Reports said that infiltration bid by Pak Army soldiers has been foiled on borders. On Sunday, 15 hand grenades have been found at a local shop. Home Minister Amit Shah met NSA Ajit Doval and Intelligence chief over the security situation. Section 144 has been imposed in Srinagar.

Section 144 imposed in Srinagar, Internet services snapped

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday chaired a 'high level' meeting with Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Kashmir at Parliament complex in New Delhi.

The meeting was also attended by Intelligence Bureau Chief Arvind Kumar, RAW chief Samant Kumar Goel and senior Home Ministry officials.

"The Government is reviewing the security scenario in Jammu and Kashmir as terror threats are looming over the Amarnath Yatra", an official in the Home Ministry said.

The evacuation of the Amarnath Yatris and tourists from the valley is a major challenge for the Government as of now, the official said.

Also, tomorrow Home Minister Amit Shah will introduce Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 in Rajya Sabha.

The bill was passed in Lok Sabha on July 1. This bill, if passed by Upper House of Parliament, will provide up to 10 per cent quota for the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in educational institutions and public employment alongside existing reservations in the state.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday chaired a 'high level' meeting with Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Kashmir at Parliament complex in New Delhi.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday chaired a 'high level' meeting with Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Kashmir at Parliament complex in New Delhi. The meeting was also attended by Intelligence Bureau Chief Arvind Kumar, RAW chief Samant Kumar Goel and senior Home Ministry officials. "The Government is reviewing the security scenario in Jammu and Kashmir as terror threats are looming over the Amarnath Yatra", an official in the Home Ministry said. The evacuation of the Amarnath Yatris and tourists from the valley is a major challenge for the Government as of now, the official said. Also, tomorrow Home Minister Amit Shah will introduce Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 in Rajya Sabha. The bill was passed in Lok Sabha on July 1. This bill, if passed by Upper House of Parliament, will provide up to 10 per cent quota for the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in educational institutions and public employment alongside existing reservations in the state. (With inputs from Agencies)

Home Minister Amit Shah conducts high-level meeting with NSA, IB and RAW chiefs amid Kashmir terror threat

Home Minister Amit Shah will chair a panel of four cabinet ministers to examine ways to prevent workplace sexual harassment, a ministry spokesman said on Wednesday, as activists criticised the official response to the #MeToo movement.

The movement triggered a public outcry, with former junior Foreign Minister M J Akbar and Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi among dozens of high-profile men accused of sexual misconduct.

The new panel, which includes Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, was set up last week, a home ministry official told Reuters.

"The group of ministers was set up on July 18 since the previous panel lapsed ahead of the formation of the new government," spokesman Shelat Harit Ketan said.

The new government was formed after the general election victory of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party in May.

The previous panel, which made no public recommendations, had been set up after the #MeToo online campaign to out alleged sexual harassers, which had begun in the US entertainment industry, took off in India in late 2018.

A year after the accusations surfaced, activists say the movement has gone quiet in India after some of the accused fought back with defamation suits.

Akbar is suing one of his accusers, while Gogoi was cleared of sexual misconduct by a panel of judges in May, to protests.

Both have consistently denied wrongdoing.

"There has been negative publicity, hardly any cases have been filed," said prominent women's rights activist and lawyer Flavia Agnes. "Complainants are afraid of approaching the courts or filing criminal complaints."

Opposition Congress lawmaker Sushmita Dev called the government's decision a knee-jerk reaction to criticism of its failure to make public the findings of the earlier panel.

"It is a foregone conclusion that nothing was done in the past. That is why the proceedings were hidden," she said. "The new committee should hold consultations with all stakeholders and thoroughly examine existing legislation."

Home Minister Amit Shah will chair a panel of four cabinet ministers to examine ways to prevent workplace sexual harassment, a ministry spokesman said on Wednesday, as activists criticised the official response to the #MeToo movement.

Home Minister Amit Shah will chair a panel of four cabinet ministers to examine ways to prevent workplace sexual harassment, a ministry spokesman said on Wednesday, as activists criticised the official response to the #MeToo movement. The movement triggered a public outcry, with former junior Foreign Minister M J Akbar and Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi among dozens of high-profile men accused of sexual misconduct. The new panel, which includes Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, was set up last week, a home ministry official told Reuters. "The group of ministers was set up on July 18 since the previous panel lapsed ahead of the formation of the new government," spokesman Shelat Harit Ketan said. The new government was formed after the general election victory of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party in May. The previous panel, which made no public recommendations, had been set up after the #MeToo online campaign to out alleged sexual harassers, which had begun in the US entertainment industry, took off in India in late 2018. A year after the accusations surfaced, activists say the movement has gone quiet in India after some of the accused fought back with defamation suits. Akbar is suing one of his accusers, while Gogoi was cleared of sexual misconduct by a panel of judges in May, to protests. Both have consistently denied wrongdoing. "There has been negative publicity, hardly any cases have been filed," said prominent women's rights activist and lawyer Flavia Agnes. "Complainants are afraid of approaching the courts or filing criminal complaints." Opposition Congress lawmaker Sushmita Dev called the government's decision a knee-jerk reaction to criticism of its failure to make public the findings of the earlier panel. "It is a foregone conclusion that nothing was done in the past. That is why the proceedings were hidden," she said. "The new committee should hold consultations with all stakeholders and thoroughly examine existing legislation."

Amit Shah to head panel on workplace sexual harassment

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-govt-committed-to-bringing-kashmiri-pandits-back-to-valley-amit-shah-232113">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is working on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, Insaniyat".

Shah began his speech by condoling the 35 lives lost in a bus accident that took place in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kishtwar-accident-jammu-kashmir-governor-satya-pal-malik-announces-ex-gratia-of-5-lakh-231960">Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir</a> today.

Renewing the promise made by late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee while delivering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-have-enough-state-governments-dont-prefer-ruling-jammu-and-kashmir-through-presidents-rule-amit-shah-232128">speech in Rajya Sabha</a>, Shah said, "Atal Bihari Vajpayee had said that solution of Kashmir's problem should be in "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat", I reiterate today that Modi-led government is also working on Atal ji's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat".

While defining the terms, the minister said "Kashmiriyat" will protect the culture of Kashmir.

He added that Modi government's motto of development has been inherent in the term "Insaniyat" while "Jamuriyat" (democracy), is what the Centre is hoping to achieve through the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

Reiterating that ruling BJP-led NDA government has zero tolerance towards terrorism, the Union Minister said, "Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Everyone knows Kashmir is ours and no one takes Kashmir away from India. Modi-led government has zero tolerance towards terrorism and we are committed to ending it."

Shah asserted that the Modi-led government brought development to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-approves-statutory-resolution-to-extend-presidents-rule-in-jammu-and-kashmir-for-6-months-232106">Jammu and Kashmir under President's Rule</a>.

&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is working on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, Insaniyat".

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is working on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, Insaniyat". Shah began his speech by condoling the 35 lives lost in a bus accident that took place in Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir today. Renewing the promise made by late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee while delivering speech in Rajya Sabha, Shah said, "Atal Bihari Vajpayee had said that solution of Kashmir's problem should be in "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat", I reiterate today that Modi-led government is also working on Atal ji's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat". While defining the terms, the minister said "Kashmiriyat" will protect the culture of Kashmir. He added that Modi government's motto of development has been inherent in the term "Insaniyat" while "Jamuriyat" (democracy), is what the Centre is hoping to achieve through the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019. Reiterating that ruling BJP-led NDA government has zero tolerance towards terrorism, the Union Minister said, "Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Everyone knows Kashmir is ours and no one takes Kashmir away from India. Modi-led government has zero tolerance towards terrorism and we are committed to ending it." Shah asserted that the Modi-led government brought development to Jammu and Kashmir under President's Rule.

Modi government working on Atal ji's path of 'Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, aur Insaniyat': Amit Shah

A clear 'chain of command' should be in place when multiple stakeholders get on-board to combat a disaster and government agencies should ensure that India becomes a top-notch nation for managing such emergencies, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Saturday.&nbsp;

Officiating his first public event after taking charge of the ministry, Shah said it is important to quickly develop better resilience and capability against disasters given that India is much prone to catastrophes owing to its varied topography and expanse.

The minister was speaking at the inauguration of a two-day annual conference organised here by the NDRF on capacity building of state disaster response forces (SDRFs) in consultation with home guards, civil defence and fire services.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is a federal force of the country and has 12 battalions based across various states for quick response to any emergency, manmade or natural.

Addressing the delegates at the meeting Shah said a chain of command between various agencies, stakeholders and department should be decided and formed when dealing with a disaster.

"This is very important as I have seen a very chaotic situation emerging in absence of this protocol and order of hierarchy," he said, adding it is a big lacuna in the country's bureaucratic system that no one pays heed to the other till a formal or official order is issued.

The minister said agencies like the NDRF should not rest on their past laurels but strive to do better.

"This is now the time to work and ensure that India becomes the number one country in disaster management. The path to achieving this goal is long but that should be our target. It should be our effort that the world takes note from our best practices and counter-disaster models," Shah said.

He said the NDRF and other similar agencies should "investigate, analyse and pick errors" once they complete operation, as this exercise will ensure that the work is completed in the true sense.

Shah asked the NDRF, an agency under his ministry, to collaborate with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and develop indigenous equipment to combat disaster not only for Indian agencies but also for neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

The Home Minister assured the 12,000 personnel-strong force that the government will fulfil all their requirements for modern gadgets, equipment and infrastructure.

"It is very important to ensure that the motivation of the force's personnel working at the ground level remains high. It is they who commit their lives in the line of duty," Shah said.&nbsp;

He expressed concerns over increasing instances of forest fires, especially in the hills, and stressed upon the NDRF and its sister agencies to find out ways to effectively combat such instances.

He asked the agencies working in this domain to compile data of all disaster-combat equipment in the country, down to the district level, so that this information comes handy when a disaster strikes.

The minister said disaster management and combat was a "completely neglected" issue before 2000 and was taken only seriously after the 2001 earthquake in Gujarat's Bhuj.

At the event, NDRF Director General (DG) S N Pradhan said his force will be able to have its presence in virtually every part of the country by August and they were also working to have a women personnel combat component in every unit.&nbsp;

A clear 'chain of command' should be in place when multiple stakeholders get on-board to combat a disaster and government agencies should ensure that India becomes a top-notch nation for managing such emergencies, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Saturday.

A clear 'chain of command' should be in place when multiple stakeholders get on-board to combat a disaster and government agencies should ensure that India becomes a top-notch nation for managing such emergencies, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Saturday. Officiating his first public event after taking charge of the ministry, Shah said it is important to quickly develop better resilience and capability against disasters given that India is much prone to catastrophes owing to its varied topography and expanse. The minister was speaking at the inauguration of a two-day annual conference organised here by the NDRF on capacity building of state disaster response forces (SDRFs) in consultation with home guards, civil defence and fire services. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is a federal force of the country and has 12 battalions based across various states for quick response to any emergency, manmade or natural. Addressing the delegates at the meeting Shah said a chain of command between various agencies, stakeholders and department should be decided and formed when dealing with a disaster. "This is very important as I have seen a very chaotic situation emerging in absence of this protocol and order of hierarchy," he said, adding it is a big lacuna in the country's bureaucratic system that no one pays heed to the other till a formal or official order is issued. The minister said agencies like the NDRF should not rest on their past laurels but strive to do better. "This is now the time to work and ensure that India becomes the number one country in disaster management. The path to achieving this goal is long but that should be our target. It should be our effort that the world takes note from our best practices and counter-disaster models," Shah said. He said the NDRF and other similar agencies should "investigate, analyse and pick errors" once they complete operation, as this exercise will ensure that the work is completed in the true sense. Shah asked the NDRF, an agency under his ministry, to collaborate with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and develop indigenous equipment to combat disaster not only for Indian agencies but also for neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. The Home Minister assured the 12,000 personnel-strong force that the government will fulfil all their requirements for modern gadgets, equipment and infrastructure. "It is very important to ensure that the motivation of the force's personnel working at the ground level remains high. It is they who commit their lives in the line of duty," Shah said. He expressed concerns over increasing instances of forest fires, especially in the hills, and stressed upon the NDRF and its sister agencies to find out ways to effectively combat such instances. He asked the agencies working in this domain to compile data of all disaster-combat equipment in the country, down to the district level, so that this information comes handy when a disaster strikes. The minister said disaster management and combat was a "completely neglected" issue before 2000 and was taken only seriously after the 2001 earthquake in Gujarat's Bhuj. At the event, NDRF Director General (DG) S N Pradhan said his force will be able to have its presence in virtually every part of the country by August and they were also working to have a women personnel combat component in every unit.

Ensure India is number 1 in disaster management: Amit Shah

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-visits-family-of-slain-jammu-kashmir-inspector-reviews-security-230758">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> on Friday moved a resolution in the Lok Sabha to extend the President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir for a period of another six months.

Amit Shah further said that to hold fresh Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir later this year, it is essential to extend the rule effective immediate from July 3, 2019.

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Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha: I propose that President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir should be extended by 6 months. <a href="https://t.co/agXlqYmP0H">pic.twitter.com/agXlqYmP0H</a>
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Speaking at the Lok Sabha, Shah said, ''In the view of Ramzan and Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir, preparations are underway to hold Assembly elections by the end of this year.''

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was dissolved in November.

The home minister also moved the J&amp;K Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha and said, ''This bill is not to please anyone but for those living near the International Border."

The bill proposes to give reservation in educational institutions and government jobs to those living within 10 kilometres of the International Border in Jammu on par with people living along the Line of Control in Kashmir.

This is the first proposal Shah has moved in the Lok Sabha after being appointed as the home minister in the second tenure of the Narendra Modi government.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday moved a resolution in the Lok Sabha to extend the President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir for a period of another six months.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday moved a resolution in the Lok Sabha to extend the President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir for a period of another six months. Amit Shah further said that to hold fresh Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir later this year, it is essential to extend the rule effective immediate from July 3, 2019. Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha: I propose that President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir should be extended by 6 months. pic.twitter.com/agXlqYmP0H — ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2019 × Speaking at the Lok Sabha, Shah said, ''In the view of Ramzan and Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir, preparations are underway to hold Assembly elections by the end of this year.'' The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was dissolved in November. The home minister also moved the J&K Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha and said, ''This bill is not to please anyone but for those living near the International Border." The bill proposes to give reservation in educational institutions and government jobs to those living within 10 kilometres of the International Border in Jammu on par with people living along the Line of Control in Kashmir. This is the first proposal Shah has moved in the Lok Sabha after being appointed as the home minister in the second tenure of the Narendra Modi government.

Home Minister Amit Shah seeks to extend President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir; polls by end of year

Watch India Watch, 27th June 2019. To know more watch the video

India Watch, 27th June 2019

Home minister Amit Shah is on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir. On Wednesday, he held an extensive review meeting with security forces to discuss arrangements for Amarnath Yatra. He reviewed the development scenario in Jammu and Kashmir and sought the state government's focus on accelerating development, building infrastructure, good governance, inclusive growth for all communities and employment generating schemes for the youth.

India Watch: Amit Shah's Kashmir visit; Day 2

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Amit Shah today visited Jammu and Kashmir to review the security situation ahead of Amarnath Yatra in the state.

The prime focus of Shah’s first visit to Kashmir is to secure the Amarnath Yatra from any terror attack, which has been a cause of worry for the governor administration.&nbsp;

“He directed all security agencies to be fully alert and take all preventive steps to ensure violence-free Yatra. There should be no laxity. Strict enforcement of the SOPs should be ensured. Senior officers should personally supervise the arrangements,” said A P Maheshwari, Special Secretary, Internal Security, Ministry of Home Affairs.&nbsp;

During the meeting, Shah has told security forces to ensure best possible optimum use of latest technologies and the gadgets, not only for the security of the Yatra but also to facilitate the movement of the devotees and the tourists.

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Srinagar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah chairs review meeting on security arrangements for upcoming <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmarnathYatra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmarnathYatra</a> at Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC); Jammu &amp; Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik also present. <a href="https://t.co/jntLDKaymR">pic.twitter.com/jntLDKaymR</a>
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“After the cut-off timings barricades should be erected at suitable locations and no differentiation should be made between Yatris and Tourists. Barricades are used at all lateral entry points during convoy movement,” Maheshwari told reporters after the meeting.&nbsp;

Home Minister has also directed police and paramilitary forces to strictly deal with the miscreants.&nbsp;

At the Amarnath security meeting, top officials from the intelligence bureau, Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police gave him detailed information on the prevailing situation.

&nbsp;The Yatra is starting from 1st of July and has been a major worry for the forces after 12 June Anantnag attack on joint forces. The route has been frequently used by terrorists to carry out attacks.&nbsp;

After reviewing the situation, he also took stock of the development process in the state which has been done over the years. He has also reviewed the major flagship programmes of the central government such.&nbsp;

“82% funds have been sanctions for several major projects like two AIIMS, two IIM, tourism, power and other projects,” an official informed media.&nbsp;

Interestingly, sources say that this is for the first time that local political parties haven’t received an invitation to meet the home ministers. They say that political parties were expecting the invitation to put forward their point.&nbsp;

On day two, Shah will review the overall security situation and meet some more delegates.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Amit Shah today visited Jammu and Kashmir to review the security situation ahead of Amarnath Yatra in the state. The prime focus of Shah’s first visit to Kashmir is to secure the Amarnath Yatra from any terror attack, which has been a cause of worry for the governor administration.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Amit Shah today visited Jammu and Kashmir to review the security situation ahead of Amarnath Yatra in the state. The prime focus of Shah’s first visit to Kashmir is to secure the Amarnath Yatra from any terror attack, which has been a cause of worry for the governor administration. “He directed all security agencies to be fully alert and take all preventive steps to ensure violence-free Yatra. There should be no laxity. Strict enforcement of the SOPs should be ensured. Senior officers should personally supervise the arrangements,” said A P Maheshwari, Special Secretary, Internal Security, Ministry of Home Affairs. During the meeting, Shah has told security forces to ensure best possible optimum use of latest technologies and the gadgets, not only for the security of the Yatra but also to facilitate the movement of the devotees and the tourists. Srinagar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah chairs review meeting on security arrangements for upcoming #AmarnathYatra at Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC); Jammu & Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik also present. pic.twitter.com/jntLDKaymR — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2019 × “After the cut-off timings barricades should be erected at suitable locations and no differentiation should be made between Yatris and Tourists. Barricades are used at all lateral entry points during convoy movement,” Maheshwari told reporters after the meeting. Home Minister has also directed police and paramilitary forces to strictly deal with the miscreants. At the Amarnath security meeting, top officials from the intelligence bureau, Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police gave him detailed information on the prevailing situation. The Yatra is starting from 1st of July and has been a major worry for the forces after 12 June Anantnag attack on joint forces. The route has been frequently used by terrorists to carry out attacks. After reviewing the situation, he also took stock of the development process in the state which has been done over the years. He has also reviewed the major flagship programmes of the central government such. “82% funds have been sanctions for several major projects like two AIIMS, two IIM, tourism, power and other projects,” an official informed media. Interestingly, sources say that this is for the first time that local political parties haven’t received an invitation to meet the home ministers. They say that political parties were expecting the invitation to put forward their point. On day two, Shah will review the overall security situation and meet some more delegates.

Home Minister Amit Shah reviews security preparations for Amarnath Yatra, gives strong directions to security forces

Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have been inducted into the Cabinet Committee on Security headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has reconstituted it after his massive victory in the recent elections.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman are the other two members of the CCS. They were earlier in the CCS in their capacities as Home and Defence Ministers respectively.

Shah and Jaishankar, who have made their entry into the Union Cabinet, take the place of Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj, who are no longer in the government after they chose not to contest elections on health grounds.

The CCS, which is headed by the prime minister, comprises the "elite four" ministers of the North and South Blocks on the Raisina Hill, consisting of Home, Defence, Finance and External Affairs.

Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have been inducted into the Cabinet Committee on Security headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has reconstituted it after his massive victory in the recent elections.

Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have been inducted into the Cabinet Committee on Security headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has reconstituted it after his massive victory in the recent elections. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman are the other two members of the CCS. They were earlier in the CCS in their capacities as Home and Defence Ministers respectively. Shah and Jaishankar, who have made their entry into the Union Cabinet, take the place of Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj, who are no longer in the government after they chose not to contest elections on health grounds. The CCS, which is headed by the prime minister, comprises the "elite four" ministers of the North and South Blocks on the Raisina Hill, consisting of Home, Defence, Finance and External Affairs.

Amit Shah, S Jaishankar enter Cabinet Committee on Security

Home Minister Amit Shah Holds Meeting With Officials Over Delimitation Exercise In Jammu & Kashmir.

Gravitas: Government Mulls Delimitation In J&K: Home Minister Meets Officials

Amid much speculation and anticipation, the portfolios of the Cabinet ministers of Narendra Modi's second term as prime minister were announced on Friday. BJP president Amit Shah was appointed as the Home Minister, while former Home Minister Rajnath Singh got the defence ministry.

Amit Shah takes charge as India's Home Minister

Rajnath Singh takes oath as cabinet minister today in PM's swearing-in ceremony

Gravitas: Rajnath Singh in Modi's New Cabinet

BJP president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-bjps-chanakya-now-enters-government-222850">Amit Shah</a>, who took oath as a minister on Thursday, has been made the new Home Minister of the country. The portfolio was earlier handled by Rajnath Singh, who has been moved to Defence.

Shah won the Lok Sabha polls from Gandhinagar in Gujarat defeating Congress's J Chavda by a record margin of more than five lakh votes. He is the most notable inclusion in the government and will serve at the Centre for the first time as a minister.

"Thankful to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji for reposing faith in me. Your leadership and continued support is a great source of inspiration. I assure you that I will put my best efforts to serve our people and country," he tweeted after taking oath on Thursday.

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Thankful to Prime Minister Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji for reposing faith in me. Your leadership and continued support is a great source of inspiration. I assure you that I will put my best efforts to serve our people and country. <a href="https://t.co/ZDLgv5w4Fw">pic.twitter.com/ZDLgv5w4Fw</a>
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As Prime Minister Narendra Modi's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/narendra-modi-takes-oath-as-prime-minister-for-second-time-222847">right-hand man</a> and long-time strategist, Shah would be in a powerful position as the country's home minister. He masterminded the BJP's landslide victory in the April-May general election in which the party won 303 of the 542 seats and is able to make the government on its own.

Shah has worked as Minister of State for Home Affairs in Gujarat when Modi was the chief minister of the state.

The first meeting of the new Union Cabinet will take place on Friday at 5:30 pm, a government official said.

The Union Cabinet for the 17th Lok Sabha includes 24 Cabinet ministers, nine Ministers of State with independent charge and 24 Ministers of State (MoS).

Top leaders who were sworn in as Cabinet ministers include Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, DV Sadananda Gowda, Nirmala Sitharaman, Ram Vilas Paswan and former foreign secretary S Jaishankar, a surprise pick.

Rajnath Singh, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/nirmala-sitharaman-the-first-full-time-woman-defence-minister-retained-as-union-minister-222866">Nirmala Sitharaman</a>, Nitin Gadkari, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Sadanand Gowda and representatives of BJP allies - Ram Vilas Paswan (LJSP), Harsimrat Kaur (Akali Dal), Arvind Sawant (Shiv Sena) and Ramdas Athawale (RPI-A) who will be a Minister of State (MoS) also took oath.

Some of the key ministers in the previous Modi government, including Sushma Swaraj, Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore and Maneka Gandhi, are not a part of the new Council of Ministers, while former finance minister Arun Jaitley opted out of the new Cabinet citing health reasons.

BJP president Amit Shah, who took oath as a minister on Thursday, has been made the new Home Minister of the country. The portfolio was earlier handled by Rajnath Singh, who has been moved to Defence.

BJP president Amit Shah, who took oath as a minister on Thursday, has been made the new Home Minister of the country. The portfolio was earlier handled by Rajnath Singh, who has been moved to Defence. Shah won the Lok Sabha polls from Gandhinagar in Gujarat defeating Congress's J Chavda by a record margin of more than five lakh votes. He is the most notable inclusion in the government and will serve at the Centre for the first time as a minister. "Thankful to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji for reposing faith in me. Your leadership and continued support is a great source of inspiration. I assure you that I will put my best efforts to serve our people and country," he tweeted after taking oath on Thursday. Thankful to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji for reposing faith in me. Your leadership and continued support is a great source of inspiration. I assure you that I will put my best efforts to serve our people and country. pic.twitter.com/ZDLgv5w4Fw — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 30, 2019 × As Prime Minister Narendra Modi's right-hand man and long-time strategist, Shah would be in a powerful position as the country's home minister. He masterminded the BJP's landslide victory in the April-May general election in which the party won 303 of the 542 seats and is able to make the government on its own. Shah has worked as Minister of State for Home Affairs in Gujarat when Modi was the chief minister of the state. The first meeting of the new Union Cabinet will take place on Friday at 5:30 pm, a government official said. The Union Cabinet for the 17th Lok Sabha includes 24 Cabinet ministers, nine Ministers of State with independent charge and 24 Ministers of State (MoS). Top leaders who were sworn in as Cabinet ministers include Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, DV Sadananda Gowda, Nirmala Sitharaman, Ram Vilas Paswan and former foreign secretary S Jaishankar, a surprise pick. Rajnath Singh, Nirmala Sitharaman, Nitin Gadkari, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Sadanand Gowda and representatives of BJP allies - Ram Vilas Paswan (LJSP), Harsimrat Kaur (Akali Dal), Arvind Sawant (Shiv Sena) and Ramdas Athawale (RPI-A) who will be a Minister of State (MoS) also took oath. Some of the key ministers in the previous Modi government, including Sushma Swaraj, Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore and Maneka Gandhi, are not a part of the new Council of Ministers, while former finance minister Arun Jaitley opted out of the new Cabinet citing health reasons.

Amit Shah, PM Modi's right-hand man, is India's new Home Minister

One of the top leaders of the BJP, Rajnath Singh is a man of all seasons who maintains cordial relations with leaders across the political spectrum and enjoys wide acceptability.

The Home Minister in the outgoing government, on whom <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/live-updates-prime-minister-narendra-modi-swearing-in-ceremony-222770">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> banked on heavily in the last five years whenever there was a crisis, be it farmers agitation, violence in Jammu and Kashmir or Jat quota stir, has been appointed Cabinet minister again.

Many see a reflection of Atal Bihari Vajpayee's mannerism in him and feel he has been carrying forward the party veteran's legacy as 'Ajatshatru, a man with no enemies.&nbsp;

His good rapport with opposition leaders like Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mamata Banerjee, Mulayam Singh Yadav, and Omar Abdullah had made his government's pointsman for any discussion with the opposition.

Even during the bitter political campaign, 67-year-old Singh, who was&nbsp;contesting from Lucknow Lok Sabha seat, was never drawn into any ugly war of words with his opponents.

The image of the minister carrying on his shoulder the coffin of soldiers killed in February 14 Pulwama terror attack will remain etched in the minds of the people.

A former professor of physics, it was Singh, as BJP President in 2013, who was instrumental in declaring Narendra Modi as prime ministerial candidate, despite strong opposition from veterans like L K Advani.

Singh was the third leader of the BJP, after Modi and BJP President Amit Shah, who had extensively campaigned for the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

He was the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh between 2000-2002, had also held the portfolios of Surface Transport and Agriculture in Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.

A life-long RSS member, Singh occupied various positions in RSS, ABVP and Uttar Pradesh BJP before becoming the national President of the BJP twice -- 2005 to 2009 and 2013 to 2014.

Singh, who was elected to Lok Sabha from Lucknow for two consecutive terms in 2014 and 2019, was thrice elected to the Uttar Pradesh Assembly and twice to Rajya Sabha. He was elected to Lok Sabha for the first time in 2009 from Ghaziabad.

Singh was appointed district president of the Jana Sangh in 1975 at the age of 24 and was elected as MLA from Mirzapur in 1977.

In 1984, he became the UP state president of the BJP's youth wing BJYM, in 1986, its national general secretary and subsequently national president of the BJYM in 1988.

Singh was elected a member of the UP Legislative Council in 1988 and became Education Minister of the state in 1991. During his tenure as Education Minister in UP, he established some landmarks by introducing the Anti-Copying Act and Vedic Mathematics in the syllabus and correction of various portions of history textbooks.

He became a member of Rajya Sabha in 1994 and also the Chief Whip of the BJP in the upper house.

In 1997, Singh became state president of UP BJP. During this period, apart from expanding and strengthening the organisation, he played a key role in saving the BJP-led government twice during political crisis.

Singh was appointed Union Surface Transport Minister in 1999 and during this period he got the opportunity to initiate the National Highway Development Programme, a dream project of the then Prime Minister Vajpayee.

In October 2000, he became Chief Minister of UP and was twice elected as MLA from Haidargarh constituency in Barabanki. In 2002, he became National General Secretary of BJP.

On May 24, 2003, he became Union Minister of Agriculture and subsequently for Food Processing. During this period he initiated a few epoch making projects like Kisan Call Centre and Farm Income Insurance Scheme.

One of the top leaders of the BJP, Rajnath Singh is a man of all seasons who maintains cordial relations with leaders across the political spectrum and enjoys wide acceptability.

One of the top leaders of the BJP, Rajnath Singh is a man of all seasons who maintains cordial relations with leaders across the political spectrum and enjoys wide acceptability. The Home Minister in the outgoing government, on whom Prime Minister Narendra Modi banked on heavily in the last five years whenever there was a crisis, be it farmers agitation, violence in Jammu and Kashmir or Jat quota stir, has been appointed Cabinet minister again. Many see a reflection of Atal Bihari Vajpayee's mannerism in him and feel he has been carrying forward the party veteran's legacy as 'Ajatshatru, a man with no enemies. His good rapport with opposition leaders like Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mamata Banerjee, Mulayam Singh Yadav, and Omar Abdullah had made his government's pointsman for any discussion with the opposition. Even during the bitter political campaign, 67-year-old Singh, who was contesting from Lucknow Lok Sabha seat, was never drawn into any ugly war of words with his opponents. The image of the minister carrying on his shoulder the coffin of soldiers killed in February 14 Pulwama terror attack will remain etched in the minds of the people. A former professor of physics, it was Singh, as BJP President in 2013, who was instrumental in declaring Narendra Modi as prime ministerial candidate, despite strong opposition from veterans like L K Advani. Singh was the third leader of the BJP, after Modi and BJP President Amit Shah, who had extensively campaigned for the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. He was the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh between 2000-2002, had also held the portfolios of Surface Transport and Agriculture in Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. A life-long RSS member, Singh occupied various positions in RSS, ABVP and Uttar Pradesh BJP before becoming the national President of the BJP twice -- 2005 to 2009 and 2013 to 2014. Singh, who was elected to Lok Sabha from Lucknow for two consecutive terms in 2014 and 2019, was thrice elected to the Uttar Pradesh Assembly and twice to Rajya Sabha. He was elected to Lok Sabha for the first time in 2009 from Ghaziabad. Singh was appointed district president of the Jana Sangh in 1975 at the age of 24 and was elected as MLA from Mirzapur in 1977. In 1984, he became the UP state president of the BJP's youth wing BJYM, in 1986, its national general secretary and subsequently national president of the BJYM in 1988. Singh was elected a member of the UP Legislative Council in 1988 and became Education Minister of the state in 1991. During his tenure as Education Minister in UP, he established some landmarks by introducing the Anti-Copying Act and Vedic Mathematics in the syllabus and correction of various portions of history textbooks. He became a member of Rajya Sabha in 1994 and also the Chief Whip of the BJP in the upper house. In 1997, Singh became state president of UP BJP. During this period, apart from expanding and strengthening the organisation, he played a key role in saving the BJP-led government twice during political crisis. Singh was appointed Union Surface Transport Minister in 1999 and during this period he got the opportunity to initiate the National Highway Development Programme, a dream project of the then Prime Minister Vajpayee. In October 2000, he became Chief Minister of UP and was twice elected as MLA from Haidargarh constituency in Barabanki. In 2002, he became National General Secretary of BJP. On May 24, 2003, he became Union Minister of Agriculture and subsequently for Food Processing. During this period he initiated a few epoch making projects like Kisan Call Centre and Farm Income Insurance Scheme.

Rajnath Singh: Man of all seasons carries Vajpayee's legacy of 'Ajatshatru'

India Election Watch: Exclusive interview with Rajnath Singh

WION Exclusive: Interview with Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Monday said there may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal in the wake of the Kolkata Police-CBI face-off and asserted that the Centre has the power to take action.

Amidst uproar in the Lok Sabha, he also termed as "unprecedented" the move to stop the probe agency from performing its duty.

An all-out war broke out between the Centre and the Mamata Banerjee government on Sunday over the CBI's attempt to question the Kolkata Police commissioner in connection with chit fund scams.

Making a statement in Lok Sabha on the prevailing situation in Kolkata, Singh described the action against the CBI probe team, which went to question Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, as "unprecedented" and a threat to the federal political system of the country.

"There may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal... under the Constitution, the central government has been vested with the power to maintain normalcy in any part of the country," he said.

Earlier, opposition parties in Lok Sabha attacked the government over the alleged misuse of central agencies against political rivals, saying it was against democratic norms.

Members from Trinamool Congress, Biju Janata Dal, NCP and Samajwadi Party spoke against the CBI move to question the Kolkata police chief. 
A CPI-M member said both the Trinamool Congress and the Centre were at fault.

As soon as the House took up Zero Hour, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan allowed members to raise the issue.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Monday said there may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal in the wake of the Kolkata Police-CBI face-off and asserted that the Centre has the power to take action.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Monday said there may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal in the wake of the Kolkata Police-CBI face-off and asserted that the Centre has the power to take action. Amidst uproar in the Lok Sabha, he also termed as "unprecedented" the move to stop the probe agency from performing its duty. An all-out war broke out between the Centre and the Mamata Banerjee government on Sunday over the CBI's attempt to question the Kolkata Police commissioner in connection with chit fund scams. Making a statement in Lok Sabha on the prevailing situation in Kolkata, Singh described the action against the CBI probe team, which went to question Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, as "unprecedented" and a threat to the federal political system of the country. "There may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal... under the Constitution, the central government has been vested with the power to maintain normalcy in any part of the country," he said. Earlier, opposition parties in Lok Sabha attacked the government over the alleged misuse of central agencies against political rivals, saying it was against democratic norms. Members from Trinamool Congress, Biju Janata Dal, NCP and Samajwadi Party spoke against the CBI move to question the Kolkata police chief. A CPI-M member said both the Trinamool Congress and the Centre were at fault. As soon as the House took up Zero Hour, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan allowed members to raise the issue.

There may be constitutional breakdown in West Bengal: Home Minister Rajnath Singh

South African Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba resigned on Tuesday, the presidency announced, two weeks after a public standards watchdog said he had violated the constitution by lying under oath in court.

Gigaba, a close ally of ousted former president Jacob Zuma, had recently vowed not to step down after also being caught up in a leaked sex tape scandal.

A statement from President Cyril Ramaphosa's office announced that Gigaba said he had resigned "to relieve the President from undue pressure" and to allow Ramaphosa to focus on saving the country from "economic meltdown".

Gigaba, 47, was once seen as rising star of the ANC ruling party, leading the party's youth wing and being quickly promoted into the ministerial ranks.

But he became entangled in graft allegations during Zuma's time in office.

Gigaba's exit removes a key Zuma loyalist from the government led since February by Ramaphosa, who has vowed to root out the corruption reputed to have flourished under Zuma.

Gigaba was reprimanded last month by the&nbsp;public protector ombudswoman after he testified in a 2017 court case filed by a company controlled by the wealthy Oppenheimer family.

Ombudswoman Busisiwe Mkhwebane recommended that Ramaphosa take disciplinary action against the minister for "telling an untruth under oath and before a court of law".

Zuma ally

The allegations were probed after a complaint from the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) party.

The court case hinged on whether Gigaba had given the Oppenheimers approval to have a private terminal at Johannesburg airport.

Gigaba has also said he was recently the target of extortion attempts after a private sex video was stolen by hacking.

Gigaba served as finance minister for a year under Zuma, who was ousted as president by the ANC party in February over mounting graft scandals.

When Ramaphosa succeeded Zuma, he moved Gigaba to the home affairs ministry.

Gigaba has been linked to corruption allegations against the wealthy Gupta family, who are suspected of benefitting from unfair and hugely lucrative government contracts under Zuma.

A judicial inquiry, which opened in August, is investigating allegations that Zuma and the Guptas organised a web of corrupt deals at government departments and public enterprises in a scandal known as "state capture".

All the accused deny any wrongdoing.

South Africa, Africa's most advanced economy, slipped into recession in the second quarter of this year, and suffers a stubbornly high unemployment of about 28 percent.

The country will hold general elections in May.

Nhlanhla Nene resigned as finance minister last month over undisclosed meetings with the Guptas.

South African Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba resigned on Tuesday, the presidency announced, two weeks after a public standards watchdog said he had violated the constitution by lying under oath in court.

South African Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba resigned on Tuesday, the presidency announced, two weeks after a public standards watchdog said he had violated the constitution by lying under oath in court. Gigaba, a close ally of ousted former president Jacob Zuma, had recently vowed not to step down after also being caught up in a leaked sex tape scandal. A statement from President Cyril Ramaphosa's office announced that Gigaba said he had resigned "to relieve the President from undue pressure" and to allow Ramaphosa to focus on saving the country from "economic meltdown". Gigaba, 47, was once seen as rising star of the ANC ruling party, leading the party's youth wing and being quickly promoted into the ministerial ranks. But he became entangled in graft allegations during Zuma's time in office. Gigaba's exit removes a key Zuma loyalist from the government led since February by Ramaphosa, who has vowed to root out the corruption reputed to have flourished under Zuma. Gigaba was reprimanded last month by the public protector ombudswoman after he testified in a 2017 court case filed by a company controlled by the wealthy Oppenheimer family. Ombudswoman Busisiwe Mkhwebane recommended that Ramaphosa take disciplinary action against the minister for "telling an untruth under oath and before a court of law". Zuma ally The allegations were probed after a complaint from the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) party. The court case hinged on whether Gigaba had given the Oppenheimers approval to have a private terminal at Johannesburg airport. Gigaba has also said he was recently the target of extortion attempts after a private sex video was stolen by hacking. Gigaba served as finance minister for a year under Zuma, who was ousted as president by the ANC party in February over mounting graft scandals. When Ramaphosa succeeded Zuma, he moved Gigaba to the home affairs ministry. Gigaba has been linked to corruption allegations against the wealthy Gupta family, who are suspected of benefitting from unfair and hugely lucrative government contracts under Zuma. A judicial inquiry, which opened in August, is investigating allegations that Zuma and the Guptas organised a web of corrupt deals at government departments and public enterprises in a scandal known as "state capture". All the accused deny any wrongdoing. South Africa, Africa's most advanced economy, slipped into recession in the second quarter of this year, and suffers a stubbornly high unemployment of about 28 percent. The country will hold general elections in May. Nhlanhla Nene resigned as finance minister last month over undisclosed meetings with the Guptas.

South Africa home minister resigns after watchdog ruling

Union Minister Rajanath Singh on Monday noted that state governments have been directed to identify Rohingyas and carry out biometrics, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The state governments will also need to submit a report with the Centre on the same after which the government will take appropriate measures with the government of Myanmar to get the issue resolved, Singh further added.&nbsp;

"States have been told to identify them (Rohingyas). They have to take their biometrics also. After that, they'll send a report to the Centre. Then the Central government will initiate action through diplomatic channels with Myanmar and we will get it resolved," the Home Minister stated.&nbsp;

The comments came during Singh's visit to Kolkata to chair the 23rd meeting of the Eastern Zonal Council.

The meeting was also attended by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, her Jharkhand counterpart Raghubar Das and Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi.

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States have been told to identify them (Rohingyas). They have to take their biometrics also. After that they'll send report to the Centre. Then Central govt will initiate action through diplomatic channels with Myanmar&amp;then we will get it resolved: HM Rajnath Singh on Rohingyas <a href="https://t.co/BDIR5jFZIr">pic.twitter.com/BDIR5jFZIr</a>
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Singh's statement comes a day after the Railway Protection Force (RPF) alerted the Kerala authorities to watch out for the movement of Rohingya refugees in groups to Kerala and hand them over to police if they are found travelling on trains, ANI reported.&nbsp;

More than 650,000 Rohingya Muslims fled Myanmar's Rakhine state in August 2017 after Myanmar's army launched a massive crackdown in its northern state. India and Bangladesh are known to have given shelter to a large number of Rohingya refugees.&nbsp;

In June, the Home Ministry wrote a letter to the Jammu and Kashmir government, saying, "Such illegal migrations poses serious challenges and has security implications since some of the migrants have been found to have indulged in illegal activities and are vulnerable to radicalisation."&nbsp;

Union Minister Rajanath Singh on Monday noted that state governments have been directed to identify Rohingyas and carry out biometrics, news agency ANI reported.

Union Minister Rajanath Singh on Monday noted that state governments have been directed to identify Rohingyas and carry out biometrics, news agency ANI reported. The state governments will also need to submit a report with the Centre on the same after which the government will take appropriate measures with the government of Myanmar to get the issue resolved, Singh further added. "States have been told to identify them (Rohingyas). They have to take their biometrics also. After that, they'll send a report to the Centre. Then the Central government will initiate action through diplomatic channels with Myanmar and we will get it resolved," the Home Minister stated. The comments came during Singh's visit to Kolkata to chair the 23rd meeting of the Eastern Zonal Council. The meeting was also attended by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, her Jharkhand counterpart Raghubar Das and Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi. States have been told to identify them (Rohingyas). They have to take their biometrics also. After that they'll send report to the Centre. Then Central govt will initiate action through diplomatic channels with Myanmar&then we will get it resolved: HM Rajnath Singh on Rohingyas pic.twitter.com/BDIR5jFZIr — ANI (@ANI) October 1, 2018 × Singh's statement comes a day after the Railway Protection Force (RPF) alerted the Kerala authorities to watch out for the movement of Rohingya refugees in groups to Kerala and hand them over to police if they are found travelling on trains, ANI reported. More than 650,000 Rohingya Muslims fled Myanmar's Rakhine state in August 2017 after Myanmar's army launched a massive crackdown in its northern state. India and Bangladesh are known to have given shelter to a large number of Rohingya refugees. In June, the Home Ministry wrote a letter to the Jammu and Kashmir government, saying, "Such illegal migrations poses serious challenges and has security implications since some of the migrants have been found to have indulged in illegal activities and are vulnerable to radicalisation."

Rajnath Singh asks state governments to identify Rohingyas, collect biometric data

Home Minister Rajnath Singh has said that radicalisation of the populace, particularly youths, is one of the most challenging problems the world is facing currently.

Addressing the fourth counter-terrorism conference - &#39;Changing Contours of Global Terror&#39; - here yesterday, Singh, without taking Pakistan&#39;s name, said that some countries are providing sponsorship and safe havens to terrorists and this has further played a major role in the phenomenal growth of terrorism globally.

&quot;Radicalisation of populace, particularly youths, is another trend and one of the most challenging problems being faced over the world.&quot;

&quot;Several countries in the world have identified the problem and have taken measures to check and control the process of radicalisation and I am happy to state that India has timely busted some modules that were planning to orchestrate terrorist attacks on her soil,&quot; he said.

The home minister said that providing sponsorship and safe havens have further played a major role in the phenomenal growth of global terrorism.

In addition, state support has granted terrorist groups access to resources, guidance and logistics, which would normally be beyond their capabilities, Singh said.

&quot;Any effort to counter the activities of terrorist groups carries the danger of placing the victim nation in direct confrontation with the host nation and its resources,&quot; he said.

Singh said in the recent years, the perception of global terrorism has undergone a massive makeover with the rise of armed terror groups especially in the Middle East, South Asia and Africa.

&quot;This phenomenon could be attributed to the diminishing control in the terror space of the Al-Qaeda leadership, which just a decade ago was the face of terrorism. The shift of AQ Network from the Middle East to South Asia is a phenomenon, which is of serious concern to India,&quot; he said.

The home minister said a new dimension of terrorism is the networking of terrorist groups with the criminal underworld including organised crime gangs, gunrunners, smugglers, drug peddlers, with hawala and parallel banking channels being used for global flows of finance.

&quot;It has enabled global terrorist groups to use the infrastructure and terrain knowledge of local outfits for launching attacks in countries, despite having no presence in the area,&quot; he said.

The home minister said the government has kept a keen watch on the growth of ISIS and their ways of using social media as a key tool for ideological indoctrination, recruitment and networking by targeting young generation and intellectual Muslims.

&quot;The potential threat posed by the ISIS are a large-scale radicalisation of Muslim youths throughout the world, the rise in &#39;lone-wolf&#39; and terror attacks by returnee foreign fighters to their home countries. The terror attacks in Australia and France are telling examples of such threat,&quot; he said.

Singh said ISIS propaganda has significantly altered jihadi discourse in India, which, so far, was rooted in grievances against the Indian state and society.

&quot;I am, however, happy that Indian social fabric has not been affected by the emergence of the Islamic State and I am sure this will not have any further impact in our country,&quot; he said.

The home minister said India has consistently taken steps to intensify and strengthen international cooperation through various means.

Terrorism, in all forms, including, Left Wing Extremism and Insurgency, poses a challenge on the sovereignty of India and the country already faces a serious challenge due to relentless efforts of Pakistan-sponsored anti-India Islamist groups like the LeT, JeM, HUJI and Hizbul Mujahideen, he said.

Singh said the emergence of India at the global level is also being challenged by the terrorist groups, due to its vibrant economy and plural character.

The home minister said that providing sponsorship and safe havens have further played a major role in the phenomenal growth of global terrorism

Home Minister Rajnath Singh has said that radicalisation of the populace, particularly youths, is one of the most challenging problems the world is facing currently. Addressing the fourth counter-terrorism conference - 'Changing Contours of Global Terror' - here yesterday, Singh, without taking Pakistan's name, said that some countries are providing sponsorship and safe havens to terrorists and this has further played a major role in the phenomenal growth of terrorism globally. "Radicalisation of populace, particularly youths, is another trend and one of the most challenging problems being faced over the world." "Several countries in the world have identified the problem and have taken measures to check and control the process of radicalisation and I am happy to state that India has timely busted some modules that were planning to orchestrate terrorist attacks on her soil," he said. The home minister said that providing sponsorship and safe havens have further played a major role in the phenomenal growth of global terrorism. In addition, state support has granted terrorist groups access to resources, guidance and logistics, which would normally be beyond their capabilities, Singh said. "Any effort to counter the activities of terrorist groups carries the danger of placing the victim nation in direct confrontation with the host nation and its resources," he said. Singh said in the recent years, the perception of global terrorism has undergone a massive makeover with the rise of armed terror groups especially in the Middle East, South Asia and Africa. "This phenomenon could be attributed to the diminishing control in the terror space of the Al-Qaeda leadership, which just a decade ago was the face of terrorism. The shift of AQ Network from the Middle East to South Asia is a phenomenon, which is of serious concern to India," he said. The home minister said a new dimension of terrorism is the networking of terrorist groups with the criminal underworld including organised crime gangs, gunrunners, smugglers, drug peddlers, with hawala and parallel banking channels being used for global flows of finance. "It has enabled global terrorist groups to use the infrastructure and terrain knowledge of local outfits for launching attacks in countries, despite having no presence in the area," he said. The home minister said the government has kept a keen watch on the growth of ISIS and their ways of using social media as a key tool for ideological indoctrination, recruitment and networking by targeting young generation and intellectual Muslims. "The potential threat posed by the ISIS are a large-scale radicalisation of Muslim youths throughout the world, the rise in 'lone-wolf' and terror attacks by returnee foreign fighters to their home countries. The terror attacks in Australia and France are telling examples of such threat," he said. Singh said ISIS propaganda has significantly altered jihadi discourse in India, which, so far, was rooted in grievances against the Indian state and society. "I am, however, happy that Indian social fabric has not been affected by the emergence of the Islamic State and I am sure this will not have any further impact in our country," he said. The home minister said India has consistently taken steps to intensify and strengthen international cooperation through various means. Terrorism, in all forms, including, Left Wing Extremism and Insurgency, poses a challenge on the sovereignty of India and the country already faces a serious challenge due to relentless efforts of Pakistan-sponsored anti-India Islamist groups like the LeT, JeM, HUJI and Hizbul Mujahideen, he said. Singh said the emergence of India at the global level is also being challenged by the terrorist groups, due to its vibrant economy and plural character.

Radicalisation of youth most challenging problem for world: Rajnath

Union home minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday announced fresh measures to be taken by the government of Jammu and Kashmir to restore normalcy and peace in the state.

Singh said the ministry of home affairs has given its approval to the state government to use an amnesty scheme that it announced on November 23 last year to give relief to 3,685 students and youth who were apprehended for participating in incidents of stone pelting against security forces.

He said this humanitarian step is aimed at giving students and youth another chance to rebuild their lives and careers without being under any kind of stress of being declared criminals.

The state government, the minister further said, has been advised to appoint a high-level committee to review the remaining cases of stone pelting. This committee would be headed by a senior police officer.

&quot;The MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs) is of the view that stone pelting cases of a non-grievous nature against the students/youth should be closed/withdrawn so that they get a chance to focus on their studies and pursue their careers without any psychological pressure,&quot; a statement issued from his office said.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has also been advised to formulate a new surrender and rehabilitation policy that will ensure economic rehabilitation and provide suitable training to the youth to run their own businesses, return to the mainstream and lead a dignified life.

The state government has also been advised by the Home Ministry to create an advisory board to redress grievances of migrants, displaced persons and West Pakistan refugees in the region. Steps will also be taken to repair and renovate old and dilapidated migrant camps at Jagati and Talwara.

It has also been decided to restart work on an artificial lake in Jammu.

Rajnath Singh said this humanitarian step is aimed at giving students and youth another chance to rebuild their lives and careers without being under any kind of stress of being declared criminals

Union home minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday announced fresh measures to be taken by the government of Jammu and Kashmir to restore normalcy and peace in the state. Singh said the ministry of home affairs has given its approval to the state government to use an amnesty scheme that it announced on November 23 last year to give relief to 3,685 students and youth who were apprehended for participating in incidents of stone pelting against security forces. He said this humanitarian step is aimed at giving students and youth another chance to rebuild their lives and careers without being under any kind of stress of being declared criminals. The state government, the minister further said, has been advised to appoint a high-level committee to review the remaining cases of stone pelting. This committee would be headed by a senior police officer. "The MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs) is of the view that stone pelting cases of a non-grievous nature against the students/youth should be closed/withdrawn so that they get a chance to focus on their studies and pursue their careers without any psychological pressure," a statement issued from his office said. The Jammu and Kashmir government has also been advised to formulate a new surrender and rehabilitation policy that will ensure economic rehabilitation and provide suitable training to the youth to run their own businesses, return to the mainstream and lead a dignified life. The state government has also been advised by the Home Ministry to create an advisory board to redress grievances of migrants, displaced persons and West Pakistan refugees in the region. Steps will also be taken to repair and renovate old and dilapidated migrant camps at Jagati and Talwara. It has also been decided to restart work on an artificial lake in Jammu.

Rajnath Singh announces seven measures to restore normalcy in J&K

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Monday announced that&nbsp;Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s much-awaited epic period drama Padmavat&nbsp;will not be released in the state.

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She said the decision was taken keeping in view the sentiments of the people.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a> CM Vasundhara Raje says <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavat</a> will not be released in the state, keeping in view the sentiments of the people. Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria has been instructed for the same. <a href="https://t.co/riBQZBkGDe">pic.twitter.com/riBQZBkGDe</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/950366918023593984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, state Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria had also confirmed the news. &nbsp;

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Following earlier orders of Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, movie &#39;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavat</a>&#39; will not be released in the state: Gulab Chand Kataria, Rajasthan Home Minister <a href="https://t.co/rDQVltZSeo">pic.twitter.com/rDQVltZSeo</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/950331406940426242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Deepika Padukone starrer was given a U/A certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification and is slated to hit theatres on January 25.

After months of uncertainty and violent protests by Rajput Karni Sena, the film&#39;s name was changed to &#39;Padmavat&#39; from &lsquo;Padmavati&rsquo;.

The group even objected to Deepika&#39;s dance in the song &#39;Ghoomar&#39;, saying the Rajput queens never danced in front of anyone.

Earlier, the film was scheduled for a December 1, 2017 release but was postponed after objections around the film took a political turn

With the new release date, Bhansali&#39;s film will clash with two other major Bollywood releases that weekend- Akshay Kumar&#39;s Padman and Manoj Bajpayee&#39;s Aiyaary.&nbsp;

The state Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria confirmed the news

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Monday announced that Sanjay Leela Bhansali's much-awaited epic period drama Padmavat will not be released in the state. She said the decision was taken keeping in view the sentiments of the people. #Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje says #Padmavat will not be released in the state, keeping in view the sentiments of the people. Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria has been instructed for the same. pic.twitter.com/riBQZBkGDe — ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2018 × Earlier, state Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria had also confirmed the news. Following earlier orders of Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, movie '#Padmavat' will not be released in the state: Gulab Chand Kataria, Rajasthan Home Minister pic.twitter.com/rDQVltZSeo — ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2018 × The Deepika Padukone starrer was given a U/A certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification and is slated to hit theatres on January 25. After months of uncertainty and violent protests by Rajput Karni Sena, the film's name was changed to 'Padmavat' from ‘Padmavati’. The group even objected to Deepika's dance in the song 'Ghoomar', saying the Rajput queens never danced in front of anyone. Earlier, the film was scheduled for a December 1, 2017 release but was postponed after objections around the film took a political turn With the new release date, Bhansali's film will clash with two other major Bollywood releases that weekend- Akshay Kumar's Padman and Manoj Bajpayee's Aiyaary.

Rajasthan CM says 'Padmavat' will not be released in state

In the wake of the Chittorgarh incident, where a group of Kashmiri students at a private university in Rajasthan were allegedly called terrorists and beaten up by the locals, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday appealed to all the states to ensure the safety of the Kashmiris.

&quot;Last evening I got to know that some Kashmiri youth have been mistreated. I appeal to all the Chief Ministers to ensure that no Kashmiri youth is mistreated in any part of the nation. Even they are part of India. No one can rubbish this truth that many people from Kashmir are contributing to India&#39;s safety and prosperity,&quot; Singh told ANI.

He said he has asked the Home Ministry to immediately circulate an advisory to all states in this regard.

&quot;The incident is extremely unfortunate and I condemn it. Strict action will be taken against anyone who mistreats any Kashmiri youth. I appeal to all the youth to consider them as their brother. They are citizens of our country and part of our family. The people should understand this reality,&quot; he added.

The group of Kashmiri students were allegedly beaten up by the locals as they were upset over soldiers being targeted by stone pelters in the strife-torn border state.

The assault is the latest incident of violence against Kashmiris studying at Chittorgarh&#39;s Mewar University, which has around 500 students from Jammu and Kashmir.

In March 2016, four Kashmiri students were beaten up over rumours of beef being cooked in the university hostel.

The following month, some Kashmiri students got into a scuffle with another group over India&#39;s loss to West Indies in the T20 cricket world cup. Sixteen Kashmiri students and a warden, also from Kashmir, were suspended by the university after the incident.

(ANI)

This comes after Kashmiri students at a private university in Rajasthan were allegedly called terrorists and beaten up by the locals

In the wake of the Chittorgarh incident, where a group of Kashmiri students at a private university in Rajasthan were allegedly called terrorists and beaten up by the locals, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday appealed to all the states to ensure the safety of the Kashmiris. "Last evening I got to know that some Kashmiri youth have been mistreated. I appeal to all the Chief Ministers to ensure that no Kashmiri youth is mistreated in any part of the nation. Even they are part of India. No one can rubbish this truth that many people from Kashmir are contributing to India's safety and prosperity," Singh told ANI. He said he has asked the Home Ministry to immediately circulate an advisory to all states in this regard. "The incident is extremely unfortunate and I condemn it. Strict action will be taken against anyone who mistreats any Kashmiri youth. I appeal to all the youth to consider them as their brother. They are citizens of our country and part of our family. The people should understand this reality," he added. The group of Kashmiri students were allegedly beaten up by the locals as they were upset over soldiers being targeted by stone pelters in the strife-torn border state. The assault is the latest incident of violence against Kashmiris studying at Chittorgarh's Mewar University, which has around 500 students from Jammu and Kashmir. In March 2016, four Kashmiri students were beaten up over rumours of beef being cooked in the university hostel. The following month, some Kashmiri students got into a scuffle with another group over India's loss to West Indies in the T20 cricket world cup. Sixteen Kashmiri students and a warden, also from Kashmir, were suspended by the university after the incident. (ANI)

India Home Minister appeals to all states to ensure safety of Kashmiris

Slamming Karnataka home minister G Parameshwara&#39;s remark that &quot;such incidents do happen on New Year&#39;s day and Christmas&quot;, women&#39;s activist Ranjana Kumari said on Tuesday that instead of assuring the public that such an incident would never again take place, the minister was instead blaming western culture.

It is disgraceful that the minister, who is supposed to take care of law and order, safety and security, is also blaming the incident on women&#39;s choice of clothes, said Kumari.

Parameshwara&#39;s remark came after women were assaulted on the streets of Bengaluru by gangs of men on New Year&#39;s eve,

&quot;He has failed in delivering the administration on the eve when he knew so many people will be there. His police didn&#39;t act and instead of punishing the police and of suspending them who were there for not acting...instead of really assuring the women of Karnataka which is a progressive state and instead of assuring that never ever such thing will happen... there he is finding excuses and covering his face by posing the curtain of the western culture. This is totally unacceptable,&quot; said Kumari.

Women&#39;s activist Saswati Ghosh from Kolkata told ANI it was horrifying that incidents like these were being reported from a state the nation considers &quot;civilised&quot;.

&quot;Reports say that the police deployment was not sufficient, which is really shocking. When they know that Christmas Eve will lead to various types of hooliganism..that is quite shocking that police was not vigilant to the extent they should have been. Now, when there is enough photographic evidence the police should take serious cognizance to the fact,&quot; she said.

Historian Ramachandra Guha tweeted, &quot;The Karnataka home minister drags his non performing government further into the muck. His statement on dress and molestation was despicable.&quot;

Kavita Krishnan, secretary of the All India Progressive Women&#39;s Association, also tweeted, &quot;Shame on Karnataka Home Min who blames &#39;western culture, dress&#39; for #Bangalore #NewYear mass molestation!&quot;

And Kiren Rijiju, minister of state for home, told ANI: &quot;Unfortunate. How &nbsp;can such incidents happen? Strict action must be taken.&quot;&nbsp;

Reacting to the molestations on MG Road and Brigade Road during the New Year eve celebrations, Parameshwara had said there were enough police personnel deployed in Bengaluru to ensure the&nbsp;safety of women and &quot;such incidents do happen on New Year&#39;s day and Christmas&quot;.

&quot;We had deployed 1,500 police personnel in the area for New Year&#39;s celebrations. Such incidents do happen on New Year day and on Christmas. We take a lot of precautions,&quot; Parmeshwara told ANI.

The incident of mass molestation reportedly occurred on December 31 midnight at Bengaluru&#39;s MG Road and Brigade Road.

A group of drunk hooligans gathered at the spot to celebrate New Year&#39;s eve.

Upon spotting young girls out for the&nbsp;celebration, the hooligans began passing lewd remarks against them.

(ANI)

The women were assaulted in Bengaluru on New Year's eve by gangs of men

Slamming Karnataka home minister G Parameshwara's remark that "such incidents do happen on New Year's day and Christmas", women's activist Ranjana Kumari said on Tuesday that instead of assuring the public that such an incident would never again take place, the minister was instead blaming western culture. It is disgraceful that the minister, who is supposed to take care of law and order, safety and security, is also blaming the incident on women's choice of clothes, said Kumari. Parameshwara's remark came after women were assaulted on the streets of Bengaluru by gangs of men on New Year's eve, "He has failed in delivering the administration on the eve when he knew so many people will be there. His police didn't act and instead of punishing the police and of suspending them who were there for not acting...instead of really assuring the women of Karnataka which is a progressive state and instead of assuring that never ever such thing will happen... there he is finding excuses and covering his face by posing the curtain of the western culture. This is totally unacceptable," said Kumari. Women's activist Saswati Ghosh from Kolkata told ANI it was horrifying that incidents like these were being reported from a state the nation considers "civilised". "Reports say that the police deployment was not sufficient, which is really shocking. When they know that Christmas Eve will lead to various types of hooliganism..that is quite shocking that police was not vigilant to the extent they should have been. Now, when there is enough photographic evidence the police should take serious cognizance to the fact," she said. Historian Ramachandra Guha tweeted, "The Karnataka home minister drags his non performing government further into the muck. His statement on dress and molestation was despicable." Kavita Krishnan, secretary of the All India Progressive Women's Association, also tweeted, "Shame on Karnataka Home Min who blames 'western culture, dress' for #Bangalore #NewYear mass molestation!" And Kiren Rijiju, minister of state for home, told ANI: "Unfortunate. How can such incidents happen? Strict action must be taken." Reacting to the molestations on MG Road and Brigade Road during the New Year eve celebrations, Parameshwara had said there were enough police personnel deployed in Bengaluru to ensure the safety of women and "such incidents do happen on New Year's day and Christmas". "We had deployed 1,500 police personnel in the area for New Year's celebrations. Such incidents do happen on New Year day and on Christmas. We take a lot of precautions," Parmeshwara told ANI. The incident of mass molestation reportedly occurred on December 31 midnight at Bengaluru's MG Road and Brigade Road. A group of drunk hooligans gathered at the spot to celebrate New Year's eve. Upon spotting young girls out for the celebration, the hooligans began passing lewd remarks against them. (ANI)

India: Fury after women are assaulted & minister says 'such incidents do happen'

With the Valley on the boil in the wake of violent clashes between locals and security forces refusing to simmer down, Indian home minister Rajnath Singh will undertake a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir today to take stock of the situation in the northern state. 
 
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, Rajnath Singh said that security forces were instructed to exercise maximum restraint while dealing with the protests in the Valley. 
 
He also said that an experts committee will review the use of pellet guns by security forces. 
 
&quot;It is not like pellet guns were not used in Kashmir in the past; they were, in fact, used in 2010 as well, and they are listed as non-lethal weapons. We will, however, form a committee of experts, which will tell us in two months the non-lethal alternatives to these guns,&quot; Rajnath said. 
 
Singh said he had spoken to chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, who said she would come to Delhi in the next two to three days to hold discussions. 
 
&quot;I told her that I myself would like to go there, stay in a guest house and meet people there,&quot; he said. 
 
The Union home minister said that all political parties have tried to work for the resolution of the Kashmir problem. 
 
&quot;The Kashmir issue needs to be dealt with collectively. Everyone needs to partake in the responsibility of making the situation better,&quot; Singh said. 
 
An all-party meeting convened by Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti was held in Srinagar on Thursday to review the situation in the valley and to find a way to solve the violence that has left around 44 people dead and thousands injured, after protests broke out in the valley following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Burhan Wani in an encounter with security forces on July 8. 
 
Meanwhile in Jammu and Kashmir, the curfew and restriction remain in force across Kashmir on 14th consecutive day in view of continuous shut down call by separatists and prevailing law and order situation. 
 
Deputy commissioner, Srinagar, Dr Farooq Lone said that the curfew will continue in Srinagar. 
 
In view, of separatists&#39; call to hold a peaceful protest after Friday congregational prayers, strict restriction on movement and assembly of people will remain in force across the Valley. 
 
The police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed in strength to maintain law and order. 
 
(ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Following violent clashes, Rajnath Singh is set to take stock of the current situation in the state

With the Valley on the boil in the wake of violent clashes between locals and security forces refusing to simmer down, Indian home minister Rajnath Singh will undertake a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir today to take stock of the situation in the northern state. Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, Rajnath Singh said that security forces were instructed to exercise maximum restraint while dealing with the protests in the Valley. He also said that an experts committee will review the use of pellet guns by security forces. "It is not like pellet guns were not used in Kashmir in the past; they were, in fact, used in 2010 as well, and they are listed as non-lethal weapons. We will, however, form a committee of experts, which will tell us in two months the non-lethal alternatives to these guns," Rajnath said. Singh said he had spoken to chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, who said she would come to Delhi in the next two to three days to hold discussions. "I told her that I myself would like to go there, stay in a guest house and meet people there," he said. The Union home minister said that all political parties have tried to work for the resolution of the Kashmir problem. "The Kashmir issue needs to be dealt with collectively. Everyone needs to partake in the responsibility of making the situation better," Singh said. An all-party meeting convened by Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti was held in Srinagar on Thursday to review the situation in the valley and to find a way to solve the violence that has left around 44 people dead and thousands injured, after protests broke out in the valley following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Burhan Wani in an encounter with security forces on July 8. Meanwhile in Jammu and Kashmir, the curfew and restriction remain in force across Kashmir on 14th consecutive day in view of continuous shut down call by separatists and prevailing law and order situation. Deputy commissioner, Srinagar, Dr Farooq Lone said that the curfew will continue in Srinagar. In view, of separatists' call to hold a peaceful protest after Friday congregational prayers, strict restriction on movement and assembly of people will remain in force across the Valley. The police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed in strength to maintain law and order. (ANI)

Indian home minister to embark on two-day visit to Kashmir

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