<p>Minister of State for Railways Manoj Sinha Saturday ruled out any punitive action against the driver of the train that mowed down Dussehra revellers in Amritsar, saying there was no negligence on the part of the national transporter and also advised people not to organise such events near tracks.</p>

<p>The accident has claimed over 60 lives so far out of which 39 bodies have been identified by the authorities.</p>

<p>The railways has maintained that it was not at fault because it had no intimation about the Dussehra event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The incident was not a railways' fault. There was no lapse on our part and no action against the driver will be initiated. People should refrain from organising such events near tracks in future. I think if precaution had been taken, the accident could have been averted," he said, adding wherever such events are held, the district administration concerned gives permission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The minister said drivers are given specific instructions on where to slow down the train. "There was a curve. The driver couldn't have seen it. What should we order an inquiry about? Trains travel in speed only," said Sinha when he was asked if an inquiry would be ordered against the driver.</p>

<p>Asked about opposition attack on former MLA Navjot Kaur Sidhu, who was the chief guest at the Dussehra function, Sinha said nobody should do politics on this issue. "It is a tragic incident."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vivek Kumar, the Divisional Railway Manager, Ferozpur, said the driver has been questioned but no lapse could be found at his end. He said that while the train was travelling at a speed of 91 km/hr but after spotting the crowd on the track, it slowed down to 68 km/hr before the first impact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People were trespassing the railway lines when the incident took place. Due to darkness and sound of firecrackers, the people could not hear the sound of train. The driver did not see the crowd earlier as there was a curve. The driver tried to apply brakes and minimize the speed to the train running at 90 Km/hour but it takes time to stop the train," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the questioning, the driver also said that he had tried to stop the train but couldn't.</p>

<p>Earlier, Ashwani Lohani, Chairman, Railway Board, had said the mishap occurred at a stretch between two stations -- Amritsar and Manawala -- and not at a level crossing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At midsections, trains run at their assigned speed and people are not expected to be on the tracks. At midsections, there is no railway staff posted. We have staff at level crossings whose job is to regulate traffic," he said, explaining why the railways was not alerted about the congregation by its staff.</p>

<p>He said the gate man was 400 metres away at a level crossing. He also said that if the driver had applied emergency brakes, there could have been a bigger tragedy.</p>

<p>The train was running at its assigned speed and initial reports suggest that the driver applied brakes and the train slowed down, he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There was no information and no permission sought from us. The (Dussehra) event took place at a place adjoining the railway land in private property," he said.&nbsp;</p>


Minister of State for Railways Manoj Sinha Saturday ruled out any punitive action against the driver of the train that mowed down Dussehra revellers in Amritsar, saying there was no negligence on the part of the national transporter and also advised people not to organise such events near tracks.

Minister of State for Railways Manoj Sinha Saturday ruled out any punitive action against the driver of the train that mowed down Dussehra revellers in Amritsar, saying there was no negligence on the part of the national transporter and also advised people not to organise such events near tracks. The accident has claimed over 60 lives so far out of which 39 bodies have been identified by the authorities. The railways has maintained that it was not at fault because it had no intimation about the Dussehra event. "The incident was not a railways' fault. There was no lapse on our part and no action against the driver will be initiated. People should refrain from organising such events near tracks in future. I think if precaution had been taken, the accident could have been averted," he said, adding wherever such events are held, the district administration concerned gives permission. The minister said drivers are given specific instructions on where to slow down the train. "There was a curve. The driver couldn't have seen it. What should we order an inquiry about? Trains travel in speed only," said Sinha when he was asked if an inquiry would be ordered against the driver. Asked about opposition attack on former MLA Navjot Kaur Sidhu, who was the chief guest at the Dussehra function, Sinha said nobody should do politics on this issue. "It is a tragic incident." Vivek Kumar, the Divisional Railway Manager, Ferozpur, said the driver has been questioned but no lapse could be found at his end. He said that while the train was travelling at a speed of 91 km/hr but after spotting the crowd on the track, it slowed down to 68 km/hr before the first impact. "People were trespassing the railway lines when the incident took place. Due to darkness and sound of firecrackers, the people could not hear the sound of train. The driver did not see the crowd earlier as there was a curve. The driver tried to apply brakes and minimize the speed to the train running at 90 Km/hour but it takes time to stop the train," he said. During the questioning, the driver also said that he had tried to stop the train but couldn't. Earlier, Ashwani Lohani, Chairman, Railway Board, had said the mishap occurred at a stretch between two stations -- Amritsar and Manawala -- and not at a level crossing. "At midsections, trains run at their assigned speed and people are not expected to be on the tracks. At midsections, there is no railway staff posted. We have staff at level crossings whose job is to regulate traffic," he said, explaining why the railways was not alerted about the congregation by its staff. He said the gate man was 400 metres away at a level crossing. He also said that if the driver had applied emergency brakes, there could have been a bigger tragedy. The train was running at its assigned speed and initial reports suggest that the driver applied brakes and the train slowed down, he said. "There was no information and no permission sought from us. The (Dussehra) event took place at a place adjoining the railway land in private property," he said.

No action against driver, railways not at fault: MoS Manoj Sinha on Amritsar train accident

<p>Municipal corporation councillor Vijay Madan and her son Sourabh Madan Mithu, the main organisers of the Dussehra celebration in Amritsar where at least 60 people were run over by a passing train, have gone underground with other family members.</p>

<p>According to police, a few people angry over the accident attacked their residence, broke window panes and pelted stones on Saturday.</p>

<p>Following this, the Madan family members have gone to an undisclosed location and also switched off their mobile phones. However, police personnel have been deployed at the residence.</p>

<p>Vijay Madan is the sitting councillor from ward number 29 falling under the Amritsar East assembly constituency. The Madan family members were the main organisers of the Dussehra event where the train accident took place.</p>

<p>The accident happened when a crowd of Dussehra revellers spilled onto the railway tracks near Joda Phatak and could not see the train approaching them. They were crushed under the wheels of the train coming from Jalandhar and heading towards Amritsar station.</p>

<p>The Indian Railways has said it was not informed by the organisers or the local administration that a Dussehra event was being organised close to railway tracks.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Municipal corporation councillor Vijay Madan and her son Sourabh Madan Mithu, the main organisers of the Dussehra celebration in Amritsar where at least 60 people were run over by a passing train, have gone underground with other family members.

Municipal corporation councillor Vijay Madan and her son Sourabh Madan Mithu, the main organisers of the Dussehra celebration in Amritsar where at least 60 people were run over by a passing train, have gone underground with other family members. According to police, a few people angry over the accident attacked their residence, broke window panes and pelted stones on Saturday. Following this, the Madan family members have gone to an undisclosed location and also switched off their mobile phones. However, police personnel have been deployed at the residence. Vijay Madan is the sitting councillor from ward number 29 falling under the Amritsar East assembly constituency. The Madan family members were the main organisers of the Dussehra event where the train accident took place. The accident happened when a crowd of Dussehra revellers spilled onto the railway tracks near Joda Phatak and could not see the train approaching them. They were crushed under the wheels of the train coming from Jalandhar and heading towards Amritsar station. The Indian Railways has said it was not informed by the organisers or the local administration that a Dussehra event was being organised close to railway tracks.

Amritsar train accident: Councillor behind Dussehra event goes undergound

<p>A day after 60 people were crushed to death by a moving train while they were celebrating Dusshera festival in Amritsar, the Punjab and Railway Police detained questioned the driver of the train. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Punjab Police officials said that they have detained and are questioning&nbsp;the DMU (diesel multiple unit) driver at the Ludhiana railway station regarding the incident that took place on Friday night at the Jora Phatak near Dhobi Ghat within Amritsar city.</p>

<p>The people were crushed to death while they were watching the burning of a Ravana effigy from a railway track.</p>

<p>Sources said that the driver claimed that he was given a green signal and all clear and had no idea that hundreds of people were standing on the tracks when the train crossed the area.</p>

<p>Police sources said that the organisers of the event had gone underground.</p>

<p>As the Ravan and other effigies went up in flames with the deafening noise of bursting fire crackers, the people standing on the live railway tracks did not realise that a speeding train was approaching.</p>

<p>Nearly 150 people, most of who were watching the burning of effigies or were recording the event on their mobile phones, were mowed down by the train.</p>

<p>The disaster was over in 10-15 seconds, people at the spot said.</p>


A day after 60 people were crushed to death by a moving train while they were celebrating Dusshera festival in Amritsar, the Punjab and Railway Police detained questioned the driver of the train.

A day after 60 people were crushed to death by a moving train while they were celebrating Dusshera festival in Amritsar, the Punjab and Railway Police detained questioned the driver of the train. Punjab Police officials said that they have detained and are questioning the DMU (diesel multiple unit) driver at the Ludhiana railway station regarding the incident that took place on Friday night at the Jora Phatak near Dhobi Ghat within Amritsar city. The people were crushed to death while they were watching the burning of a Ravana effigy from a railway track. Sources said that the driver claimed that he was given a green signal and all clear and had no idea that hundreds of people were standing on the tracks when the train crossed the area. Police sources said that the organisers of the event had gone underground. As the Ravan and other effigies went up in flames with the deafening noise of bursting fire crackers, the people standing on the live railway tracks did not realise that a speeding train was approaching. Nearly 150 people, most of who were watching the burning of effigies or were recording the event on their mobile phones, were mowed down by the train. The disaster was over in 10-15 seconds, people at the spot said.

Amritsar train accident: Train driver detained, questioned

<p>The Government Railway Police (GRP) on Saturday registered a case against unknown persons in connection with the Amritsar tragedy in which a train mowed down at least 59 Dussehra revellers.</p>

<p>A case has been registered under sections 304 (punishment for culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 304A (causing death by negligence) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) of the IPC, a GRP official said.</p>

<p>SHO of GRP railway station Amritsar Balvir Singh said the FIR has been registered against the unknown persons and names of the accused would be added in the FIR after investigation.</p>

<p>"It is too early to say anything about the accused (or) who was responsible for the mass killing on railway track. But during the course of investigation, many facts and causes are expected to come to light. Investigation will be conducted to find out the causes and lapses that led to the killing of so many people," he said.</p>

<p>Singh said the GRP was informed by Punjab police personnel about the incident and they immediately rushed to the spot.</p>

<p>"We found bodies of many people including women and children. We extended all possible help to shift the injured people to different hospitals and assisted the administration in the rescue operation," he said.</p>

<p>Asked about the driver of the train, Singh said he has not been arrested as he has not been named in the FIR.</p>

<p>On Friday, the train mowed down the revellers who had spilled onto railway tracks while watching the burning of a Ravana effigy at 'Dhobi ghat' ground here near Joda Phatak.</p>

<p>At the time of the incident, at least 300 people were watching the 'Ravana dahan'.&nbsp;</p>


The Government Railway Police (GRP) on Saturday registered a case against unknown persons in connection with the Amritsar tragedy in which a train mowed down at least 59 Dussehra revellers.

The Government Railway Police (GRP) on Saturday registered a case against unknown persons in connection with the Amritsar tragedy in which a train mowed down at least 59 Dussehra revellers. A case has been registered under sections 304 (punishment for culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 304A (causing death by negligence) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) of the IPC, a GRP official said. SHO of GRP railway station Amritsar Balvir Singh said the FIR has been registered against the unknown persons and names of the accused would be added in the FIR after investigation. "It is too early to say anything about the accused (or) who was responsible for the mass killing on railway track. But during the course of investigation, many facts and causes are expected to come to light. Investigation will be conducted to find out the causes and lapses that led to the killing of so many people," he said. Singh said the GRP was informed by Punjab police personnel about the incident and they immediately rushed to the spot. "We found bodies of many people including women and children. We extended all possible help to shift the injured people to different hospitals and assisted the administration in the rescue operation," he said. Asked about the driver of the train, Singh said he has not been arrested as he has not been named in the FIR. On Friday, the train mowed down the revellers who had spilled onto railway tracks while watching the burning of a Ravana effigy at 'Dhobi ghat' ground here near Joda Phatak. At the time of the incident, at least 300 people were watching the 'Ravana dahan'.

Government Railway Police registers FIR in Amritsar train accident

<p>The accident in Amritsar Friday night in which over 60 people were mowed down by a train during Dussehra celebrations was the worst due to trespassing on the tracks, railway officials said.</p>

<p>Here is a list of some other such accidents:</p>

<p>* June 4, 2002-The Kasganj level crossing disaster occurred when a Kanpur Kasganj Express collided with a passenger bus in Uttar Pradesh, killing 30 and injuring 29.</p>

<p>* June 4, 2010-The Coimbatore Mettupalayam special train collided with a mini-bus at an unmanned level-crossing at Idigarai near Coimbatore, killing 5.</p>

<p>* July 7, 2011-&nbsp;A Mathura Chhapra Express hit a bus at an unmanned level crossing in Thanagaon of Uttar Pradesh's Kanshiram Nagar district, killing 38 and injuring 30.</p>

<p>* February 26, 2012- The Trivandrum-Kozhikode Jan Shatabdi Express struck people who were standing on the track to watch fireworks, killing 3 and injuring 1.</p>

<p>* March 20, 2012- A train collided with an overloaded taxi minivan at an unmanned railroad crossing in northern Uttar Pradesh, 296 km from Lucknow, killing 15.</p>

<p>* March 26, 2012- A MEMU commuter train collided with a boulder-carrying truck at the Kannamangala gate on the outskirts of Bangalore, killing the pilot and driver.</p>

<p>* July 23, 2014- A Nanded passenger train collided with a school bus at an unmanned level-crossing in Masaipet village of Medak district, killing 18.</p>

<p>* Jan 17, 2017- Two 15-year-old boys wanting to take selfies in front of an approaching train were killed when they were hit by another train running on an adjacent track. This happened near Akshardham station in Delhi.</p>

<p>* April 25, 2018-13 children killed after train rammed into school van at railway crossing in UP's Kushinagar.&nbsp;</p>


The accident in Amritsar Friday night in which over 60 people were mowed down by a train during Dussehra celebrations was the worst due to trespassing on the tracks, railway officials said.

The accident in Amritsar Friday night in which over 60 people were mowed down by a train during Dussehra celebrations was the worst due to trespassing on the tracks, railway officials said. Here is a list of some other such accidents: * June 4, 2002-The Kasganj level crossing disaster occurred when a Kanpur Kasganj Express collided with a passenger bus in Uttar Pradesh, killing 30 and injuring 29. * June 4, 2010-The Coimbatore Mettupalayam special train collided with a mini-bus at an unmanned level-crossing at Idigarai near Coimbatore, killing 5. * July 7, 2011- A Mathura Chhapra Express hit a bus at an unmanned level crossing in Thanagaon of Uttar Pradesh's Kanshiram Nagar district, killing 38 and injuring 30. * February 26, 2012- The Trivandrum-Kozhikode Jan Shatabdi Express struck people who were standing on the track to watch fireworks, killing 3 and injuring 1. * March 20, 2012- A train collided with an overloaded taxi minivan at an unmanned railroad crossing in northern Uttar Pradesh, 296 km from Lucknow, killing 15. * March 26, 2012- A MEMU commuter train collided with a boulder-carrying truck at the Kannamangala gate on the outskirts of Bangalore, killing the pilot and driver. * July 23, 2014- A Nanded passenger train collided with a school bus at an unmanned level-crossing in Masaipet village of Medak district, killing 18. * Jan 17, 2017- Two 15-year-old boys wanting to take selfies in front of an approaching train were killed when they were hit by another train running on an adjacent track. This happened near Akshardham station in Delhi. * April 25, 2018-13 children killed after train rammed into school van at railway crossing in UP's Kushinagar.

Amritsar train mishap: Worst accident caused by 'trespassing' in history of railways

<p>The man who played the character of demon king Ravana at the Ram Leela at Joda Phatak was among those killed in the train accident.</p>

<p>After he enacted the role of Ravana, Dalbir Singh, in his twenties, was watching the burning of an effigy from the tracks when he, along with 58 others, was run over by a train.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dalbir has an eight-month-old daughter.</p>

<p>Unable to control her emotions, Dalbir Singh's mother said her son was playing different characters in the Ram Leela for the past many years.</p>

<p>"My son played the role of Ravana at the Ram Leela, which was held on the ground at Dhobi Ghat adjacent to Joda Phatak...He is no more...He too was run over by the train," the mother said.</p>

<p>Manoj, a friend of Dalbir, said he had been playing the role of Ravana for the past five years at the Ram Leela, which is held at a ground a little distance away from the accident site.</p>

<p>His mother says said that Dalbir's body would not be cremated until the family gets compensation from the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Seeking job for the widow of Dalbir Singh, his mother said that the state government should give her a government job so that the family could sustain their livelihood.</p>

<p>"We want justice...It is unfortunate that none from the government or any politician has visited the family," she said.</p>

<p>Another friend of Dalbir said that on seeing a speeding train approaching the area, he had rushed towards them to save them.</p>

<p>"Dalbir was able to push 7 to 8 people away from the rail track...But there was something else in store for him as the train ran over him, killing him on the spot," he said.</p>

<p>At least 59 people were killed Friday evening after a crowd of Dussehra revellers that had spilled onto railway tracks while watching the burning of a Ravana effigy was run over by a train near Joda Phatak here.</p>

<p>The incident took place on Friday evening when at least 300 people were watching the 'Ravana dahan' at a ground adjacent to the tracks.</p>

<p>As the effigy was lit and fireworks went off, a section of the crowd started retreating towards the tracks where a large number of people were already standing to watch the event, officials had said.</p>


The man who played the character of demon king Ravana at the Ram Leela at Joda Phatak was among those killed in the train accident. After he enacted the role of Ravana, Dalbir Singh, in his twenties, was watching the burning of an effigy from the tracks when he, along with 58 others, was run over by a train.

The man who played the character of demon king Ravana at the Ram Leela at Joda Phatak was among those killed in the train accident. After he enacted the role of Ravana, Dalbir Singh, in his twenties, was watching the burning of an effigy from the tracks when he, along with 58 others, was run over by a train. Dalbir has an eight-month-old daughter. Unable to control her emotions, Dalbir Singh's mother said her son was playing different characters in the Ram Leela for the past many years. "My son played the role of Ravana at the Ram Leela, which was held on the ground at Dhobi Ghat adjacent to Joda Phatak...He is no more...He too was run over by the train," the mother said. Manoj, a friend of Dalbir, said he had been playing the role of Ravana for the past five years at the Ram Leela, which is held at a ground a little distance away from the accident site. His mother says said that Dalbir's body would not be cremated until the family gets compensation from the government. Seeking job for the widow of Dalbir Singh, his mother said that the state government should give her a government job so that the family could sustain their livelihood. "We want justice...It is unfortunate that none from the government or any politician has visited the family," she said. Another friend of Dalbir said that on seeing a speeding train approaching the area, he had rushed towards them to save them. "Dalbir was able to push 7 to 8 people away from the rail track...But there was something else in store for him as the train ran over him, killing him on the spot," he said. At least 59 people were killed Friday evening after a crowd of Dussehra revellers that had spilled onto railway tracks while watching the burning of a Ravana effigy was run over by a train near Joda Phatak here. The incident took place on Friday evening when at least 300 people were watching the 'Ravana dahan' at a ground adjacent to the tracks. As the effigy was lit and fireworks went off, a section of the crowd started retreating towards the tracks where a large number of people were already standing to watch the event, officials had said.

Man who essayed character of Ravana among killed in train accident in Amritsar

<p>More than 50 died in a tragic accident that took place over a railway crossing in Punjab's Amritsar on Friday.</p>

<p>According to reports, people were burning Dussehra effigy near the railway track in Choura Bazar area in Amritsar when a train ran into the crowd.</p>

<p>According to CPRO, Northern Railways, "Ravan effigy was being burnt 70-80 m from the gate, when the effigy fell, people present there ran towards the railway track, at the time a train was passing and level crossing there was shut. As per initial info 30-35 people injured."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ravan effigy was being burnt 70-80 m from the gate,when the effigy fell, people present there ran towards the railway track, at the time a train was passing&amp;level crossing there was shut. As per initial info 30-35 ppl injured: CPRO, Northern Railways on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amritsar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amritsar</a> train accident <a href="https://t.co/s0sgR3dwEJ">pic.twitter.com/s0sgR3dwEJ</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053316887306792962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Operations Incharge at the accident site in Amritsar has told me that only one train was passing from the area. We have issued helpline numbers," the official added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has ordered an inquiry into the train accident in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amritsar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amritsar</a> which has claimed 50 lives and has left 30-35 people injured.</p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053324555211755520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The train bound for Amritsar was coming from Pathankot.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Punjab CM has set up a Crisis Management Group to monitor the relief and rehabilitation efforts. The Group is led by Health Min Brahm Mohindra, with Revenue Minister Sukhbinder Singh Sarkaria&amp;Technical Edu Min Charanjit S Channi as members.The team has rushed to the accident site</p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053327179818385410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;"There are more than 50 casualties. We are evacuating people, injured taken to the hospital", Punjab police told media.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Punjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Punjab</a> CM has directed Home Secretary, Health Secretary and ADGP Law and Order to immediately rush to Amritsar. Revenue Minister Sukhbinder Sarkaria deputed to immediately reach Amritsar to oversee rescue operations. CM to visit Amritsar tomorrow to access the situation.</p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053299959968206849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Punjab's Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has directed Home Secretary, Health Secretary and ADGP Law and Order to immediately rush to Amritsar. Revenue Minister Sukhbinder Sarkaria has been deputed to immediately reach Amritsar to oversee rescue operations.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Punjab CM Amarinder Singh says " today's incident has been absolutely tragic. I am going to Amritsar tomorrow. The state is on full alert." <a href="https://t.co/RHLO2LxAoa">pic.twitter.com/RHLO2LxAoa</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053307322821423105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Chief Minister will visit Amritsar tomorrow to access the situation, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Punjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Punjab</a>: At gate no. 27 b/w Amritsar &amp; Manawala. As Dussehra celebration was taking place some incident had occurred&amp; people started rushing towards closed gate number 27 while a DMU train number 74943 was passing the closed gate: CPRO Northern Railway; Visuals from accident site <a href="https://t.co/TMJILYC6Or">pic.twitter.com/TMJILYC6Or</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053296863246512128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sadness over the tragic accident.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Extremely saddened by the train accident in Amritsar. The tragedy is heart-wrenching. My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and I pray that the injured recover quickly. Have asked officials to provide immediate assistance that is required.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1053302267884027904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Extremely saddened by the train accident in Amritsar. The tragedy is heart-wrenching. My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and I pray that the injured recover quickly. Have asked officials to provide immediate assistance that is required," the Prime Minister noted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I spoke to Home Secretary of Punjab and DGP of the state regarding the train accident in Amritsar. They are rushing to the spot. Centre is ready to provide all possible assistance to the state at this hour of grief.</p>
— राजनाथ सिंह (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1053297916230676480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh also condoled the loss of people in the mishap.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Approximately more than 60 injured people including children have received medical treatment till now. Most people have suffered orthopedic injuries, abrasions, head trauma and eye injuries: Dr Sandeep, Emergency Medical Officer, Civil Hospital, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amritsar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amritsar</a> <a href="https://t.co/VV6DGiJwwe">pic.twitter.com/VV6DGiJwwe</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053336786754252805?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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More than 50 died in a tragic accident that took place over a railway crossing in Punjab's Amritsar on Friday. According to reports, people were burning Dussehra effigy near the railway track in Choura Bazar area in Amritsar when a train ran into the crowd.

More than 50 died in a tragic accident that took place over a railway crossing in Punjab's Amritsar on Friday. According to reports, people were burning Dussehra effigy near the railway track in Choura Bazar area in Amritsar when a train ran into the crowd. According to CPRO, Northern Railways, "Ravan effigy was being burnt 70-80 m from the gate, when the effigy fell, people present there ran towards the railway track, at the time a train was passing and level crossing there was shut. As per initial info 30-35 people injured." Ravan effigy was being burnt 70-80 m from the gate,when the effigy fell, people present there ran towards the railway track, at the time a train was passing&level crossing there was shut. As per initial info 30-35 ppl injured: CPRO, Northern Railways on #Amritsar train accident pic.twitter.com/s0sgR3dwEJ — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2018 × "Operations Incharge at the accident site in Amritsar has told me that only one train was passing from the area. We have issued helpline numbers," the official added. Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has ordered an inquiry into the train accident in #Amritsar which has claimed 50 lives and has left 30-35 people injured. — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2018 × The train bound for Amritsar was coming from Pathankot. Punjab CM has set up a Crisis Management Group to monitor the relief and rehabilitation efforts. The Group is led by Health Min Brahm Mohindra, with Revenue Minister Sukhbinder Singh Sarkaria&Technical Edu Min Charanjit S Channi as members.The team has rushed to the accident site — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2018 × "There are more than 50 casualties. We are evacuating people, injured taken to the hospital", Punjab police told media. #Punjab CM has directed Home Secretary, Health Secretary and ADGP Law and Order to immediately rush to Amritsar. Revenue Minister Sukhbinder Sarkaria deputed to immediately reach Amritsar to oversee rescue operations. CM to visit Amritsar tomorrow to access the situation. — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2018 × Punjab's Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has directed Home Secretary, Health Secretary and ADGP Law and Order to immediately rush to Amritsar. Revenue Minister Sukhbinder Sarkaria has been deputed to immediately reach Amritsar to oversee rescue operations. #WATCH Punjab CM Amarinder Singh says " today's incident has been absolutely tragic. I am going to Amritsar tomorrow. The state is on full alert." pic.twitter.com/RHLO2LxAoa — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2018 × The Chief Minister will visit Amritsar tomorrow to access the situation, news agency ANI reported. #Punjab: At gate no. 27 b/w Amritsar & Manawala. As Dussehra celebration was taking place some incident had occurred& people started rushing towards closed gate number 27 while a DMU train number 74943 was passing the closed gate: CPRO Northern Railway; Visuals from accident site pic.twitter.com/TMJILYC6Or — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2018 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sadness over the tragic accident. Extremely saddened by the train accident in Amritsar. The tragedy is heart-wrenching. My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and I pray that the injured recover quickly. Have asked officials to provide immediate assistance that is required. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 19, 2018 × "Extremely saddened by the train accident in Amritsar. The tragedy is heart-wrenching. My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and I pray that the injured recover quickly. Have asked officials to provide immediate assistance that is required," the Prime Minister noted. I spoke to Home Secretary of Punjab and DGP of the state regarding the train accident in Amritsar. They are rushing to the spot. Centre is ready to provide all possible assistance to the state at this hour of grief. — राजनाथ सिंह (@rajnathsingh) October 19, 2018 × Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh also condoled the loss of people in the mishap. Approximately more than 60 injured people including children have received medical treatment till now. Most people have suffered orthopedic injuries, abrasions, head trauma and eye injuries: Dr Sandeep, Emergency Medical Officer, Civil Hospital, #Amritsar pic.twitter.com/VV6DGiJwwe — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2018 ×

Over 50 dead in railway crossing accident in Amritsar, Punjab CM orders probe

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday approved a financial relief of Rs 2 lakh for the family of each deceased in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-30-feared-dead-in-railway-crossing-accident-in-amritsar-172370">Amritsar train accident</a> and Rs 50,000 for the injured, a spokesperson said.</p>

<p>More than 50 people were killed and 72 injured Friday evening after a crowd of Dussehra revellers, who had spilled onto railway tracks while watching burning of a Ravana effigy, was run over by a train in Amritsar.</p>

<p>The train was coming from Jalandhar. The incident happened at Joda Phatak where at least 300 people were watching 'Ravana dahan' at a ground near the railway tracks.</p>

<p>"Extremely saddened by the train accident in Amritsar. The tragedy is heart-wrenching," Modi tweeted earlier this evening.</p>

<p>"My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and I pray that the injured recover quickly. Have asked officials to provide immediate assistance that is required," he said.</p>

<p>Railways has issued helpline numbers 0183-2223171, 0183-2564485&nbsp;for information on the incident.</p>

<p>Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Friday announced all possible assistance by the Centre to Punjab as a large number of Dussehra revellers standing across railway tracks were mowed down by a passing train near Amritsar.</p>

<p>Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh separately announced a compensation of Rs five lakh each to the kin of the deceased.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday approved a financial relief of Rs 2 lakh for the family of each deceased in the Amritsar train accident and Rs 50,000 for the injured, a spokesperson said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday approved a financial relief of Rs 2 lakh for the family of each deceased in the Amritsar train accident and Rs 50,000 for the injured, a spokesperson said. More than 50 people were killed and 72 injured Friday evening after a crowd of Dussehra revellers, who had spilled onto railway tracks while watching burning of a Ravana effigy, was run over by a train in Amritsar. The train was coming from Jalandhar. The incident happened at Joda Phatak where at least 300 people were watching 'Ravana dahan' at a ground near the railway tracks. "Extremely saddened by the train accident in Amritsar. The tragedy is heart-wrenching," Modi tweeted earlier this evening. "My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and I pray that the injured recover quickly. Have asked officials to provide immediate assistance that is required," he said. Railways has issued helpline numbers 0183-2223171, 0183-2564485 for information on the incident. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Friday announced all possible assistance by the Centre to Punjab as a large number of Dussehra revellers standing across railway tracks were mowed down by a passing train near Amritsar. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh separately announced a compensation of Rs five lakh each to the kin of the deceased.

Modi approves financial relief of Rs 2 lakh to kin of dead in Amritsar train accident

WION Gravitas: Over 50 dead in railway crossing accident in Punjab's Amritsar

<p>Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has directed all the Deputy Commissioners to immediately release any pending compensations to farmers, who suffered losses during the 2017 floods in the state.</p>

<p>While chairing a meeting to finalise the modalities for the early release of compensation to the people affected by the recent floods, Singh ordered that an ex-gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh each should be immediately released to the five families whose members had lost their lives in the incessant rains, read a statement.</p>

<p>The Chief Minister was informed that five people lost their lives in the state - two in Tarn Taran and one each in Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and Moga.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, expressing concern at the delay in the disbursement of 2017 compensation by the Deputy Commissioners, despite having received the money from the Revenue Department, Singh directed the Financial Commissioner Revenue to seek an explanation from them.</p>

<p>Singh also asked his Chief Principal Secretary to get detailed instructions regarding the criteria and norms for assessment and release of compensation re-circulated to all the field officers in order to ensure timely payments.</p>

<p>In the meeting, he was informed that a detailed memorandum for seeking financial assistance from the Centre will be prepared after compilation of the data of the damage caused to crops, property and livestock. The Chief Minister said that compensation for the complete loss of crop, which was earlier fixed at Rs 8000 per acre, should be paid at the enhanced rates of Rs 12,000 per acre.</p>

<p>According to the spokesperson, as per rules, compensation of Rs 12,000 per acre will be paid for crop losses ranging between 76 per cent to 100 per cent; Rs 5400 per acre for losses between 33 to 75 per cent; and Rs 2000 per acre for 26 to 32 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A compensation of Rs. 95,100 will be paid for full/severely damaged houses, and Rs 5200 for partially damaged ones.</p>

<p>In case of loss of livestock (buffalo/cow) the compensation will range between Rs 30,000 to Rs. 90,000, and for goat, sheep and pig it is fixed at Rs 3000.&nbsp;</p>


Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has directed all the Deputy Commissioners to immediately release any pending compensations to farmers, who suffered losses during the 2017 floods in the state.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has directed all the Deputy Commissioners to immediately release any pending compensations to farmers, who suffered losses during the 2017 floods in the state. While chairing a meeting to finalise the modalities for the early release of compensation to the people affected by the recent floods, Singh ordered that an ex-gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh each should be immediately released to the five families whose members had lost their lives in the incessant rains, read a statement. The Chief Minister was informed that five people lost their lives in the state - two in Tarn Taran and one each in Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and Moga. Meanwhile, expressing concern at the delay in the disbursement of 2017 compensation by the Deputy Commissioners, despite having received the money from the Revenue Department, Singh directed the Financial Commissioner Revenue to seek an explanation from them. Singh also asked his Chief Principal Secretary to get detailed instructions regarding the criteria and norms for assessment and release of compensation re-circulated to all the field officers in order to ensure timely payments. In the meeting, he was informed that a detailed memorandum for seeking financial assistance from the Centre will be prepared after compilation of the data of the damage caused to crops, property and livestock. The Chief Minister said that compensation for the complete loss of crop, which was earlier fixed at Rs 8000 per acre, should be paid at the enhanced rates of Rs 12,000 per acre. According to the spokesperson, as per rules, compensation of Rs 12,000 per acre will be paid for crop losses ranging between 76 per cent to 100 per cent; Rs 5400 per acre for losses between 33 to 75 per cent; and Rs 2000 per acre for 26 to 32 per cent. A compensation of Rs. 95,100 will be paid for full/severely damaged houses, and Rs 5200 for partially damaged ones. In case of loss of livestock (buffalo/cow) the compensation will range between Rs 30,000 to Rs. 90,000, and for goat, sheep and pig it is fixed at Rs 3000.

Give due compensation to 2017 rain-affected farmers: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh

<p>A 24-year-old man from a village near Amritsar went missing&nbsp;from Panja Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan, reports said on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, Amarjit, a Sikh pilgrimage, went to Pakistan along with other pilgrims for Baisakhi celebration at Nankana Sahib Gurdwara.</p>

<p>This comes on the same day when Indian High Commission officials were prevented from meeting the pilgrims. As per reports, around 1,800 Sikh pilgrims who were visiting Pakistan under a bilateral agreement facilitating visits to religious shrines were stopped from meeting Indian diplomats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Representatives of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) have confirmed that Amarjit’s passport – along with that of other Sikh pilgrims – was in the board’s custody but he did not return to receive it upon departure.</p>

<p>The Pakistan foreign ministry is conducting an investigating into the matter.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Amarjit, a Sikh pilgrim, went to Pakistan along with other pilgrims for Baisakhi celebration at Nankana Sahib Gurdwara

A 24-year-old man from a village near Amritsar went missing from Panja Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan, reports said on Saturday. According to reports, Amarjit, a Sikh pilgrimage, went to Pakistan along with other pilgrims for Baisakhi celebration at Nankana Sahib Gurdwara. This comes on the same day when Indian High Commission officials were prevented from meeting the pilgrims. As per reports, around 1,800 Sikh pilgrims who were visiting Pakistan under a bilateral agreement facilitating visits to religious shrines were stopped from meeting Indian diplomats. Representatives of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) have confirmed that Amarjit’s passport – along with that of other Sikh pilgrims – was in the board’s custody but he did not return to receive it upon departure. The Pakistan foreign ministry is conducting an investigating into the matter.

24-year-old Indian on a pilgrimage to Pakistan goes missing

<p>World-renowned Golden Temple, also known as Darbar Sahib, is undergoing gold plating work. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has undertaken the task to gold-plate the main entrance of the holy site.</p>

<p>The temple is covered with 24-karat gold.</p>

<p>The SGPC, earlier this month, introduced eco-friendly compostable carry bags for the distribution of 'Karah Parshad' at the Golden Temple. The move aimed at discouraging the use of polythene bags at the site.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


World-renowned Golden Temple, also known as Darbar Sahib, is undergoing gold plating work. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has undertaken the task to gold-plate the main entrance of the holy site. The temple is covered with 24-karat gold. The SGPC, earlier this month, introduced eco-friendly compostable carry bags for the distribution of 'Karah Parshad' at the Golden Temple. The move aimed at discouraging the use of polythene bags at the site. (With inputs from agencies)

Golden Temple's main entrance to get gold-plating

<p>Minister of State for External Affairs, General VK Singh is going to Iraq on April 1 and on the matter, he spoke exclusively to Zee News.</p>

<p>VK Singh is going to Iraq to bring back bodies of 38 Indians&nbsp;who died in Mosul in Iraq while speaking to Zee, VK Singh expressed grief over the matter and said, "the government is sad that we can not bring the Indians back to life."</p>

<p>VK Singh said that " the kind of honesty Modi government &nbsp;showed while trying to find Indians, no government had made such an effort before this."</p>

<p>He further informed that 38 Indian bodies have been identified which will be recovered from Iraq. 27 bodies are from Punjab, 4 are from Himachal and the rest are from Bengal and Bihar.</p>

<p>However, VK Singh also informed that one Indian name Raju Yadav from Bihar, his body has not been identified even after 70 DNA test was done.</p>

<p>"If his body also gets identified that all 39 Indians' body will be brought back to India."</p>

<p>While speaking on the efforts made by the government to search Indians, he said that "the Indian government was in constant touch with Iraq." &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I myself went to Iraq several times and tried to find the missing Indians, he added.</p>

<p>VK Singh also said that he has only one question for people who are politicising the matter and that is "why they didn't go to Iraq to find Indians?"</p>

<p>VK Singh further urged the state governments to help families at every step and the Centre is ready for whatever help they need.</p>

<p>After coming from Iraq, VK Singh will go to Amritsar, Bihar and Kolkata with bodies.</p>

<p>Sushma Swaraj on March 20 informed Rajya Sabha that 39 Indians who were kidnapped and had gone missing since 2014 are dead now.</p>

<p>Sushma Swaraj said that the Islamic State (IS) had killed all the Indian nationals.</p>

<p>Total 40 Indians were kidnapped in Iraq from which one, Harjit Masih from Gurdaspur had managed to escape and had claimed to have witnessed the massacre of the others. But the government has rejected this claims.</p>


VK Singh is going to Iraq to bring back bodies of 38 Indians who died in Iraq

Minister of State for External Affairs, General VK Singh is going to Iraq on April 1 and on the matter, he spoke exclusively to Zee News. VK Singh is going to Iraq to bring back bodies of 38 Indians who died in Mosul in Iraq while speaking to Zee, VK Singh expressed grief over the matter and said, "the government is sad that we can not bring the Indians back to life." VK Singh said that " the kind of honesty Modi government showed while trying to find Indians, no government had made such an effort before this." He further informed that 38 Indian bodies have been identified which will be recovered from Iraq. 27 bodies are from Punjab, 4 are from Himachal and the rest are from Bengal and Bihar. However, VK Singh also informed that one Indian name Raju Yadav from Bihar, his body has not been identified even after 70 DNA test was done. "If his body also gets identified that all 39 Indians' body will be brought back to India." While speaking on the efforts made by the government to search Indians, he said that "the Indian government was in constant touch with Iraq." "I myself went to Iraq several times and tried to find the missing Indians, he added. VK Singh also said that he has only one question for people who are politicising the matter and that is "why they didn't go to Iraq to find Indians?" VK Singh further urged the state governments to help families at every step and the Centre is ready for whatever help they need. After coming from Iraq, VK Singh will go to Amritsar, Bihar and Kolkata with bodies. Sushma Swaraj on March 20 informed Rajya Sabha that 39 Indians who were kidnapped and had gone missing since 2014 are dead now. Sushma Swaraj said that the Islamic State (IS) had killed all the Indian nationals. Total 40 Indians were kidnapped in Iraq from which one, Harjit Masih from Gurdaspur had managed to escape and had claimed to have witnessed the massacre of the others. But the government has rejected this claims.

Government ready to help families of Indians killed in Mosul: VK Singh

<p>The kin of Indians who died in Iraq are demanding a compensation for the families as they announced that they would hold&nbsp;a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar from Saturday.</p>

<p>The Brother-in-law of one of the Indian killed in Iraq said that &quot;we&#39;ve given govt time till tomorrow morning to announce a compensation to secure future of families of deceased. If they aren&#39;t able to do it then we&#39;ll protest at Jantar Mantar tomorrow.&quot;</p>

<p>Sister of Manjinder Singh, Gurpidner Kaur also claimed that the government is not responding to the demands even External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has not replied to the &#39;repeated attempts of contact.&#39;</p>

<p>&nbsp;&quot;We won&#39;t do a violent protest, we&#39;ll just sit peacefully. Union govt hasn&#39;t contacted us yet. EAM Sushma Swaraj has not replied to us even after repeated attempts to contact and meet her: Gurpinder Kaur, sister of Manjinder Singh who was among 39 Indians killed in Iraq,&quot; she said.</p>

<p>Sushma Swaraj informed Rajya Sabha on Tuesday about the 39 kidnapped Indians&nbsp;who had gone missing since 2014 in Iraq are dead. Most of them were from Punjab.</p>

<p>All of them were shot in the head.The bodies have also been recovered from a mound in Badush village near Mosul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 39 Indians were kidnapped in 2014. On Wednesday Swaraj said they had been killed by the Islamic State.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Minister of State for External Affairs General (retd) VK Singh has flown to Mosul to bring back the bodies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government has come under much flak for its handling of the case. The families of the 39 killed have said they heard about the deaths when Swaraj made her speech in Parliament, and that they were not told beforehand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The opposition meanwhile has said the government knew about the deaths beforehand but had been misleading the public.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Kin of Indians who died in Iraq are demanding a compensation for the families as they announce to hold a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar from Friday

The kin of Indians who died in Iraq are demanding a compensation for the families as they announced that they would hold a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar from Saturday. The Brother-in-law of one of the Indian killed in Iraq said that "we've given govt time till tomorrow morning to announce a compensation to secure future of families of deceased. If they aren't able to do it then we'll protest at Jantar Mantar tomorrow." Sister of Manjinder Singh, Gurpidner Kaur also claimed that the government is not responding to the demands even External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has not replied to the 'repeated attempts of contact.' "We won't do a violent protest, we'll just sit peacefully. Union govt hasn't contacted us yet. EAM Sushma Swaraj has not replied to us even after repeated attempts to contact and meet her: Gurpinder Kaur, sister of Manjinder Singh who was among 39 Indians killed in Iraq," she said. Sushma Swaraj informed Rajya Sabha on Tuesday about the 39 kidnapped Indians who had gone missing since 2014 in Iraq are dead. Most of them were from Punjab. All of them were shot in the head.The bodies have also been recovered from a mound in Badush village near Mosul. The 39 Indians were kidnapped in 2014. On Wednesday Swaraj said they had been killed by the Islamic State. Minister of State for External Affairs General (retd) VK Singh has flown to Mosul to bring back the bodies. The government has come under much flak for its handling of the case. The families of the 39 killed have said they heard about the deaths when Swaraj made her speech in Parliament, and that they were not told beforehand. The opposition meanwhile has said the government knew about the deaths beforehand but had been misleading the public.

Families of Indians killed in Iraq to hold a protest in Delhi over compensation demand

<p>For those wondering what <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/arjun-kapoor-shares-the-first-look-of-his-new-film-sandeep-aur-pinky-faraar-23198" target="_blank">Arjun Kapoor </a>and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-sandeep-aur-pinky-faraar-after-arjun-kapoor-parineeti-chopra-shares-her-look-from-the-film-24089" target="_blank">Parineeti Chopra </a>are up to&nbsp;-- the two&nbsp;recently wrapped shooting for film <em>Sandeep Aur Pinky <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/arjun-kapoor-shares-the-first-look-of-his-new-film-sandeep-aur-pinky-faraar-23198" target="_blank">Faraar</a></em><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/arjun-kapoor-shares-the-first-look-of-his-new-film-sandeep-aur-pinky-faraar-23198" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a>and are today on Thursday spotted seeking blessings at Golden Temple before commencing Amritsar schedule for their next.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">So I just wrapped my 10th film with my first ever co star <a href="https://twitter.com/ParineetiChopra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@parineetichopra</a> !!! It&rsquo;s been amazing working with her, Dibakar Banerjee &amp; his awesome team hope u guys like what we come up with on 3rd August kyunki <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SandeepaurPinkyFaraar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SandeepaurPinkyFaraar</a> hone wale hai !!! <a href="https://twitter.com/SAPFTheFilm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SAPFTheFilm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/yrf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yrf</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/yrftalent?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yrftalent</a> <a href="https://t.co/oJoTDdxK5T">pic.twitter.com/oJoTDdxK5T</a></p>
&mdash; Arjun Kapoor (@arjunk26) <a href="https://twitter.com/arjunk26/status/953845234366066688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Reuniting on the silver screen with yet another, the two will next be working on&nbsp;Vipul Amrutlal Shah&#39;s <em>Namastey England</em>.</p>

<p>Before kickstarting the shooting, Arjun along with Parineeti and Vipul were seen in a spiritual spirit. Interestingly, the lead pair is set to play Punjabi characters in the film.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">[NEW PIC] Seeking blessings at Harmandir Saheb.. The Golden Temple.. <a href="https://twitter.com/NamasteyEngland?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NamasteyEngland</a> officially kickstarts from this holy place of holy water Amritsar!!<br />
Jo Bole So Nihaal SAT SRI AKAL!!????????<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/arjunk26?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arjunk26</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ParineetiChopra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ParineetiChopra</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NamasteyEngland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NamasteyEngland</a> <a href="https://t.co/uUQlr8BqjR">pic.twitter.com/uUQlr8BqjR</a></p>
&mdash; TEAM ARJUN KAPOOR (@Team_Arjun) <a href="https://twitter.com/Team_Arjun/status/966600379348631553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Speaking about the visit, Parineeti told a website:&nbsp;&ldquo;Arjun woke up and went straight to the Golden Temple so that he could seek blessings. It was an impromptu plan by him. He just woke up and said that he would like to pray at the Temple before he starts shooting the film. He spent about 30 mins praying alone and then went straight to the shoot and reached before time for shoot! Parineeti and Vipul were also with him at the Golden Temple. It was a really auspicious way to start the film.&rdquo;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-nothing-gets-cuter-than-taimur-ali-khan-and-his-ponytail-33687" target="_blank"><em>Also Read:&nbsp;Nothing gets cuter than Taimur Ali Khan and his ponytail!</em></a></p>

<p><em>Namastey England</em> is reportedly going to be shot at more than 75 locations across the globe while the shooting schedule will start from Amritsar followed by Ludhiana and Patiala.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Arjun Kapoor joined work from today&nbsp;after&nbsp;spending a gala time celebrating his&nbsp;cousin&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mohit-marwahs-wedding-was-a-starry-affair-see-pics-33610" target="_blank">Mohit&nbsp;Marwah&#39;s wedding with&nbsp;Antara&nbsp;Motiwala </a>in the&nbsp;UAE. While Arjun looked dapper in traditional Indian attire, there were scores of celebrities spotted at the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-not-sonam-kapoor-but-its-her-cousin-mohit-marwah-whos-tying-the-knot-33323" target="_blank">high-profile Bollywood wedding</a> from Karan Johar, Sonam-Rhea Kapoor, Abhishek Bachchan, Srivedi and family,&nbsp;Karisma Kapoor, Athiya Shetty, Shweta Bachchan Nanda and Kiara Advani among others.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Repost?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Repost</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbhilashaDevnani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbhilashaDevnani</a> <a href="https://t.co/61FXSj9ZNw">pic.twitter.com/61FXSj9ZNw</a></p>
&mdash; Arjun Kapoor (@arjunk26) <a href="https://twitter.com/arjunk26/status/966381912645341184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Repost?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Repost</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ManishMalhotra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManishMalhotra</a> <a href="https://t.co/G24RCw5XBs">pic.twitter.com/G24RCw5XBs</a></p>
&mdash; Arjun Kapoor (@arjunk26) <a href="https://twitter.com/arjunk26/status/966379294204354561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, Parineeti was spotted earlier in Delhi launching a watch brand:&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Such an honour launching the first <a href="https://twitter.com/itisDW?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@itisDW</a> store in India! Loveeee their watches &hearts;️ go check it out at Fort right now guys! And don&rsquo;t forget to use my code &ldquo;DWXPARINEETI&rdquo; at their store or on <a href="https://t.co/ppYYrdPLMB">https://t.co/ppYYrdPLMB</a> for 15% discount. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DWmumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DWmumbai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DanielWellington?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DanielWellington</a> <a href="https://t.co/YyFlS5yVrX">pic.twitter.com/YyFlS5yVrX</a></p>
&mdash; Parineeti Chopra (@ParineetiChopra) <a href="https://twitter.com/ParineetiChopra/status/965206622099464192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The two just wrapped shooting for film 'Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar' before starting with 'Namastey England'

For those wondering what Arjun Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra are up to -- the two recently wrapped shooting for film Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar and are today on Thursday spotted seeking blessings at Golden Temple before commencing Amritsar schedule for their next. So I just wrapped my 10th film with my first ever co star @parineetichopra !!! It’s been amazing working with her, Dibakar Banerjee & his awesome team hope u guys like what we come up with on 3rd August kyunki #SandeepaurPinkyFaraar hone wale hai !!! @SAPFTheFilm @yrf @yrftalent pic.twitter.com/oJoTDdxK5T — Arjun Kapoor (@arjunk26) January 18, 2018 × Reuniting on the silver screen with yet another, the two will next be working on Vipul Amrutlal Shah's Namastey England. Before kickstarting the shooting, Arjun along with Parineeti and Vipul were seen in a spiritual spirit. Interestingly, the lead pair is set to play Punjabi characters in the film. [NEW PIC] Seeking blessings at Harmandir Saheb.. The Golden Temple.. @NamasteyEngland officially kickstarts from this holy place of holy water Amritsar!! Jo Bole So Nihaal SAT SRI AKAL!!???????? @arjunk26 @ParineetiChopra #NamasteyEngland pic.twitter.com/uUQlr8BqjR — TEAM ARJUN KAPOOR (@Team_Arjun) February 22, 2018 × Speaking about the visit, Parineeti told a website: “Arjun woke up and went straight to the Golden Temple so that he could seek blessings. It was an impromptu plan by him. He just woke up and said that he would like to pray at the Temple before he starts shooting the film. He spent about 30 mins praying alone and then went straight to the shoot and reached before time for shoot! Parineeti and Vipul were also with him at the Golden Temple. It was a really auspicious way to start the film.” Also Read: Nothing gets cuter than Taimur Ali Khan and his ponytail! Namastey England is reportedly going to be shot at more than 75 locations across the globe while the shooting schedule will start from Amritsar followed by Ludhiana and Patiala. Arjun Kapoor joined work from today after spending a gala time celebrating his cousin Mohit Marwah's wedding with Antara Motiwala in the UAE. While Arjun looked dapper in traditional Indian attire, there were scores of celebrities spotted at the high-profile Bollywood wedding from Karan Johar, Sonam-Rhea Kapoor, Abhishek Bachchan, Srivedi and family, Karisma Kapoor, Athiya Shetty, Shweta Bachchan Nanda and Kiara Advani among others. #Repost #AbhilashaDevnani pic.twitter.com/61FXSj9ZNw — Arjun Kapoor (@arjunk26) February 21, 2018 × #Repost @ManishMalhotra pic.twitter.com/G24RCw5XBs — Arjun Kapoor (@arjunk26) February 21, 2018 × Meanwhile, Parineeti was spotted earlier in Delhi launching a watch brand: Such an honour launching the first @itisDW store in India! Loveeee their watches ♥️ go check it out at Fort right now guys! And don’t forget to use my code “DWXPARINEETI” at their store or on https://t.co/ppYYrdPLMB for 15% discount. #DWmumbai #DanielWellington pic.twitter.com/YyFlS5yVrX — Parineeti Chopra (@ParineetiChopra) February 18, 2018 ×

Spotted: 'Namastey England' stars Arjun Kapoor, Parineeti Chopra seek blessings at Golden Temple

<p>Canada&#39;s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau struck all the right notes while visiting Punjab on Wednesday, the most-watched leg of his seven-day India tour.</p>

<p>In a white kurta-pyjama, the visiting premier prayed at the sanctum sanctorum of the Golden Temple along with his family during an almost hour-long visit to the shrine. While monsieur wore a <em>patka</em> (head covering for men), madame covered her head with a <em>chunni</em> (head covering for women) for the visit.</p>

<p>The prime minister and his family also tried rolling out chapatis at the community kitchen (Langar hall) and greeted devotees with folded hands. Scores of visitors could be seen holding up their mobile phones to take pictures and videos of the Trudeaus.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Canadian PM Justin Trudeau &amp; his family members at the community kitchen inside the Golden Temple premises in Amritsar on Wednesday. (PTI)</p>
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<p>His visit to Punjab had triggered a controversy over reported links between key members of his cabinet and Sikh separatists, who want to carve out a part of India for their own mythical country. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh had refused to meet Canadian Defence Minister Sajjan Singh last year, claiming that the latter was a vociferous supporter of Sikh separatism.</p>

<p>Today, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-amarinder-singh-brings-up-punjab-militancy-issue-with-canadian-pm-trudeau-33614">Trudeau met the chief minister</a> along with Sajjan Singh.</p>

<p>&ldquo;I met the Canadian PM for the first time, he is a very wonderful person. I raised issue of Khalistan as it&#39;s the primary issue, as there is money coming in from various countries including Canada to Punjab to create this ruckus. The PM is aware of it and he has told me that he is going to look into this,&rdquo; Amarinder Singh said after the meeting.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wish you a wonderful birthday Hadrein Trudeau on the 28th of this month. I&rsquo;ll think of you on that day. It has been a pleasure meeting all the three children of Canadian Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JustinTrudeau</a>. <a href="https://t.co/wVo0v6Ydts">pic.twitter.com/wVo0v6Ydts</a></p>
&mdash; Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/966267484339716096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Adding fuel to the fire was the reported snub to Trudeau by the Indian government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who often greets his counterparts on their arrival, sent a junior minister from the agriculture department to meet Trudeau at the airport. By contrast, Modi himself was on the tarmac to greet and bear-hug Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when he visited last month.</p>

<p>Trudeau&#39;s lukewarm reception, according to media reports, was due to India&#39;s concerns about his perceived soft approach to Sikh extremist groups in his country, and those that sympathise with them.</p>

<p><strong>Opinion: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-why-india-and-canada-need-to-look-beyond-khalistan-33599">Why India and Canada need to look beyond Khalistan</a></strong></p>

<p>However, Trudeau strongly rejected suggestions that Canada was encouraging Sikh extremism, saying Canada&#39;s position of supporting &quot;one united India&quot; had not changed. &quot;I have met with the prime minister in various places around the world and looking forward to sitting down with him on Friday,&quot; he said, dismissing reports that he had been snubbed by Modi.</p>

<p><strong>Also See: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/when-justin-trudeau-met-aamir-and-shah-rukh-khan-33565">When Justin Trudeau met Aamir and Shah Rukh Khan</a></strong></p>

<p>Whatever may be the outcome of those bilateral talks, the Trudeau family&rsquo;s huge popularity across the gamut of India&rsquo;s regular and social media will certainly linger in India&rsquo;s institutional memory for a long time to come.</p>


The prime minister and his family also tried rolling out chapatis at the community kitchen (Langar hall) and greeted devotees with folded hands.

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau struck all the right notes while visiting Punjab on Wednesday, the most-watched leg of his seven-day India tour. In a white kurta-pyjama, the visiting premier prayed at the sanctum sanctorum of the Golden Temple along with his family during an almost hour-long visit to the shrine. While monsieur wore a patka (head covering for men), madame covered her head with a chunni (head covering for women) for the visit. The prime minister and his family also tried rolling out chapatis at the community kitchen (Langar hall) and greeted devotees with folded hands. Scores of visitors could be seen holding up their mobile phones to take pictures and videos of the Trudeaus. Canadian PM Justin Trudeau & his family members at the community kitchen inside the Golden Temple premises in Amritsar on Wednesday. (PTI) × His visit to Punjab had triggered a controversy over reported links between key members of his cabinet and Sikh separatists, who want to carve out a part of India for their own mythical country. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh had refused to meet Canadian Defence Minister Sajjan Singh last year, claiming that the latter was a vociferous supporter of Sikh separatism. Today, Trudeau met the chief minister along with Sajjan Singh. “I met the Canadian PM for the first time, he is a very wonderful person. I raised issue of Khalistan as it's the primary issue, as there is money coming in from various countries including Canada to Punjab to create this ruckus. The PM is aware of it and he has told me that he is going to look into this,” Amarinder Singh said after the meeting. Wish you a wonderful birthday Hadrein Trudeau on the 28th of this month. I’ll think of you on that day. It has been a pleasure meeting all the three children of Canadian Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau. pic.twitter.com/wVo0v6Ydts — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) February 21, 2018 × Adding fuel to the fire was the reported snub to Trudeau by the Indian government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who often greets his counterparts on their arrival, sent a junior minister from the agriculture department to meet Trudeau at the airport. By contrast, Modi himself was on the tarmac to greet and bear-hug Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when he visited last month. Trudeau's lukewarm reception, according to media reports, was due to India's concerns about his perceived soft approach to Sikh extremist groups in his country, and those that sympathise with them. Opinion: Why India and Canada need to look beyond Khalistan However, Trudeau strongly rejected suggestions that Canada was encouraging Sikh extremism, saying Canada's position of supporting "one united India" had not changed. "I have met with the prime minister in various places around the world and looking forward to sitting down with him on Friday," he said, dismissing reports that he had been snubbed by Modi. Also See: When Justin Trudeau met Aamir and Shah Rukh Khan Whatever may be the outcome of those bilateral talks, the Trudeau family’s huge popularity across the gamut of India’s regular and social media will certainly linger in India’s institutional memory for a long time to come.

Justin Trudeau charms Punjab in most-watched leg of his India tour

<p>Terming United Kingdom&#39;s visa norms a &quot;big mistake&quot;, London Mayor Sadiq Khan on Sunday said he was &quot;lobbying&quot; with the British government to change its stringent visa norms.</p>

<p>Khan arrived in the country&#39;s commercial capital as part of his first official tour to three Indian cities, others being Delhi and Amritsar, to strengthen the UK capital&#39;s trade ties.</p>

<p>&quot;I am a big critic of the British government over the change in the Visa policy. I think they have made a big mistake, as on one hand the British government is asking Indian businesses to trade there and on the other hand they have made it harder (to enter the country),&quot; Khan said during his interaction with reporters.</p>

<p>The Theresa May government recently changed its visa policy for non-EU (European Union) nationals to curb its soaring immigration figures. The policy which came into effect in November will affect a large number of Indians, especially IT professionals.</p>

<p>&quot;I want to assure you that I am lobbying with my government to change its immigration stance, because I want talented Indians to come to London and not go to Canada, Australia or the US.&nbsp;<br />
London is open to people, talent and partnership,&quot; the London Mayor said.</p>

<p>India last month flagged its serious concerns to Britain over its stringent visa norms and hike in threshold limit of annual pay of working professionals to get the travel documents.<br />
Khan said the change in UK&#39;s current position on immigration is needed in the interest of the UK capital.</p>

<p>&quot;One of the reasons why London is the greatest city in the world is its ability to catch talent. (A total of) 40 per cent of Londoners are from outside the UK. IT&#39;s in the interest of London to change its stance on immigration and I&#39;m optimistic that it will change in near future,&quot; he said.</p>

<p><em>(With PTI inputs)</em></p>


The Theresa May government recently changed its visa policy for non-EU (European Union) nationals to curb its soaring immigration figures.

Terming United Kingdom's visa norms a "big mistake", London Mayor Sadiq Khan on Sunday said he was "lobbying" with the British government to change its stringent visa norms. Khan arrived in the country's commercial capital as part of his first official tour to three Indian cities, others being Delhi and Amritsar, to strengthen the UK capital's trade ties. "I am a big critic of the British government over the change in the Visa policy. I think they have made a big mistake, as on one hand the British government is asking Indian businesses to trade there and on the other hand they have made it harder (to enter the country)," Khan said during his interaction with reporters. The Theresa May government recently changed its visa policy for non-EU (European Union) nationals to curb its soaring immigration figures. The policy which came into effect in November will affect a large number of Indians, especially IT professionals. "I want to assure you that I am lobbying with my government to change its immigration stance, because I want talented Indians to come to London and not go to Canada, Australia or the US. London is open to people, talent and partnership," the London Mayor said. India last month flagged its serious concerns to Britain over its stringent visa norms and hike in threshold limit of annual pay of working professionals to get the travel documents. Khan said the change in UK's current position on immigration is needed in the interest of the UK capital. "One of the reasons why London is the greatest city in the world is its ability to catch talent. (A total of) 40 per cent of Londoners are from outside the UK. IT's in the interest of London to change its stance on immigration and I'm optimistic that it will change in near future," he said. (With PTI inputs)

UK govt's visa norms a 'big mistake': London Mayor

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<p>India has been struggling to keep its tallest tricolour fluttering at 360 feet in Attari on the Indo-Pakistan border in Amritsar against high velocity winds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The administration in Amritsar&nbsp;has now decided to hoist the flag only after getting an expert opinion from the Home Ministry.</p>

<p>The tricolour, which is 120 x 80 feet wide and weighs a 100 kilograms, was hoisted on the Wagah border on March 5.</p>

<p>Since then its fabric has been replaced a few times. The wire supporting the flag pole also snapped a couple of times.</p>

<p>It was replaced four times in the past one month and had to be brought down again after it was damaged last week.</p>

<p>&quot;Frequently bringing the flag down for repair or replacing the torn fabric is not appropriate. It hurts people&#39;s sentiments. So, we have written to the Home Ministry to form a committee of experts,&quot; Amritsar deputy commissioner Kamaldeep Singh Sangha told DNA.</p>

<p>There are specific guidelines under the Flag Code of India, 2010, which need to be adhered to while hoisting the flag.</p>

<p>The flag cost more than 100,000&nbsp;Rs, officials told DNA.</p>

<p>(WION with inputs from DNA)</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


High velocity winds have torn the flag numerous times, so it's been taken down until the Home Ministry finds a solution

India has been struggling to keep its tallest tricolour fluttering at 360 feet in Attari on the Indo-Pakistan border in Amritsar against high velocity winds. The administration in Amritsar has now decided to hoist the flag only after getting an expert opinion from the Home Ministry. The tricolour, which is 120 x 80 feet wide and weighs a 100 kilograms, was hoisted on the Wagah border on March 5. Since then its fabric has been replaced a few times. The wire supporting the flag pole also snapped a couple of times. It was replaced four times in the past one month and had to be brought down again after it was damaged last week. "Frequently bringing the flag down for repair or replacing the torn fabric is not appropriate. It hurts people's sentiments. So, we have written to the Home Ministry to form a committee of experts," Amritsar deputy commissioner Kamaldeep Singh Sangha told DNA. There are specific guidelines under the Flag Code of India, 2010, which need to be adhered to while hoisting the flag. The flag cost more than 100,000 Rs, officials told DNA. (WION with inputs from DNA)

For India's tallest flag, the wind is an enemy

<p>It doesn&#39;t get more direct than what President Ashraf Ghani of Afghanistan had to say at Amritsar on Sunday.</p>

<p><font>&quot;Pakistan,&quot; he told representatives of nearly 50 countries or organisations, including Pakistan foreign affairs and security adviser Sartaj Aziz, who had gathered in the northern Indian town for the sixth edition of the Heart of Asia - Istanbul Process on Afghanistan,&nbsp;&quot;has pledged 500 million dollars for Afghanistan&rsquo;s development. This amount, Mr Aziz, can be spent to fight terrorists and extremists in Pakistan.&quot;</font></p>

<p><font>TV cameras did not capture Aziz&#39;s expression but the sting in&nbsp;Ghani&#39;s words was not lost on anyone. The Afghan President did not stop at that.<br />
<br />
&ldquo;A key Taliban leader,&quot; the Afghan President said, &quot;has himself admitted to getting sanctuary in Pakistan. He said that without Pakistan support, we would have&nbsp;not lasted for more than a month.&rdquo;<br />
<br />
As if on cue, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, who co-chaired the conference with Ghani, called for action &quot;against those who support, shelter, train and finance&quot; terrorists.&nbsp;</font></p>

<p>&quot;Silence and inaction against terrorism in Afghanistan and our region will only embolden terrorists and their masters,&quot; he continued in the same vein.</p>

<p>This double-barrelled attack on Pakistan, by the Afghan and Indian leaders, was in keeping with India&#39;s attempts of late to shame their common neighbour and further isolate it diplomatically.&nbsp;The bonhomie between Kabul and New Delhi extended to the bilateral talks between Ghani and Modi on the margins of the conference.</p>

<p>Economic partnership via trade and connectivity, development assistance and security cooperation were among the bilateral, regional and global issues that came up for discussion in their meeting.</p>

<p>Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup said that Ghani and Modi agreed to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation to combat especially the cross-border nature of the scourge which had caused immense suffering to the people of India and Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Both countries decided to operationalise the additional one billion meant as Indian development assistance for infrastructure and connectivity projects. They also plan to introduce an air transport corridor between India and Afghanistan&nbsp;to give India and Afghan consumers and producers unimpeded access to each other&#39;s products and services.</p>

<p>Modi was to amplify it later by saying that &quot;Afghanistan should be at the centre of our connectivity networks, not peripheral to them. On our part, we see Afghanistan as the hub for strengthening links of connectivity between South Asia and Central Asia&quot;.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;We,&quot; he said, &quot;cannot deny that the more connected Afghanistan is with the regional arteries of trade, capital and markets, the more assured would be its economic growth and progress. President Ghani and I have converged on the priority of strengthening trade and transport linkages with other partners in the region.&quot;</p>

<p>For his part, Ghani said that all the countries in Afghanistan&#39;s neighbourhood and beyond &quot;need to identify cross-border terrorism and a fund to combat terrorism&quot;. He lauded India&#39;s development role in his war-torn country by saying that Indian assistance is transparent and came without without strings attached. &quot;There are no hidden agreements [or] secret conditions...it is convergence of interests and values of two states inspired by the belief in cooperative advantage.&quot;</p>

<p>Aziz defended by saying in his intervention afterwards at the conference that &quot;it is simplistic to blame only one country for the recent upsurge in violence&quot; in Afghanistan. In an oblique reference to the continued India - Pakistan tensions, he said that peaceful resolution of outstanding disputes will further improve regional cooperation and connectivity in the region. (Pakistan does not allow India access through its territory for exporting goods to Afghanistan.)<br />
<br />
However, at a joint news conference with Deputy Foreign Minister Hekmat Karzai of Afghanistan, Indian Finance Minister Arun Jaitley (standing in for Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj, who is indisposed) said that terrorism was at the very core of the deliberations and that the tone had been set by Ghani and Modi earlier in the day.<br />
<br />
Karzai, in turn, spoke about how Pakistan, without naming it, is nurturing and flirting with terrorism, which has consequences not only for Pakistan itself but also for the region.<br />
<br />
The participating countries, Jaitley added, recognised that terrorism was the biggest threat to peace and stability and the Amritsar Declaration (see below) adopted towards the end of the summit expressed concern over violence perpetrated by terrorist groups, such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad.</p>

<p>If there were fears that India - Pakistan tensions would hijack the conference agenda, it was not to be. In the end, Aziz&#39;s engagements did not go beyond the customary handshake and photo-op with Modi. Indian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup maintained that there was no pull-aside or bilateral meeting between Aziz and Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval either.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An excerpt from the Amritsar Declaration:</p>

<p><font>&quot;We remain concerned by the gravity of the security situation in Afghanistan in particular and the region and the high level of violence caused by the Taliban, terrorist groups including ISIL / DAISHand its affiliates, the Haqqani Network, Al Qaida, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, East Turkistan Islamic Movement, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, TTP, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, Jundullah and other foreign terrorist fighters. Acknowledging the support that terrorism derives in our region, we demand an immediate end to all forms of terrorism, as well as all support to it, including financing of terrorism. We recognize that terrorism is the biggest threat to peace, stability and cooperation in our region. We encourage the international community to continue to assist the Government of Afghanistan. We strongly call for concerted regional and international cooperation to ensure elimination of terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, including dismantling of terrorist sanctuaries and safe havens in the Heart of Asia region, as well as disrupting all financial, tactical and logistical support for terrorism.&quot;</font></p>

<p>(WION)</p>


Silence and inaction against terrorism in Afghanistan and our region will only embolden terrorists and their masters: Modi

It doesn't get more direct than what President Ashraf Ghani of Afghanistan had to say at Amritsar on Sunday. "Pakistan," he told representatives of nearly 50 countries or organisations, including Pakistan foreign affairs and security adviser Sartaj Aziz, who had gathered in the northern Indian town for the sixth edition of the Heart of Asia - Istanbul Process on Afghanistan, "has pledged 500 million dollars for Afghanistan’s development. This amount, Mr Aziz, can be spent to fight terrorists and extremists in Pakistan." TV cameras did not capture Aziz's expression but the sting in Ghani's words was not lost on anyone. The Afghan President did not stop at that. “A key Taliban leader," the Afghan President said, "has himself admitted to getting sanctuary in Pakistan. He said that without Pakistan support, we would have not lasted for more than a month.” As if on cue, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, who co-chaired the conference with Ghani, called for action "against those who support, shelter, train and finance" terrorists. "Silence and inaction against terrorism in Afghanistan and our region will only embolden terrorists and their masters," he continued in the same vein. This double-barrelled attack on Pakistan, by the Afghan and Indian leaders, was in keeping with India's attempts of late to shame their common neighbour and further isolate it diplomatically. The bonhomie between Kabul and New Delhi extended to the bilateral talks between Ghani and Modi on the margins of the conference. Economic partnership via trade and connectivity, development assistance and security cooperation were among the bilateral, regional and global issues that came up for discussion in their meeting. Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup said that Ghani and Modi agreed to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation to combat especially the cross-border nature of the scourge which had caused immense suffering to the people of India and Afghanistan. Both countries decided to operationalise the additional one billion meant as Indian development assistance for infrastructure and connectivity projects. They also plan to introduce an air transport corridor between India and Afghanistan to give India and Afghan consumers and producers unimpeded access to each other's products and services. Modi was to amplify it later by saying that "Afghanistan should be at the centre of our connectivity networks, not peripheral to them. On our part, we see Afghanistan as the hub for strengthening links of connectivity between South Asia and Central Asia". "We," he said, "cannot deny that the more connected Afghanistan is with the regional arteries of trade, capital and markets, the more assured would be its economic growth and progress. President Ghani and I have converged on the priority of strengthening trade and transport linkages with other partners in the region." For his part, Ghani said that all the countries in Afghanistan's neighbourhood and beyond "need to identify cross-border terrorism and a fund to combat terrorism". He lauded India's development role in his war-torn country by saying that Indian assistance is transparent and came without without strings attached. "There are no hidden agreements [or] secret conditions...it is convergence of interests and values of two states inspired by the belief in cooperative advantage." Aziz defended by saying in his intervention afterwards at the conference that "it is simplistic to blame only one country for the recent upsurge in violence" in Afghanistan. In an oblique reference to the continued India - Pakistan tensions, he said that peaceful resolution of outstanding disputes will further improve regional cooperation and connectivity in the region. (Pakistan does not allow India access through its territory for exporting goods to Afghanistan.) However, at a joint news conference with Deputy Foreign Minister Hekmat Karzai of Afghanistan, Indian Finance Minister Arun Jaitley (standing in for Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj, who is indisposed) said that terrorism was at the very core of the deliberations and that the tone had been set by Ghani and Modi earlier in the day. Karzai, in turn, spoke about how Pakistan, without naming it, is nurturing and flirting with terrorism, which has consequences not only for Pakistan itself but also for the region. The participating countries, Jaitley added, recognised that terrorism was the biggest threat to peace and stability and the Amritsar Declaration (see below) adopted towards the end of the summit expressed concern over violence perpetrated by terrorist groups, such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad. If there were fears that India - Pakistan tensions would hijack the conference agenda, it was not to be. In the end, Aziz's engagements did not go beyond the customary handshake and photo-op with Modi. Indian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup maintained that there was no pull-aside or bilateral meeting between Aziz and Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval either. An excerpt from the Amritsar Declaration: "We remain concerned by the gravity of the security situation in Afghanistan in particular and the region and the high level of violence caused by the Taliban, terrorist groups including ISIL / DAISHand its affiliates, the Haqqani Network, Al Qaida, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, East Turkistan Islamic Movement, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, TTP, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, Jundullah and other foreign terrorist fighters. Acknowledging the support that terrorism derives in our region, we demand an immediate end to all forms of terrorism, as well as all support to it, including financing of terrorism. We recognize that terrorism is the biggest threat to peace, stability and cooperation in our region. We encourage the international community to continue to assist the Government of Afghanistan. We strongly call for concerted regional and international cooperation to ensure elimination of terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, including dismantling of terrorist sanctuaries and safe havens in the Heart of Asia region, as well as disrupting all financial, tactical and logistical support for terrorism." (WION)

Heart of Asia: Modi, Ghani launch double-barrelled attack on Pakistan

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