On Kashmir Road To Progress, we bring you the voices of Kashmiri youth. 4 youngsters from 4 different fields. One common passion- entrepreneurship and job creation. What are the aspirations of the youth?

Kashmir Road To Progress: Voices of Youth

The Foreign Minister of Pakistan Shah Mahmood Qureshi has backstepped over India's abrogation of article 370 that provides special status to the Jammu & Kashmir. 'we will only talk to India if article 370 restored to status quo', says Qureshi

'Will talk to India only if Article 370 restore': Pak FM Qureshi

On the first day of their visit to the Union Territory, the 24-member delegation of foreign diplomats had interacted with representatives of civil society and the government in Srinagar.

Foreign envoys on 2-day J&K visit to meet Lt Governor

A group of foreign envoys are on a two-day visit to Jammu & Kashmir, India. The envoys met the mayor of Srinagar Junaid Mattu who said the delegation acknowledged that Jammu-Kashmir had free & fair DDC elections and it is the biggest example of a powerful democracy.

Jammu-Kashmir: Foreign envoys met the mayor of Srinagar

A group of foreign envoys has arrived in Srinagar on a two-day visit to Jammu & Kashmir, India. The visit follows the country's move to restore 4G mobile internet services in J&K 18 months after the amendment of Article 370.

WION Dispatch: Foreign envoys on a visit to Jammu & Kashmir

After 18 months India restores the 4G internet services in the entire Jammu and Kashmir. According to reports, 4G internet has finally been restored after it was suspended in August 2019 when India revoke Article 370 in the state. This will be remembered as the world's longest-running internet shutdown in any democratic nation anywhere around the World.

4G internet has finally been restored in the entire Jammu and Kashmir region

India restores the 4G internet services in the entire Jammu and Kashmir after 18 months. According to reports, 4G internet has finally been restored after it was suspended in August 2019 when India revoke Article 370 in the state. This will be remembered as the world's longest-running internet shutdown in any democratic nation anywhere around the World.

India restores high-speed 4G internet services in the entire Jammu and Kashmir

Asking UK Parliamentarian to discuss issues based on "authentic information", Indian high commission in United Kingdom in two consecutive statements has invited "Members of the Parliament of the United Kingdom to consult with the High Commission anytime" on all "India-related issues of interest to them to have up-to-date, authentic and factual information about India".&nbsp;

This includes issues that "may be of concern to them or their constituents."

The statements by the Indian mission came after the Westminster Hall of the UK House of Commons saw discussion by MP on the situation of minorities and in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

In the statement issued after a discussion on the situation of minorities, the Indian mission said that it has "made available fact sheets and briefs to enable them to disregard any misinformation or incomplete or false portrayal of the ground realities".

When it comes to discussion on Kashmir, the Indian mission pointed out several initiatives by the Indian government for the union territory including the recently held district-level elections that saw "impressive turnout of men and women alike--over 50%". The mission said, "This is a strong endorsement of the GOI initiatives by the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who are now participants and direct beneficiaries in the vibrant democratic mainstream of India."

It also raised the issue of cross border terrorism from Pakistan highlighting the " atrocities being committed daily in the part of Kashmir that is illegally occupied by this third country...which is recognized as a global epicentre of terrorism" and a "perpetrator of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism for over 70 years in Jammu and Kashmir - and the rest of India."

Interestingly, the Govt government during the discussion defended India's record with Nigel Adams, Minister for Asia at UK foreign office lauding its diversity.

Asking UK Parliamentarian to discuss issues based on "authentic information", Indian high commission in United Kingdom in two consecutive statements has invited "Members of the Parliament of the United Kingdom to consult with the High Commission anytime" on all "India-related issues of interest to them to have up-to-date, authentic and factual information about India".

Asking UK Parliamentarian to discuss issues based on "authentic information", Indian high commission in United Kingdom in two consecutive statements has invited "Members of the Parliament of the United Kingdom to consult with the High Commission anytime" on all "India-related issues of interest to them to have up-to-date, authentic and factual information about India". This includes issues that "may be of concern to them or their constituents." The statements by the Indian mission came after the Westminster Hall of the UK House of Commons saw discussion by MP on the situation of minorities and in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. In the statement issued after a discussion on the situation of minorities, the Indian mission said that it has "made available fact sheets and briefs to enable them to disregard any misinformation or incomplete or false portrayal of the ground realities". When it comes to discussion on Kashmir, the Indian mission pointed out several initiatives by the Indian government for the union territory including the recently held district-level elections that saw "impressive turnout of men and women alike--over 50%". The mission said, "This is a strong endorsement of the GOI initiatives by the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who are now participants and direct beneficiaries in the vibrant democratic mainstream of India." It also raised the issue of cross border terrorism from Pakistan highlighting the " atrocities being committed daily in the part of Kashmir that is illegally occupied by this third country...which is recognized as a global epicentre of terrorism" and a "perpetrator of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism for over 70 years in Jammu and Kashmir - and the rest of India." Interestingly, the Govt government during the discussion defended India's record with Nigel Adams, Minister for Asia at UK foreign office lauding its diversity.

Indian Mission in London invites UK MPs to get authentic information as minorities, Kashmir raised in Parliament

Demanding Mehbooba Mufti's arrest for her "seditious" remarks against India, the J&amp;K BJP that "no power on earth" can either hoist the state flag again or restore Article 370 of the Constitution.

Yesterday, Former CM of J&amp;K and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Friday said that she and members of her party would not raise the Indian Tricolour unless our state (J&amp;K) flag is back.

Mehbooba also announced she would not be contesting any election without J&amp;K state’s flag and constitution. She also claimed that her party was not “comfortable and compatible with today’s India”.&nbsp;

Addressing a maiden press conference post her release from 14-month detention, Mehbooba said, “If some people think that parties and people in Kashmir will forget the Kashmir issue and Article 370 after some time, they are living in a dream world.” Thousands of people, she said, have sacrificed for the Kashmir issue.

"I request Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to take cognisance of the seditious remarks of Mehbooba Mufti, book her for the seditious act and put her behind bars," Jammu and Kashmir BJP president Ravinder Raina told reporters.

"We will sacrifice every drop of our blood for our flag, country and motherland. Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of our country, so only one flag can be hoisted in Jammu and Kashmir and that is the national flag," he said.

Raina said the saffron party will not tolerate such "nefarious designs" aimed at instigating the people of Kashmir.

"I warn leaders like Mehbooba Mufti not to instigate the people of Kashmir. We will not allow anyone to disturb peace, normalcy and brotherhood. In case anything wrong happens, she will have to face the consequences," he said.

If Kashmiri leaders are feeling insecure in India, they can go to Pakistan and China, he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Demanding Mehbooba Mufti's arrest for her "seditious" remarks against India, the J&K BJP that "no power on earth" can either hoist the state flag again or restore Article 370 of the Constitution.

Demanding Mehbooba Mufti's arrest for her "seditious" remarks against India, the J&K BJP that "no power on earth" can either hoist the state flag again or restore Article 370 of the Constitution. Yesterday, Former CM of J&K and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Friday said that she and members of her party would not raise the Indian Tricolour unless our state (J&K) flag is back. Mehbooba also announced she would not be contesting any election without J&K state’s flag and constitution. She also claimed that her party was not “comfortable and compatible with today’s India”. Addressing a maiden press conference post her release from 14-month detention, Mehbooba said, “If some people think that parties and people in Kashmir will forget the Kashmir issue and Article 370 after some time, they are living in a dream world.” Thousands of people, she said, have sacrificed for the Kashmir issue. "I request Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to take cognisance of the seditious remarks of Mehbooba Mufti, book her for the seditious act and put her behind bars," Jammu and Kashmir BJP president Ravinder Raina told reporters. "We will sacrifice every drop of our blood for our flag, country and motherland. Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of our country, so only one flag can be hoisted in Jammu and Kashmir and that is the national flag," he said. Raina said the saffron party will not tolerate such "nefarious designs" aimed at instigating the people of Kashmir. "I warn leaders like Mehbooba Mufti not to instigate the people of Kashmir. We will not allow anyone to disturb peace, normalcy and brotherhood. In case anything wrong happens, she will have to face the consequences," he said. If Kashmiri leaders are feeling insecure in India, they can go to Pakistan and China, he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'No power on earth' can restore Article 370: BJP tells Mehbooba Mufti

Nearly 12 days after curbs were imposed in J&K following the scrapping of Article 370, the valley is gradually returning to normalcy. Broadband services have been restored in some parts

Kashmir on path to normalcy: WION speaks to Srinagar locals; Here's a ground report

Union Power&nbsp;Minister RK Singh on Thursday said that the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will be one of the political issues in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections due to be held before November 29 this year.&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI, RK Singh said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised earlier that Article 370 will be scrapped from Jammu and Kashmir and he scrapped it last year. No doubt that this will be one of the political issues in the Bihar Assembly election for BJP.

Arrah Lok Sabha MP RK Singh further stated that Article 370 was removed because it increased Jammu and Kashmir`s isolation from the country.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-committed-to-peace-but-prepared-for-all-contingencies-defence-minister-warns-china-328122">India committed to peace, but prepared for all 'contingencies': Defence Minister warns China</a>

"Our Prime Minister worked to provide electricity in most of the houses of the country. The Prime Minister further decided that every household will be given a gas connection and most of the poor people have been given a gas connection. Did any other Prime Minister think on these lines?" Singh questioned.&nbsp;

"The Prime Minister decided that he will give pucca houses to every poor and are providing. A total of 1,40,00,000 houses were built. The public knows that six months of free food grains were provided, funds were made available in the Jan Dhan account," he added.

Bihar has 243 Assembly seats and elections in the state are expected in October-November as the tenure of the current Assembly will end on November 29 this year. Election Commission has not yet taken a final call on poll dates in Bihar.

Union Power Minister RK Singh on Thursday said that the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will be one of the political issues in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections due to be held before November 29 this year.

Union Power Minister RK Singh on Thursday said that the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will be one of the political issues in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections due to be held before November 29 this year. Speaking to ANI, RK Singh said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised earlier that Article 370 will be scrapped from Jammu and Kashmir and he scrapped it last year. No doubt that this will be one of the political issues in the Bihar Assembly election for BJP. Arrah Lok Sabha MP RK Singh further stated that Article 370 was removed because it increased Jammu and Kashmir`s isolation from the country. ALSO READ | India committed to peace, but prepared for all 'contingencies': Defence Minister warns China "Our Prime Minister worked to provide electricity in most of the houses of the country. The Prime Minister further decided that every household will be given a gas connection and most of the poor people have been given a gas connection. Did any other Prime Minister think on these lines?" Singh questioned. "The Prime Minister decided that he will give pucca houses to every poor and are providing. A total of 1,40,00,000 houses were built. The public knows that six months of free food grains were provided, funds were made available in the Jan Dhan account," he added. Bihar has 243 Assembly seats and elections in the state are expected in October-November as the tenure of the current Assembly will end on November 29 this year. Election Commission has not yet taken a final call on poll dates in Bihar.

Scrapping of Article 370 will be an issue in Bihar Assembly polls: RK Singh

On August 5, 2019, India abrogated Article 370 in the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir. On the first anniversary of this historic decision. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report on what has changed in Kashmir.

Gravitas: One year of Article 370 abrogation | What has changed?

August 5 will always be remembered in history for monumental decisions. It was on this day last year when India abrogated article 370 in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

August 5 will always be remembered in history for monumental decisions. It was on this day last year when India abrogated article 370 in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The decision took everyone by surprise. Some celebrated it as the correction of a historical blunder, while, others criticised it calling it the end of political rights of Kashmiris. Today is the first anniversary of this historic decision. What has been gained and what lost in the year that went by? Have the prophecies of a doomsday scenario come true? Has the development which the Government of India promised truly been delivered? Good or bad, the changes in Kashmir are quite significant. Corruption New Delhi has given top priority to eliminate corruption in Kashmir. The anti-corruption bureau of India has unearthed several large-scale financial scams in the last year. The Roshni land scam tops the list. This scam involved the grabbing of 21 lakh acres of forest land by powerful land mafia. This was a seven-year-old case it is finally heading to the conclusion. Youth The Jammu and Kashmir administration has made progress in the sphere of education. According to achievements listed by the Government of India. 50 new colleges are offering a total of 25,000 seats. Seven new medical colleges, five new nursing colleges and one state cancer institute has been set up in Kashmir. What about unemployment? The J&K administration has announced 10,000 jobs at various levels for the unemployed Kashmiri youth. Vacancies for doctors, vets and panchayat assistants are being filled. Plans are afoot to recruit 25,000 people in various other departments in the coming months. Terrorism Incidents of terror have significantly reduced in the valley. 188 terror-related incidents were recorded in Kashmir between January and July last year. This year the number has reduced to 120, according to a home ministry report. 51 grenade attacks took place in Kashmir in the same period last year. In 2020, the number has been reduced to just 21. The clean up is underway, a total of 110 local terrorists have been killed in 2020 so far. Some of them were the most dreaded in the valley like Hizbul commander Riyaz Naikoo and Jaish commander Kari Yasir. What about the challenges in the valley? The political space in Kashmir remains in a freeze. Yes, political detainees from mainstream parties have been released. But there seems to be no clear way forward to revive the stalled politics. Its been a year and Kashmir still doesn't have an elected legislature. This is leading to a growing trust deficit between Kashmiri politicians and the centre. A challenge that must be addressed at the earliest. There is also a need to slowly restore communication and lift travel bans in Kashmir. The lack of high-speed internet during a pandemic has been a subject of debate. What about Pakistan and its propaganda? There's no end to Islamabad's disinformation campaign in Kashmir. It continues to spread fake news. Social media posts from Pakistan still use edited pictures -- from Palestine and Syria --- and pass them off as Kashmir. These images are propagated across the world and the Pakistan Army is decisively using celebrities like Shahid Afridi to comment on Kashmir and portray it as a case of grave injustice. In the last 6 months, Pakistan with China at its side has tried to internationalise the issue. Global Support The international community supports India on the issue of Kashmir. Even though India has always maintained it is an internal matter. Efforts to raise it globally by some players-- have been non-starters. The British Labour Party known for its anti-India rhetoric has re-positioned itself on Kashmir. The new leader of the party, Keir Starmer has said this on record. After years of siding with Pakistan's narrative on Kashmir. The labour party has finally course-corrected and accepted that Kashmir is a bilateral issue. Pakistan's repeated attempts to involve the united nations and the Arab world have failed. Almost every country -- except China, Turkey and Malaysia has distanced itself from any resolution that Pakistan tries to push.

One year ago, Article 370 was abrogated in J&K: Here's what has changed

Article 370, combined with Article 35A, accorded Jammu and Kashmir special status under the Constitution of India, allowing it to have a separate constitution and a separate penal code among other legal distinctions.

First anniversary of Article 370's abrogation | Jammu & Kashmir

Ladakh was declared a Union Territory on August 5 last year as the Indian government granted UT status to the region in a historic decision. The people of Ladakh had requested for UT status way back in 1949 in order to address the development needs of the area, their wish was finally granted in 2019.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/formation-of-jk-ladakh-uts-a-start-to-new-chapter-prakash-javadekar-259090">Also Read:&nbsp;Formation of J&amp;K, Ladakh UTs a start to 'new chapter', says&nbsp;Prakash Javadekar</a>

A year later, several development projects have been kick-started by the government including the Alusteng-Drass-Kargil–Leh transmission system which was completed in February last year even before Ladakh was converted into a Union Territory. The move helped Ladakh to be linked to the national grid ensuring uninterupted power supply.

In February 2019, PM Modi had inagurated the Dah hydro electric project and had dedicated the 220 KV transmission for overall electrification.&nbsp;

In Galwan Valley last year a 255 km all-weather Darbuk-Shayok-Daulat Beg Oldie road was constructed in order to allow connectivity between Karakoram Pass and Leh. Also work had begun on the construction of a new terminal of KBR airport in Leh.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/do-these-people-even-know-what-ladakh-is-bjp-lawmakers-passionate-speech-wins-hearts-241193">Also Read:&nbsp;'Do these people even know what Ladakh is?' BJP lawmaker's passionate speech wins hearts</a>

PM Modi had announced development package for Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh during his first term in 2015. &nbsp;Ladakh was allocated Rs 5,958 crore for development activities for the fiscal year 2020-21, also a Rs 50,000 crore grid connecting solar photo-voltaic project spread across Leh and Kargil districts was approved by the government.

India's renewable energy ministry has drawn up plan to scale 23,000 MW grid connecting the mega solar project in Ladakh with 7,500 MW package forming the first part of a larger project. India's prime minister had also inagurated plan for&nbsp;the first central university in Ladakh with a Centre on Buddhist Studies helping over 10,000 Ladakhi students.&nbsp;

PM Modi had also vowed to make Ladakh a carbon-free region in the coming years with the start of Ladakh Greenhouse project targeted to increase the availability of vegetables throughout the year.

"Cultural tourism" which is a one of the key development plank for the area has been given a boost with homestay at monasteries along with eco-tourism and ecological activities like bird watching, wildlife safaris. 
&nbsp;

Ladakh was declared a Union Territory on August 5 last year as the Indian government granted UT status to the region in a historic decision. The people of Ladakh had requested for UT status way back in 1949 in order to address the development needs of the area, their wish was finally granted in 2019.

Ladakh was declared a Union Territory on August 5 last year as the Indian government granted UT status to the region in a historic decision. The people of Ladakh had requested for UT status way back in 1949 in order to address the development needs of the area, their wish was finally granted in 2019. Also Read: Formation of J&K, Ladakh UTs a start to 'new chapter', says Prakash Javadekar A year later, several development projects have been kick-started by the government including the Alusteng-Drass-Kargil–Leh transmission system which was completed in February last year even before Ladakh was converted into a Union Territory. The move helped Ladakh to be linked to the national grid ensuring uninterupted power supply. In February 2019, PM Modi had inagurated the Dah hydro electric project and had dedicated the 220 KV transmission for overall electrification. In Galwan Valley last year a 255 km all-weather Darbuk-Shayok-Daulat Beg Oldie road was constructed in order to allow connectivity between Karakoram Pass and Leh. Also work had begun on the construction of a new terminal of KBR airport in Leh. Also Read: 'Do these people even know what Ladakh is?' BJP lawmaker's passionate speech wins hearts PM Modi had announced development package for Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh during his first term in 2015. Ladakh was allocated Rs 5,958 crore for development activities for the fiscal year 2020-21, also a Rs 50,000 crore grid connecting solar photo-voltaic project spread across Leh and Kargil districts was approved by the government. India's renewable energy ministry has drawn up plan to scale 23,000 MW grid connecting the mega solar project in Ladakh with 7,500 MW package forming the first part of a larger project. India's prime minister had also inagurated plan for the first central university in Ladakh with a Centre on Buddhist Studies helping over 10,000 Ladakhi students. PM Modi had also vowed to make Ladakh a carbon-free region in the coming years with the start of Ladakh Greenhouse project targeted to increase the availability of vegetables throughout the year. "Cultural tourism" which is a one of the key development plank for the area has been given a boost with homestay at monasteries along with eco-tourism and ecological activities like bird watching, wildlife safaris.

A year later, Ladakh's road to development after accorded Union Territory status

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar on Saturday, police said.

Security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation in the Ranbirgarh area on the outskirts of the city this morning following specific information about the presence of militants there, a police official said.

He said as the forces were conducting the search, militants fired upon them.&nbsp;The forces retaliated, ensuing a gunfight.

The identity and group affiliation of the militants are&nbsp;being ascertained as per the&nbsp;Kashmir Zone Police.

The search operation is going on and further details were awaited.

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar on Saturday, police said. Security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation in the Ranbirgarh area on the outskirts of the city this morning following specific information about the presence of militants there, a police official said.

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar on Saturday, police said. Security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation in the Ranbirgarh area on the outskirts of the city this morning following specific information about the presence of militants there, a police official said. He said as the forces were conducting the search, militants fired upon them. The forces retaliated, ensuing a gunfight. The identity and group affiliation of the militants are being ascertained as per the Kashmir Zone Police. The search operation is going on and further details were awaited.

Two terrorists killed in encounter with security forces near Srinagar

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released its Annual Report 2020 on April 28, covering global trends in 2019. The USCIRF, it may be recalled, was established by the US Congress as a federal bipartisan entity in 1998 through the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA). It claims to be an “independent” body whose stated objective is to “monitor, analyse and report on threats to freedom of religion or belief abroad” and to make policy recommendations to the US President, the Secretary of State and Congress. The recommendations are supposedly &nbsp;“intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion or belief.”&nbsp;

The USCIRF has rarely been correct in its pronouncements on the status of religious freedoms in India. More often than not, the USCIRF reports on India have turned out to be less than objective and even malicious. Nevertheless, the 2020 Report cannot be ignored for more than one reason. For the Commission has not only levelled some baseless allegations against the government of a sovereign nation but has also crossed all lines in its attempt to damage India’s reputation as a secular country, while seeking to carve out a role for itself in managing the affairs of the pluralistic society in India. &nbsp;

In a completely erroneous, fallacious and even scandalous assessment of the freedom of religion in India, the USCIRF, in its Annual Report 2020, has recommended that India (together with 13 other countries such as North Korea, China, Pakistan etc.) be designated as a “country of particular concern” allegedly for “engaging in and tolerating systematic, on-going, and egregious religious freedom violations as defined by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA)”&nbsp;

Further, the Commission has acted with audacity in recommending to the US President that stringent punitive actions be taken against those individual Government agencies/officials which/who in their assessment are responsible for the violation of freedom of religion in India. The recommended punitive actions include &nbsp; for instance targeted sanctions by freezing those individuals’ assets and/ or barring their entry into the United States. &nbsp;

The Commission has further recommended that engagement between the US Diplomatic Missions in India and India’s religious communities and law-enforcement agencies be strengthened and funds be allocated for civil society to strengthen their monitoring systems. In other words, the Commission is asking for the legitimisation of intended interference in the internal affairs of India in a socially hyper-sensitive area. In fact, the recommendation is nothing short of seeking a direct role in managing the affairs of India’s multi-lingual, multi-ethnic, multi-religious society. Before making such ridiculous recommendations, the Commission should have posed a question to itself: Will the Commission agree to the Indian Diplomatic Missions in the USA playing a role in curbing the rampant racial discrimination in the USA?&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a sweeping statement, the Commission has concluded that religious freedom in India experienced a “drastic turn downward in 2019”, when the &nbsp;“religious minorities found themselves under increasing assault”. It has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) of misusing its strengthened majority in Parliament (the following re-election in May 2019) to institute national-level policies, which allegedly violate religious freedom across India, especially for Muslims. It goes on to allege that “the national government allowed violence against minorities and their houses of worship to continue with impunity, and also engaged in and tolerated hate speech and incitement to violence”. The observation is a blatantly mischievous attempt to create a religion-based divide in Indian society, where the overwhelming opinion is in favour of unity in diversity.&nbsp;

In support of its conclusions, the Commission has cited the abrogation of Article 370 of India’s Constitution and &nbsp;Citizenship &nbsp;Amendment Act in 2019 and continued enforcement of the existing laws on cow slaughter, religious conversions, and even the Supreme &nbsp;Court’s ruling on Babri Masjid. This clearly reflects an utter lack of understanding of the social fabric of India, the benign intentions behind the Indian Government’s decisions and the independence of the judiciary in India. &nbsp;

India is the largest functioning democracy in the world and its Constitution is explicit and unambiguous in guaranteeing its citizens the freedom not only to pursue but also preach the religion of their choice. There are adequate institutional and legal protections against discrimination on the basis of religion.&nbsp;

India’s democratic and secular credentials are well established and India owes no explanation, least to ill-informed organisations such as USCIRF. At the same time, USCIRF deserves a befitting response. In a quick rebuttal, the official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs therefore justifiably rejected the Commission’s observations on India. While recalling that the Commission’s “biased and tendentious” comments against India were not new, he said that “on this occasion, its misrepresentation has reached new levels” and went on to add in a sarcastically retaliatory tone that “We regard it (the Commission) as an organization of particular concern and will treat it accordingly.”&nbsp;

It is worth noting that the Chapter on India in the Annual Report did not enjoy full consensus. Two out of nine Members namely Commissioner Gary L. Bauer and Commissioner Tenzin Dorjee have recorded their explicit disagreement with fellow Commissioners over the recommendation that India be designated as a “country of particular concern”; they have given several valid arguments to assert that India cannot be equated with China and North Korea whom they have described as “rogue nations and authoritarian regimes”. Although Commissioner Johnnie Moore has not registered his dissent, he has made some very laudatory observations describing India, for instance, as “the largest democracy, governed by a pristine Constitution”, and a “great nation” that is the “very definition of diverse” &nbsp;

Relations between India and the USA have seen upward swing in the past two decades, and have now developed into a "global strategic partnership", based on shared democratic values and increasing convergence of interests on bilateral, regional and global issues. The canvas of relations is so wide that isolated adverse comments from ill-informed organisations such as USCIRF are very unlikely to cause any dent to the strong relationship. Nevertheless, it would be prudent on the part of the US President and US Administration to be seen as ignoring the Report. &nbsp;At the same time, the Commission must be reminded to be fair and objective in its assessment of the conduct of sovereign nations, and learn a lesson from India which refrains from censuring other countries including the USA whose track-record in matters of racial discrimination is questionable. &nbsp;

&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released its Annual Report 2020 on April 28, covering global trends in 2019. The USCIRF, it may be recalled, was established by the US Congress as a federal bipartisan entity in 1998 through the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA).

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released its Annual Report 2020 on April 28, covering global trends in 2019. The USCIRF, it may be recalled, was established by the US Congress as a federal bipartisan entity in 1998 through the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA). It claims to be an “independent” body whose stated objective is to “monitor, analyse and report on threats to freedom of religion or belief abroad” and to make policy recommendations to the US President, the Secretary of State and Congress. The recommendations are supposedly “intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion or belief.” The USCIRF has rarely been correct in its pronouncements on the status of religious freedoms in India. More often than not, the USCIRF reports on India have turned out to be less than objective and even malicious. Nevertheless, the 2020 Report cannot be ignored for more than one reason. For the Commission has not only levelled some baseless allegations against the government of a sovereign nation but has also crossed all lines in its attempt to damage India’s reputation as a secular country, while seeking to carve out a role for itself in managing the affairs of the pluralistic society in India. In a completely erroneous, fallacious and even scandalous assessment of the freedom of religion in India, the USCIRF, in its Annual Report 2020, has recommended that India (together with 13 other countries such as North Korea, China, Pakistan etc.) be designated as a “country of particular concern” allegedly for “engaging in and tolerating systematic, on-going, and egregious religious freedom violations as defined by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA)” Further, the Commission has acted with audacity in recommending to the US President that stringent punitive actions be taken against those individual Government agencies/officials which/who in their assessment are responsible for the violation of freedom of religion in India. The recommended punitive actions include for instance targeted sanctions by freezing those individuals’ assets and/ or barring their entry into the United States. The Commission has further recommended that engagement between the US Diplomatic Missions in India and India’s religious communities and law-enforcement agencies be strengthened and funds be allocated for civil society to strengthen their monitoring systems. In other words, the Commission is asking for the legitimisation of intended interference in the internal affairs of India in a socially hyper-sensitive area. In fact, the recommendation is nothing short of seeking a direct role in managing the affairs of India’s multi-lingual, multi-ethnic, multi-religious society. Before making such ridiculous recommendations, the Commission should have posed a question to itself: Will the Commission agree to the Indian Diplomatic Missions in the USA playing a role in curbing the rampant racial discrimination in the USA? In a sweeping statement, the Commission has concluded that religious freedom in India experienced a “drastic turn downward in 2019”, when the “religious minorities found themselves under increasing assault”. It has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) of misusing its strengthened majority in Parliament (the following re-election in May 2019) to institute national-level policies, which allegedly violate religious freedom across India, especially for Muslims. It goes on to allege that “the national government allowed violence against minorities and their houses of worship to continue with impunity, and also engaged in and tolerated hate speech and incitement to violence”. The observation is a blatantly mischievous attempt to create a religion-based divide in Indian society, where the overwhelming opinion is in favour of unity in diversity. In support of its conclusions, the Commission has cited the abrogation of Article 370 of India’s Constitution and Citizenship Amendment Act in 2019 and continued enforcement of the existing laws on cow slaughter, religious conversions, and even the Supreme Court’s ruling on Babri Masjid. This clearly reflects an utter lack of understanding of the social fabric of India, the benign intentions behind the Indian Government’s decisions and the independence of the judiciary in India. India is the largest functioning democracy in the world and its Constitution is explicit and unambiguous in guaranteeing its citizens the freedom not only to pursue but also preach the religion of their choice. There are adequate institutional and legal protections against discrimination on the basis of religion. India’s democratic and secular credentials are well established and India owes no explanation, least to ill-informed organisations such as USCIRF. At the same time, USCIRF deserves a befitting response. In a quick rebuttal, the official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs therefore justifiably rejected the Commission’s observations on India. While recalling that the Commission’s “biased and tendentious” comments against India were not new, he said that “on this occasion, its misrepresentation has reached new levels” and went on to add in a sarcastically retaliatory tone that “We regard it (the Commission) as an organization of particular concern and will treat it accordingly.” It is worth noting that the Chapter on India in the Annual Report did not enjoy full consensus. Two out of nine Members namely Commissioner Gary L. Bauer and Commissioner Tenzin Dorjee have recorded their explicit disagreement with fellow Commissioners over the recommendation that India be designated as a “country of particular concern”; they have given several valid arguments to assert that India cannot be equated with China and North Korea whom they have described as “rogue nations and authoritarian regimes”. Although Commissioner Johnnie Moore has not registered his dissent, he has made some very laudatory observations describing India, for instance, as “the largest democracy, governed by a pristine Constitution”, and a “great nation” that is the “very definition of diverse” Relations between India and the USA have seen upward swing in the past two decades, and have now developed into a "global strategic partnership", based on shared democratic values and increasing convergence of interests on bilateral, regional and global issues. The canvas of relations is so wide that isolated adverse comments from ill-informed organisations such as USCIRF are very unlikely to cause any dent to the strong relationship. Nevertheless, it would be prudent on the part of the US President and US Administration to be seen as ignoring the Report. At the same time, the Commission must be reminded to be fair and objective in its assessment of the conduct of sovereign nations, and learn a lesson from India which refrains from censuring other countries including the USA whose track-record in matters of racial discrimination is questionable. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

USCIRF’s futile attempt to damage India’s secular credentials

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, who is presently detained under Public Safety Act, will be shifted to her official residence at Fairview Gupkar Road here on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-rahul-gandhi-takes-a-subtle-jibe-at-hcq-export-modi-trump-friendship-291099" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Rahul Gandhi takes a subtle jibe at HCQ export, Modi-Trump duo</a>

The order terms her official residence as a 'subsidiary jail'. However, she will continue to remain under detention.Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah, who was released from detention last month, had expressed hope that Mufti and others will be released from detention as well.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-american-journo-brahm-kanchibotla-dies-of-covid-19-in-new-york-291044" hreflang="en">Indian-American journo Brahm Kanchibotla dies of COVID-19 in New York</a>

National Conference (NC) leader and former union minister Farooq Abdullah was also released last month.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration had in February invoked PSA against Mufti and Omar Abdullah.Mufti and many other leaders of Kashmir including Farooq Abdullah were put in detention when the government decided to revoke Article 370 of the Indian Constitution that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, who is presently detained under Public Safety Act, will be shifted to her official residence at Fairview Gupkar Road here on Tuesday.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, who is presently detained under Public Safety Act, will be shifted to her official residence at Fairview Gupkar Road here on Tuesday. Also read: Coronavirus: Rahul Gandhi takes a subtle jibe at HCQ export, Modi-Trump duo The order terms her official residence as a 'subsidiary jail'. However, she will continue to remain under detention.Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah, who was released from detention last month, had expressed hope that Mufti and others will be released from detention as well. Also read: Indian-American journo Brahm Kanchibotla dies of COVID-19 in New York National Conference (NC) leader and former union minister Farooq Abdullah was also released last month. The Jammu and Kashmir administration had in February invoked PSA against Mufti and Omar Abdullah.Mufti and many other leaders of Kashmir including Farooq Abdullah were put in detention when the government decided to revoke Article 370 of the Indian Constitution that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Mehbooba Mufti to be shifted to her official residence today, to remain under detention

The Jammu and Kashmir authorities on Tuesday (March 24) revoked the Public Safety Act slapped against the National Conference leader and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and released him from house arrest. Booked under the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA), Omar Abdullah has been kept under detention ever since the Centre abrogated Article 370 that gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, 2019. He has been under detention for the past seven months at Srinagar's Hari Nivas.

Ex-J&K CM Omar Abdullah to be released after 7 months of detention

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah was on Tuesday freed after eight months in detention after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farooq-abdullah-meets-son-omar-abdullah-in-jail-a-day-after-his-release-286320">Farooq Abdullah meets son Omar Abdullah in jail a day after his release</a>

A swarm of media personnel and supporters, many of them in masks, waited for him outside his residence after he was released.

The National Conference leader, who turned 50 on March 10, has been under detention since August 5, when the Centre announced the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status under Article 370 and its bifurcation into the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

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The order revoking the PSA against him was issued by Home Secretary Shaleen Kabra. Abdullah was booked under the stringent act on February 5, hours before his six-month custody under preventive detention was to end. 
The government has revoked his detention with ?immediate effect?, the order stated.

Abdullah's mother was the first to arrive at the makeshift detention centre after news came in that her son was about to be released. He was kept at the state guesthouse Hari Nivas, just a few hundred metres from his official residence.

His father, former chief minister Farooq Abdullah, was also charged under the PSA and released on March 13 after 221 days in detention. PDP leader and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti continues to be under detention.

On February 5, Omar Abdullah, who was junior foreign minister and commerce minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led Cabinet in 2000, was served with a three-page dossier that was challenged in the Supreme Court by his sister Sara Abdullah Pilot.

The Supreme Court last week asked the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration to inform by this week if it was releasing him.

A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah told the counsel appearing for the Centre that Abdullah's sister's plea against his detention would be heard on merit if he was not released soon.

The petition, which may now become infructuous, could have come up for hearing on Wednesday or later this week.&nbsp;

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah was on Tuesday freed after eight months in detention after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah was on Tuesday freed after eight months in detention after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him. Also read: Farooq Abdullah meets son Omar Abdullah in jail a day after his release A swarm of media personnel and supporters, many of them in masks, waited for him outside his residence after he was released. The National Conference leader, who turned 50 on March 10, has been under detention since August 5, when the Centre announced the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status under Article 370 and its bifurcation into the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. × The order revoking the PSA against him was issued by Home Secretary Shaleen Kabra. Abdullah was booked under the stringent act on February 5, hours before his six-month custody under preventive detention was to end. The government has revoked his detention with ?immediate effect?, the order stated. Abdullah's mother was the first to arrive at the makeshift detention centre after news came in that her son was about to be released. He was kept at the state guesthouse Hari Nivas, just a few hundred metres from his official residence. His father, former chief minister Farooq Abdullah, was also charged under the PSA and released on March 13 after 221 days in detention. PDP leader and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti continues to be under detention. On February 5, Omar Abdullah, who was junior foreign minister and commerce minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led Cabinet in 2000, was served with a three-page dossier that was challenged in the Supreme Court by his sister Sara Abdullah Pilot. The Supreme Court last week asked the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration to inform by this week if it was releasing him. A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah told the counsel appearing for the Centre that Abdullah's sister's plea against his detention would be heard on merit if he was not released soon. The petition, which may now become infructuous, could have come up for hearing on Wednesday or later this week.

Omar Abdullah freed after eight-month detention, PSA revoked

The former finance minister of Jammu and Kashmir Altaf Bukhari has launched his political party. In what is being seen as a beginning of political activity in the newly formed union territory.

Altaf, who was sacked from Jammu and Kashmir peoples democratic party for his anti-party activities have reportedly managed to bag dozens of political leaders from various political parties including congress and his former party.

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Former J&amp;K Min Syed Altaf Bukhari at launch of Apni Party in Srinagar:This party is not floated by a family&amp;there will be total restriction that anybody who becomes President of party cannot be elected more than 2 times. It is by the commoners,for the commoners, of the commoners. <a href="https://t.co/GmaVMdohiN">pic.twitter.com/GmaVMdohiN</a>
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According to the party, their main aim would be to provide relief to people who have been facing uncertainty after the abrogation of J&amp;K special status on August 5.&nbsp;

The party has also demanded the release of political leaders who have been under detention.

Named "Jammu and Kashmir Apni party," it is being seen as a major challenge for the regional strongholds, the national conference and PDP.&nbsp;

The party launch comes at a time when three former chief ministers of the erstwhile state are under detention and no political activity has taken place for almost seven months. 
&nbsp; 
Political analysts believe that this will be a big blow to several political parties including the PDP and congress. According to sources, eight former legislators of the PDP will be joining the newly formed party.

Those who are expected to join Bukhari's party include two former MLAs – Mohammad Dilawar mir and Ghulam Hassan mir. &nbsp;Dilawar, a close aide of PDP president Mehboob mufti, was a minister and Ghulam Hassan mir belongs to the democratic party nationalist who has a reputation for maintaining good relations with those in power at the centre. Both hail from Baramulla and have served as ministers in the Jammu and Kashmir.

The former finance minister of Jammu and Kashmir Altaf Bukhari has launched his political party. In what is being seen as a beginning of political activity in the newly formed union territory.

The former finance minister of Jammu and Kashmir Altaf Bukhari has launched his political party. In what is being seen as a beginning of political activity in the newly formed union territory. Altaf, who was sacked from Jammu and Kashmir peoples democratic party for his anti-party activities have reportedly managed to bag dozens of political leaders from various political parties including congress and his former party. Former J&K Min Syed Altaf Bukhari at launch of Apni Party in Srinagar:This party is not floated by a family&there will be total restriction that anybody who becomes President of party cannot be elected more than 2 times. It is by the commoners,for the commoners, of the commoners. pic.twitter.com/GmaVMdohiN — ANI (@ANI) March 8, 2020 × According to the party, their main aim would be to provide relief to people who have been facing uncertainty after the abrogation of J&K special status on August 5. The party has also demanded the release of political leaders who have been under detention. Named "Jammu and Kashmir Apni party," it is being seen as a major challenge for the regional strongholds, the national conference and PDP. The party launch comes at a time when three former chief ministers of the erstwhile state are under detention and no political activity has taken place for almost seven months. Political analysts believe that this will be a big blow to several political parties including the PDP and congress. According to sources, eight former legislators of the PDP will be joining the newly formed party. Those who are expected to join Bukhari's party include two former MLAs – Mohammad Dilawar mir and Ghulam Hassan mir. Dilawar, a close aide of PDP president Mehboob mufti, was a minister and Ghulam Hassan mir belongs to the democratic party nationalist who has a reputation for maintaining good relations with those in power at the centre. Both hail from Baramulla and have served as ministers in the Jammu and Kashmir.

After the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir to get a new party

A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court has said that there are no reasons to refer batch of pleas challenging the validity of abrogation of provisions of Article 370 to the larger 7-judge bench.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/life-after-article-370-challenges-ahead-241189">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/life-after-article-370-challenges-ahead-241189">WION Edit: Life after Article 370 - challenges ahead</a>

Article 370 was a constitutional provision that accorded special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir and a&nbsp;batch of petitions had challenged the constitutional validity it.

The Central government had said that abrogation of provisions of Article 370 has become a "fait accompli", leaving the sole option to accept the change.&nbsp;

NGO People's Union of Civil Liberties (PUCL), Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association and an intervenor have sought to refer the matter to a larger bench.

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Last year, the Supreme Court had said that it would refer the issue to a larger 7-judge Constitution bench only if satisfied that there was a direct conflict in two earlier verdicts — Prem Nath Kaul vs J&amp;K in 1959 and Sampat Prakash vs J&amp;K in 1970 — of the top court which has heard the matter twice.&nbsp;

The Apex court had said that it would refer the matter to a larger bench only after petitioners can point out a direct conflict between the two earlier judgments.

Several petitions had been filed in the matter including those of private individuals, lawyers, activists and political parties and they have also challenged the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, which splits J&amp;K into two union territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court has said that there are no reasons to refer batch of pleas challenging the validity of abrogation of provisions of Article 370 to the larger 7-judge bench.

A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court has said that there are no reasons to refer batch of pleas challenging the validity of abrogation of provisions of Article 370 to the larger 7-judge bench. Also read: WION Edit: Life after Article 370 - challenges ahead Article 370 was a constitutional provision that accorded special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir and a batch of petitions had challenged the constitutional validity it. The Central government had said that abrogation of provisions of Article 370 has become a "fait accompli", leaving the sole option to accept the change. NGO People's Union of Civil Liberties (PUCL), Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association and an intervenor have sought to refer the matter to a larger bench. × Last year, the Supreme Court had said that it would refer the issue to a larger 7-judge Constitution bench only if satisfied that there was a direct conflict in two earlier verdicts — Prem Nath Kaul vs J&K in 1959 and Sampat Prakash vs J&K in 1970 — of the top court which has heard the matter twice. The Apex court had said that it would refer the matter to a larger bench only after petitioners can point out a direct conflict between the two earlier judgments. Several petitions had been filed in the matter including those of private individuals, lawyers, activists and political parties and they have also challenged the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, which splits J&K into two union territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. (With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court declines to refer the petitions challenging government move on Article 370 to a larger bench

These cases were filed in the Supreme Court following the Narendra Modi government's move to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution and scrap the special status enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 last year.

Will Article 370 be heard by larger bench?

Internet and connectivity issues in Jammu and Kashmir will be eased further in the coming months, Kewal Kumar Sharma, advisor to the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir said here on Monday.

"The restrictions remain to make sure that these facilities are not misused for promoting disorder. In some months from now it should be possible to ease various restrictions related to the connectivity," he said during an interaction with investors.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2g-mobile-internet-to-be-restored-in-kashmir-from-today-276457">2G mobile internet to be restored in Kashmir from today</a>

He was part of the Road Show by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2g-mobile-internet-to-be-restored-in-kashmir-from-today-276457">Jammu and Kashmir</a> government for its Global Investors Summit sometime in May this year.

Sharma also said after the Supreme Court directed to review the situation, the administration is holding meetings every week and every fortnight further relaxation in terms of access to the internet is given.

Speaking about the law and order situation, he said the overall situation in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2g-mobile-internet-to-be-restored-in-kashmir-from-today-276457">Jammu and Kashmir</a> is much changed after August 5 when special status to the state was withdrawn with the abrogation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2g-mobile-internet-to-be-restored-in-kashmir-from-today-276457">Article 370</a> of the Constitution.

"Things are getting better and better," he added.&nbsp;

Internet and connectivity issues in Jammu and Kashmir will be eased further in the coming months, Kewal Kumar Sharma, advisor to the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir said here on Monday.

Internet and connectivity issues in Jammu and Kashmir will be eased further in the coming months, Kewal Kumar Sharma, advisor to the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir said here on Monday. "The restrictions remain to make sure that these facilities are not misused for promoting disorder. In some months from now it should be possible to ease various restrictions related to the connectivity," he said during an interaction with investors. Also read: 2G mobile internet to be restored in Kashmir from today He was part of the Road Show by the Jammu and Kashmir government for its Global Investors Summit sometime in May this year. Sharma also said after the Supreme Court directed to review the situation, the administration is holding meetings every week and every fortnight further relaxation in terms of access to the internet is given. Speaking about the law and order situation, he said the overall situation in Jammu and Kashmir is much changed after August 5 when special status to the state was withdrawn with the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution. "Things are getting better and better," he added.

Internet, connectivity issues in Jammu and Kashmir will be eased further in coming months: Advisor to Lieutenant Governor

On a two-day trip to Jammu and Kashmir,&nbsp;the second batch of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-batch-of-foreign-envoys-to-visit-jammu-and-kashmir-today-280184">foreign envoys met civil society members</a> in the valley on Wednesday. After the visit, the envoys expressed satisfaction over the situation in Kashmir valley and said that they see "a lot of hope" in the region.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-to-take-foreign-envoys-to-kashmir-on-january-9-272780">batch has 25 foreign envoys</a>, including envoys from Germany, Canada, France, New Zealand, Mexico, Italy, Afghanistan, Austria, Uzbekistan, Poland, as well as envoys of the European Union (EU).

"This is a very important part of India. People I've been talking to want this region to be developed," said, Dinah Grace Akello, Uganda's High Commissioner to India.

"I met people from sports, those interested in economic growth and those who want to bring investors here. I see a lot of hope now," Akello added.

Ambassador of Denmark who was also part of the delegation said, "It's important to visit Kashmir," as he stressed on direct dialogue with locals.&nbsp;

"You can't have a dialogue about Kashmiris if you haven't heard what expectations and wishes they have for the future. It is important to have a holistic picture."

"We have come here to see normalisation of situation after abrogation of Article 370. We've seen commerce happening, streets full of people; normalcy returning, slowly but surely things will get better," said Dean of Diplomatic Corps in India, Ambassador Hans Dannenberg Castellanos.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan Envoy Tahir Qadiry hailed 'mehman nawazi' (hospitality) of people of Kashmir and said "We have been here only a couple of hours but can see shops open, children going to school etc. Met civil society members also, they really want peace in Kashmir."

"It is great to come to Kashmir," Qadiry also said.

Security has been beefed up in Srinagar as the second batch of foreign envoys arrived in Sri Nagar today.&nbsp;

The latest visit is aimed at demonstrating measures undertaken by the government to restore normalcy in the newly created Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. During the visit, the envoys will be apprised of the ground situation following the abrogation of Article 370 which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir during their visit.&nbsp;

The delegation is also scheduled to visit Baramullah where they will be briefed by the Army.&nbsp;

The envoys are also expected to meet &nbsp;Lt. Governor GC Murmu in Jammu.

The envoys will be apprised of the ground situation following the abrogation of Article 370 which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir during their visit.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

On a two-day trip to Jammu and Kashmir, the second batch of foreign envoys met civil society members in the valley on Wednesday. After the visit, the envoys expressed satisfaction over the situation in Kashmir valley and said that they see "a lot of hope" in the region.

On a two-day trip to Jammu and Kashmir, the second batch of foreign envoys met civil society members in the valley on Wednesday. After the visit, the envoys expressed satisfaction over the situation in Kashmir valley and said that they see "a lot of hope" in the region. The batch has 25 foreign envoys, including envoys from Germany, Canada, France, New Zealand, Mexico, Italy, Afghanistan, Austria, Uzbekistan, Poland, as well as envoys of the European Union (EU). "This is a very important part of India. People I've been talking to want this region to be developed," said, Dinah Grace Akello, Uganda's High Commissioner to India. "I met people from sports, those interested in economic growth and those who want to bring investors here. I see a lot of hope now," Akello added. Ambassador of Denmark who was also part of the delegation said, "It's important to visit Kashmir," as he stressed on direct dialogue with locals. "You can't have a dialogue about Kashmiris if you haven't heard what expectations and wishes they have for the future. It is important to have a holistic picture." "We have come here to see normalisation of situation after abrogation of Article 370. We've seen commerce happening, streets full of people; normalcy returning, slowly but surely things will get better," said Dean of Diplomatic Corps in India, Ambassador Hans Dannenberg Castellanos. Meanwhile, Afghanistan Envoy Tahir Qadiry hailed 'mehman nawazi' (hospitality) of people of Kashmir and said "We have been here only a couple of hours but can see shops open, children going to school etc. Met civil society members also, they really want peace in Kashmir." "It is great to come to Kashmir," Qadiry also said. Security has been beefed up in Srinagar as the second batch of foreign envoys arrived in Sri Nagar today. The latest visit is aimed at demonstrating measures undertaken by the government to restore normalcy in the newly created Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. During the visit, the envoys will be apprised of the ground situation following the abrogation of Article 370 which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir during their visit. The delegation is also scheduled to visit Baramullah where they will be briefed by the Army. The envoys are also expected to meet Lt. Governor GC Murmu in Jammu. The envoys will be apprised of the ground situation following the abrogation of Article 370 which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir during their visit.

'See lot of hope now': Foreign envoys express satisfaction after Kashmir visit

Another batch of 25 foreign envoys of Europian Union visits Jammu & Kashmir. They are on a 2 days visit in J&K. The group includes 10 envoys of Europian Union and other countries like Afghanistan, Australia, Germany and New Zealand.

Second batch of 25 foreign envoys visit Jammu & Kashmir

Two Ex chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir booked under PSA. Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah accused of acts against state and influence people against bjp govt. This detention can be extended 3 months to one year under PSA

PSA dossier on detention of J&K leaders

Nightlife in Kashmir is missing from the past 3 decades. Now it's witnessing the slow but steady transformation. The theme-based cafes in Kashmir are helping youth to ideate but the situation post the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir special status has hit the sector overall. Watch the full report.

Kashmir catching up with cafe culture

An unofficial visit by European lawmakers had a purpose, it was supposed to display normalcy in the Kashmir Valley.

But, from the moment it was announced, the entire affair snowballed into an epic blunder. New Delhi shot itself in the foot again when it invited foreign envoys for a trip to Kashmir.

Access to the newly created Union Territory has been hard to come by. Furthermore, opposition parties and elected lawmakers haven't been allowed to travel to the Valley.

Under these circumstances, visits by foreign delegations can hardly give the headlines the government is looking for. In fact, the move has now led to more international scrutiny of the Indian government.

The government says the CAA and the Kashmir issue are an internal matter of India. And they are right, it was approved by the Indian government and passed by the lawmakers in Parliament.&nbsp;

Any scrutiny of the law will be done by Indian institutions. The Supreme Court is hearing petitions against the CAA, even the Kashmir move has been legally challenged.&nbsp;

New Delhi's hurried moves to showcase 'normalcy' in the valley was a damp squib for two reasons:

First, it did not settle the concerns of the international community. In less than 24 hours after the American ambassador visited Kashmir, the US State Department slammed India for the communication blackout in Kashmir.

Second, it opened up the government to more scrutiny from the opposition.&nbsp;

Despite clarifications, both the trips were labelled as 'guided tours'. The outreach lost its credibility in the process. What followed was a barrage of criticism and the recent protests against the CAA has kept the pot boiling.&nbsp;

In the process, India's carefully crafted international image is taking a beating. New Delhi is losing out on the momentum it built with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's global outreach.&nbsp;

While the debate within the European Parliament has no direct impact on India, it does cast a shadow.

Such events set the tone for India's engagements in Europe, especially for the India-EU Summit in March. The constant attempts to seek external validation is a case of misplaced priorities.

The Kashmir move, as well as the CAA, triggered debates but also found support at home. The government's engagements won it the approval or silence of strategic partners outside.

But to bring their lawmakers as inspectors, to seek their approval or certificates was an unmitigated blunder. The government must re-think its strategy.

Kashmir and CAA are internal matters and they don't need external approval. If the government feels the need to impress someone, it should start with Indians, including those who oppose its decisions.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

An unofficial visit by European lawmakers had a purpose, it was supposed to display normalcy in the Kashmir Valley. But, from the moment it was announced, the entire affair snowballed into an epic blunder.

An unofficial visit by European lawmakers had a purpose, it was supposed to display normalcy in the Kashmir Valley. But, from the moment it was announced, the entire affair snowballed into an epic blunder. New Delhi shot itself in the foot again when it invited foreign envoys for a trip to Kashmir. Access to the newly created Union Territory has been hard to come by. Furthermore, opposition parties and elected lawmakers haven't been allowed to travel to the Valley. Under these circumstances, visits by foreign delegations can hardly give the headlines the government is looking for. In fact, the move has now led to more international scrutiny of the Indian government. The government says the CAA and the Kashmir issue are an internal matter of India. And they are right, it was approved by the Indian government and passed by the lawmakers in Parliament. Any scrutiny of the law will be done by Indian institutions. The Supreme Court is hearing petitions against the CAA, even the Kashmir move has been legally challenged. New Delhi's hurried moves to showcase 'normalcy' in the valley was a damp squib for two reasons: First, it did not settle the concerns of the international community. In less than 24 hours after the American ambassador visited Kashmir, the US State Department slammed India for the communication blackout in Kashmir. Second, it opened up the government to more scrutiny from the opposition. Despite clarifications, both the trips were labelled as 'guided tours'. The outreach lost its credibility in the process. What followed was a barrage of criticism and the recent protests against the CAA has kept the pot boiling. In the process, India's carefully crafted international image is taking a beating. New Delhi is losing out on the momentum it built with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's global outreach. While the debate within the European Parliament has no direct impact on India, it does cast a shadow. Such events set the tone for India's engagements in Europe, especially for the India-EU Summit in March. The constant attempts to seek external validation is a case of misplaced priorities. The Kashmir move, as well as the CAA, triggered debates but also found support at home. The government's engagements won it the approval or silence of strategic partners outside. But to bring their lawmakers as inspectors, to seek their approval or certificates was an unmitigated blunder. The government must re-think its strategy. Kashmir and CAA are internal matters and they don't need external approval. If the government feels the need to impress someone, it should start with Indians, including those who oppose its decisions. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

Wion Edit: Did India's move to take European lawmakers to Kashmir backfire?

The central government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that the abrogation of Article 370 allowed the accession of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/5-former-jk-legislators-detained-after-the-abrogation-of-article-370-released-271077">Jammu and Kashmir</a> to the Indian union and said that the move is "irreversible".

A five-Judge Constitution Bench of Justices NV Ramana, SK Kaul, R Subhash Reddy, BR Gavai and Surya Kant today continued hearing various pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370, which conferred special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Attorney General KK Venugopal submitted how accession of the new Union Territory to Indian union took place and said that "it (abrogation of Article 370) is irreversible".

"I want to show that sovereignty of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-only-gave-separatism-and-terrorism-to-jammu-and-kashmir-pm-modi-258954">Jammu and Kashmir</a> was indeed temporary. We are a Union of States," Venugopal told the court. Advocate Dr Rajeev Dhavan, appearing for one of the petitioners, said: "A State was demoted to the status of a Union Territory using Article 3 of the Constitution of India for the first time. If they (Centre) do this for one State, they can do it for any State."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terror-incidents-down-in-kashmir-infiltrations-spike-after-article-370-abrogation-265927">Terror incidents down in Kashmir, infiltrations spike after Article 370 abrogation</a>

Dhavan said that the Central government deliberately imposed President's Rule in the erstwhile state and pointed to a map of Jammu and Kashmir. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was representing Jammu and Kashmir, interrupted Dhavan and said that "what he is saying is irrelevant".

On this, Dhavan replied, "If Attorney General could bring (JL) Nehru in his historical trip, I can surely show milords a map. I do not have to take your permission." The top court on Wednesday also heard petitions which were filed after the central government scrapped Article 370 in August last year and bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The central government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that the abrogation of Article 370 allowed the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to the Indian union and said that the move is "irreversible".

The central government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that the abrogation of Article 370 allowed the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to the Indian union and said that the move is "irreversible". A five-Judge Constitution Bench of Justices NV Ramana, SK Kaul, R Subhash Reddy, BR Gavai and Surya Kant today continued hearing various pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370, which conferred special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Attorney General KK Venugopal submitted how accession of the new Union Territory to Indian union took place and said that "it (abrogation of Article 370) is irreversible". "I want to show that sovereignty of Jammu and Kashmir was indeed temporary. We are a Union of States," Venugopal told the court. Advocate Dr Rajeev Dhavan, appearing for one of the petitioners, said: "A State was demoted to the status of a Union Territory using Article 3 of the Constitution of India for the first time. If they (Centre) do this for one State, they can do it for any State." Also Read: Terror incidents down in Kashmir, infiltrations spike after Article 370 abrogation Dhavan said that the Central government deliberately imposed President's Rule in the erstwhile state and pointed to a map of Jammu and Kashmir. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was representing Jammu and Kashmir, interrupted Dhavan and said that "what he is saying is irrelevant". On this, Dhavan replied, "If Attorney General could bring (JL) Nehru in his historical trip, I can surely show milords a map. I do not have to take your permission." The top court on Wednesday also heard petitions which were filed after the central government scrapped Article 370 in August last year and bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Abrogation of Article 370 irreversible, Centre tells SC

The leaders - Nazir Gurezi of NC, Abdul Haq Khan of PDP, Mohammad Abbas Wani of People's Conference and Congress' Abdul Rashid -&nbsp;were released on Friday evening.

They were placed under house arrest following the abrogation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/section-144-cannot-be-used-to-suppress-freedom-of-speech-kapil-sibal-273479">Article 370</a> of the Constitution which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status. 
Earlier, five Jammu and Kashmir political leaders, who were detained since August 5, were released. The leaders who were released from detention are - Salman Sagar, Showkat Ganai and Altaf Kalloo of NC, and PDP's Nizamuddin Bhat and Muktiar Baba.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/scrapping-article-370-was-historic-step-says-chief-naravane-during-army-day-parade-274439">Scrapping Article 370 was 'historic step', says chief Naravane during Army Day</a>

On January 10, as part of moves to progressively release detainees in Jammu and Kashmir, the administration revoked the detention warrants of 26 persons detained under the Public Safety Act (PSA).

Last December, some <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/5-former-jk-legislators-detained-after-the-abrogation-of-article-370-released-271077">Jammu and Kashmir leaders</a>, who were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-decorated-police-officer-caught-with-three-terrorists-in-kulgam-273765">detained</a>, were released.

Several mainstream leaders in Jammu and Kashmir, including NC chief Farooq Abdullah, his son Omar Abdullah and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti are under detention following the abrogation of Article 370.

The leaders - Nazir Gurezi of NC, Abdul Haq Khan of PDP, Mohammad Abbas Wani of People's Conference and Congress' Abdul Rashid - were released on Friday evening.

The leaders - Nazir Gurezi of NC, Abdul Haq Khan of PDP, Mohammad Abbas Wani of People's Conference and Congress' Abdul Rashid - were released on Friday evening. They were placed under house arrest following the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status. Earlier, five Jammu and Kashmir political leaders, who were detained since August 5, were released. The leaders who were released from detention are - Salman Sagar, Showkat Ganai and Altaf Kalloo of NC, and PDP's Nizamuddin Bhat and Muktiar Baba. Also Read: Scrapping Article 370 was 'historic step', says chief Naravane during Army Day On January 10, as part of moves to progressively release detainees in Jammu and Kashmir, the administration revoked the detention warrants of 26 persons detained under the Public Safety Act (PSA). Last December, some Jammu and Kashmir leaders, who were detained, were released. Several mainstream leaders in Jammu and Kashmir, including NC chief Farooq Abdullah, his son Omar Abdullah and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti are under detention following the abrogation of Article 370.

Four more J&K political leaders released from house arrest

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