 AM tomorrow <a href="https://t.co/N2qMtmezx4">pic.twitter.com/N2qMtmezx4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096065840221483008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mobile internet services meanwhile have been suspended in all of south Kashmir — Pulwama is one of the four districts of south Kashmir — and their speed slowed down to 2G in Srinagar district.

&nbsp;

A Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a bus ferrying CRPF jawans on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. The attack left 40 people dead.

A Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a bus ferrying CRPF jawans on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. The attack left 40 people dead. Officials said there were a total of 42 people in the bus including the driver. The attack on the bus — it was travelling in a convoy — took place at 3.15 pm near Awantipora. There had been 70 vehicles in the convoy which had been transporting 2,500 personnel from Jammu to Srinagar. K Vijay Kumar, Advisor to J&K Govt to ANI: Death toll in #Pulwamaattack is around 40 pic.twitter.com/mUPCRcZnhz — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × The attack also left dozens injured — body parts could be seen strewn around the site of the attack — and a steadily-climbing death toll. The first reports had said eight CRPF personnel had died; that figure quickly turned into 12, and then continued to climb upwards. The death toll makes this the worst terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir in decades. Nineteen Indian soldiers had died in the attack on the army camp in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri in September 2016, which led to India's surgical strikes. Officials said the terrorist was carrying over a 100 kgs of explosive in his vehicle. He had been driving on the wrong side of the road and rammed head-on into the CRPF bus. The Jaish-e-Mohammed claimed responsibility for the attack in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS. The terrorist who carried out the attack was identified as Adil Ahmad Dar from Kakapora in Pulwama; pictures and video of him began to flood social media soon after the attack. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the "despicable" and "dastardly" attack, saying "the sacrifices of our brave security personnel shall not go in vain". Modi added that he had spoken with Home Minister Rajnath Singh about the situation in Kashmir. He also spoke with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval who, ANI reported, was overseeing the situation in Kashmir and being briefed by senior CRPF officials. #WATCH: Home Minister Rajnath Singh, says,"The attack was carried out by Pakistan backed Jaish e Mohammed. A strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this." #PulwamaAttack pic.twitter.com/OdhLUtNK8h — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × Singh meanwhile said that "the attack was carried out by the Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed". He added that "a strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this". K Vijay Kumar, adviser to the government of Jammu and Kashmir, told ANI that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) would join the investigation into the attack. Sources meanwhile said the Cabinet Committee on Security would meet at 9:15 am on Friday. Sources: Cabinet Committee on Security to meet at 9:15 AM tomorrow pic.twitter.com/N2qMtmezx4 — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × Mobile internet services meanwhile have been suspended in all of south Kashmir — Pulwama is one of the four districts of south Kashmir — and their speed slowed down to 2G in Srinagar district.

Terror attack on CRPF convoy in Jammu & Kashmir's Pulwama: Death toll climbs to 40

The toll in the terror attack on CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-withdraws-most-favoured-nation-status-accorded-to-pakistan-after-pulwama-attack-197540">Pulwama district</a> has risen to 40, a senior official said Friday.

A Jaish suicide bomber Thursday rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into a bus carrying CRPF personnel in Pulwama district.

"A total of 40 personnel have been killed in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorists-have-made-a-big-mistake-those-responsible-for-pulwama-attack-will-definitely-be-punished-pm-modi-197544">Awantipora in Jammu and Kashmir</a>. Five troops are injured," the senior official said.

In the wake of the incident, the CRPF has issued a 'high vigil' alert to all its formations in the Kashmir Valley and other places in the state.

Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Director General R R Bhatnagar and senior officials of the force are leaving for Kashmir as part of a team led by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

They are also expected to meet the injured who are admitted to the 92 base hospital of the Army in Srinagar, they said.

More than 2,500 CRPF personnel, many of them returning from leave to rejoin duty in the Valley, were travelling in the convoy of 78 vehicles when they were ambushed on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway at Latoomode in Awantipora in south Kashmir around 3.15 pm on Thursday.

The Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group has claimed responsibility for the attack that took place about 20 km from Srinagar, officials had said.

Police identified the suicide bomber as Adil Ahmed, who officials said joined the Jaish in 2018.&nbsp;

He was driving a vehicle packed with over 100 kg of explosives on the wrong side of the road and hit the bus, in which estimated 39-44 personnel were travelling, head-on, an official at the spot had said.

The powerful explosion, which reduced the bus to a mangled heap of iron, was heard many kilometres away, including in some parts of Srinagar adjoining Pulwama district. It is estimated that about 70-80 kgs of high-grade explosive was used in the blast.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The toll in the terror attack on CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district has risen to 40, a senior official said Friday. A Jaish suicide bomber Thursday rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into a bus carrying CRPF personnel in Pulwama district.

The toll in the terror attack on CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district has risen to 40, a senior official said Friday. A Jaish suicide bomber Thursday rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into a bus carrying CRPF personnel in Pulwama district. "A total of 40 personnel have been killed in Awantipora in Jammu and Kashmir. Five troops are injured," the senior official said. In the wake of the incident, the CRPF has issued a 'high vigil' alert to all its formations in the Kashmir Valley and other places in the state. Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Director General R R Bhatnagar and senior officials of the force are leaving for Kashmir as part of a team led by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. They are also expected to meet the injured who are admitted to the 92 base hospital of the Army in Srinagar, they said. More than 2,500 CRPF personnel, many of them returning from leave to rejoin duty in the Valley, were travelling in the convoy of 78 vehicles when they were ambushed on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway at Latoomode in Awantipora in south Kashmir around 3.15 pm on Thursday. The Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group has claimed responsibility for the attack that took place about 20 km from Srinagar, officials had said. Police identified the suicide bomber as Adil Ahmed, who officials said joined the Jaish in 2018. He was driving a vehicle packed with over 100 kg of explosives on the wrong side of the road and hit the bus, in which estimated 39-44 personnel were travelling, head-on, an official at the spot had said. The powerful explosion, which reduced the bus to a mangled heap of iron, was heard many kilometres away, including in some parts of Srinagar adjoining Pulwama district. It is estimated that about 70-80 kgs of high-grade explosive was used in the blast.

Death toll in Pulwama terror attack on CRPF personnel mounts to 40

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Terror attack on CRPF convoy in Jammu & Kashmir's Pulwama: Death toll climbs to 40

Death toll in Pulwama terror attack on CRPF personnel mounts to 40