<p>West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said the opposition will form a pre-poll alliance before the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance," Mamata said Wednesday night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mamata made her statement after meeting with the NCP's Sharad Pawar, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naid, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah, Delhi Chief Minsister Arvind Kejriwal, and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal: We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance <a href="https://t.co/da9lCV5hIE">pic.twitter.com/da9lCV5hIE</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095724544361345025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>"We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that the principal target for all of us is to fight against the assault on institutes," Congress President Rahul Gandhi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We agreed to start a conversation about a common minimum programme and we have a comittment that we're all going to work together," Rahul added. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congress Pres Rahul Gandhi after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal: We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that principal target for all of us is to fight against assault on institutes being carried out by BJP <a href="https://t.co/XIuWB52LUg">pic.twitter.com/XIuWB52LUg</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095722817067216896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mamata had already provided an inkling about&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-fight-the-lok-sabha-elections-together-mamata-banerjee-197206">an opposition alliance</a> Wednesday evening at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata had said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added then that her fight against the Congress and the CPM would remain confined to the state — but that at the national level they would fight together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mamata had been joined at Jantar Mantar by Naidu and Kejriwal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election," Naidu had said on Wednesday evening.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said the opposition will form a pre-poll alliance before the Lok Sabha elections. "We'll work together at the national level.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said the opposition will form a pre-poll alliance before the Lok Sabha elections. "We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance," Mamata said Wednesday night. Mamata made her statement after meeting with the NCP's Sharad Pawar, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naid, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah, Delhi Chief Minsister Arvind Kejriwal, and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal: We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance pic.twitter.com/da9lCV5hIE — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × "We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that the principal target for all of us is to fight against the assault on institutes," Congress President Rahul Gandhi said. "We agreed to start a conversation about a common minimum programme and we have a comittment that we're all going to work together," Rahul added. Congress Pres Rahul Gandhi after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal: We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that principal target for all of us is to fight against assault on institutes being carried out by BJP pic.twitter.com/XIuWB52LUg — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × Mamata had already provided an inkling about an opposition alliance Wednesday evening at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. "We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata had said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. She added then that her fight against the Congress and the CPM would remain confined to the state — but that at the national level they would fight together. Mamata had been joined at Jantar Mantar by Naidu and Kejriwal. "We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election," Naidu had said on Wednesday evening.

Lok Sabha elections: Opposition will form pre-poll alliance, says Mamata Banerjee

<p>Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee said Wednesday that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-opposition-wins-rahul-gandhi-open-to-mayawati-mamata-as-pm-in-2019-reports-154267">the opposition will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha elections together</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added that her fight against the Congress and the CPM would remain confined to the state — but that at the national level they would fight together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Let them fight against me, I don't mind. For interest of the nation, I'm ready to sacrifice my life/ party," she added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mamata Banerjee: Aane waale din ekhatte hoke humlog ladenge. Hamare saath Congress, CPM ka jo bhi fight rahega state mein rahega. National level mein hum ek saath ladenge. Let them fight against me, I don't mind. For interest of the nation, I'm ready to sacrifice my life/party <a href="https://t.co/Bi3RWcOnXx">pic.twitter.com/Bi3RWcOnXx</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095661685753270273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mamata has of course just emerged from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-sits-on-dharna-after-cbi-kolkata-police-face-off-194890">a massive clash against the Centre</a> after the CBI showed up unannounced at the Kolkata Police chief's home, accusing him of slow-walking the investigations into the Saradha and Rose Valley chit fund scams in Bengal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mamata had said the CBI's turning up unannounced at Rajeev Kumar's home was a "destruction of the federal structure", and had a few hours later announced her "Save the Constitution" dharna.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She called off her dharna after a closed-door meeting with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. (A number of opposition leaders had called Mamata after her run-in with the Centre, offering their support.)&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election," Naidu said on Wednesday at Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Andhra Pradesh CM &amp; TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu in Delhi: We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election. <a href="https://t.co/55hfgefv5p">pic.twitter.com/55hfgefv5p</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095661894524911616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>ANI meanwhile reported that Mamata, Naidu, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, former Jammu&nbsp;and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah would meet later on Wednesday at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A notable absentee from Wednesday's meeting will of course be Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;</p>


Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee said Wednesday that the opposition will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha elections together. "We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.

Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee said Wednesday that the opposition will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha elections together. "We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. She added that her fight against the Congress and the CPM would remain confined to the state — but that at the national level they would fight together. "Let them fight against me, I don't mind. For interest of the nation, I'm ready to sacrifice my life/ party," she added. Mamata Banerjee: Aane waale din ekhatte hoke humlog ladenge. Hamare saath Congress, CPM ka jo bhi fight rahega state mein rahega. National level mein hum ek saath ladenge. Let them fight against me, I don't mind. For interest of the nation, I'm ready to sacrifice my life/party pic.twitter.com/Bi3RWcOnXx — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × Mamata has of course just emerged from a massive clash against the Centre after the CBI showed up unannounced at the Kolkata Police chief's home, accusing him of slow-walking the investigations into the Saradha and Rose Valley chit fund scams in Bengal. Mamata had said the CBI's turning up unannounced at Rajeev Kumar's home was a "destruction of the federal structure", and had a few hours later announced her "Save the Constitution" dharna. She called off her dharna after a closed-door meeting with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. (A number of opposition leaders had called Mamata after her run-in with the Centre, offering their support.) "We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election," Naidu said on Wednesday at Jantar Mantar. Andhra Pradesh CM & TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu in Delhi: We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election. pic.twitter.com/55hfgefv5p — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × ANI meanwhile reported that Mamata, Naidu, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah would meet later on Wednesday at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's home. A notable absentee from Wednesday's meeting will of course be Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.

Opposition will fight the Lok Sabha elections together: Mamata Banerjee

<p>National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah Saturday called the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-is-my-request-to-all-please-do-not-make-evms-a-football-says-cec-sunil-arora-191353">EVM the "chor machine"</a> and demanded that the ballot paper system be brought back for the sake of transparency.</p>

<p>Speaking at the united opposition rally organised by TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, he said, "It is not the question of ousting any single person (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) but of saving the country and honouring the sacrifices of those who fought for its freedom."</p>

<p>"The EVM is chor machine. Honestly speaking, it is so. Its use must be put to an end. Nowhere in the world is the machine used. The opposition parties should approach the Election Commission and the President of India to stop the use of the EVM and bring back the old ballot papers for the sake of transparency," he said.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-defers-west-bengal-campaign-amit-shah-to-address-rally-on-january-22-191322">He blamed the BJP</a> for the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and said people are being divided on religious lines. "People are being branded as Pakistanis. But all people right from Ladakh to elsewhere want to continue in India.</p>

<p>"I am a Muslim and I love India, my country," he said.</p>

<p>Continuing his tirade against the BJP, he said it stood for the Triple Talaq Bill in Parliament but did not pass the Women's Reservation Bill.</p>

<p>Urging for a united fight by opposition parties in the coming Lok Sabha election, he said the prime minister can be decided after the poll results.</p>

<p>"We have to fight and oust BJP. We have to come together to put up a one-to-one fight against it. We should fight together to strengthen our country," he said and hoped the new government will take the country forward.&nbsp;</p>


Farooq Abdullah blamed the BJP for the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and said people are being divided on religious lines.

National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah Saturday called the EVM the "chor machine" and demanded that the ballot paper system be brought back for the sake of transparency. Speaking at the united opposition rally organised by TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, he said, "It is not the question of ousting any single person (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) but of saving the country and honouring the sacrifices of those who fought for its freedom." "The EVM is chor machine. Honestly speaking, it is so. Its use must be put to an end. Nowhere in the world is the machine used. The opposition parties should approach the Election Commission and the President of India to stop the use of the EVM and bring back the old ballot papers for the sake of transparency," he said. He blamed the BJP for the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and said people are being divided on religious lines. "People are being branded as Pakistanis. But all people right from Ladakh to elsewhere want to continue in India. "I am a Muslim and I love India, my country," he said. Continuing his tirade against the BJP, he said it stood for the Triple Talaq Bill in Parliament but did not pass the Women's Reservation Bill. Urging for a united fight by opposition parties in the coming Lok Sabha election, he said the prime minister can be decided after the poll results. "We have to fight and oust BJP. We have to come together to put up a one-to-one fight against it. We should fight together to strengthen our country," he said and hoped the new government will take the country forward.

EVM is 'chor' machine: Farooq Abdullah at opposition rally in West Bengal

<p>National Conference chief <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sajjad-lones-father-brought-gun-to-valley-farooq-abdullah-181099">Farooq Abdullah</a> Friday said Congress president <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/is-it-going-to-be-rahul-gandhi-vs-narendra-modi-in-2019-185056">Rahul Gandhi</a> is no longer a "Pappu" and has proved his mettle as a leader by winning elections in three Hindi heartland states.<br />
<br />
Speaking at an event here, he also questioned the need for the BJP's proposed Rath Yatra in West Bengal and wondered whether the party wants to project itself as a saviour of the Hindus.<br />
<br />
"Rahul Gandhi is no longer a Pappu. He has proved his mettle by winning three states," Abdullah said during an interactive session.<br />
<br />
Gandhi has often been mocked by the BJP and his opposition as "Pappu", a colloquial sneer.<br />
<br />
Abdullah took on the government saying institutions like the RBI are being polluted under the present regime. He alleged that efforts are being made to divide the country on religious lines.<br />
<br />
"It is wrong the way they are trying to divide the nation on the basis of religion. The way there has been interference in Muslim religion and its practices is unfortunate," the former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir said.</p>


National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah Friday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi is no longer a "Pappu" and has proved his mettle as a leader by winning elections in three Hindi heartland states.

National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah Friday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi is no longer a "Pappu" and has proved his mettle as a leader by winning elections in three Hindi heartland states. Speaking at an event here, he also questioned the need for the BJP's proposed Rath Yatra in West Bengal and wondered whether the party wants to project itself as a saviour of the Hindus. "Rahul Gandhi is no longer a Pappu. He has proved his mettle by winning three states," Abdullah said during an interactive session. Gandhi has often been mocked by the BJP and his opposition as "Pappu", a colloquial sneer. Abdullah took on the government saying institutions like the RBI are being polluted under the present regime. He alleged that efforts are being made to divide the country on religious lines. "It is wrong the way they are trying to divide the nation on the basis of religion. The way there has been interference in Muslim religion and its practices is unfortunate," the former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir said.

Rahul no longer a 'Pappu' after poll win in three states: Farooq Abdullah

<p>National Conference President Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday said that Governor and President's rule must come to an end as he called for an&nbsp;early election&nbsp;in the state.</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters at a function to welcome two former PDP minister into the National Conference, former J&amp;K chief minister said, "I think Governor and President's rule must come to an end. There should be an election soon. People must choose their representatives who can work."</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/presidents-rule-imposed-in-jammu-and-kashmir-185375">Jammu and Kashmir came under President's rule</a> on Wednesday following the expiry of governor's rule.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It came into effect in the state after President Ram Nath Kovind in the exercise of the powers conferred by Article 356 of the Constitution signed a proclamation ordering imposition of central rule.</p>

<p>President's rule is imposed when a state government is unable to function according to constitutional provisions, following which the central government can take direct control of the state machinery.</p>

<p>Governor's rule in Jammu and came into effect in June after People's Democratic Party chief <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/had-alliance-with-bjp-knowing-it-will-be-suicidal-mehbooba-mufti-184101">Mehbooba Mufti</a> resigned as the Chief Minister, following <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-pulls-out-of-alliance-with-pdp-in-kashmir-145468">Bharatiya Janata Party's withdrawal from its alliance with the PDP</a>.</p>

<p>Last month, Jammu and Kashmir Governor <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-did-not-act-on-bjps-behest-nobody-gave-me-list-of-mlas-says-jk-governor-satya-pal-malik-after-dissolving-assembly-178721">Satya Pal Malik had dissolved the state Assembly</a> soon after the PDP chief wrote a letter to him staking claim to form the government in the state in alliance with the National Conference(NC) and the Congress party.</p>

<p>People's Conference chairman Sajad Gani Lone, considered to be close to Modi, had also staked a claim with the support of BJP and 18 other unnamed MLAs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/good-luck-to-us-omar-abdullah-day-after-governor-dissolves-kashmir-assembly-178795"> Omar Abdullah</a> also called on prime minister Narendra Modi to ensure the assembly polls were held in Jammu and Kashmir within six months following the dissolution of the house.</p>

<p>"Your government's handling of J&amp;K will be judged by whether assembly elections are on time or not sir," he said, responding to a tweet from Modi lauding the high voter turnout in the state during the panchayat and urban local bodies polls.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sir, please also commit your government to assembly elections in J&amp;K. Vested interests, including some occupying positions of authority in J&amp;K, are trying to engineer a delay. Your government’s handling of J&amp;K will be judged by whether assembly elections are on time or not sir. <a href="https://t.co/QkBXLrK6De">https://t.co/QkBXLrK6De</a></p>
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/1075400467528777730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from news agencies)</em></p>


National Conference President Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday said that Governor and President's rule must come to an end as he called for an early election in the state.

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday said that Governor and President's rule must come to an end as he called for an early election in the state. Speaking to reporters at a function to welcome two former PDP minister into the National Conference, former J&K chief minister said, "I think Governor and President's rule must come to an end. There should be an election soon. People must choose their representatives who can work." Jammu and Kashmir came under President's rule on Wednesday following the expiry of governor's rule. It came into effect in the state after President Ram Nath Kovind in the exercise of the powers conferred by Article 356 of the Constitution signed a proclamation ordering imposition of central rule. President's rule is imposed when a state government is unable to function according to constitutional provisions, following which the central government can take direct control of the state machinery. Governor's rule in Jammu and came into effect in June after People's Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti resigned as the Chief Minister, following Bharatiya Janata Party's withdrawal from its alliance with the PDP. Last month, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik had dissolved the state Assembly soon after the PDP chief wrote a letter to him staking claim to form the government in the state in alliance with the National Conference(NC) and the Congress party. People's Conference chairman Sajad Gani Lone, considered to be close to Modi, had also staked a claim with the support of BJP and 18 other unnamed MLAs. Meanwhile, Omar Abdullah also called on prime minister Narendra Modi to ensure the assembly polls were held in Jammu and Kashmir within six months following the dissolution of the house. "Your government's handling of J&K will be judged by whether assembly elections are on time or not sir," he said, responding to a tweet from Modi lauding the high voter turnout in the state during the panchayat and urban local bodies polls. Sir, please also commit your government to assembly elections in J&K. Vested interests, including some occupying positions of authority in J&K, are trying to engineer a delay. Your government’s handling of J&K will be judged by whether assembly elections are on time or not sir. https://t.co/QkBXLrK6De — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) December 19, 2018 × (With inputs from news agencies)

J&K: Farooq Abdullah calls for early election; says Governor and President's rule must end

<p>National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah has accused the father of People's Conference chief Sajjad Lone, Abdul Ghani Lone, of "bringing gun culture" to the Valley.</p>

<p>Abdullah further revealed that he requested Sajjad's father to drop the idea but it all went in vain."His (Sajjad Lone's) father came to me when (then Jammu and Kashmir Governor) Jagmohan dismissed me (in 1984). He (Abdul Ghani) said 'I am going to Pakistan, I am going to get the gun'," said Farooq Abdullah during a media interaction on Sunday.</p>

<p>"With folded hands, I told him not to get the gun here. I told him our jawans will be killed, our homes, our villages, our cities will be destroyed, don't bring the gun. But he brought the gun. When he came back, he apologised to me saying he did a mistake and (he should) not have brought the gun."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Farooq Abdullah in Baramulla,J&amp;K: Uske(Sajjad Lone) walid mere pas aaye te jab mujhe dismiss kiya gya tha Jagmohan ne,‘Main Pakistan ja raha hun.Main bandook lane wala hoon.’Maine use kaha,bandook mat laiye.Magar vo laye. Bandook nahi lani chaiye thi. Iska jawab dein vo. (02.12) <a href="https://t.co/bHwcz94VU4">pic.twitter.com/bHwcz94VU4</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1069418713563115521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>While talking about his party's support to the People's Democratic Party (PDP) of Mehbooba Mufti to form the government in the state, the former chief minister said that the support was extended only to save the Article 35A and Article 370 of the Indian Constitution.</p>

<p>"We didn't want to form the government because we wanted to enjoy power, but we wanted to protect all that which the Governor is doing now. We wanted to defend Article 35A. The government would not have sustained for long. It was to be toppled one day and elections had to be held," Abdullah said.</p>

<p>"PDP, NC, and Congress have different paths but we came together. Why? You see the condition in which J&amp;K Bank is today. It would never have been the case had our government been there. We also want to save Article 35A and Article 370," he added.</p>

<p>He stressed that 'autonomy'&nbsp;is the right of Jammu and Kashmir and the state will take its autonomy. He reiterated his stance that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is under Pakistan while rest of Jammu and Kashmir is under India.</p>

<p>Article 370 of the Indian Constitution gives autonomous status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir while Article 35A of the Constitution empowers Jammu and Kashmir's legislature to define "permanent residents" of the state and provide special rights and privileges to those permanent residents.&nbsp;</p>


National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah has accused the father of People's Conference chief Sajjad Lone, Abdul Ghani Lone, of "bringing gun culture" to the Valley.

National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah has accused the father of People's Conference chief Sajjad Lone, Abdul Ghani Lone, of "bringing gun culture" to the Valley. Abdullah further revealed that he requested Sajjad's father to drop the idea but it all went in vain."His (Sajjad Lone's) father came to me when (then Jammu and Kashmir Governor) Jagmohan dismissed me (in 1984). He (Abdul Ghani) said 'I am going to Pakistan, I am going to get the gun'," said Farooq Abdullah during a media interaction on Sunday. "With folded hands, I told him not to get the gun here. I told him our jawans will be killed, our homes, our villages, our cities will be destroyed, don't bring the gun. But he brought the gun. When he came back, he apologised to me saying he did a mistake and (he should) not have brought the gun." Farooq Abdullah in Baramulla,J&K: Uske(Sajjad Lone) walid mere pas aaye te jab mujhe dismiss kiya gya tha Jagmohan ne,‘Main Pakistan ja raha hun.Main bandook lane wala hoon.’Maine use kaha,bandook mat laiye.Magar vo laye. Bandook nahi lani chaiye thi. Iska jawab dein vo. (02.12) pic.twitter.com/bHwcz94VU4 — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2018 × While talking about his party's support to the People's Democratic Party (PDP) of Mehbooba Mufti to form the government in the state, the former chief minister said that the support was extended only to save the Article 35A and Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. "We didn't want to form the government because we wanted to enjoy power, but we wanted to protect all that which the Governor is doing now. We wanted to defend Article 35A. The government would not have sustained for long. It was to be toppled one day and elections had to be held," Abdullah said. "PDP, NC, and Congress have different paths but we came together. Why? You see the condition in which J&K Bank is today. It would never have been the case had our government been there. We also want to save Article 35A and Article 370," he added. He stressed that 'autonomy' is the right of Jammu and Kashmir and the state will take its autonomy. He reiterated his stance that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is under Pakistan while rest of Jammu and Kashmir is under India. Article 370 of the Indian Constitution gives autonomous status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir while Article 35A of the Constitution empowers Jammu and Kashmir's legislature to define "permanent residents" of the state and provide special rights and privileges to those permanent residents.

Sajjad Lone's father 'brought gun' to Valley: Farooq Abdullah

<p>Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and chairman of National Conference Farooq Abdullah on Sunday said the day friendly relations begin between India and Pakistan, Kashmir issue will be resolved on its own.</p>

<p>''I believe friendship between the two nations is most important for Jammu and Kashmir. My party stands for paths which lead to Indo-Pak friendship,'' he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking to the media in Jammu and Kashmir`s Baramulla district, he said: "The National Conference (NC) has always supported friendly relations between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Ultimately people have to decide what's to be done,'' he said and added they were never hungry for power.</p>

<p>PDP, NC and Congress have different paths but came together, he said.</p>

<p>He also lamented that condition J&amp;K bank and said it would never have been the case had ''our government been there''.&nbsp;</p>


Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and chairman of National Conference Farooq Abdullah on Sunday said the day friendly relations begin between India and Pakistan, Kashmir issue will be resolved on its own.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and chairman of National Conference Farooq Abdullah on Sunday said the day friendly relations begin between India and Pakistan, Kashmir issue will be resolved on its own. ''I believe friendship between the two nations is most important for Jammu and Kashmir. My party stands for paths which lead to Indo-Pak friendship,'' he added. Talking to the media in Jammu and Kashmir`s Baramulla district, he said: "The National Conference (NC) has always supported friendly relations between India and Pakistan. ''Ultimately people have to decide what's to be done,'' he said and added they were never hungry for power. PDP, NC and Congress have different paths but came together, he said. He also lamented that condition J&K bank and said it would never have been the case had ''our government been there''.

Friendly relations between India and Pakistan will help resolve Kashmir issue: Farooq Abdullah

<p>The BJP Friday accused the Congress and other opposition parties of misleading farmers on the issue of agrarian distress, asserting that people no longer support those who have had their "eyes shut for 70 years" on the problem and have now decided to side with Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>The BJP's reaction came after thousands of farmers, backed by Left parties and organisations, marched through the streets of Delhi for debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.</p>

<p><a href="Delhi: Rahul, Kejriwal join farmers' protest at Jantar Mantar">Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal</a>, CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury, CPI leader S Sudhakar Reddy and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah were among the political leaders who joined the farmers at Jantar Mantar.</p>

<p>Hitting out at opposition parties, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra asked why their leaders did not take measures to reduce the problem of farmers in the past 70 years when they governed India.</p>

<p>On Kejriwal and Gandhi sharing a stage during the rally at Jantar Mantar, Patra said it was like "drama and confusion together on the dais".</p>

<p>"Remember, if drama and confusion are together, there is only destruction and devastation for democracy. The country rejects drama, corruption and confusion and has done so in 2014. Their coming together through photo-ops will not help, as the country has left their hands and has held the hands of Narendra Modi and BJP," he said.</p>

<p>He said the opposition parties have been exposed before the people for indulging in corruption and "politics of deception".</p>

<p>"They are today talking about farmers. They need to answer why the Congress was sitting with eyes shut for 70 years. Why the Congress did not worry about farmers all this time," he told reporters.</p>

<p>He said it was "unfortunate" that leaders of the Congress and other opposition parties were lowering the level of political discourse in the country. His comments came after following reports that CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury used inappropriate words to describe Prime Minister Modi.</p>

<p>"This shows the frustration of Congress and others. It shows their frustration," Patra said.<br />
Training his guns on Gandhi, Patra alleged that the Congress chief has one tape-recorder and only has one script. "He does not even prepare his speeches," Patra said.</p>

<p>"He does politics of falsehood and deception... All these parties were in power for so many years, but they did not implement the Swaminathan Committee report, because they were deep in corruption" he alleged.</p>

<p>The final volume of the Swaminathan Committee report on agrarian distress and recommendations was tabled in Parliament in 2016 and is yet to be discussed in the House.</p>

<p>Patra claimed farm loan has been waived twice so far in Rajasthan's history and on both occasions it has been done under BJP rule.</p>

<p>The Congress-ruled Rajasthan for nearly 50 years but did not waived farm loans and now they are doing politics here, Patra alleged.</p>

<p>"You have seen how Mr Rahul Gandhi have misled farmers and people of this country. You have seen how Mr Robert Vadra's (Gandhi's brother-in-law) company took loans which were unaccounted, not secured and not paid in the name of farmers and how they were misused for commercial purposes.</p>

<p>"You have seen how this was totally a commercial venture in the name of farming. This is Rahul Gandhi's way and Prime Minister Modi has rightly said that he does not know anything about farming," Patra alleged.</p>

<p>The BJP leader was referring to a newspaper report published Friday. The report said a firm got a big tax relief after it gave loan to a company that bought land owned by Skylight Hospitality, which is allegedly linked to Vadra.</p>

<p>"He (Gandhi) added to country's NPAs by giving loans through banks to such people, from whom they have benefitted themselves. Rahul Gandhi and Congress party indulged in commercial ventures and corruption ventures from which the country lost," he alleged.</p>


The BJP Friday accused the Congress and other opposition parties of misleading farmers on the issue of agrarian distress, asserting that people no longer support those who have had their "eyes shut for 70 years" on the problem and have now decided to side with Narendra Modi.

The BJP Friday accused the Congress and other opposition parties of misleading farmers on the issue of agrarian distress, asserting that people no longer support those who have had their "eyes shut for 70 years" on the problem and have now decided to side with Narendra Modi. The BJP's reaction came after thousands of farmers, backed by Left parties and organisations, marched through the streets of Delhi for debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury, CPI leader S Sudhakar Reddy and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah were among the political leaders who joined the farmers at Jantar Mantar. Hitting out at opposition parties, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra asked why their leaders did not take measures to reduce the problem of farmers in the past 70 years when they governed India. On Kejriwal and Gandhi sharing a stage during the rally at Jantar Mantar, Patra said it was like "drama and confusion together on the dais". "Remember, if drama and confusion are together, there is only destruction and devastation for democracy. The country rejects drama, corruption and confusion and has done so in 2014. Their coming together through photo-ops will not help, as the country has left their hands and has held the hands of Narendra Modi and BJP," he said. He said the opposition parties have been exposed before the people for indulging in corruption and "politics of deception". "They are today talking about farmers. They need to answer why the Congress was sitting with eyes shut for 70 years. Why the Congress did not worry about farmers all this time," he told reporters. He said it was "unfortunate" that leaders of the Congress and other opposition parties were lowering the level of political discourse in the country. His comments came after following reports that CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury used inappropriate words to describe Prime Minister Modi. "This shows the frustration of Congress and others. It shows their frustration," Patra said. Training his guns on Gandhi, Patra alleged that the Congress chief has one tape-recorder and only has one script. "He does not even prepare his speeches," Patra said. "He does politics of falsehood and deception... All these parties were in power for so many years, but they did not implement the Swaminathan Committee report, because they were deep in corruption" he alleged. The final volume of the Swaminathan Committee report on agrarian distress and recommendations was tabled in Parliament in 2016 and is yet to be discussed in the House. Patra claimed farm loan has been waived twice so far in Rajasthan's history and on both occasions it has been done under BJP rule. The Congress-ruled Rajasthan for nearly 50 years but did not waived farm loans and now they are doing politics here, Patra alleged. "You have seen how Mr Rahul Gandhi have misled farmers and people of this country. You have seen how Mr Robert Vadra's (Gandhi's brother-in-law) company took loans which were unaccounted, not secured and not paid in the name of farmers and how they were misused for commercial purposes. "You have seen how this was totally a commercial venture in the name of farming. This is Rahul Gandhi's way and Prime Minister Modi has rightly said that he does not know anything about farming," Patra alleged. The BJP leader was referring to a newspaper report published Friday. The report said a firm got a big tax relief after it gave loan to a company that bought land owned by Skylight Hospitality, which is allegedly linked to Vadra. "He (Gandhi) added to country's NPAs by giving loans through banks to such people, from whom they have benefitted themselves. Rahul Gandhi and Congress party indulged in commercial ventures and corruption ventures from which the country lost," he alleged.

People don't trust Congress, other Opposition parties on agrarian distress issue: BJP

<p>Opposition leaders including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and National Conference Chairman Farooq Abdullah participated in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-march-to-parliament-throws-traffic-in-tizzy-in-central-lutyens-delhi-180383">massive&nbsp;farmers protest</a> in Delhi on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the gathering of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-march-towards-parliament-from-ramlila-maidan-3500-cops-deployed-180376">protesting farmers at Jantar Mantar</a>, Rahul Gandhi called for a farm loan waiver as he assured support of all opposition leaders.</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi said that the farmers were not seeking a "free gift" from the government by asking for a farm loan waiver. They were only asking for what's due to them.</p>

<p>"If this government can waive Rs 3.5 lakh crore loans of 15 big industrialists, why can't the loans of crores of farmers in the country be waived?" he asked.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that no one will be able to silence the voice of farmers and youth.</p>

<p>"If the Indian government insults them, then they will ensure its removal, " Gandhi added.</p>

<p>Arvind Kejriwal, also participating in the protest, warned prime minister Narendra Modi saying, "Five months are left, I demand that the Central Government implement Swaminathan panel report soon, otherwise farmers will wreak havoc in 2019," news agency PTI reported.</p>

<p>Kejriwal further tageted Modi saying that prime minister has "stabbed" farmers in the back by not keeping promises made to them.</p>

<p>Around 35,000 farmers from across the country converged in the national capital Friday to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Farmers have come to the capital from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<p>The protest is called by&nbsp;&nbsp;All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee, which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on trains, buses and other modes of transport.</p>

<p>Many political leaders, including Trinamool Congress' Dinesh Trivedi, Loktantrik Janata Dal's Sharad Yadav have extended their support to protesting farmers.</p>

<p>The Friday's rally is the fourth major farmers' rally being held by the AIKSCC.</p>

<p>The AIKSCC has claimed that the two-day rally will be one of the largest congregations of farmers in Delhi.</p>


Opposition leaders including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and National Conference Chairman Farooq Abdullah participated in massive farmers protest in Delhi on Friday.

Opposition leaders including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and National Conference Chairman Farooq Abdullah participated in massive farmers protest in Delhi on Friday. Addressing the gathering of protesting farmers at Jantar Mantar, Rahul Gandhi called for a farm loan waiver as he assured support of all opposition leaders. Rahul Gandhi said that the farmers were not seeking a "free gift" from the government by asking for a farm loan waiver. They were only asking for what's due to them. "If this government can waive Rs 3.5 lakh crore loans of 15 big industrialists, why can't the loans of crores of farmers in the country be waived?" he asked. He also said that no one will be able to silence the voice of farmers and youth. "If the Indian government insults them, then they will ensure its removal, " Gandhi added. Arvind Kejriwal, also participating in the protest, warned prime minister Narendra Modi saying, "Five months are left, I demand that the Central Government implement Swaminathan panel report soon, otherwise farmers will wreak havoc in 2019," news agency PTI reported. Kejriwal further tageted Modi saying that prime minister has "stabbed" farmers in the back by not keeping promises made to them. Around 35,000 farmers from across the country converged in the national capital Friday to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. Farmers have come to the capital from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh. The protest is called by All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee, which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on trains, buses and other modes of transport. Many political leaders, including Trinamool Congress' Dinesh Trivedi, Loktantrik Janata Dal's Sharad Yadav have extended their support to protesting farmers. The Friday's rally is the fourth major farmers' rally being held by the AIKSCC. The AIKSCC has claimed that the two-day rally will be one of the largest congregations of farmers in Delhi.

Delhi: Rahul, Kejriwal join farmers' protest at Jantar Mantar

<p>Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah on Thursday tore into state Governor Satya Pal Malik after the latter dissolved the Assembly soon after Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti staked claim to form the government in the state with the support of National Conference (NC) and Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''I had a lot of hopes from this Governor, but this is very sad. He has turned out to be another slave to the Centre,'' Abdullah said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The post of Governor needs to be looked into, he said and added why did he wait 5 months to dissolve assembly?</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I had a lot of hopes from this Governor, but this is very sad. He has turned out to be another slave of the Centre. The post of Governor needs to be looked into. Why did he wait 5 months to dissolve assembly?: Farooq Abdullah <a href="https://t.co/zKovZCD6pw">pic.twitter.com/zKovZCD6pw</a></p>
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<p>Hitting back at the BJP which called the alliance between PDP, Congress and NC a coming together of “terror-friendly parties, Abdullah said when PDP was in alliance with BJP then it was not 'terror-friendly?' It has become 'terror-friendly' when it talked of alliance with NC and Congress? Abdullah asked.</p>

<p>Governor Satya Pal Malik dissolved the assembly on Wednesday evening after Mehbooba Mufti staked claim to form the government along with her arch-rival Omar Abdullah's National Conference (NC) and the Congress. They claimed the support of 56 lawmakers in the 87-member state assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shortly after, People's Conference leader Sajad Lone also staked claims to form the government. Lone, who has two lawmakers, said he had the support of the BJP's 25 legislators and "more than 18" others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress leader Saifuddin Soz on Wednesday urged Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti to move court. He&nbsp;described Governor's decision to dissolve the assembly ''unconstitutional''.&nbsp;</p>


Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah on Thursday tore into state Governor Satya Pal Malik after the latter dissolved the Assembly soon after Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti staked claim to form the government in the state with the support of National Conference (NC) and Congress.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah on Thursday tore into state Governor Satya Pal Malik after the latter dissolved the Assembly soon after Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti staked claim to form the government in the state with the support of National Conference (NC) and Congress. ''I had a lot of hopes from this Governor, but this is very sad. He has turned out to be another slave to the Centre,'' Abdullah said. The post of Governor needs to be looked into, he said and added why did he wait 5 months to dissolve assembly? I had a lot of hopes from this Governor, but this is very sad. He has turned out to be another slave of the Centre. The post of Governor needs to be looked into. Why did he wait 5 months to dissolve assembly?: Farooq Abdullah pic.twitter.com/zKovZCD6pw — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2018 × Hitting back at the BJP which called the alliance between PDP, Congress and NC a coming together of “terror-friendly parties, Abdullah said when PDP was in alliance with BJP then it was not 'terror-friendly?' It has become 'terror-friendly' when it talked of alliance with NC and Congress? Abdullah asked. Governor Satya Pal Malik dissolved the assembly on Wednesday evening after Mehbooba Mufti staked claim to form the government along with her arch-rival Omar Abdullah's National Conference (NC) and the Congress. They claimed the support of 56 lawmakers in the 87-member state assembly. Shortly after, People's Conference leader Sajad Lone also staked claims to form the government. Lone, who has two lawmakers, said he had the support of the BJP's 25 legislators and "more than 18" others. Congress leader Saifuddin Soz on Wednesday urged Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti to move court. He described Governor's decision to dissolve the assembly ''unconstitutional''.

Jammu and Kashmir governor is a 'slave' to Centre: Farooq Abdullah

<p>National Conference (NC) chief Farooq Abdullah Wednesday urged India and Pakistan to start a sustained dialogue process and advocated an Ireland-type settlement model to resolve the Kashmir issue.</p>

<p>"Abdullah impressed on the governments of India and Pakistan to start a sustained dialogue process and advocated an Ireland-type settlement model to resolve the procrastinated Jammu and Kashmir issue," an NC spokesman said.</p>

<p>He added that the NC chief said this while addressing a public gathering at Uri in north Kashmir's Baramulla district.</p>

<p>Abdullah urged the Centre to restore autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir at the earliest.</p>

<p>"Autonomy is the only way ahead to address the political and developmental deficit of all the regions of Jammu and Kashmir. It will secure the secular character of our state and strengthen the bonds of amity and brotherhood," he said.</p>

<p>The Member of Parliament from Srinagar also said a day would come when the people of the state would breathe in a peaceful atmosphere, without any insecurity.</p>

<p>"We should not feel disheartened. The current situation is grave, but we have witnessed even worst throughout the history. At one time in our history, people would not buy the idea that the autocratic rule will end. But a day came when democratic forces usurped the kings's throne with determination and struggle," he added.</p>

<p>Abdullah asked the people to keep the faith and follow the path shown by the prophet of Islam.</p>

<p>"In this hour of grief and uncertainty, we should not let anxiety and hopelessness overpower us. We should follow the teaching of the prophet of Islam in our day-to-day lives. Hopelessness is a curse," he said.</p>

<p>The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said the NC had to face many challenges since its inception and that scores of party functionaries were "preyed upon by the monster of conflict".</p>

<p>"Our party was back-stabbed by many political shenanigans and turncoats, but history bears testimony to how they eventually faded on their own. The NC is a people's party, we owe our being to people and we are a grassroot-level party," he added.</p>

<p>Abdullah said the state's special status was "infringed upon by the machinations of national political parties, including the Congress and the BJP, and their attitude has not changed".</p>

<p>"The current situation is no different. People should remain watchful of crafty politicians who are products of these machinations. Self-respect and dignity of our state should not be bartered for a few pennies," he added.</p>


National Conference (NC) chief Farooq Abdullah Wednesday urged India and Pakistan to start a sustained dialogue process and advocated an Ireland-type settlement model to resolve the Kashmir issue.

National Conference (NC) chief Farooq Abdullah Wednesday urged India and Pakistan to start a sustained dialogue process and advocated an Ireland-type settlement model to resolve the Kashmir issue. "Abdullah impressed on the governments of India and Pakistan to start a sustained dialogue process and advocated an Ireland-type settlement model to resolve the procrastinated Jammu and Kashmir issue," an NC spokesman said. He added that the NC chief said this while addressing a public gathering at Uri in north Kashmir's Baramulla district. Abdullah urged the Centre to restore autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir at the earliest. "Autonomy is the only way ahead to address the political and developmental deficit of all the regions of Jammu and Kashmir. It will secure the secular character of our state and strengthen the bonds of amity and brotherhood," he said. The Member of Parliament from Srinagar also said a day would come when the people of the state would breathe in a peaceful atmosphere, without any insecurity. "We should not feel disheartened. The current situation is grave, but we have witnessed even worst throughout the history. At one time in our history, people would not buy the idea that the autocratic rule will end. But a day came when democratic forces usurped the kings's throne with determination and struggle," he added. Abdullah asked the people to keep the faith and follow the path shown by the prophet of Islam. "In this hour of grief and uncertainty, we should not let anxiety and hopelessness overpower us. We should follow the teaching of the prophet of Islam in our day-to-day lives. Hopelessness is a curse," he said. The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said the NC had to face many challenges since its inception and that scores of party functionaries were "preyed upon by the monster of conflict". "Our party was back-stabbed by many political shenanigans and turncoats, but history bears testimony to how they eventually faded on their own. The NC is a people's party, we owe our being to people and we are a grassroot-level party," he added. Abdullah said the state's special status was "infringed upon by the machinations of national political parties, including the Congress and the BJP, and their attitude has not changed". "The current situation is no different. People should remain watchful of crafty politicians who are products of these machinations. Self-respect and dignity of our state should not be bartered for a few pennies," he added.

Farooq Abdullah urges India, Pak to start sustained dialogue to resolve Kashmir issue

<p>National Conference president Farooq Abdullah today sought that the Line of Control (LoC) should be converted into a 'Line of Peace' while India and Pakistan should initiate the dialogue process with an active involvement of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to usher harmony and tranquillity in the state.</p>

<p>He cautioned the Centre against taking the people of J&K "for granted and ignoring" their legitimate aspirations. He said the claims that demonetization had curbed stone pelting had fallen flat and expressed concern that "youth were now taking to guns".</p>

<p>India and Pakistan should resume the dialogue process and engage people of Jammu and Kashmir in an acceptable solution, Abdullah said addressing party workers at Balakote in Poonch district. Sagacity lies in acknowledging realities and shedding the baggage of the past, he said.</p>

<p>Referring to the Indo-Pak hostilities in 1990s, he said former prime minister Atal Behari Vajpayee had invited the then Pakistan president Parvez Musharraf despite the Kargil incursion and his political wisdom worked in terms of a cease-fire agreement which brought cheer to the lives of border people.</p>

<p>"Why can't Vajpayee's spirit be emulated by his political inheritors," he said warning that extreme positions could lead to devastation and destruction in the entire region.</p>

<p>Reiterating his party's demand for greater autonomy to the state, the former chief minister said internal autonomy within the framework of Indian Constitution and conversion of Line of Control (LoC) into Line of Peace was the pragmatic way forward.</p>

<p>"The people of the state decided their future in 1947 by acceding to Mahatma Gandhi's secular India and they will fight all machinations of reversing these well-established credentials by polarising forces. "India is not religion specific but a country of all, irrespective of religion, region and caste. This legacy cannot be trampled on by fringe elements, currently holding the centre-stage in Indian politics, as a majority of Hindus disapprove politics of polarisation and division,"&nbsp;he said.</p>

<p>Without naming BJP, he said the current spell of governance in New Delhi had created chaos all over, with people feeling their identities threatened and thus taking to streets.</p>

<p>Abdullah expressed concern over the "dicey political situation" saying he would keep his fingers crossed about things to happen in case the present arrangement is repeated in New Delhi in 2019.</p>

<p>"India cannot flourish with a myopic political vision. It has been a forward-looking country, which has to move forward as a strong, stable and a united nation," he added.</p>

<p>Abdullah cautioned people against the divisive politics, saying attempts were being made to create a&nbsp;wedge in the society on the basis of region and religion. "All this is being done with a sinister motive of fragmenting Jammu and Kashmir into three different regions", he said and warned those nurturing this "nightmarish dream".</p>

<p>National Conference would fight these designs tooth and nail, he said.</p>

<p>Earlier, at a public meeting at Mandi in Poonch district, Abdullah cautioned the Centre against taking the people of Jammu and Kashmir for granted.</p>

<p>"The claims that demonetization had put an end to stone pelting in Jammu and Kashmir have fallen flat as the youth were now taking to guns. The situation, therefore, cannot be allowed to drift anymore,"&nbsp;he said.</p>

<p>The former chief minister called for earnest initiatives to reach out to the people and urged the Centre to resolve the issues which are essentially political in nature and try to win over the alienated hearts and minds by shunning the policy of "creating divisions".</p>

<p>The MP reiterated the need for Indo-Pak dialogue and said Line of Control (LoC) should be converted into 'Line of Peace and Goodwill' to enable unhindered people to people exchange and trade.</p>

<p>Abdullah said the conversion of LoC into Line of Peace would benefit peoples living along the borders on both sides, who have been braving the brunt of hostilities.</p>

<p>He referred to the violence over the alleged "dilution" of SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and said machinations are being engineered to end reservation.</p>

<p>"The present dispensation at the Centre is working against the interests of farmers, weaker sections, and minorities," he alleged.</p>

<p>The NC president also blamed the PDP-BJP dispensation in Jammu and Kashmir for "failing" to deliver.</p>

<p>"The lack of accountability and mis-governance have added to the miseries of the people, who are feeling let down on every front,"&nbsp;he claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


India and Pakistan should resume the dialogue process and engage people of Jammu and Kashmir in an acceptable solution, Abdullah said

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah today sought that the Line of Control (LoC) should be converted into a 'Line of Peace' while India and Pakistan should initiate the dialogue process with an active involvement of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to usher harmony and tranquillity in the state. He cautioned the Centre against taking the people of J&K "for granted and ignoring" their legitimate aspirations. He said the claims that demonetization had curbed stone pelting had fallen flat and expressed concern that "youth were now taking to guns". India and Pakistan should resume the dialogue process and engage people of Jammu and Kashmir in an acceptable solution, Abdullah said addressing party workers at Balakote in Poonch district. Sagacity lies in acknowledging realities and shedding the baggage of the past, he said. Referring to the Indo-Pak hostilities in 1990s, he said former prime minister Atal Behari Vajpayee had invited the then Pakistan president Parvez Musharraf despite the Kargil incursion and his political wisdom worked in terms of a cease-fire agreement which brought cheer to the lives of border people. "Why can't Vajpayee's spirit be emulated by his political inheritors," he said warning that extreme positions could lead to devastation and destruction in the entire region. Reiterating his party's demand for greater autonomy to the state, the former chief minister said internal autonomy within the framework of Indian Constitution and conversion of Line of Control (LoC) into Line of Peace was the pragmatic way forward. "The people of the state decided their future in 1947 by acceding to Mahatma Gandhi's secular India and they will fight all machinations of reversing these well-established credentials by polarising forces. "India is not religion specific but a country of all, irrespective of religion, region and caste. This legacy cannot be trampled on by fringe elements, currently holding the centre-stage in Indian politics, as a majority of Hindus disapprove politics of polarisation and division," he said. Without naming BJP, he said the current spell of governance in New Delhi had created chaos all over, with people feeling their identities threatened and thus taking to streets. Abdullah expressed concern over the "dicey political situation" saying he would keep his fingers crossed about things to happen in case the present arrangement is repeated in New Delhi in 2019. "India cannot flourish with a myopic political vision. It has been a forward-looking country, which has to move forward as a strong, stable and a united nation," he added. Abdullah cautioned people against the divisive politics, saying attempts were being made to create a wedge in the society on the basis of region and religion. "All this is being done with a sinister motive of fragmenting Jammu and Kashmir into three different regions", he said and warned those nurturing this "nightmarish dream". National Conference would fight these designs tooth and nail, he said. Earlier, at a public meeting at Mandi in Poonch district, Abdullah cautioned the Centre against taking the people of Jammu and Kashmir for granted. "The claims that demonetization had put an end to stone pelting in Jammu and Kashmir have fallen flat as the youth were now taking to guns. The situation, therefore, cannot be allowed to drift anymore," he said. The former chief minister called for earnest initiatives to reach out to the people and urged the Centre to resolve the issues which are essentially political in nature and try to win over the alienated hearts and minds by shunning the policy of "creating divisions". The MP reiterated the need for Indo-Pak dialogue and said Line of Control (LoC) should be converted into 'Line of Peace and Goodwill' to enable unhindered people to people exchange and trade. Abdullah said the conversion of LoC into Line of Peace would benefit peoples living along the borders on both sides, who have been braving the brunt of hostilities. He referred to the violence over the alleged "dilution" of SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and said machinations are being engineered to end reservation. "The present dispensation at the Centre is working against the interests of farmers, weaker sections, and minorities," he alleged. The NC president also blamed the PDP-BJP dispensation in Jammu and Kashmir for "failing" to deliver. "The lack of accountability and mis-governance have added to the miseries of the people, who are feeling let down on every front," he claimed.

India's legacy cannot be trampled on by fringe elements: Farooq Abdullah

<p>Inciting yet another controversy, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah has said that Muhammad Ali Jinnah did not want a separate country for Muslims.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/watch-never-mind-raising-tricolour-in-pok-first-raise-it-in-srinagar-says-farooq-abdullah-6982" target="_blank">Watch: Never mind raising </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/watch-never-mind-raising-tricolour-in-pok-first-raise-it-in-srinagar-says-farooq-abdullah-6982" target="_blank">tricolour</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/watch-never-mind-raising-tricolour-in-pok-first-raise-it-in-srinagar-says-farooq-abdullah-6982" target="_blank"> in PoK, first raise it in Srinagar, says Farooq Abdullah</a></p>

<p>He said that the need for a separate country emerged after Indian leaders refused to accept minority status for Muslims and Sikh in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Abdullah&nbsp;said it was because of the refusal of political leaders Jawaharlal&nbsp; Nehru, Maulana Azad and Sardar Patel that Jinnah demanded Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farooq-trying-to-push-country-into-communalism-bjp-24564" target="_blank">Farooq trying to push </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farooq-trying-to-push-country-into-communalism-bjp-24564" target="_blank">country</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farooq-trying-to-push-country-into-communalism-bjp-24564" target="_blank"> into communalism: BJP</a></p>

<p>Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-enemy-is-not-across-border-but-among-ourselves-national-conference-chief-farooq-abdullah-29509" target="_blank">&#39;Our enemy is not across </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-enemy-is-not-across-border-but-among-ourselves-national-conference-chief-farooq-abdullah-29509" target="_blank">border</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-enemy-is-not-across-border-but-among-ourselves-national-conference-chief-farooq-abdullah-29509" target="_blank"> but among ourselves,&#39; says Farooq Abdullah&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>He said &quot;Jinnah agreed but Jawaharlal Nehru, Maulana Azad, and Sardar Patel did not agree. When this did not happen it was then that Jinnah demanded for Pakistan. Or else there would have been no separation. There would have been no Bangladesh, no Pakistan; there would have been one India,&quot;.</p>

<p>Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-have-made-one-pakistan-how-many-pakistans-will-you-make-how-many-pieces-will-you-cut-india-into-says-farooq-andullah-24514" target="_blank">&#39;How many Pakistans will you make&#39;, reiterates Farooq Abdullah</a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from ANI)</em></p>


Abdullah said that the need for a separate country emerged after Indian leaders refused to accept minority status for Muslims and Sikh in the country

Inciting yet another controversy, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah has said that Muhammad Ali Jinnah did not want a separate country for Muslims. Watch: Never mind raising tricolour in PoK, first raise it in Srinagar, says Farooq Abdullah He said that the need for a separate country emerged after Indian leaders refused to accept minority status for Muslims and Sikh in the country. Abdullah said it was because of the refusal of political leaders Jawaharlal Nehru, Maulana Azad and Sardar Patel that Jinnah demanded Pakistan. Also read: Farooq trying to push country into communalism: BJP Also read: 'Our enemy is not across border but among ourselves,' says Farooq Abdullah He said "Jinnah agreed but Jawaharlal Nehru, Maulana Azad, and Sardar Patel did not agree. When this did not happen it was then that Jinnah demanded for Pakistan. Or else there would have been no separation. There would have been no Bangladesh, no Pakistan; there would have been one India,". Also read: 'How many Pakistans will you make', reiterates Farooq Abdullah (With inputs from ANI)

Jinnah never wanted separate country: Farooq Abdullah

<p>Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah today said that the exchange of firing and shelling between India and Pakistan will continue unless the two nations start thinking of peace.</p>

<p>Abdullah spoke on the issue of the ongoing ceasefire violations and heavy shelling by Pakistani troops along the LoC.</p>

<p>&quot;If they (both the nations) don&#39;t think of peace, the firing will not stop, neither from our side nor from their side,&quot; the National Conference chief told reporters at a function.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The National Conference chief, last month, lauded J&amp;K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti after she asked the governments of India and Pakistan to resume talks and resolve their mutual issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;I would like to congratulate Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti Ji for realising that until we have talks with Pakistan, militancy will not end. I feel Modi Ji has the courage to initiate this and take it to a logical end,&quot; Abdullah noted.</p>

<p>Mufti recently noted that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/guns-cannot-solve-any-problems-only-talks-can-jk-cm-mehbooba-mufti-33268">dialogue can solve problems</a> and not &quot;guns&quot;.</p>

<p>&quot;Conditions at the border are not good, both the countries should talk and there should be a ceasefire. Peace should be given an opportunity,&quot; Mufti noted at Kulgam, J&amp;K earlier this month.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The National Conference chief, last month, lauded J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti after she asked the governments of India and Pakistan to resume talks and resolve their mutual issues

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah today said that the exchange of firing and shelling between India and Pakistan will continue unless the two nations start thinking of peace. Abdullah spoke on the issue of the ongoing ceasefire violations and heavy shelling by Pakistani troops along the LoC. "If they (both the nations) don't think of peace, the firing will not stop, neither from our side nor from their side," the National Conference chief told reporters at a function. The National Conference chief, last month, lauded J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti after she asked the governments of India and Pakistan to resume talks and resolve their mutual issues. "I would like to congratulate Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti Ji for realising that until we have talks with Pakistan, militancy will not end. I feel Modi Ji has the courage to initiate this and take it to a logical end," Abdullah noted. Mufti recently noted that dialogue can solve problems and not "guns". "Conditions at the border are not good, both the countries should talk and there should be a ceasefire. Peace should be given an opportunity," Mufti noted at Kulgam, J&K earlier this month. (With inputs from agencies)

Indo-Pak shelling will stop only when two nations think of peace: Farooq Abdullah

<p>Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Farooq Abdullah, noted that &quot;further division of this nation&quot; will only cause more destruction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that the real enemy is &quot;not across the border but among ourselves.&quot;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Any further division of this nation will cause only destruction. Our enemy is not across the border but among ourselves. Unless we fight this enemy, there is no solution: Farooq Abdullah in Jammu <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/ohIfKsTZpA">pic.twitter.com/ohIfKsTZpA</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/952547720006266882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Abdullah also alluded to the&nbsp;meeting between the National Security Advisers of the two nations that took place in Bangkok on December 26 2017.</p>

<p>He shared that the only way to counter terrorism is through dialogue, &quot;it is necessary to meet and talk about it,&quot; ANI quoted Abdullah.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">National Security Advsiers of India &amp; Pakistan met in Bangkok. If there is terrorism it is necessary to meet and talk about it: Farooq Abdullah in Jammu <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/e0NMP59ATk">pic.twitter.com/e0NMP59ATk</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/952546351606202368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Abdullah recently expressed his views on the &quot;deteriorating&quot; security situation in Jammu and Kashmir.</p>

<p>The National Conference chief, on Tuesday, lauded J&amp;K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti after she asked the governments of India and Pakistan to resume talks and resolve their mutual issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;I would like to congratulate Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti Ji for realising that until we have talks with Pakistan, militancy will not end. I feel Modi Ji has the courage to initiate this and take it to a logical end,&quot; he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;</em></p>


Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Farooq Abdullah noted that 'further division of nation' will only cause more destruction

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Farooq Abdullah, noted that "further division of this nation" will only cause more destruction. He also said that the real enemy is "not across the border but among ourselves." Any further division of this nation will cause only destruction. Our enemy is not across the border but among ourselves. Unless we fight this enemy, there is no solution: Farooq Abdullah in Jammu #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/ohIfKsTZpA — ANI (@ANI) January 14, 2018 × Abdullah also alluded to the meeting between the National Security Advisers of the two nations that took place in Bangkok on December 26 2017. He shared that the only way to counter terrorism is through dialogue, "it is necessary to meet and talk about it," ANI quoted Abdullah. National Security Advsiers of India & Pakistan met in Bangkok. If there is terrorism it is necessary to meet and talk about it: Farooq Abdullah in Jammu #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/e0NMP59ATk — ANI (@ANI) January 14, 2018 × Abdullah recently expressed his views on the "deteriorating" security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The National Conference chief, on Tuesday, lauded J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti after she asked the governments of India and Pakistan to resume talks and resolve their mutual issues. "I would like to congratulate Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti Ji for realising that until we have talks with Pakistan, militancy will not end. I feel Modi Ji has the courage to initiate this and take it to a logical end," he said. (With inputs from ANI)

'Our enemy is not across border but among ourselves,' says Farooq Abdullah 

<p>Taking a dig at Mani Shankar Aiyar without naming him, Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday said &#39;&#39;if some people wouldn&#39;t have said certain wrong things Congress would have won in Gujarat.&#39;&#39; &nbsp;</p>

<p>&#39;&#39;Not taking names but if some people wouldn&#39;t have said certain wrong things Congress would have won in Gujarat, they managed a good show there,&#39;&#39; said former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Himachal Pradesh, he said that one party unseats the other every five year which is not new.</p>

<p>&#39;&#39;In Himachal Pradesh one party unseats the other every five years, its is nothing new,&#39;&#39; he said.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HimachalPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HimachalPradesh</a> one party unseats the other every five years, its is nothing new. Not taking names but if some people wouldn&#39;t have said certain wrong things Congress would have won in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gujarat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gujarat</a>, they managed a good show there: Former J&amp;K CM Farooq Abdullah <a href="https://t.co/T3jllcc9ae">pic.twitter.com/T3jllcc9ae</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/942993132462915584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>On being asked if a conspiracy to defeat PM Modi in elections was made in Pakistan, Farooq Abdullah says, &#39;&#39;he himself went to Pakistan,&#39;&#39; and added taht, &#39;Pakistan koi saazish nahi karta.&#39;</p>

<p>In the run-up to elections, Aiyar had called PM Modi &quot;neech kisam ka insaan&quot;.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HimachalPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HimachalPradesh</a> one party unseats the other every five years, its is nothing new. Not taking names but if some people wouldn&#39;t have said certain wrong things Congress would have won in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gujarat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gujarat</a>, they managed a good show there: Former J&amp;K CM Farooq Abdullah <a href="https://t.co/T3jllcc9ae">pic.twitter.com/T3jllcc9ae</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/942993132462915584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;Whatever Ambedkar wished, one person- Nehru made it come true. If a person is talking bad things about a such a family, and that too in at a time when a big memorial is being inaugurated in remembrance of Ambedkar, I feel, this person is lowly and has no decency. On such an occasion, why do we need dirty politics?&quot; he had said.</p>

<p>The BJP was quick to claim that Aiyar was calling the PM as a low-born individual. What added to the controversy is Aiyar&#39;s historic remarks against the PM wherein he had called PM Modi a chaiwallah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Aiyar rushed to correcting the remarks saying he meant &quot;low level and not low-born&quot;, the damage was done as Congress asked Aiyar to apologize and later expelled him from the party.&nbsp;</p>


In the run-up to elections, Aiyar had called PM Modi "neech kisam ka insaan".

Taking a dig at Mani Shankar Aiyar without naming him, Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday said ''if some people wouldn't have said certain wrong things Congress would have won in Gujarat.'' ''Not taking names but if some people wouldn't have said certain wrong things Congress would have won in Gujarat, they managed a good show there,'' said former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah. On Himachal Pradesh, he said that one party unseats the other every five year which is not new. ''In Himachal Pradesh one party unseats the other every five years, its is nothing new,'' he said. In #HimachalPradesh one party unseats the other every five years, its is nothing new. Not taking names but if some people wouldn't have said certain wrong things Congress would have won in #Gujarat, they managed a good show there: Former J&K CM Farooq Abdullah pic.twitter.com/T3jllcc9ae — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2017 × On being asked if a conspiracy to defeat PM Modi in elections was made in Pakistan, Farooq Abdullah says, ''he himself went to Pakistan,'' and added taht, 'Pakistan koi saazish nahi karta.' In the run-up to elections, Aiyar had called PM Modi "neech kisam ka insaan". In #HimachalPradesh one party unseats the other every five years, its is nothing new. Not taking names but if some people wouldn't have said certain wrong things Congress would have won in #Gujarat, they managed a good show there: Former J&K CM Farooq Abdullah pic.twitter.com/T3jllcc9ae — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2017 × "Whatever Ambedkar wished, one person- Nehru made it come true. If a person is talking bad things about a such a family, and that too in at a time when a big memorial is being inaugurated in remembrance of Ambedkar, I feel, this person is lowly and has no decency. On such an occasion, why do we need dirty politics?" he had said. The BJP was quick to claim that Aiyar was calling the PM as a low-born individual. What added to the controversy is Aiyar's historic remarks against the PM wherein he had called PM Modi a chaiwallah. While Aiyar rushed to correcting the remarks saying he meant "low level and not low-born", the damage was done as Congress asked Aiyar to apologize and later expelled him from the party.

Watch: If some people had not said certain wrong things, Cong would have won in Gujarat, says Farooq Abdullah

<p>National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah has voiced his concern&nbsp;over the &ldquo;worsening situation&rdquo; in Jammu and Kashmir after a Territorial Army jawan was abducted and killed by militants in Shopian district of south Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The body of a jawan was found lying in an orchard in the Watmullah Keegam area of the district.</p>

<p>Farooq stressed on the need for the Centre to put pressure on Pakistan to bring peace to the region while calling the Centre&#39;s special envoy on Kashmir Dineshwar Sharma&rsquo;s meeting with people of the state a &ldquo;formality&rdquo;.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that peace would be achieved only when &quot;sincere and serious efforts&quot; were made.</p>

<p>According to PTI, Farooq at a function in Kathua district said to media, &ldquo;Claims of peace (in Jammu and Kashmir) are falling flat in the face of increased killings. Yet another jawan has been abducted and killed.</p>

<p>&ldquo;All problems are originating from across the border and the life of those living along the border has become pitiable due to intermittent shelling.</p>

<p>&quot;The nation should be taken into confidence as to how the Centre is sorting out issues with the neighbouring country.&rdquo;</p>

<p>Abdullah had earlier sparked a controversy with his controversial remark on &ldquo;PoK belonged to Pakistan&rdquo; and &quot;this won&#39;t change&quot; no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;Conversion of the Line of Control (LoC) into a line of peace will improve the living conditions of people on both sides and promote interaction and goodwill,&quot; Abdullah said.</p>

<p>He also spoke about the mental state of valley residents who now dwell in violence. He said, &quot;The border dwellers are suffering due to fear psychosis and uncertainty.&quot;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Abdullah expressed his concern after a Territorial Army jawan was abducted and killed by militants in Shopian district of south Kashmir

National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah has voiced his concern over the “worsening situation” in Jammu and Kashmir after a Territorial Army jawan was abducted and killed by militants in Shopian district of south Kashmir. The body of a jawan was found lying in an orchard in the Watmullah Keegam area of the district. Farooq stressed on the need for the Centre to put pressure on Pakistan to bring peace to the region while calling the Centre's special envoy on Kashmir Dineshwar Sharma’s meeting with people of the state a “formality”. He added that peace would be achieved only when "sincere and serious efforts" were made. According to PTI, Farooq at a function in Kathua district said to media, “Claims of peace (in Jammu and Kashmir) are falling flat in the face of increased killings. Yet another jawan has been abducted and killed. “All problems are originating from across the border and the life of those living along the border has become pitiable due to intermittent shelling. "The nation should be taken into confidence as to how the Centre is sorting out issues with the neighbouring country.” Abdullah had earlier sparked a controversy with his controversial remark on “PoK belonged to Pakistan” and "this won't change" no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight. "Conversion of the Line of Control (LoC) into a line of peace will improve the living conditions of people on both sides and promote interaction and goodwill," Abdullah said. He also spoke about the mental state of valley residents who now dwell in violence. He said, "The border dwellers are suffering due to fear psychosis and uncertainty."

Farooq Abdullah expresses concern over 'worsening security situation' in J&K

<p>The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday said that National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah was trying to push the country into communalism.</p>

<p>Speaking to ANI, BJP leader Gopal Krishna Agarwal said that Farooq should make statements under the parliamentary law as he is a member of the same.</p>

<p>&quot;I am not able to understand what language is Farooq Abdullah speaking and with what thoughts. He should talk under the parliamentary law as he is a member of the same. He is trying to push the country into communalism,&quot; Agarwal said.</p>

<p>In a blistering attack at the BJP, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah accused the saffron party of dividing India on the basis of religion.</p>

<p>&quot;BJP leaders in UP give speeches and threaten Muslims that if you don&#39;t vote for us (BJP), we&#39;ll show you... India belongs to everyone, be they Hindu, Muslim, Sikh or Christian. And it is their right to freely vote for whoever they want to. You can&#39;t force anyone,&quot; Abdullah said at a gathering in Jammu.</p>

<p>Abdullah further said, &quot;You have made one Pakistan, how many more Pakistans will you make? How many more pieces will you cut India into?&quot;</p>

<p>He further reiterated his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pok-is-part-of-pakistan-farooq-abdullah-23989">Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK)</a> remark and said the disputed territory does not belong to India.</p>

<p>&quot;Yes, I say it (PoK) belongs to them (Pakistan). Are they (Pakistan) wearing bangles? They also have atom bombs! Do you want us to be killed by them? You are sitting in palaces, think about the poor people living in border areas, who are bombed daily,&quot; he added.</p>

<p>Earlier also, Farooq drew flak for saying that PoK belongs to Pakistan and the fact would not change no matter how many wars are fought over the issue.</p>


BJP leader Gopal Krishna Agarwal said that Farooq should make statements under the parliamentary law as he is a member of the same

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday said that National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah was trying to push the country into communalism. Speaking to ANI, BJP leader Gopal Krishna Agarwal said that Farooq should make statements under the parliamentary law as he is a member of the same. "I am not able to understand what language is Farooq Abdullah speaking and with what thoughts. He should talk under the parliamentary law as he is a member of the same. He is trying to push the country into communalism," Agarwal said. In a blistering attack at the BJP, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah accused the saffron party of dividing India on the basis of religion. "BJP leaders in UP give speeches and threaten Muslims that if you don't vote for us (BJP), we'll show you... India belongs to everyone, be they Hindu, Muslim, Sikh or Christian. And it is their right to freely vote for whoever they want to. You can't force anyone," Abdullah said at a gathering in Jammu. Abdullah further said, "You have made one Pakistan, how many more Pakistans will you make? How many more pieces will you cut India into?" He further reiterated his Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) remark and said the disputed territory does not belong to India. "Yes, I say it (PoK) belongs to them (Pakistan). Are they (Pakistan) wearing bangles? They also have atom bombs! Do you want us to be killed by them? You are sitting in palaces, think about the poor people living in border areas, who are bombed daily," he added. Earlier also, Farooq drew flak for saying that PoK belongs to Pakistan and the fact would not change no matter how many wars are fought over the issue.

Farooq trying to push country into communalism: BJP

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/party-set-to-sack-mugabe-zimbabweans-celebrate-expected-downfall-24539" target="_blank">Party set to sack Mugabe, Zimbabweans celebrate expected downfall</a></p>

<p>Zimbabwe&#39;s ruling party will dismiss President Robert Mugabe on Sunday and reinstate Emmerson Mnangagwa, the vice-president he fired, two party sources told Reuters on Saturday, as ecstatic crowds celebrated the expected downfall. Mugabe&#39;s 37-year rule has been effectively at an end since the army seized control on Wednesday, confining him to his residence, saying it wanted to target the &quot;criminals&quot; around him.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/your-boss-silencing-you-rahul-gandhi-asks-nirmala-sitharaman-24541" target="_blank">Your boss silencing you is &#39;shameful&#39;: Rahul Gandhi to Nirmala Sitharaman</a></p>

<p>Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday&nbsp;hit back at Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over the multi-crore Rafale deal, claiming it was &quot;shameful&quot; that her boss was &quot;silencing&quot; her. Mr Gandhi&#39;s retort comes a day after Ms Sitharaman alleged that it was shameful on part of the Congress to raise objections on the fighter aircraft deal. He also asked her whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi had taken permission from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) before announcing the purchase of the Rafale fighter aircraft in Paris.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-pm-manmohan-singh-to-get-indira-gandhi-peace-prize-24545" target="_blank">Former prime minister Manmohan Singh to get Indira Gandhi peace prize</a></p>

<p>&quot;The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development is awarded to Manmohan Singh for his leadership of the country and his achievements during the momentous 10 years from 2004 to 2014, for his contributions to the cause of economic and social development, for improving India&#39;s stature in the world and its relationship with the neighbours and the leading nations of the world, and for his dedication to the security and well being of ordinary citizens regardless of their faith, caste, region or language,&quot; a statement from the Trust&#39;s secretary Suman Dubey said.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-to-be-made-congress-president-before-december-5-sources-to-wion-24527" target="_blank">Rahul Gandhi to be made Congress President before December 5: Sources to WION</a></p>

<p>Sources also said that the elevation is not going to be delayed any further. The CWC is expected to adopt the resolution to make Rahul Gandhi Congress president on Monday which would subsequently be ratified by the All India Congress Committee. As per the rules of the Congress constitution,&nbsp;the final ratification has to be done by the All India Congress Committee (AICC).</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-vasundhara-raje-asks-smriti-irani-for-changes-in-film-24535" target="_blank">&#39;Padmavati&#39; row: Vasundhara Raje asks Smriti Irani for changes in film</a></p>

<p>Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje has written to Information and Broadcasting minister Smriti Irani requesting her that the film &quot;Padmavati&quot; should not be released until some changes are made to it so that it &quot;does not hurt the sentiments of any community&quot;. In her letter, the Rajasthan chief minister has suggested that a committee should be formed to discuss the film and its plot and should suggest amendments.&nbsp;</p>


Party set to sack Mugabe, Zimbabweans celebrate expected downfall Zimbabwe's ruling party will dismiss President Robert Mugabe on Sunday and reinstate Emmerson Mnangagwa, the vice-president he fired, two party sources told Reuters on Saturday, as ecstatic crowds celebrated the expected downfall. Mugabe's 37-year rule has been effectively at an end since the army seized control on Wednesday, confining him to his residence, saying it wanted to target the "criminals" around him. Your boss silencing you is 'shameful': Rahul Gandhi to Nirmala Sitharaman Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday hit back at Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over the multi-crore Rafale deal, claiming it was "shameful" that her boss was "silencing" her. Mr Gandhi's retort comes a day after Ms Sitharaman alleged that it was shameful on part of the Congress to raise objections on the fighter aircraft deal. He also asked her whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi had taken permission from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) before announcing the purchase of the Rafale fighter aircraft in Paris. Former prime minister Manmohan Singh to get Indira Gandhi peace prize "The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development is awarded to Manmohan Singh for his leadership of the country and his achievements during the momentous 10 years from 2004 to 2014, for his contributions to the cause of economic and social development, for improving India's stature in the world and its relationship with the neighbours and the leading nations of the world, and for his dedication to the security and well being of ordinary citizens regardless of their faith, caste, region or language," a statement from the Trust's secretary Suman Dubey said. Rahul Gandhi to be made Congress President before December 5: Sources to WION Sources also said that the elevation is not going to be delayed any further. The CWC is expected to adopt the resolution to make Rahul Gandhi Congress president on Monday which would subsequently be ratified by the All India Congress Committee. As per the rules of the Congress constitution, the final ratification has to be done by the All India Congress Committee (AICC). 'Padmavati' row: Vasundhara Raje asks Smriti Irani for changes in film Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje has written to Information and Broadcasting minister Smriti Irani requesting her that the film "Padmavati" should not be released until some changes are made to it so that it "does not hurt the sentiments of any community". In her letter, the Rajasthan chief minister has suggested that a committee should be formed to discuss the film and its plot and should suggest amendments.

WION Morning News Brief, November 19, 2017

<p>Unfazed by the legal cases and sharp criticism, former chief minister and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah on Saturday reiterated that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is part of Pakistan.</p>

<p>While addressing a gathering in Jammu today, Farooq Abdullah said &#39;that You have made one Pakistan, how many Pakistans will you make, how many pieces will you cut India into?&#39;</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> Jammu: Farooq Abdullah says, &#39;You have made one Pakistan, how many Pakistans will you make, how many pieces will you cut India into?&#39; <a href="https://t.co/LN3RV1Z5Up">pic.twitter.com/LN3RV1Z5Up</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/931798888872263680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;Yes, I say it (PoK) belongs to them (Pakistan). Are they (Pakistan) wearing bangles? They also have atom bombs! Do you want us to be killed by them? You are sitting in palaces, think about the poor people living in border areas, who are bombed daily.&quot; he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yes, I say it (PoK) belongs to them (Pakistan). Are they (Pakistan) wearing bangles? They also have atom bombs! Do you want us to be killed by them? You are sitting in palaces, think about the poor people living in border areas, who are bombed daily: Farooq Abdullah in Jammu <a href="https://t.co/C2WkpowNji">pic.twitter.com/C2WkpowNji</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/931801673739091969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>He further stated that he is ready to face all legal cases against him.</p>

<p>The National Conference chief has given similar statements in the past, saying that PoK&nbsp;belongs to Pakistan and &quot;this won&#39;t change&quot; no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight against each other.</p>

<p>A complaint has&nbsp;been filed in Delhi high court against Farooq Abdullah by a Jammu based social activist Sukesh Khajuria on November 17.</p>

<p>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/complaint-filed-against-farooq-abdullah-and-rishi-kapoor-over-pok-comments-24477">Complaints filed against Farooq Abdullah and Rishi Kapoor over PoK comments</a></p>

<p>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pok-is-part-of-pakistan-farooq-abdullah-23989">&#39;PoK is part of Pakistan&#39;: Farooq Abdullah</a></p>


Unfazed by the legal cases and sharp criticism, former chief minister and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah on Saturday reiterated that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is part of Pakistan

Unfazed by the legal cases and sharp criticism, former chief minister and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah on Saturday reiterated that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is part of Pakistan. While addressing a gathering in Jammu today, Farooq Abdullah said 'that You have made one Pakistan, how many Pakistans will you make, how many pieces will you cut India into?' #WATCH Jammu: Farooq Abdullah says, 'You have made one Pakistan, how many Pakistans will you make, how many pieces will you cut India into?' pic.twitter.com/LN3RV1Z5Up — ANI (@ANI) November 18, 2017 × "Yes, I say it (PoK) belongs to them (Pakistan). Are they (Pakistan) wearing bangles? They also have atom bombs! Do you want us to be killed by them? You are sitting in palaces, think about the poor people living in border areas, who are bombed daily." he added. Yes, I say it (PoK) belongs to them (Pakistan). Are they (Pakistan) wearing bangles? They also have atom bombs! Do you want us to be killed by them? You are sitting in palaces, think about the poor people living in border areas, who are bombed daily: Farooq Abdullah in Jammu pic.twitter.com/C2WkpowNji — ANI (@ANI) November 18, 2017 × He further stated that he is ready to face all legal cases against him. The National Conference chief has given similar statements in the past, saying that PoK belongs to Pakistan and "this won't change" no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight against each other. A complaint has been filed in Delhi high court against Farooq Abdullah by a Jammu based social activist Sukesh Khajuria on November 17. Read more: Complaints filed against Farooq Abdullah and Rishi Kapoor over PoK comments Read more: 'PoK is part of Pakistan': Farooq Abdullah

'How many Pakistans will you make', reiterates Farooq Abdullah

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-personnel-killed-5-terrorists-shot-dead-in-encounter-in-jks-bandipora-24523">Air Force commando killed, 5 terrorists shot dead in encounter in J&amp;K&#39;s Bandipora</a></p>

<p>An Indian Air Force personnel of the Garud commando force was killed and two army personnel were injured in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Bandipora district on Saturday.Five terrorists were shot dead in the encounter that took place in Bandipora&#39;s Hajin town, ANI reported.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-makers-pressurising-us-to-clear-film-censor-board-chairman-24513">&#39;Padmavati&#39; makers pressurising us to clear film: Censor board chairman</a></p>

<p>The chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Prasoon Joshi today criticised the makers of &quot;Padmavati&quot; for pressurising the censor board to clear the film without completing the paperwork.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prasoon Joshi revealed that the disclaimer whether the film was a work of fiction or historical had been left blank.</p>

<p>The censor board chairperson also slammed the filmmakers for screening the film for the press and on national channels without the censor board &quot;having seen or certified&quot; the film.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/shah-rukh-khan-and-netflix-announce-original-series-based-on-bard-of-blood-24515">Shah Rukh Khan, Netflix announce original series based on &#39;Bard of Blood&#39;</a></p>

<p>Shah Rukh Khan&#39;s Red Chilies&#39; entertainment has collaborated with streaming giant Netflix for an original Indian series.</p>

<p>The series will be a thriller based on a book &quot;Bard of Blood&quot; by Bilaal Siddiqui, and it will be a multilingual series in which characters will be interacting in Hindi, Urdu, English and other languages.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kopardi-gangrape-murder-ahmedabad-court-holds-dalit-youth-guilty-24518">Kopardi gangrape, murder: Ahmedabad court holds Dalit youth guilty</a></p>

<p>The Ahmednagar district sessions court today convicted three Dalit youth of the gangrape and murder of a 15-year-old girl in Maharashtra&#39;s Kopardi village in 2016.</p>

<p>The quantum of punishment will be pronounced on November 21.</p>

<p>The victim, who belonged to the Maratha community, was found murdered after being raped on July 13 at Kopardi village in Ahmednagar district.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-have-made-one-pakistan-how-many-pakistans-will-you-make-how-many-pieces-will-you-cut-india-into-says-farooq-andullah-24514">&#39;How many Pakistans will you make&#39;, reiterates Farooq Abdullah</a></p>

<p>Unfazed by the legal cases and sharp criticism, former chief minister and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah on Saturday reiterated that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is part of Pakistan.</p>

<p>While addressing a gathering in Jammu today, Farooq Abdullah said &#39;that You have made one Pakistan, how many Pakistans will you make, how many pieces will you cut India into?&#39;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Air Force commando killed, 5 terrorists shot dead in encounter in J&K's Bandipora An Indian Air Force personnel of the Garud commando force was killed and two army personnel were injured in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Bandipora district on Saturday.Five terrorists were shot dead in the encounter that took place in Bandipora's Hajin town, ANI reported. 'Padmavati' makers pressurising us to clear film: Censor board chairman The chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Prasoon Joshi today criticised the makers of "Padmavati" for pressurising the censor board to clear the film without completing the paperwork. Prasoon Joshi revealed that the disclaimer whether the film was a work of fiction or historical had been left blank. The censor board chairperson also slammed the filmmakers for screening the film for the press and on national channels without the censor board "having seen or certified" the film. Shah Rukh Khan, Netflix announce original series based on 'Bard of Blood' Shah Rukh Khan's Red Chilies' entertainment has collaborated with streaming giant Netflix for an original Indian series. The series will be a thriller based on a book "Bard of Blood" by Bilaal Siddiqui, and it will be a multilingual series in which characters will be interacting in Hindi, Urdu, English and other languages. Kopardi gangrape, murder: Ahmedabad court holds Dalit youth guilty The Ahmednagar district sessions court today convicted three Dalit youth of the gangrape and murder of a 15-year-old girl in Maharashtra's Kopardi village in 2016. The quantum of punishment will be pronounced on November 21. The victim, who belonged to the Maratha community, was found murdered after being raped on July 13 at Kopardi village in Ahmednagar district. 'How many Pakistans will you make', reiterates Farooq Abdullah Unfazed by the legal cases and sharp criticism, former chief minister and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah on Saturday reiterated that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is part of Pakistan. While addressing a gathering in Jammu today, Farooq Abdullah said 'that You have made one Pakistan, how many Pakistans will you make, how many pieces will you cut India into?'

WION evening news brief, November 18, 2017

<p>National Conference leader and former <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-court-orders-to-file-fir-against-farooq-abdullah-on-charges-of-treason-24146" target="_blank">chief minister Farooq Abdullah</a>&#39;s remarks&nbsp;over Pok is drawing a lot of ire.</p>

<p>Days after a lawyer in Bihar approached a court over his remarks, a Jammu based social activist has also filed a complaint with a district magistrate.</p>

<p>The Jammu based social activist Sukesh Khajuria has not only filed a complaint against him but also against Rishi Kapoor.</p>

<p>The National Conference president Farooq Abdullah&nbsp;had&nbsp;said earlier that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pok-is-part-of-pakistan-farooq-abdullah-23989" target="_blank">Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) belongs to Pakistan</a> and &quot;this won&#39;t change&quot; no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight against each other. On the demand for autonomy, he said that while the state decided to join India out of love, the country &quot;betrayed&quot; the people of Kashmir and &quot;did not treat them well&quot;.</p>

<p>&quot;We should understand that there has been a decision (of accession), but India didn&#39;t treat us well. India betrayed us. They did not recognise the love with which we chose to join them. That is the reason behind the current situation in Kashmir,&quot; Abdullah told a news agency.</p>

<p>&quot;Internal autonomy is our right. They (Centre) should restore it. Only then the peace will return (to the Valley),&quot; he added.</p>

<p>Responding to him actor Rishi Kapoor tweeted &quot;Totally agree with you, sir. J&amp;K is ours, and PoK is theirs.&quot;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Farooq Abdhulla ji, Salaam! Totally agree with you,sir. J&amp;K is ours, and PoK is theirs. This is the only way we can solve our problem. Accept it, I am 65 years old and I want to see Pakistan before I die. I want my children to see their roots. Bas karva Dijiye. Jai Mata Di !</p>
&mdash; Rishi Kapoor (@chintskap) <a href="https://twitter.com/chintskap/status/929429458188091392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>The petition by the Jammu based social activist seeks action under section 196 of CrPc which deals with prosecution for offences against the State and for criminal conspiracy to commit such offence.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jammu based social activist Sukesh Khajuria filed a complaint with District Magistrate against Dr.Farooq Abdullah and Actor Rishi Kapoor for their remarks on PoK. Seeks action under section 196 of CrPC <a href="https://t.co/yb01tsFgyc">pic.twitter.com/yb01tsFgyc</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/931476630903562241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>A petition against Abdullah was also filed in Delhi High Court.</p>

<p>The plea is likely to be heard on November 20.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A petition has also been filed in Delhi High Court against Dr. Farooq Abdullah for his PoK comment. High Court is likely to hear the matter on November 20 <a href="https://t.co/3MKvUs0ius">pic.twitter.com/3MKvUs0ius</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/931488862244704258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Complaints were filed against Abdullah in Bihar, Jammu and Delhi

National Conference leader and former chief minister Farooq Abdullah's remarks over Pok is drawing a lot of ire. Days after a lawyer in Bihar approached a court over his remarks, a Jammu based social activist has also filed a complaint with a district magistrate. The Jammu based social activist Sukesh Khajuria has not only filed a complaint against him but also against Rishi Kapoor. The National Conference president Farooq Abdullah had said earlier that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) belongs to Pakistan and "this won't change" no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight against each other. On the demand for autonomy, he said that while the state decided to join India out of love, the country "betrayed" the people of Kashmir and "did not treat them well". "We should understand that there has been a decision (of accession), but India didn't treat us well. India betrayed us. They did not recognise the love with which we chose to join them. That is the reason behind the current situation in Kashmir," Abdullah told a news agency. "Internal autonomy is our right. They (Centre) should restore it. Only then the peace will return (to the Valley)," he added. Responding to him actor Rishi Kapoor tweeted "Totally agree with you, sir. J&K is ours, and PoK is theirs." Farooq Abdhulla ji, Salaam! Totally agree with you,sir. J&K is ours, and PoK is theirs. This is the only way we can solve our problem. Accept it, I am 65 years old and I want to see Pakistan before I die. I want my children to see their roots. Bas karva Dijiye. Jai Mata Di ! — Rishi Kapoor (@chintskap) November 11, 2017 × The petition by the Jammu based social activist seeks action under section 196 of CrPc which deals with prosecution for offences against the State and for criminal conspiracy to commit such offence. Jammu based social activist Sukesh Khajuria filed a complaint with District Magistrate against Dr.Farooq Abdullah and Actor Rishi Kapoor for their remarks on PoK. Seeks action under section 196 of CrPC pic.twitter.com/yb01tsFgyc — ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2017 × A petition against Abdullah was also filed in Delhi High Court. The plea is likely to be heard on November 20. A petition has also been filed in Delhi High Court against Dr. Farooq Abdullah for his PoK comment. High Court is likely to hear the matter on November 20 pic.twitter.com/3MKvUs0ius — ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2017 ×

Complaints filed against Farooq Abdullah and Rishi Kapoor over PoK comments

<p>A court in Bihar has ordered an&nbsp;FIR to be filed against Farooq Abdullah, the former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, on charges of treason.</p>

<p>A lawyer in the&nbsp;Bettiah city of Bihar approached the court over Abdullah&#39;s <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pok-is-part-of-pakistan-farooq-abdullah-23989" target="_blank">remarks on Po</a>K.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Court in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a>&#39;s Bettiah orders filing of FIR against Farooq Abdullah on charges of treason after a lawyer approached the court over Abdullah&#39;s remarks on PoK. (File Pic) <a href="https://t.co/4oqwLdjcNe">pic.twitter.com/4oqwLdjcNe</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/930115747304452098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>The National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday had reportedly said that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) belongs to Pakistan and &quot;this won&#39;t change&quot; no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight against each other.</p>

<p>On the demand for autonomy, he allegedly said that while the state decided to join India out of love, the country &quot;betrayed&quot; the people of Kashmir and &quot;did not treat them well&quot;.</p>

<p>&quot;We should understand that there has been a decision (of accession), but India didn&#39;t treat us well. India betrayed us. They did not recognise the love with which we chose to join them. That is the reason behind the current situation in Kashmir,&quot; Abdullah told a news agency.</p>

<p>&quot;Internal autonomy is our right. They (Centre) should restore it. Only then the peace will return (to the Valley),&quot; he added.</p>


A lawyer in the?Bettiah city of Bihar approached the court over Abdullah's remarks on Pok. The former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir said that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) belongs to Pakistan and 'this won't change' no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight against each other

A court in Bihar has ordered an FIR to be filed against Farooq Abdullah, the former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, on charges of treason. A lawyer in the Bettiah city of Bihar approached the court over Abdullah's remarks on PoK. Court in #Bihar's Bettiah orders filing of FIR against Farooq Abdullah on charges of treason after a lawyer approached the court over Abdullah's remarks on PoK. (File Pic) pic.twitter.com/4oqwLdjcNe — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2017 × The National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday had reportedly said that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) belongs to Pakistan and "this won't change" no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight against each other. On the demand for autonomy, he allegedly said that while the state decided to join India out of love, the country "betrayed" the people of Kashmir and "did not treat them well". "We should understand that there has been a decision (of accession), but India didn't treat us well. India betrayed us. They did not recognise the love with which we chose to join them. That is the reason behind the current situation in Kashmir," Abdullah told a news agency. "Internal autonomy is our right. They (Centre) should restore it. Only then the peace will return (to the Valley)," he added.

Bihar court orders FIR against Farooq Abdullah on charges of treason

<p>Opposition National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday claimed that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) belongs to Pakistan and &quot;this won&#39;t change&quot; no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight against each other.</p>

<p>Talk of an independent Kashmir was &quot;wrong&quot; as the Valley is landlocked and surrounded by three nuclear powers -- China, Pakistan and India.</p>

<p>His statement comes days after Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi had rejected the idea of an &quot;independent Kashmir&quot;, saying it was not based on &quot;reality&quot;.</p>

<p>&quot;I am saying that there is nothing like the issue of freedom (independent Kashmir) here. We are landlocked. On one side we have China, Pakistan on the other side and India on the third side,&quot; the MP from Srinagar told reporters on the sidelines of a function at the party headquarters here.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I can&#39;t comment much on that. He has held talks but talks alone is not the solution. This issue is between India &amp; Pakistan. Indian govt must also hold talks with Pakistan govt because a part of Kashmir is also with them: Farooq Abdullah on J&amp;K Interlocutor Dineshwar Sharma <a href="https://t.co/PrAWB79j6j">pic.twitter.com/PrAWB79j6j</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/929269853428391936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;All three of them have atom bombs. We have nothing except Allah&#39;s name,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>&quot;Those (separatists) who are talking about Azadi, are talking wrong,&quot; the former J&amp;K chief minister said.</p>

<p>On the demand for autonomy, he said that while the state decided to join India out of love, the country &quot;betrayed&quot; the people of Kashmir and did not treat them well.</p>

<p>&quot;We should understand that there has been a decision (of accession), but India didn&#39;t treat us well. India betrayed us. They did not recognise the love with which we chose to join them. That is the reason behind the current situation in Kashmir,&quot; Abdullah said.</p>

<p>&quot;Internal autonomy is our right. They (Centre) should restore it. Only then the peace will return (to the Valley),&quot; he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A Pak Minister very rightly said that you forget that the part which is yours was acquired by an Instrument of Accession. You forget Instrument of accession &amp; say that the part is yours. If you talk about this being your part then remember the Instrument as well: Farooq Abdullah <a href="https://t.co/tuBpr4cd5D">pic.twitter.com/tuBpr4cd5D</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/929272052191698944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Referring to a statement made by Minister of State for Home Hansraj Ahir about PoK being part of India, Abdullah invoked the instrument of accession signed by the then Maharaja Hari Singh, with the Indian government.</p>

<p>&quot;You do not remember the instrument of accession and claim the other side of Kashmir administered by Pakistan. If that side is ours, then you should talk about the accession as well. Why do you forget the conditions on which we have acceded?&quot; he said.</p>

<p>Abdullah also claimed that PoK was part of Pakistan and would remain so.</p>

<p>&quot;I tell them in plain terms -- not only the people of India, but also to the world -- that the part (of J&amp;K) which is with Pakistan (PoK) belongs to Pakistan and this side to India. This won&#39;t change. Let them fight how many wars they want to. This won&#39;t change,&quot; Abdullah said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The part which is with Pakistan belongs to Pakistan &amp; this is India&#39;s part. If they want peace govt will have to talk to Pakistan &amp; conclude that an autonomy be given to us as well as them: Farooq Abdullah <a href="https://t.co/5bL0loxtBs">pic.twitter.com/5bL0loxtBs</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/929272849394679808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;And when the situation is such, then they have to talk, so that we live in peace, both parts live in peace and for that it is imperative to grant autonomy to both the parts,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>Asked whether the visit of the Centre&#39;s special representative for Kashmir Dineshwar Sahrma to the state was successful, Abdullah said only Sharma could say anything about it.</p>

<p>&quot;I can only say that while he has held talks, only talks will not address the issue as this issue is between two countries -- Pakistan and India. The government of India has to talk to the government of Pakistan as a part of J&amp;K is with them (Pakistan),&quot; he said.</p>

<p><em>(With PTI inputs)</em></p>


Responding to the visit of Jammu and Kashmir interlocutor Dineshwar Sharma, former chief minister of the state, Farooq Abdullah has said that India must also hold talks with Pakistan government as a part of Kashmir is also with them

Opposition National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday claimed that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) belongs to Pakistan and "this won't change" no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight against each other. Talk of an independent Kashmir was "wrong" as the Valley is landlocked and surrounded by three nuclear powers -- China, Pakistan and India. His statement comes days after Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi had rejected the idea of an "independent Kashmir", saying it was not based on "reality". "I am saying that there is nothing like the issue of freedom (independent Kashmir) here. We are landlocked. On one side we have China, Pakistan on the other side and India on the third side," the MP from Srinagar told reporters on the sidelines of a function at the party headquarters here. I can't comment much on that. He has held talks but talks alone is not the solution. This issue is between India & Pakistan. Indian govt must also hold talks with Pakistan govt because a part of Kashmir is also with them: Farooq Abdullah on J&K Interlocutor Dineshwar Sharma pic.twitter.com/PrAWB79j6j — ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2017 × "All three of them have atom bombs. We have nothing except Allah's name," he said. "Those (separatists) who are talking about Azadi, are talking wrong," the former J&K chief minister said. On the demand for autonomy, he said that while the state decided to join India out of love, the country "betrayed" the people of Kashmir and did not treat them well. "We should understand that there has been a decision (of accession), but India didn't treat us well. India betrayed us. They did not recognise the love with which we chose to join them. That is the reason behind the current situation in Kashmir," Abdullah said. "Internal autonomy is our right. They (Centre) should restore it. Only then the peace will return (to the Valley)," he said. A Pak Minister very rightly said that you forget that the part which is yours was acquired by an Instrument of Accession. You forget Instrument of accession & say that the part is yours. If you talk about this being your part then remember the Instrument as well: Farooq Abdullah pic.twitter.com/tuBpr4cd5D — ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2017 × Referring to a statement made by Minister of State for Home Hansraj Ahir about PoK being part of India, Abdullah invoked the instrument of accession signed by the then Maharaja Hari Singh, with the Indian government. "You do not remember the instrument of accession and claim the other side of Kashmir administered by Pakistan. If that side is ours, then you should talk about the accession as well. Why do you forget the conditions on which we have acceded?" he said. Abdullah also claimed that PoK was part of Pakistan and would remain so. "I tell them in plain terms -- not only the people of India, but also to the world -- that the part (of J&K) which is with Pakistan (PoK) belongs to Pakistan and this side to India. This won't change. Let them fight how many wars they want to. This won't change," Abdullah said. The part which is with Pakistan belongs to Pakistan & this is India's part. If they want peace govt will have to talk to Pakistan & conclude that an autonomy be given to us as well as them: Farooq Abdullah pic.twitter.com/5bL0loxtBs — ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2017 × "And when the situation is such, then they have to talk, so that we live in peace, both parts live in peace and for that it is imperative to grant autonomy to both the parts," he said. Asked whether the visit of the Centre's special representative for Kashmir Dineshwar Sahrma to the state was successful, Abdullah said only Sharma could say anything about it. "I can only say that while he has held talks, only talks will not address the issue as this issue is between two countries -- Pakistan and India. The government of India has to talk to the government of Pakistan as a part of J&K is with them (Pakistan)," he said. (With PTI inputs)

'PoK is part of Pakistan': Farooq Abdullah

<p>The Centre&rsquo;s special representative for Jammu and Kashmir, Dineshwar Sharma, has reached the Valley for a five-day visit to start a dialogue process. This is his first&nbsp;visit to the Kashmir valley after he was appointed the government&rsquo;s Kashmir interlocutor on October 23.</p>

<p>Before leaving for the Valley, the former Intelligence Bureau director said that no one should jump to conclusions before the process of talks with various stakeholders in Kashmir began.</p>

<p>&quot;I do not have a magic wand but my efforts have to be judged with sincerity and not through the prism of the past,&quot; Sharma, 61, said on Sunday.</p>

<p>&quot;I am going there without any preconceived notions. Everyone is welcome to meet me,&quot; he added.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/yes-i-can-talk-to-the-hurriyat-i-will-talk-to-everyone-dineshwar-sharma-23077">Speaking to WION</a> after he was named the interlocutor,&nbsp;Sharma had said that he has been allowed to talk to anybody and everybody - including the Hurriyat; that Prime Minister Narendra Modi &quot;is&nbsp;very much emotionally attached to Kashmir and wants to see a doable solution to the problem&quot;, and that he (Sharma) will be guided by former Prime Minister&nbsp;Atal Bihari Vajpayee&#39;s philosophy of insaniyat (humanity), Kashmiriyat (the composite, secular Kashmiri culture), and jamhooriyat (democracy).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharma also said that he is aware that he has the toughest job in the country right now. &quot;It is very difficult and I realise that, but I&#39;m sure the people of Kashmir realise real harm is being caused to them by outside forces,&quot; he told WION.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Dineshwar Sharma, who has been named the government&#39;s interlocutor for Kashmir, spoke to WION about the reasons for the unrest in the strife-torn state. He said he will talk to everyone to achieve a solution to the problem (WION)</p>
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<p>The special representative will meet political leaders, traders and other delegations, according to a list drawn up by the state government.</p>

<p>However, he made it clear he had his own list of people whom he would meet as well.</p>

<p>The National Conference, meanwhile, said that it does not have any expectations from Sharma and the only way forward in Kashmir is restoration of autonomy to the state.</p>

<p>&quot;I have very little expectations from this new interlocutor. Like it has been done before, he will come and meet people. In 2010, then UPA government appointed a group of interlocutors who visited the state and had detailed discussions with every section here,&quot; National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah said on Sunday.</p>

<p>He added, &quot;The process took more than two months and after they were done with meeting people, a report was compiled. What happened to that report? Did the government discuss that report in any forum including the Parliament?&quot;</p>

<p>Sharma, who is originally from Bihar and was a Kerala- cadre IPS officer of the 1979 batch, held the country&#39;s top-most post for a police officer from 2014 to 2016.</p>

<p>He said Kashmir was his &quot;second home&quot; as his professional journey in the premier intelligence unit began here in 1992.</p>

<p>Last month, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, while announcing that Sharma would be the interlocutor for Kashmir, had referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s speech from the Red Fort this year.</p>

<p>Modi had said on August 15, &quot;Na gaali se, na goli se, parivartan hoga gale lagaane se (Only by embracing the people, and not with abuses or bullets, can there be a change in Kashmir).&quot;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


This is Dineshwar Sharma's first visit to the Kashmir valley after he was appointed the government?s Kashmir interlocutor on October 23.

The Centre’s special representative for Jammu and Kashmir, Dineshwar Sharma, has reached the Valley for a five-day visit to start a dialogue process. This is his first visit to the Kashmir valley after he was appointed the government’s Kashmir interlocutor on October 23. Before leaving for the Valley, the former Intelligence Bureau director said that no one should jump to conclusions before the process of talks with various stakeholders in Kashmir began. "I do not have a magic wand but my efforts have to be judged with sincerity and not through the prism of the past," Sharma, 61, said on Sunday. "I am going there without any preconceived notions. Everyone is welcome to meet me," he added. Speaking to WION after he was named the interlocutor, Sharma had said that he has been allowed to talk to anybody and everybody - including the Hurriyat; that Prime Minister Narendra Modi "is very much emotionally attached to Kashmir and wants to see a doable solution to the problem", and that he (Sharma) will be guided by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's philosophy of insaniyat (humanity), Kashmiriyat (the composite, secular Kashmiri culture), and jamhooriyat (democracy). Sharma also said that he is aware that he has the toughest job in the country right now. "It is very difficult and I realise that, but I'm sure the people of Kashmir realise real harm is being caused to them by outside forces," he told WION. Dineshwar Sharma, who has been named the government's interlocutor for Kashmir, spoke to WION about the reasons for the unrest in the strife-torn state. He said he will talk to everyone to achieve a solution to the problem (WION) × The special representative will meet political leaders, traders and other delegations, according to a list drawn up by the state government. However, he made it clear he had his own list of people whom he would meet as well. The National Conference, meanwhile, said that it does not have any expectations from Sharma and the only way forward in Kashmir is restoration of autonomy to the state. "I have very little expectations from this new interlocutor. Like it has been done before, he will come and meet people. In 2010, then UPA government appointed a group of interlocutors who visited the state and had detailed discussions with every section here," National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah said on Sunday. He added, "The process took more than two months and after they were done with meeting people, a report was compiled. What happened to that report? Did the government discuss that report in any forum including the Parliament?" Sharma, who is originally from Bihar and was a Kerala- cadre IPS officer of the 1979 batch, held the country's top-most post for a police officer from 2014 to 2016. He said Kashmir was his "second home" as his professional journey in the premier intelligence unit began here in 1992. Last month, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, while announcing that Sharma would be the interlocutor for Kashmir, had referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech from the Red Fort this year. Modi had said on August 15, "Na gaali se, na goli se, parivartan hoga gale lagaane se (Only by embracing the people, and not with abuses or bullets, can there be a change in Kashmir)." (With inputs from agencies)

Centre's interlocutor Dineshwar Sharma reaches Kashmir, says 'open to talk to anyone'

<p>Two days after the government announced a new interlocutor for Kashmir, WION&#39;s <strong>Kartikeya Sharma</strong> conducts a free-wheeling interview with former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah. It is always better to talk than to beat up a people, Abdullah tells Sharma, but also reminds him that there have been interlocutors before too.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What has happened to those reports? asks Abdullah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Abdullah also says that he misses Vajpayee, reminding Sharma of Vajpayee&#39;s famous words -- that we can live in peace with our neighbour and (both of us) prosper, or we can live in animosity and suffer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What is National Conference&#39;s response to the appointment of Dineshwar Sharma as interlocutor for Kashmir?</strong><br />
As far as I&rsquo;m concerned as the president of the party, it is good that an interlocutor has been appointed but my question is also to the government of India. What about the earlier reports of the interlocutors which lie with the Centre. What has happened to those reports? Late Padgaonkar ji and three committees which were made and gave&nbsp;reports, what happened to them? Why don&rsquo;t they put them before Parliament?<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Why weren&rsquo;t these reports implemented?&nbsp;</strong><strong>You were</strong><strong> part of the UPA...</strong><br />
We did say and always asked as to why these reports aren&rsquo;t being implemented. Now that government has gone. Governments may go but things are there. Here is a government which says that they are working for the people, and I would be delighted if they open those books and put them before Parliament.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Do you feel that successive talks without implementation of the recommendations added fuel to the fire?</strong><br />
Absolutely. They spent two years in the state, visiting Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir and met every single person including Hurriyat and compiled the report. It is there in the home ministry. For God&#39;s sake bring it out.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Why did the government sit&nbsp;</strong><strong>on the report?</strong><br />
I think&nbsp;you should ask Manmohan Singh as to why wasn&rsquo;t anything done.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Even the present government hasn&rsquo;t done a thing on it?</strong><br />
I don&rsquo;t know. Please put this question to Home Minister Rajnath Singh. He will be able to answer.</p>

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<p><strong>Is it mandatory to speak with Pakistan? Hurriyat has made an issue out of it?</strong><br />
Frankly I don&rsquo;t think that interlocutor can discuss with Pakistan. Discussion with Pakistan will have to be with government of India and at levels they choose to do so. Whether it is home minister or prime minister, it is for them to decide. They have a part of Jammu and Kashmir with them and it cannot be ignored.</p>

<p><strong>Does the appointment show that a muscular approach does not work with people?</strong><br />
Absolutely. Doval&rsquo;s doctrine has failed. His doctrine was to beat them to the ground and do everything you can to suppress them. Every theory has failed. They thought that with demonetisation, militancy would disappear -- it is at the highest level today. &nbsp;What have they achieved? Nothing. Our tourism has died. It is at zero. Nobody is bothered.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>What would you like the interlocutor to do?</strong><br />
I don&rsquo;t know who he is going to engage with. The (union) home minister tried to engage with every national party except the Hurriyat. The home minister didn&rsquo;t talk to Hurriyat. I don&#39;t know what a retired civil servant would be able to achieve.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Wouldn&rsquo;t it provide a buffer to </strong><strong>mainstream</strong><strong> parties like yours? Workers of </strong><strong>mainstream</strong><strong> parties have been attacked by terrorists?</strong><br />
We have had this happen from 1989. Our workers and leaders have been targeted. No one cared. We will face the brunt but we will not disappear. We will be here.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>What has been the cause of the present unrest where civil institutions are failing to function normally?</strong><br />
One is the government of BJP and PDP. It has been the greatest misery that has been inflicted on the people of this state. it really put petrol on the fire and our neighbour utilised it to the best it could.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Are you saying that BJP-PDP is an unnatural alliance?</strong><br />
I&rsquo;m not the only person who has said this. Ask anyone on the street and they will tell you.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>BJP has said that this is not the first time unrest has taken place. Worse unrest has taken place in the past?</strong><br />
They failed in everything so where does the blame lie.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Present Army chief has spoken about the success of Army&rsquo;s approach in the valley?</strong><br />
I think Army chief should restrict himself to the matters of the Army. He should look after the borders of India rather than talking about other things. It doesn&rsquo;t augur well for him.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Has politics of nationalism vs anti-nationalism affected the political discourse in the Valley?</strong><br />
Who are anti-nationals? If people ask for their rights, do they become anti-nationals? If they want to speak truth, do they become anti-national? We gave the autonomy resolution to Vajpayee, was that anti-national? It is in the Constitution of India. I don&rsquo;t understand what is meant by anti-national. If they want to smash the pride of the people -- then they are not going to succeed.</p>

<p><strong>Kashmir too at one end has not been accommodative. Pandits have</strong><strong> not been able to return?</strong><br />
Who is responsible for pandits not going back. All mainstream parties and Hurriyat welcomed them. We asked them to come back. There are pandits living in the Valley. They didn&rsquo;t migrate. It is for the others to make the move and come home. It is as much their home as it is my home. They must make the move.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Is Article 35A an issue in Kashmir?</strong><br />
If it wasn&rsquo;t a big issue, even PDP wouldn&rsquo;t have been shouting against it. It is a major issue in the Valley.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Have you spoken about it with Prime Minister Narendra Modi?</strong><br />
Many people have asked and I would say that I have spoken to him and if the situation arises I would speak to him again. I have no problem in speaking to Prime Minister Modi.</p>

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<p><strong>Where does the solution lie Farooq Abdullah?</strong><br />
Heal the wounds of the people and not by force and arrests, which is being done, and talk to Pakistan. Talk to them or else it will continue to happen. Only talking to Delhi will not make the&nbsp;slightest difference. I remember Vajpayee&rsquo;s words. Friends can be changed but not neighbours.&nbsp;We either live in harmony with our&nbsp;neighbour and both progress or live in animosity and both suffer. These are the golden words. There is always an opportunity for finding a peaceful solution and I think the PM has the courage to do so and if he takes that step, he can make a difference not only to India but to the sub-continent and world peace.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Does Kashmir miss Vajpayee? Do you miss Vajpayee?</strong><br />
We all miss Vajpayee. India misses him. He is still alive. He is a great leader.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>So where is the hope for peace?</strong><br />
I just hope that the government of India takes the steps to bring peace to the Valley. They say that hope is life and if one loses hope, one would lose life. I hope for peace and prosperity not only for Kashmir but for the whole country.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Arrests by NIA also show that Pakistan is funding separatism and the terror network?</strong><br />
Nobody will mind if those arrests prove that money came from Pakistan and they used it. But the longer you hold them in prison, and hold them longer and longer, then people wouldn&rsquo;t believe you and would feel that they are being pushed for saying things. They feel that there is nothing in it.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Are you saying that investigations must conclude quickly?</strong><br />
Yes, it must and quicker and better. It must be fast-paced. It should be revealed to the people of India.</p>


Two days after the government announces a new interlocutor for Kashmir, WION's Kartikeya Sharma speaks with former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah

Two days after the government announced a new interlocutor for Kashmir, WION's Kartikeya Sharma conducts a free-wheeling interview with former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah. It is always better to talk than to beat up a people, Abdullah tells Sharma, but also reminds him that there have been interlocutors before too. What has happened to those reports? asks Abdullah. Abdullah also says that he misses Vajpayee, reminding Sharma of Vajpayee's famous words -- that we can live in peace with our neighbour and (both of us) prosper, or we can live in animosity and suffer. What is National Conference's response to the appointment of Dineshwar Sharma as interlocutor for Kashmir? As far as I’m concerned as the president of the party, it is good that an interlocutor has been appointed but my question is also to the government of India. What about the earlier reports of the interlocutors which lie with the Centre. What has happened to those reports? Late Padgaonkar ji and three committees which were made and gave reports, what happened to them? Why don’t they put them before Parliament? Why weren’t these reports implemented? You were part of the UPA... We did say and always asked as to why these reports aren’t being implemented. Now that government has gone. Governments may go but things are there. Here is a government which says that they are working for the people, and I would be delighted if they open those books and put them before Parliament. Do you feel that successive talks without implementation of the recommendations added fuel to the fire? Absolutely. They spent two years in the state, visiting Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir and met every single person including Hurriyat and compiled the report. It is there in the home ministry. For God's sake bring it out. Why did the government sit on the report? I think you should ask Manmohan Singh as to why wasn’t anything done. Even the present government hasn’t done a thing on it? I don’t know. Please put this question to Home Minister Rajnath Singh. He will be able to answer. I think Army chief should restrict himself to the matters of the Army. He should look after the borders of India rather than talking about other things × Is it mandatory to speak with Pakistan? Hurriyat has made an issue out of it? Frankly I don’t think that interlocutor can discuss with Pakistan. Discussion with Pakistan will have to be with government of India and at levels they choose to do so. Whether it is home minister or prime minister, it is for them to decide. They have a part of Jammu and Kashmir with them and it cannot be ignored. Does the appointment show that a muscular approach does not work with people? Absolutely. Doval’s doctrine has failed. His doctrine was to beat them to the ground and do everything you can to suppress them. Every theory has failed. They thought that with demonetisation, militancy would disappear -- it is at the highest level today. What have they achieved? Nothing. Our tourism has died. It is at zero. Nobody is bothered. What would you like the interlocutor to do? I don’t know who he is going to engage with. The (union) home minister tried to engage with every national party except the Hurriyat. The home minister didn’t talk to Hurriyat. I don't know what a retired civil servant would be able to achieve. Wouldn’t it provide a buffer to mainstream parties like yours? Workers of mainstream parties have been attacked by terrorists? We have had this happen from 1989. Our workers and leaders have been targeted. No one cared. We will face the brunt but we will not disappear. We will be here. What has been the cause of the present unrest where civil institutions are failing to function normally? One is the government of BJP and PDP. It has been the greatest misery that has been inflicted on the people of this state. it really put petrol on the fire and our neighbour utilised it to the best it could. Are you saying that BJP-PDP is an unnatural alliance? I’m not the only person who has said this. Ask anyone on the street and they will tell you. BJP has said that this is not the first time unrest has taken place. Worse unrest has taken place in the past? They failed in everything so where does the blame lie. Present Army chief has spoken about the success of Army’s approach in the valley? I think Army chief should restrict himself to the matters of the Army. He should look after the borders of India rather than talking about other things. It doesn’t augur well for him. Has politics of nationalism vs anti-nationalism affected the political discourse in the Valley? Who are anti-nationals? If people ask for their rights, do they become anti-nationals? If they want to speak truth, do they become anti-national? We gave the autonomy resolution to Vajpayee, was that anti-national? It is in the Constitution of India. I don’t understand what is meant by anti-national. If they want to smash the pride of the people -- then they are not going to succeed. Kashmir too at one end has not been accommodative. Pandits have not been able to return? Who is responsible for pandits not going back. All mainstream parties and Hurriyat welcomed them. We asked them to come back. There are pandits living in the Valley. They didn’t migrate. It is for the others to make the move and come home. It is as much their home as it is my home. They must make the move. Is Article 35A an issue in Kashmir? If it wasn’t a big issue, even PDP wouldn’t have been shouting against it. It is a major issue in the Valley. Have you spoken about it with Prime Minister Narendra Modi? Many people have asked and I would say that I have spoken to him and if the situation arises I would speak to him again. I have no problem in speaking to Prime Minister Modi. If people ask for their rights, do they become anti-nationals? If they want to speak truth, do they become anti-national? × Where does the solution lie Farooq Abdullah? Heal the wounds of the people and not by force and arrests, which is being done, and talk to Pakistan. Talk to them or else it will continue to happen. Only talking to Delhi will not make the slightest difference. I remember Vajpayee’s words. Friends can be changed but not neighbours. We either live in harmony with our neighbour and both progress or live in animosity and both suffer. These are the golden words. There is always an opportunity for finding a peaceful solution and I think the PM has the courage to do so and if he takes that step, he can make a difference not only to India but to the sub-continent and world peace. Does Kashmir miss Vajpayee? Do you miss Vajpayee? We all miss Vajpayee. India misses him. He is still alive. He is a great leader. So where is the hope for peace? I just hope that the government of India takes the steps to bring peace to the Valley. They say that hope is life and if one loses hope, one would lose life. I hope for peace and prosperity not only for Kashmir but for the whole country. Arrests by NIA also show that Pakistan is funding separatism and the terror network? Nobody will mind if those arrests prove that money came from Pakistan and they used it. But the longer you hold them in prison, and hold them longer and longer, then people wouldn’t believe you and would feel that they are being pushed for saying things. They feel that there is nothing in it. Are you saying that investigations must conclude quickly? Yes, it must and quicker and better. It must be fast-paced. It should be revealed to the people of India.

The Ajit Doval doctrine has failed: Farooq Abdullah

<p>Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, today, met Prime Minister Modi in the backdrop of a raging debate over abrogation of Article 35A of the Constitution.</p>

<p>Mufti said that the idea of Jammu and Kashmir has to be accommodated within the idea of India.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Idea of India has to accommodate idea of Jammu &amp; Kashmir: J&amp;K CM Mehbooba Mufti after meeting PM Modi <a href="https://t.co/w2qUU9ydMw">pic.twitter.com/w2qUU9ydMw</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/895929784902991872">August 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mufti also brought up the issue of maintaining a status quo on Article 370 of the Constitution which grants autonomy to the state.</p>

<p>Maintaining status quo on Article 370 was part of the agenda of alliance between the PDP and the BJP in Jammu and Kashmir and no one can go against it, she said. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The basis of our agenda of alliance is that status quo of 370 has to maintained none of us can go against that: J&amp;K CM after meeting PM <a href="https://t.co/ttHLb9OLV2">pic.twitter.com/ttHLb9OLV2</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/895930680521089024">August 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>She said that the Prime Minister gave &quot;100 per cent assurance on the agenda of alliance&quot;. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The J&amp;K chief minister met Farooq Abdullah of the National Conference on Tuesday to discuss the issue of Article 35A. According to reports, the NC president has suggested that Mufti should consult other like minded parties on the issue and try to build a wider consensus.</p>

<p>The Supreme Court is hearing a petition challenging Article 35A of the Constitution which grants powers to Jammu and Kashmir legislature to define permanent residents.</p>

<p>The Centre is going to present before the apex court the legal aspects of Article 35A, according to a report in PTI.</p>

<p>&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>


Mufti said that the idea of Jammu and Kashmir has to be accommodated within the idea of India

Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, today, met Prime Minister Modi in the backdrop of a raging debate over abrogation of Article 35A of the Constitution. Mufti said that the idea of Jammu and Kashmir has to be accommodated within the idea of India. Idea of India has to accommodate idea of Jammu & Kashmir: J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti after meeting PM Modi pic.twitter.com/w2qUU9ydMw — ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2017 × Mufti also brought up the issue of maintaining a status quo on Article 370 of the Constitution which grants autonomy to the state. Maintaining status quo on Article 370 was part of the agenda of alliance between the PDP and the BJP in Jammu and Kashmir and no one can go against it, she said. The basis of our agenda of alliance is that status quo of 370 has to maintained none of us can go against that: J&K CM after meeting PM pic.twitter.com/ttHLb9OLV2 — ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2017 × She said that the Prime Minister gave "100 per cent assurance on the agenda of alliance". The J&K chief minister met Farooq Abdullah of the National Conference on Tuesday to discuss the issue of Article 35A. According to reports, the NC president has suggested that Mufti should consult other like minded parties on the issue and try to build a wider consensus. The Supreme Court is hearing a petition challenging Article 35A of the Constitution which grants powers to Jammu and Kashmir legislature to define permanent residents. The Centre is going to present before the apex court the legal aspects of Article 35A, according to a report in PTI.

J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti meets PM Modi, raises Article 35A with him

<p>Former chief minister and cabinet minister in UPA Farooq Abdullah meeting with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday has set the cat amongst the pigeons in Lutyen&rsquo;s Delhi. Highly-placed sources in the government confirmed the meeting between them but remained quiet on the time they spent together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sources indicated that Farooq Abdullah discussed Kashmir crisis with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi apart from presidential elections. The meeting assumes importance in the wake of ongoing Kashmir crisis and the&nbsp;tough stand taken by the Centre against the separatists in the valley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What is even more significant is that Abdullah senior has had a one to one with the Prime Minister when Congress president Sonia Gandhi is trying to build a national front against BJP&rsquo;s presidential candidate. In this regard, Sonia Gandhi had met a&nbsp;number of regional leaders in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, National Conference president Omar Abdullah had met the Congress president Sonia Gandhi but Farooq Abdullah failed to make the appointment.</p>

<p>Of late, Abdullah senior had taken a very tough stand against the Centre and had spoken in softly about the stone pelters and the separatist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many in the BJP attributed it to campaign compulsion and a strategy to corner PDP in the valley. Sources in the BJP indicated that it was Farooq Abdullah who had sought the appointment from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For now, PDP-BJP governments stand firm and chief minister Mehbooba Mufti continues to reaffirm faith the in the leadership of Modi in solving the problem of Jammu and Kashmir. But Farooq Abdullah meeting the Prime Minister is an indication that regional parties in the valley continue to engage with the idea of Modi and would deal with the Prime Minister independent of its alliances or ideological commitments.</p>

<p>(WION)</p>


Highly-placed sources in the government confirmed the meeting between them but remained quiet on the time they spent together

Former chief minister and cabinet minister in UPA Farooq Abdullah meeting with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday has set the cat amongst the pigeons in Lutyen’s Delhi. Highly-placed sources in the government confirmed the meeting between them but remained quiet on the time they spent together. Sources indicated that Farooq Abdullah discussed Kashmir crisis with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi apart from presidential elections. The meeting assumes importance in the wake of ongoing Kashmir crisis and the tough stand taken by the Centre against the separatists in the valley. What is even more significant is that Abdullah senior has had a one to one with the Prime Minister when Congress president Sonia Gandhi is trying to build a national front against BJP’s presidential candidate. In this regard, Sonia Gandhi had met a number of regional leaders in Delhi. Last week, National Conference president Omar Abdullah had met the Congress president Sonia Gandhi but Farooq Abdullah failed to make the appointment. Of late, Abdullah senior had taken a very tough stand against the Centre and had spoken in softly about the stone pelters and the separatist. Many in the BJP attributed it to campaign compulsion and a strategy to corner PDP in the valley. Sources in the BJP indicated that it was Farooq Abdullah who had sought the appointment from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. For now, PDP-BJP governments stand firm and chief minister Mehbooba Mufti continues to reaffirm faith the in the leadership of Modi in solving the problem of Jammu and Kashmir. But Farooq Abdullah meeting the Prime Minister is an indication that regional parties in the valley continue to engage with the idea of Modi and would deal with the Prime Minister independent of its alliances or ideological commitments. (WION)

Farooq Abdullah meets PM Modi, discusses Kashmir issue

<p>Sunday&#39;s&nbsp;bypolls in India&#39;s Kashmir was marked by deadly violence and a poor turnout.</p>

<p>On a day when seven&nbsp;civilians were killed in the troubled state, voting in the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat saw an abysmally low turnout of 6.5 per cent.</p>

<p>Chief Electoral Officer Shantanu told journalists that more than 100 security personnel were also injured in the violence.</p>

<p>When asked as to how many polling stations he expected repoll to be ordered, the officer said it could be anywhere between 50 and 100 booths or maybe more.</p>

<p>Shantanu said Anantnag Lok Sabha seat in south Kashmir, where bypoll is scheduled for April 12, would pose a &quot;bigger challenge&quot;.</p>

<p>Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti&#39;s younger brother Tasaduq Mufti is making his electoral debut from Anantnag.</p>

<p><strong>Violence erupts on voting day</strong></p>

<p>Security forces opened fire on a stone-pelting mob that stormed a polling station in Kashmir&#39;s Budgam district while voting was underway for the Srinagar parliamentary&nbsp;constituency, PTI reported</p>

<p>Hundreds of protesters stormed a polling station at Pakherpora in Charar-e-Sharief area of Budgam district.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In another incident, security forces opened fire on a stone-pelting mob in Budgam&#39;s Beerwah area, resulting in the death of a person.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sporadic incidents of stone pelting were also reported in Srinagar parliamentary constituency, police said.</p>

<p>Separatists had called for a strike asking Kashmiris to boycott the polls. Normal life was affected in three poll-bound districts of the valley because of the strike.</p>

<p>Most of the shops and other business establishments remained closed in Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal districts. Public transport also remained off the roads.</p>

<p>The Srinagar Lok Sabha seat fell vacant after ruling PDP&#39;s Tariq Hameed Karra resigned protesting against the deaths of protesters in the wake of the killing of Hizbul commander Burhan Wani.</p>

<p>Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and&nbsp;National Conference&nbsp;patron Farooq Abdullah is&nbsp;contending the vacant seat with PDP&#39;s Nazir Ahmad Khan.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">J&amp;K: Voting underway for Srinagar Lok Sabha bypoll <a href="https://t.co/GMu2EK1p2J">pic.twitter.com/GMu2EK1p2J</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/850932799511113728">April 9, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>All the polling stations were declared as sensitive or hyper-sensitive keeping in mind threats from terrorist outfits and separatists. &nbsp;</p>

<p>More than 1,500 polling stations were set up for nearly 12.61 lakh electorate. Polling began at 7 am and ended at 5 in the evening.</p>

<p>Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since the end of British rule in 1947. Both claim the disputed territory in its entirety.</p>

<p>Rebel groups in Indian Kashmir have for decades battled troops and police, demanding independence or a merger of the territory with Pakistan.</p>

<p>Around 500,000 Indian soldiers are deployed in the region.</p>

<p>Armed encounters between rebels and government forces have become more frequent following widespread unrest which was sparked by the killing of a popular rebel leader by security forces last July.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Police and army officials say dozens of local youths have joined the rebel ranks since then.</p>

<p>At least 29 armed militants, mostly locals, have died fighting government forces this year.</p>

<p>(WION with inputs from agency)</p>


Deadly clashes, coupled with calls for strike from Kashmiri separatists, meant that voter turnout remained abysmally low at 6.5%

Sunday's bypolls in India's Kashmir was marked by deadly violence and a poor turnout. On a day when seven civilians were killed in the troubled state, voting in the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat saw an abysmally low turnout of 6.5 per cent. Chief Electoral Officer Shantanu told journalists that more than 100 security personnel were also injured in the violence. When asked as to how many polling stations he expected repoll to be ordered, the officer said it could be anywhere between 50 and 100 booths or maybe more. Shantanu said Anantnag Lok Sabha seat in south Kashmir, where bypoll is scheduled for April 12, would pose a "bigger challenge". Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti's younger brother Tasaduq Mufti is making his electoral debut from Anantnag. Violence erupts on voting day Security forces opened fire on a stone-pelting mob that stormed a polling station in Kashmir's Budgam district while voting was underway for the Srinagar parliamentary constituency, PTI reported Hundreds of protesters stormed a polling station at Pakherpora in Charar-e-Sharief area of Budgam district. In another incident, security forces opened fire on a stone-pelting mob in Budgam's Beerwah area, resulting in the death of a person. Sporadic incidents of stone pelting were also reported in Srinagar parliamentary constituency, police said. Separatists had called for a strike asking Kashmiris to boycott the polls. Normal life was affected in three poll-bound districts of the valley because of the strike. Most of the shops and other business establishments remained closed in Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal districts. Public transport also remained off the roads. The Srinagar Lok Sabha seat fell vacant after ruling PDP's Tariq Hameed Karra resigned protesting against the deaths of protesters in the wake of the killing of Hizbul commander Burhan Wani. Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference patron Farooq Abdullah is contending the vacant seat with PDP's Nazir Ahmad Khan. J&K: Voting underway for Srinagar Lok Sabha bypoll pic.twitter.com/GMu2EK1p2J — ANI (@ANI_news) April 9, 2017 × All the polling stations were declared as sensitive or hyper-sensitive keeping in mind threats from terrorist outfits and separatists. More than 1,500 polling stations were set up for nearly 12.61 lakh electorate. Polling began at 7 am and ended at 5 in the evening. Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since the end of British rule in 1947. Both claim the disputed territory in its entirety. Rebel groups in Indian Kashmir have for decades battled troops and police, demanding independence or a merger of the territory with Pakistan. Around 500,000 Indian soldiers are deployed in the region. Armed encounters between rebels and government forces have become more frequent following widespread unrest which was sparked by the killing of a popular rebel leader by security forces last July. Police and army officials say dozens of local youths have joined the rebel ranks since then. At least 29 armed militants, mostly locals, have died fighting government forces this year. (WION with inputs from agency)

Jammu and Kashmir: Seven dead as violence mars Srinagar bypoll

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