On August 5, by revoking the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) by Article 370, India scored a major victory against cross-border terrorism as well as separatism in the Valley. Hailed by many as a constitutional coup, the move paves the way to for the full integration of J&amp;K into the Union of India. This should have happened way back in 1947, after the signing of the instrument of accession on October 26. However, better late than never. Even if turning the former state into two union territories is unprecedented in the history of independent India, national interest as well as the good of the people of the region, is paramount.

Ladakh, which is also a separate Union Territory, will now have a much better chance to protect its unique religious and cultural heritage. The fragile Himalayan ecology of one of India’s most beautiful, rugged, and inaccessible parts must be preserved by regulating the pace and quantum of both development and access to the region. What is more the overt and covert Islamisation of the largely Buddhist area will also be checked. In a few more decades, the entire state, not just the Valley, faced the very real danger of not just being alienated, but lost to India, both culturally and politically. That most Indians understood this instinctively and emotionally even if not intellectually or rationally, is evident in the overwhelming public support for the government surgical strike on Article 370.

But what we might have perhaps failed fully to grasp is that though the constitutional battle has been won, the war over Kashmir is still being waged, but on other fronts. We have very carefully to monitor as well as manage the global narrative on Kashmir. This has been stacked, by and large, against India in the past. Both in the media and only marginally less so in international multilateral or bilateral fora, the United Nations (UN) being the key example of the former, as the United States is of the latter. Luckily, Pakistan has not made much headway in either so far. After getting US President Trump to offer to mediate, Pakistan’s Imran Khan had to eat humble pie after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi got Trump to retract. While US meddling, given their own troubles in Afghanistan, cannot be ruled out, India has managed to make its position loud and clear.

As to the UN, it has several platforms where Pakistan is likely to mount its Kashmir offensive. The latest skirmish, at the United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC), is only one instance. India came out on top. On Tuesday, Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, denounced Pakistan’s “state sponsored terrorism” and underscored India’s right to revoke J&amp;K’s special status. Highlighting Pakistan’s shoddy and shameful human rights record, she sarcastically questioned our neighbour right to point fingers at us when “trampling upon them [human rights] at will in their own country.” She accused Pakistan’s of pushing a “malicious political agenda under the garb of human rights.”

Projecting India as a law-abiding, sovereign power, Singh said, “These decisions were taken by our Parliament after a full debate that was televised and enjoyed widespread support. We wish to reiterate that this sovereign decision, like other legislations passed by Parliament, is entirely internal to India. No country can accept interference in its internal affairs, certainly not India.” On Wednesday, first secretary to India’s permanent mission at the UNHRC, Geneva, Vimarsh Aryan, followed up by exposing “Pakistan’s hysterical statements with false, fabricated narratives aimed to politicise and polarize this forum.” Himself from J&amp;K, Aryan excoriated Pakistan for being “the epicentre of global terrorism,” encouraging violence by calling for jihad in J&amp;K and elsewhere.&nbsp;

In addition to trying to foment trouble in the Valley and mounting international pressure on India, Pakistan will also encourage its friends and proxies in foreign media houses to push its case. The leading newspapers and TV channels, not to mention national broadcasters, have often fallen for its victimhood narratives. In India, too, the last vestiges of Lutyens Delhi will also scream day in and day out that things are not normal in Kashmir. But when were they normal, we might ask them. Normalcy is only now returning to the region with the anomalous 370 and 35A being altered. Both India and the world need to accept the new normal in Kashmir. For this the narrative and diplomatic war must supplement the battle-ready formations on the border and the internal law and order machinery in the new Union Territory. Coming back to the UNHRC, let’s be fully prepared for Imran Khan’s tirade on 27th September. &nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-kashmir-the-new-battlefront-2789583">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

On August 5, by revoking the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) by Article 370, India scored a major victory against cross-border terrorism as well as separatism in the Valley.

On August 5, by revoking the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) by Article 370, India scored a major victory against cross-border terrorism as well as separatism in the Valley. Hailed by many as a constitutional coup, the move paves the way to for the full integration of J&K into the Union of India. This should have happened way back in 1947, after the signing of the instrument of accession on October 26. However, better late than never. Even if turning the former state into two union territories is unprecedented in the history of independent India, national interest as well as the good of the people of the region, is paramount. Ladakh, which is also a separate Union Territory, will now have a much better chance to protect its unique religious and cultural heritage. The fragile Himalayan ecology of one of India’s most beautiful, rugged, and inaccessible parts must be preserved by regulating the pace and quantum of both development and access to the region. What is more the overt and covert Islamisation of the largely Buddhist area will also be checked. In a few more decades, the entire state, not just the Valley, faced the very real danger of not just being alienated, but lost to India, both culturally and politically. That most Indians understood this instinctively and emotionally even if not intellectually or rationally, is evident in the overwhelming public support for the government surgical strike on Article 370. But what we might have perhaps failed fully to grasp is that though the constitutional battle has been won, the war over Kashmir is still being waged, but on other fronts. We have very carefully to monitor as well as manage the global narrative on Kashmir. This has been stacked, by and large, against India in the past. Both in the media and only marginally less so in international multilateral or bilateral fora, the United Nations (UN) being the key example of the former, as the United States is of the latter. Luckily, Pakistan has not made much headway in either so far. After getting US President Trump to offer to mediate, Pakistan’s Imran Khan had to eat humble pie after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi got Trump to retract. While US meddling, given their own troubles in Afghanistan, cannot be ruled out, India has managed to make its position loud and clear. As to the UN, it has several platforms where Pakistan is likely to mount its Kashmir offensive. The latest skirmish, at the United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC), is only one instance. India came out on top. On Tuesday, Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, denounced Pakistan’s “state sponsored terrorism” and underscored India’s right to revoke J&K’s special status. Highlighting Pakistan’s shoddy and shameful human rights record, she sarcastically questioned our neighbour right to point fingers at us when “trampling upon them [human rights] at will in their own country.” She accused Pakistan’s of pushing a “malicious political agenda under the garb of human rights.” Projecting India as a law-abiding, sovereign power, Singh said, “These decisions were taken by our Parliament after a full debate that was televised and enjoyed widespread support. We wish to reiterate that this sovereign decision, like other legislations passed by Parliament, is entirely internal to India. No country can accept interference in its internal affairs, certainly not India.” On Wednesday, first secretary to India’s permanent mission at the UNHRC, Geneva, Vimarsh Aryan, followed up by exposing “Pakistan’s hysterical statements with false, fabricated narratives aimed to politicise and polarize this forum.” Himself from J&K, Aryan excoriated Pakistan for being “the epicentre of global terrorism,” encouraging violence by calling for jihad in J&K and elsewhere. In addition to trying to foment trouble in the Valley and mounting international pressure on India, Pakistan will also encourage its friends and proxies in foreign media houses to push its case. The leading newspapers and TV channels, not to mention national broadcasters, have often fallen for its victimhood narratives. In India, too, the last vestiges of Lutyens Delhi will also scream day in and day out that things are not normal in Kashmir. But when were they normal, we might ask them. Normalcy is only now returning to the region with the anomalous 370 and 35A being altered. Both India and the world need to accept the new normal in Kashmir. For this the narrative and diplomatic war must supplement the battle-ready formations on the border and the internal law and order machinery in the new Union Territory. Coming back to the UNHRC, let’s be fully prepared for Imran Khan’s tirade on 27th September. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Kashmir: The New Battlefront

Top Sri Lankan Cricketers Pull Out Of Pakistan Tour Even As Former PCB Chief Takes A Dig At Imran Khan

Gravitas: Even Cricket is in crisis in Pakistan!

As Pakistan government is planning to take over the control of administrative affairs of Karachi, it has received fierce opposition from social media users across the country with people calling for a separate nation for Sindhis.

As the reports surfaced that the government is planning to invoke Article 149 in Karachi, hashtags such as #SindhRejectsKarachiCommittee" and "#UnitedSindhUnitedPakistan" became top Twitter trends in Pakistan.

Apart from the common public, several politicians, writers, and civil society activists have also condemned the federal government's plan to invoke Article 149.

This all began when Law Minister Farogh Naseem said that the centre is considering taking over the administrative affairs of Karachi by enforcing a constitutional clause.

"After getting approval of the cabinet the provision will be exercised and in case of any resistance shown by the provincial government we will approach the Supreme Court under Article 184 (1) of the Constitution to seek a directive in this regard and if the province still shows reluctance we will file a contempt petition in the SC," Dawn quoted Naseem as saying.

The opposition reacted immediately and pointed out the government's hysterical nature.

Pakistan People's Party Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the government is trying to build a narrative against India meanwhile doing the same in Karachi 
"You try to build a narrative against [Indian Prime Minister Narendra] Modi, saying that he unconstitutionally captured Kashmir, and at the same time you try to occupy Karachi. This is bizarre," Bilawal said in his press conference.

Meanwhile, Twitterati has termed the government plan a"dirty tactic" to divert public opinion from the core issues.

"Mangi sb! #Article149 is just a dirty tactic to divert public opinion on other core issues. But remember Karachi is going to be an 'albatross around IK's neck','' said a user Zakir Darban.

Few have also called for a free country for Sindhis--Sindhudesh.

"Sindhis of Pakistan should start demanding #Sindhudesh ... a free country from Pakistan if there is even the slightest threat of Karachi being separated from #Sindh #SindhIsOne #SindhRejectsKarachiCommittee #Article149," tweeted a user.

"Karachi is a part of Sindh If anyone tries to divide Sindh We will divide Pakistan into 4 parts," tweeted another user.

"And it is #Karachi that gives you parasites free money.#Article149," tweeted another user.

"I like how PTI manages to give lollipop to Karachiites after every one month or so #Article149 #KarachiIsSindh," tweeted Abdul Hasseb Khashklei.

Twitter users have also accused the government of gaining complete control over Karachi because of it being an economic hub.

"National security state strikes. #Article149 Army wants the golden goose Karachi to lay eggs for them. #AnnexKarachi for that. Without Karachi's finances, there is no Pakistan, no Army. One Unit, Martial Law and now #Article149 @BBhuttoZardari @BakhtawarBZ @AseefaBZ RIP Karachi," TeenJay tweeted.

"Yes things aren't good in Karachi but they are also not that good in other parts of Sindh. Strangely no concern from Fed Govt for citizens living there. Also not convinced about overstretching #Article149 to handover Karachi to those who are quickly making a mess of Punjab and KP," said another twitterati.

As Pakistan government is planning to take over the control of administrative affairs of Karachi, it has received fierce opposition from social media users across the country with people calling for a separate nation for Sindhis.

As Pakistan government is planning to take over the control of administrative affairs of Karachi, it has received fierce opposition from social media users across the country with people calling for a separate nation for Sindhis. As the reports surfaced that the government is planning to invoke Article 149 in Karachi, hashtags such as #SindhRejectsKarachiCommittee" and "#UnitedSindhUnitedPakistan" became top Twitter trends in Pakistan. Apart from the common public, several politicians, writers, and civil society activists have also condemned the federal government's plan to invoke Article 149. This all began when Law Minister Farogh Naseem said that the centre is considering taking over the administrative affairs of Karachi by enforcing a constitutional clause. "After getting approval of the cabinet the provision will be exercised and in case of any resistance shown by the provincial government we will approach the Supreme Court under Article 184 (1) of the Constitution to seek a directive in this regard and if the province still shows reluctance we will file a contempt petition in the SC," Dawn quoted Naseem as saying. The opposition reacted immediately and pointed out the government's hysterical nature. Pakistan People's Party Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the government is trying to build a narrative against India meanwhile doing the same in Karachi "You try to build a narrative against [Indian Prime Minister Narendra] Modi, saying that he unconstitutionally captured Kashmir, and at the same time you try to occupy Karachi. This is bizarre," Bilawal said in his press conference. Meanwhile, Twitterati has termed the government plan a"dirty tactic" to divert public opinion from the core issues. "Mangi sb! #Article149 is just a dirty tactic to divert public opinion on other core issues. But remember Karachi is going to be an 'albatross around IK's neck','' said a user Zakir Darban. Few have also called for a free country for Sindhis--Sindhudesh. "Sindhis of Pakistan should start demanding #Sindhudesh ... a free country from Pakistan if there is even the slightest threat of Karachi being separated from #Sindh #SindhIsOne #SindhRejectsKarachiCommittee #Article149," tweeted a user. "Karachi is a part of Sindh If anyone tries to divide Sindh We will divide Pakistan into 4 parts," tweeted another user. "And it is #Karachi that gives you parasites free money.#Article149," tweeted another user. "I like how PTI manages to give lollipop to Karachiites after every one month or so #Article149 #KarachiIsSindh," tweeted Abdul Hasseb Khashklei. Twitter users have also accused the government of gaining complete control over Karachi because of it being an economic hub. "National security state strikes. #Article149 Army wants the golden goose Karachi to lay eggs for them. #AnnexKarachi for that. Without Karachi's finances, there is no Pakistan, no Army. One Unit, Martial Law and now #Article149 @BBhuttoZardari @BakhtawarBZ @AseefaBZ RIP Karachi," TeenJay tweeted. "Yes things aren't good in Karachi but they are also not that good in other parts of Sindh. Strangely no concern from Fed Govt for citizens living there. Also not convinced about overstretching #Article149 to handover Karachi to those who are quickly making a mess of Punjab and KP," said another twitterati.

Pakistan's plan for federal control over Karachi faces backlash, netizens demand separate nation for Sindhis

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will have two meetings with President Donald Trump during his US visit later this month.

Khan will arrive in New York on September 21 to attend the 74th session of the UN General Assembly.

He will address the session on September 27, The News International reported.

According to the report, the prime minister will have the first meeting with the US President at a luncheon and another at high-tea.

He will also be holding talks with world leaders on Kashmir, an issued that Islamabad has been desperately trying to internationalise but to no avail.

This would be his second visit to the US. Previously in July, Khan held a one-on-one meeting with Trump during which the president had offered to mediate between Pakistan and India on the Kashmir.

During the July visit, Khan had revealed that his country still has about 30,000 to 40,000 militants "who have been trained and fought in some part of Afghanistan or Kashmir."

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will have two meetings with President Donald Trump during his US visit later this month. Khan will arrive in New York on September 21 to attend the 74th session of the UN General Assembly.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will have two meetings with President Donald Trump during his US visit later this month. Khan will arrive in New York on September 21 to attend the 74th session of the UN General Assembly. He will address the session on September 27, The News International reported. According to the report, the prime minister will have the first meeting with the US President at a luncheon and another at high-tea. He will also be holding talks with world leaders on Kashmir, an issued that Islamabad has been desperately trying to internationalise but to no avail. This would be his second visit to the US. Previously in July, Khan held a one-on-one meeting with Trump during which the president had offered to mediate between Pakistan and India on the Kashmir. During the July visit, Khan had revealed that his country still has about 30,000 to 40,000 militants "who have been trained and fought in some part of Afghanistan or Kashmir."

Pakistan PM Imran Khan to meet US President Donald Trump twice during US visit

Pakistan`s trade deficit shrank by nearly 38 per cent in the first two months of the current fiscal year, driven largely by a decline in imports of non-essential luxury items.

The constant decline in the trade deficit showed that imports have also plummeted despite a meager growth in exports.

Provisional trade figures available with Dawn showed that the trade deficit dipped to $3.973 billion in July-August from $6.37 billion over the corresponding months last year, reflecting a decline of 37.62 per cent.

The government has set a target to bring down the annual trade gap to $27.476 billion by June 2020. During the last fiscal year, the country`s trade deficit narrowed to $31.82 billion, registering a decline of 15.33 per cent.

The decline came on the back of the government`s interventions to arrest the rising import bill even though export proceeds posted a mixed trend during the same period. 
Imports have remained well above the $3 billion dollar mark since October 2016 and have risen consistently over the period peaking at $5.8 billion in May 2018.

The incumbent government has taken several measures to curtail the rising import bill since coming to power in August 2018.

Meanwhile, the country`s merchandise exports grew by 8 per cent to $3.686 billion in July and August, from $3.41 billion during the same period last year.

The numbers are massively discouraging, as exports, which should have grown over the last few months owing to multiple currency depreciation, have failed to pick up.

The growth in export proceeds during July was encouraging as it grew by 15.65 per cent on a year-on-year basis.

&nbsp;However, exports during August grew by a scanty 1.12 per cent to $1.792 billion as against $1.772 billion over the corresponding month last year. Cumulative exports during the ongoing fiscal year are likely to reach $26.187 billion, up from $24.656 billion in the financial year 2019.

The government has already reduced the cost of raw materials and semi-finished products used in exportable products by exempting them from all customs duties. In a bid to secure its plunging economy, Pakistan has been desperately trying to garner more investments and bailout packages from various entities.

The huge debt pile-up, however, would gradually force a slowdown in new projects that may push the country into a deeper economic crisis.

The International Monetary Fund has decided to send its team this month for suggesting ways and means to curtail the yawning budget deficit being faced by cash-strapped Pakistan.

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-decades-of-afghan-conflict-imran-khan-regrets-paks-participation-in-americas-war-on-terror-249330">Imran Khan</a>, who was elected on an anti-corruption plank and a pledge to end austerity measures, had vowed to improve the depleting economic situation of the cash-strapped country.

In fact, the opposite has happened. In reality, prices of gas and oil products and electricity in Pakistan have risen considerably, burning a hole in the common man`s pocket.

Pakistan`s trade deficit shrank by nearly 38 per cent in the first two months of the current fiscal year, driven largely by a decline in imports of non-essential luxury items.

Pakistan`s trade deficit shrank by nearly 38 per cent in the first two months of the current fiscal year, driven largely by a decline in imports of non-essential luxury items. The constant decline in the trade deficit showed that imports have also plummeted despite a meager growth in exports. Provisional trade figures available with Dawn showed that the trade deficit dipped to $3.973 billion in July-August from $6.37 billion over the corresponding months last year, reflecting a decline of 37.62 per cent. The government has set a target to bring down the annual trade gap to $27.476 billion by June 2020. During the last fiscal year, the country`s trade deficit narrowed to $31.82 billion, registering a decline of 15.33 per cent. The decline came on the back of the government`s interventions to arrest the rising import bill even though export proceeds posted a mixed trend during the same period. Imports have remained well above the $3 billion dollar mark since October 2016 and have risen consistently over the period peaking at $5.8 billion in May 2018. The incumbent government has taken several measures to curtail the rising import bill since coming to power in August 2018. Meanwhile, the country`s merchandise exports grew by 8 per cent to $3.686 billion in July and August, from $3.41 billion during the same period last year. The numbers are massively discouraging, as exports, which should have grown over the last few months owing to multiple currency depreciation, have failed to pick up. The growth in export proceeds during July was encouraging as it grew by 15.65 per cent on a year-on-year basis. However, exports during August grew by a scanty 1.12 per cent to $1.792 billion as against $1.772 billion over the corresponding month last year. Cumulative exports during the ongoing fiscal year are likely to reach $26.187 billion, up from $24.656 billion in the financial year 2019. The government has already reduced the cost of raw materials and semi-finished products used in exportable products by exempting them from all customs duties. In a bid to secure its plunging economy, Pakistan has been desperately trying to garner more investments and bailout packages from various entities. The huge debt pile-up, however, would gradually force a slowdown in new projects that may push the country into a deeper economic crisis. The International Monetary Fund has decided to send its team this month for suggesting ways and means to curtail the yawning budget deficit being faced by cash-strapped Pakistan. Prime Minister Imran Khan, who was elected on an anti-corruption plank and a pledge to end austerity measures, had vowed to improve the depleting economic situation of the cash-strapped country. In fact, the opposite has happened. In reality, prices of gas and oil products and electricity in Pakistan have risen considerably, burning a hole in the common man`s pocket.

Pakistan's trade deficit falls by 38% in July-August

Pakistan should have taken a neutral stance instead of backing America's 'War on Terror'&nbsp;bid against the Soviet rule in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/any-peace-process-in-afghanistan-should-respect-political-mandate-india-249262">Afghanistan</a>, said Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-visits-loc-briefed-on-ongoing-situation-248248">Imran Khan</a> on Thursday.

American Marines have been fighting the war against Taliban in Afghanistan since the last two decades. In an exclusive interview to a Russian media house on Thursday, Khan said, "I strongly felt Pakistan should have been neutral because joining these groups turned against us."

"We lost 70,000 people. We lost over a hundred billion dollars to the economy. And in the end we were blamed for the Americans not succeeding in Afghanistan. I felt it was very unfair on Pakistan," the prime minister stressed. Khan's comments seem to be a face-saving measure ahead of the upcoming meeting of the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in October.

The watchdog is expected to submit its final evaluation report on Islamabad's action plan to curb terror financing next month.

Last month, the FATF's regional affiliate Asia-Pacific Group (APG) had put Pakistan in the enhanced expedited follow-up list, a category reserved for countries having major deficiencies in their anti-money-laundering and counter-financing of terrorism framework and implementation.

In his interview, Khan further admitted that the terror groups, which were born on the Pakistani soil and funded by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-panel-to-force-testimony-from-trumps-afghan-envoy-249297">America</a> to carry out 'jihad'&nbsp;in Afghanistan, have now turned against Pakistan.

Watch: Pakistan PM Imran Khan on failure of US-Taliban talks

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The prime minister stated that taking part in America's war against terrorism has lead to a loss of its own people as well as created a crisis in the economy, the repercussions of which can be felt now as the cash-strapped nation has requested numerous countries and global money lenders for bailout packages to support its plunging credit line.

In a similar admission yesterday, Pakistan's Interior minister Brig (R) Ijaz Ahmed Shah, during a talk show aired on national television, said that his country had spent billions of rupees on proscribed terror outfits operating on Pakistani soil.

Meanwhile, continuing the accusations over Pakistan joining the US-led global campaign against terrorism, the cricketer-turned-politician also said that Islamabad had been training the Mujahedeen fighters, who were "funded by the American CIA" to wage war against the Soviet Union in Afghanistan in the 1980s.

But as it was the US'&nbsp;turn to invade Afghanistan, "these groups turned against us," he stated.

"Participating in the war... (and I repeat)... I was against it because in 80s we were trading these Mujahedeen people to do jihad against the Soviets when they occupied Afghanistan. So these people were trained by Pakistan funded by the CIA. And now, decades later, the same groups who were all in Pakistan are supposed to say that now it's no longer jihad. It's terrorism. But it is not the case," he stated.

"It was a big contradiction."

"Well you see, had we not participated in the American war after 9/11, we would not have been the world's dangerous country," Khan said.

Earlier, during his maiden visit to the United States in July, Khan had made a similar revelation that his country still has about 30,000 to 40,000 militants "who have been trained and fought in some part of Afghanistan or Kashmir."

Khan had also said that before his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government came into power, the governments did not have the "political will" to disarm militant groups operating on their soil.

During a separate event, the Pakistani Prime Minister also said that they had 40 different militant groups operating within its borders.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan should have taken a neutral stance instead of backing America's 'War on Terror' bid against the Soviet rule in Afghanistan, said Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday.

Pakistan should have taken a neutral stance instead of backing America's 'War on Terror' bid against the Soviet rule in Afghanistan, said Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday. American Marines have been fighting the war against Taliban in Afghanistan since the last two decades. In an exclusive interview to a Russian media house on Thursday, Khan said, "I strongly felt Pakistan should have been neutral because joining these groups turned against us." "We lost 70,000 people. We lost over a hundred billion dollars to the economy. And in the end we were blamed for the Americans not succeeding in Afghanistan. I felt it was very unfair on Pakistan," the prime minister stressed. Khan's comments seem to be a face-saving measure ahead of the upcoming meeting of the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in October. The watchdog is expected to submit its final evaluation report on Islamabad's action plan to curb terror financing next month. Last month, the FATF's regional affiliate Asia-Pacific Group (APG) had put Pakistan in the enhanced expedited follow-up list, a category reserved for countries having major deficiencies in their anti-money-laundering and counter-financing of terrorism framework and implementation. In his interview, Khan further admitted that the terror groups, which were born on the Pakistani soil and funded by America to carry out 'jihad' in Afghanistan, have now turned against Pakistan. Watch: Pakistan PM Imran Khan on failure of US-Taliban talks × The prime minister stated that taking part in America's war against terrorism has lead to a loss of its own people as well as created a crisis in the economy, the repercussions of which can be felt now as the cash-strapped nation has requested numerous countries and global money lenders for bailout packages to support its plunging credit line. In a similar admission yesterday, Pakistan's Interior minister Brig (R) Ijaz Ahmed Shah, during a talk show aired on national television, said that his country had spent billions of rupees on proscribed terror outfits operating on Pakistani soil. Meanwhile, continuing the accusations over Pakistan joining the US-led global campaign against terrorism, the cricketer-turned-politician also said that Islamabad had been training the Mujahedeen fighters, who were "funded by the American CIA" to wage war against the Soviet Union in Afghanistan in the 1980s. But as it was the US' turn to invade Afghanistan, "these groups turned against us," he stated. "Participating in the war... (and I repeat)... I was against it because in 80s we were trading these Mujahedeen people to do jihad against the Soviets when they occupied Afghanistan. So these people were trained by Pakistan funded by the CIA. And now, decades later, the same groups who were all in Pakistan are supposed to say that now it's no longer jihad. It's terrorism. But it is not the case," he stated. "It was a big contradiction." "Well you see, had we not participated in the American war after 9/11, we would not have been the world's dangerous country," Khan said. Earlier, during his maiden visit to the United States in July, Khan had made a similar revelation that his country still has about 30,000 to 40,000 militants "who have been trained and fought in some part of Afghanistan or Kashmir." Khan had also said that before his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government came into power, the governments did not have the "political will" to disarm militant groups operating on their soil. During a separate event, the Pakistani Prime Minister also said that they had 40 different militant groups operating within its borders.

After decades of Afghan conflict, Imran Khan regrets Pak's participation in America's 'War on Terror'

Paksitan PM Imran Khan said that Pakistan cannot be blamed

U.S Blaming Pakistan for failed peace talks

In a bid to highlight religious persecution in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-un-envoy-meets-unga-president-discusses-kashmir-issue-245943">Pakistan</a>, a US-based Sindhi organisation is planning to hold a protest against abduction and forceful conversion of Hindu girls from the community during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-to-attend-united-nation-general-assembly-meet-in-september-235507">(UNGA) session</a> in New York on September 26.

Sindhi Foundation, which has frequently raised the issue of forced conversion of girls in Pakistan, will hold a demonstration under the banner of SaveSindhiGirl.

The body has noted that there is an escalation of forced conversion in the country.

Every year, around 1,000 young Sindhi Hindu girls between the age of 12 and 28 are abducted, forcibly married and converted to Islam.

Every month between 40 to 60 Sindhi girls are converted.

According to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-nations-intervention-sought-after-deteriorating-human-rights-situation-in-pakistani-province-206647">Pakistan's own human rights</a> commission from January 2004 to May 2018, there were 7,430 cases of such abductions of Sindhi girls in Pakistan.

The actual number is estimated to be much higher as most of the cases go unreported.

According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, families who report their daughters as missing are often ignored by the police and their First Information Report (FIR) is never submitted. Therefore, girls are left with their abductors, where they are often coerced into silence through threats or use of violence against them or their families.

During the UNGA meeting, Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to address the session.

The foundation has said that there is involvement of influential political leaders with links with the Army in the forced conversion of young girls. &nbsp;

Among them is one prominent name, Mian Mitho, a religious leader and politician, who has participated in countless conversions of young Sindhi girls.

He has close connections with both the Army and Imran Khan who have allowed him to do so without receiving any punishment for his actions.

Pakistan has been condemned internationally for cracking down on the minorities living in their countries.

Islamabad has also reportedly been discriminating against its religious minorities which is manifested in various forms of targeted violence, mass murders, extrajudicial killings, abduction, rapes, forced conversion to Islam, etc., making the Pakistani Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Ahmadiyyas, and Shias one of the most persecuted minorities in the region.

Last month, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada had raised the issue of suppression of religious freedom by China and Pakistan and slammed the two Asian nations for "persecuting and repressing" their religious minorities.

During the meet on Safety of Religious Minorities, the US, UK, and Canada expressed concerns over the increasing, widespread and undue restrictions on religious freedom in the two countries.

They also highlighted the discrimination suffered by the Uyghur community in China and of Christians, Ahmadis, Hindus and other minorities in Pakistan.

In a bid to highlight religious persecution in Pakistan, a US-based Sindhi organisation is planning to hold a protest against abduction and forceful conversion of Hindu girls from the community during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session in New York on September 26.

In a bid to highlight religious persecution in Pakistan, a US-based Sindhi organisation is planning to hold a protest against abduction and forceful conversion of Hindu girls from the community during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session in New York on September 26. Sindhi Foundation, which has frequently raised the issue of forced conversion of girls in Pakistan, will hold a demonstration under the banner of SaveSindhiGirl. The body has noted that there is an escalation of forced conversion in the country. Every year, around 1,000 young Sindhi Hindu girls between the age of 12 and 28 are abducted, forcibly married and converted to Islam. Every month between 40 to 60 Sindhi girls are converted. According to Pakistan's own human rights commission from January 2004 to May 2018, there were 7,430 cases of such abductions of Sindhi girls in Pakistan. The actual number is estimated to be much higher as most of the cases go unreported. According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, families who report their daughters as missing are often ignored by the police and their First Information Report (FIR) is never submitted. Therefore, girls are left with their abductors, where they are often coerced into silence through threats or use of violence against them or their families. During the UNGA meeting, Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to address the session. The foundation has said that there is involvement of influential political leaders with links with the Army in the forced conversion of young girls. Among them is one prominent name, Mian Mitho, a religious leader and politician, who has participated in countless conversions of young Sindhi girls. He has close connections with both the Army and Imran Khan who have allowed him to do so without receiving any punishment for his actions. Pakistan has been condemned internationally for cracking down on the minorities living in their countries. Islamabad has also reportedly been discriminating against its religious minorities which is manifested in various forms of targeted violence, mass murders, extrajudicial killings, abduction, rapes, forced conversion to Islam, etc., making the Pakistani Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Ahmadiyyas, and Shias one of the most persecuted minorities in the region. Last month, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada had raised the issue of suppression of religious freedom by China and Pakistan and slammed the two Asian nations for "persecuting and repressing" their religious minorities. During the meet on Safety of Religious Minorities, the US, UK, and Canada expressed concerns over the increasing, widespread and undue restrictions on religious freedom in the two countries. They also highlighted the discrimination suffered by the Uyghur community in China and of Christians, Ahmadis, Hindus and other minorities in Pakistan.

Sindhi Foundation to hold protest against forceful conversion of girls in Pakistan during UNGA

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-fate-hangs-in-balance-amid-crucial-fatf-review-meet-in-bangkok-today-248745">Pakistan</a> has spent billions of rupees on proscribed terror outfit Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD), admitted the country's interior minister on national television.

Brig (R) Ijaz Ahmed Shah said that the Imran Khan government has spent billions of Rupees on the terror outfit to attach them to the mainstream.

Speaking to journalist Nadeem Malik, during a talk show aired on a Pakistani private news channel Hum News, the minister said, "We have spent millions of rupees on JuD. We need to demotivate the members of the proscribed organisation and bring them down to the mainstream."

Earlier, during his maiden visit to the United States in July, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had made a similar revelation that his country still has about 30,000 to 40,000 militants "who have been trained and fought in some part of Afghanistan or Kashmir."

Khan had also said that before his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government came into power, the governments did not have the "political will" to disarm militant groups operating on their soil. During a separate event, the Pakistani Prime Minister also said that they had 40 different militant groups operating within its borders.

Minister Shah's comments seem to be a face-saving measure ahead of the upcoming meeting of the Paris-based <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-lobbies-for-support-ahead-of-fatf-plenary-action-248089">Financial Action Task Force</a>&nbsp;(FATF) in October.

The watchdog is expected to submit its final evaluation report on Islamabad's action plan to curb terror financing next month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-efforts-to-act-against-terror-groups-money-laundering-questioned-at-asia-pacific-group-meet-in-china-219422">Last month</a>, the FATF's regional affiliate Asia-Pacific Group (APG) had put Pakistan in the enhanced expedited follow-up list, a category reserved for countries having major deficiencies in their anti-money-laundering and counter-financing of terrorism framework and implementation.

In another major embarrassing admission during the talk show, the minister also stated that Islamabad has failed to get support from the international community over its stand on the Kashmir issue.

Shah, in his remarks, blamed Pakistan "ruling elite" including Khan for "destroying" the image of the country, a day after Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, during the 42nd UNHRC session in Geneva, claimed that India has transformed Jammu and Kashmir into the largest "caged prison in this planet" after the abrogation of Article 370 and that the human rights were being "trampled with impunity" there.

Pakistan has spent billions of rupees on proscribed terror outfit Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD), admitted the country's interior minister on national television. Brig (R) Ijaz Ahmed Shah said that the Imran Khan government has spent billions of Rupees on the terror outfit to attach them to the mainstream.

Pakistan has spent billions of rupees on proscribed terror outfit Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD), admitted the country's interior minister on national television. Brig (R) Ijaz Ahmed Shah said that the Imran Khan government has spent billions of Rupees on the terror outfit to attach them to the mainstream. Speaking to journalist Nadeem Malik, during a talk show aired on a Pakistani private news channel Hum News, the minister said, "We have spent millions of rupees on JuD. We need to demotivate the members of the proscribed organisation and bring them down to the mainstream." Earlier, during his maiden visit to the United States in July, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had made a similar revelation that his country still has about 30,000 to 40,000 militants "who have been trained and fought in some part of Afghanistan or Kashmir." Khan had also said that before his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government came into power, the governments did not have the "political will" to disarm militant groups operating on their soil. During a separate event, the Pakistani Prime Minister also said that they had 40 different militant groups operating within its borders. Minister Shah's comments seem to be a face-saving measure ahead of the upcoming meeting of the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in October. The watchdog is expected to submit its final evaluation report on Islamabad's action plan to curb terror financing next month. Last month, the FATF's regional affiliate Asia-Pacific Group (APG) had put Pakistan in the enhanced expedited follow-up list, a category reserved for countries having major deficiencies in their anti-money-laundering and counter-financing of terrorism framework and implementation. In another major embarrassing admission during the talk show, the minister also stated that Islamabad has failed to get support from the international community over its stand on the Kashmir issue. Shah, in his remarks, blamed Pakistan "ruling elite" including Khan for "destroying" the image of the country, a day after Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, during the 42nd UNHRC session in Geneva, claimed that India has transformed Jammu and Kashmir into the largest "caged prison in this planet" after the abrogation of Article 370 and that the human rights were being "trampled with impunity" there.

Pakistan has spent billions of rupees on JuD, admits its minister

Former Pakistan MLA Baldev Kumar Demands Asylum From India

Gravitas: Pakistan's record on minorities continues to embarrass it

The price of milk in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cash-strapped-pakistan-wooes-investors-with-belly-dancers-248426">Pakistan</a> escalated to around Rs 120 to Rs 140 per litre on Tuesday.

While the official price of milk set by the Karachi Commissioner is Rs 94 per litre, the prices swelled in the country owing to the rise in its demand on the occasion of Muharram.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-economic-crisis-countrys-debts-liabilities-exceed-the-size-of-its-gdp-245554">Pakistan economic crisis: Country's debts, liabilities exceed the size of its GDP</a>

According to several media reports, a litre of milk in Karachi and Sindh Province was priced between 120 to Rs 140 per litre.&nbsp;

The price of petrol and diesel in Pakistan is Rs 113 and Rs 91 per litre, respectively.

Pakistan's crippled economy is currently undergoing a tough time.

The annual fiscal deficit of Pakistan rose to the highest in the last three decades at 8.9 per cent for the financial year 2018-19. The fiscal deficit is a difference between the revenues and expenditures of the federal government.

The price of milk in Pakistan escalated to around Rs 120 to Rs 140 per litre on Tuesday. While the official price of milk set by the Karachi Commissioner is Rs 94 per litre, the prices swelled in the country owing to the rise in its demand on the occasion of Muharram.

The price of milk in Pakistan escalated to around Rs 120 to Rs 140 per litre on Tuesday. While the official price of milk set by the Karachi Commissioner is Rs 94 per litre, the prices swelled in the country owing to the rise in its demand on the occasion of Muharram. Also read: Pakistan economic crisis: Country's debts, liabilities exceed the size of its GDP According to several media reports, a litre of milk in Karachi and Sindh Province was priced between 120 to Rs 140 per litre. The price of petrol and diesel in Pakistan is Rs 113 and Rs 91 per litre, respectively. Pakistan's crippled economy is currently undergoing a tough time. The annual fiscal deficit of Pakistan rose to the highest in the last three decades at 8.9 per cent for the financial year 2018-19. The fiscal deficit is a difference between the revenues and expenditures of the federal government.

On Muharram, milk becomes costlier than petrol in Pakistan

Taking a strong stance against Islamabad using its consulate for anti-India activities, Iranian officials on 15th August forcibly removed banners from Pakistan's consulate in the northeastern city of Mashhad. The anti-India banners on so-called "Kashmir Solidarity day" were removed in the middle of the night from the walls of the Pakistani consulate by the local police.

Iran removes anti-India banners from Pakistan's consulate in Mashhad

Another Friday & Another Flop Show As Kashmir Hour Fails To Evoke Participation In Pakistan Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan wants his citizens to show solidarity with Kashmir. But his Kashmir hour has again turned into a disaster. This setback comes at a time when Pakistan economy is in doldrums. IMF is running out of patience. Instead of tackling the economic crisis, Imran Khan is busy dramatising the Kashmir issue. Palki summarises.

Gravitas: Kashmir hour 2.0: another flop show

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday visited the Line of Control (LoC) where he was briefed on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-ex-wife-reham-mocks-him-over-failed-kashmir-solidarity-call-248243">ongoing situation</a> at the border, amid tensions in the region.

Khan visited the LoC on the occasion of Defence and Martyrs Day.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Prime Minister was accompanied by Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Chairman of Special Committee on Kashmir Syed Fakhar Imam, The Dawn reported.

During their visit, Khan was "briefed on the ongoing situation at the LoC", according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR)."

The Prime Minister lauded the state of readiness and effective response to ceasefire violations by India," the statement claimed, adding that Pakistan would be ready to respond to what it called "Indian aggression or misadventure".

During the visit, Khan also interacted with troops and families of the deceased soldiers.

Pakistan is shocked by the Indian government's move to abrogate Article 370 which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

While the first week itself was a damp squib, barely drawing people despite desperate attempts made by the authorities in the country, no sign of the continuation of the shallow moment was witnessed this Friday.

The failure of the movement has left Pakistan red-faced, as it continues its pursuit of raking up the Kashmir issue in international forums.

The country has found itself completely isolated on the international front, after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by countries like Russia, France, and the US.

India also repeatedly maintained that its decision on Kashmir is strictly an internal matter and also advised Pakistan to accept the reality.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday visited the Line of Control (LoC) where he was briefed on the ongoing situation at the border, amid tensions in the region.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday visited the Line of Control (LoC) where he was briefed on the ongoing situation at the border, amid tensions in the region. Khan visited the LoC on the occasion of Defence and Martyrs Day. The Pakistan Prime Minister was accompanied by Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Chairman of Special Committee on Kashmir Syed Fakhar Imam, The Dawn reported. During their visit, Khan was "briefed on the ongoing situation at the LoC", according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR)." The Prime Minister lauded the state of readiness and effective response to ceasefire violations by India," the statement claimed, adding that Pakistan would be ready to respond to what it called "Indian aggression or misadventure". During the visit, Khan also interacted with troops and families of the deceased soldiers. Pakistan is shocked by the Indian government's move to abrogate Article 370 which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. While the first week itself was a damp squib, barely drawing people despite desperate attempts made by the authorities in the country, no sign of the continuation of the shallow moment was witnessed this Friday. The failure of the movement has left Pakistan red-faced, as it continues its pursuit of raking up the Kashmir issue in international forums. The country has found itself completely isolated on the international front, after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by countries like Russia, France, and the US. India also repeatedly maintained that its decision on Kashmir is strictly an internal matter and also advised Pakistan to accept the reality.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan visits LoC, briefed on ongoing situation

&nbsp;Pakistan will make the fullest possible response to India's actions in disputed Kashmir and the global community would be responsible for any "catastrophic" aftermath, Imran Khan, the prime minister of the Muslim-majority nation, said on Friday.

The rhetoric on the annual Defence Day remembrance of Pakistan's fighters in a 1965 war with India underscores rising tension between the nuclear-armed foes after New Delhi last month revoked the autonomy of its part of disputed Kashmir.

"I have informed the world that Pakistan does not want war, but at the same time, Pakistan cannot remain oblivious to the challenges posed to its security and integrity," Khan said in a statement on the website of state-run Radio Pakistan.

"We are prepared to give the enemy the fullest possible response. Failing, the world community will be responsible for the catastrophic aftermath," he added.

This week Khan had said war between the South Asian neighbours was a risk, but Pakistan would not act first.

Khan has led a vigorous international diplomatic campaign seeking the support of the United States, former colonial power Britain and others to press India over the Himalayan region, but his Hindu-majority neighbour has ruled out outside involvement.

Pakistan will never abandon Kashmir, army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa told a defence function in the city of Rawalpindi.

"We are ready to give sacrifice for our Kashmiri brothers, will fulfill our duty till last bullet, last soldiers and last breath," he said in a televised speech. "And we are prepared to go till any extent."

India flooded the Kashmir valley with troops, restricted movements and cut off communication as Prime Minister Narendra Modi withdrew special rights for Kashmir on Aug. 5.

Indian-controlled Kashmir lost its right to frame its own laws and non-residents were allowed to buy property there in changes the government said would drive development and pull the region into line with the rest of the nation.

The neighbours have fought two of their three wars over Kashmir.

Pakistan will make the fullest possible response to India's actions in disputed Kashmir and the global community would be responsible for any "catastrophic" aftermath, Imran Khan, the prime minister of the Muslim-majority nation, said on Friday.

Pakistan will make the fullest possible response to India's actions in disputed Kashmir and the global community would be responsible for any "catastrophic" aftermath, Imran Khan, the prime minister of the Muslim-majority nation, said on Friday. The rhetoric on the annual Defence Day remembrance of Pakistan's fighters in a 1965 war with India underscores rising tension between the nuclear-armed foes after New Delhi last month revoked the autonomy of its part of disputed Kashmir. "I have informed the world that Pakistan does not want war, but at the same time, Pakistan cannot remain oblivious to the challenges posed to its security and integrity," Khan said in a statement on the website of state-run Radio Pakistan. "We are prepared to give the enemy the fullest possible response. Failing, the world community will be responsible for the catastrophic aftermath," he added. This week Khan had said war between the South Asian neighbours was a risk, but Pakistan would not act first. Khan has led a vigorous international diplomatic campaign seeking the support of the United States, former colonial power Britain and others to press India over the Himalayan region, but his Hindu-majority neighbour has ruled out outside involvement. Pakistan will never abandon Kashmir, army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa told a defence function in the city of Rawalpindi. "We are ready to give sacrifice for our Kashmiri brothers, will fulfill our duty till last bullet, last soldiers and last breath," he said in a televised speech. "And we are prepared to go till any extent." India flooded the Kashmir valley with troops, restricted movements and cut off communication as Prime Minister Narendra Modi withdrew special rights for Kashmir on Aug. 5. Indian-controlled Kashmir lost its right to frame its own laws and non-residents were allowed to buy property there in changes the government said would drive development and pull the region into line with the rest of the nation. The neighbours have fought two of their three wars over Kashmir.

Pakistan vows 'fullest possible response' to India over Kashmir

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan ex-wife Reham Khan mocked and deemed former's so-called 'Kashmir solidarity hour'&nbsp;call as a 'failure'.

Reham posted a tweet in Urdu on Friday which roughly stated&nbsp;that those who pledged to stand by the Kashmiris for 30 minutes every Friday failed to comply with their promise.

In the aftermath of the Indian government's move to abrogate Article 370, Khan had announced that Pakistan would observe Kashmir Hour "every Friday."

While the first week itself was a damp squib, barely drawing people despite desperate attempts made by the authorities in the country, no sign of the continuation of the shallow moment was witnessed this Friday.

The failure of the movement left Pakistan red-faced, as it continues its pursuit of raking up the Kashmir issue in international forums.

The country has found itself completely isolated on the international front, after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by countries like Russia, France, and the US.

India also repeatedly maintained that its decision on Kashmir is strictly an internal matter and also advised Pakistan to accept the reality.

Instead of addressing pressing issues like struggling economy, rising inflation, and poverty, Pakistanis have been concentrating more on Kashmir, vowing to stand in "solidarity" with the Kashmiris till the region attains "freedom".

Apart from spewing venom against India, Pakistan has not learnt its lessons and continues its nefarious and diabolic propaganda by openly supporting 'jihad'&nbsp;against the neighbouring country, despite facing massive international pressure over tackling terrorism.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan ex-wife Reham Khan mocked and deemed former's so-called 'Kashmir solidarity hour' call as a 'failure'. Reham posted a tweet in Urdu on Friday which roughly stated that those who pledged to stand by the Kashmiris for 30 minutes every Friday failed to comply with their promise.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan ex-wife Reham Khan mocked and deemed former's so-called 'Kashmir solidarity hour' call as a 'failure'. Reham posted a tweet in Urdu on Friday which roughly stated that those who pledged to stand by the Kashmiris for 30 minutes every Friday failed to comply with their promise. In the aftermath of the Indian government's move to abrogate Article 370, Khan had announced that Pakistan would observe Kashmir Hour "every Friday." While the first week itself was a damp squib, barely drawing people despite desperate attempts made by the authorities in the country, no sign of the continuation of the shallow moment was witnessed this Friday. The failure of the movement left Pakistan red-faced, as it continues its pursuit of raking up the Kashmir issue in international forums. The country has found itself completely isolated on the international front, after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by countries like Russia, France, and the US. India also repeatedly maintained that its decision on Kashmir is strictly an internal matter and also advised Pakistan to accept the reality. Instead of addressing pressing issues like struggling economy, rising inflation, and poverty, Pakistanis have been concentrating more on Kashmir, vowing to stand in "solidarity" with the Kashmiris till the region attains "freedom". Apart from spewing venom against India, Pakistan has not learnt its lessons and continues its nefarious and diabolic propaganda by openly supporting 'jihad' against the neighbouring country, despite facing massive international pressure over tackling terrorism.

Imran Khan's ex-wife Reham mocks him over 'failed' Kashmir solidarity call

UAE asked Imran Khan's Pak to back off from Kashmir. UAE told Imran Khan to resolve Kashmir issue bilaterally with India and not make it Internation issue.

UAE asked Imran Khan's Pak to back off from Kashmir

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir will arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday to discuss regional developments with top Pakistani leadership, amid the ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad over the Kashmir issue.

During the one-day visit, Al-Jubeir will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, reported The Express Tribune.

The minister had earlier visited Pakistan in March as part of Riyadh's efforts to de-escalate tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad that had emerged in the aftermath of the airstrike conducted by Indian Air Force at Balakot.

The news of the Foreign Minister's visit came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan dialled Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370.

Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France.&nbsp;

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir will arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday to discuss regional developments with top Pakistani leadership, amid the ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad over the Kashmir issue.

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir will arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday to discuss regional developments with top Pakistani leadership, amid the ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad over the Kashmir issue. During the one-day visit, Al-Jubeir will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, reported The Express Tribune. The minister had earlier visited Pakistan in March as part of Riyadh's efforts to de-escalate tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad that had emerged in the aftermath of the airstrike conducted by Indian Air Force at Balakot. The news of the Foreign Minister's visit came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan dialled Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370. Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France.

Saudi Arabia Foreign Minister Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir to visit Pakistan today

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir will arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday to discuss regional developments with top Pakistani leadership, amid the ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad over the Kashmir issue. During the one-day visit, Al-Jubeir will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, reported The Express Tribune. The minister had earlier visited Pakistan in March as part of Riyadh`s efforts to de-escalate tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad that had emerged in the aftermath of the airstrike conducted by Indian Air Force at Balakot. The news of the Foreign Minister`s visit came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan dialled Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370. Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France.&nbsp;

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir will arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday to discuss regional developments with top Pakistani leadership, amid the ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad over the Kashmir issue. During the one-day visit, Al-Jubeir will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, reported The Express Tribune. The minister had earlier visited Pakistan in March as part of Riyadh`s efforts to de-escalate tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad that had emerged in the aftermath of the airstrike conducted by Indian Air Force at Balakot. The news of the Foreign Minister`s visit came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan dialled Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370. Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France.

Saudi Arabia Foreign Minister to visit Pakistan today

Forced Conversions The Norm In Imran Khan's Naya Pakistan

Gravitas: Minorities are not safe in Pakistan

One again Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan makes Pakistan look like a cavalier. Earlier Imran Khan threatened nuclear war in an article of the New York Times. Now he said in Pakistani Parliament that Pakistan won't use nuclear bomb first.

WION Dispatch: Another flip-flop by Imran Khan, ''Won't use nuclear bomb first''

Days after making a threat of using nuclear weapons against India,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-restores-partial-trade-with-india-bows-down-to-domestic-pressure-from-traders-247304"> Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> has made a U-turn. Khan said that Pakistan stands by 'no first use' doctrine when it comes to using nuclear weapons.

"We will never start the war. Both Pakistan and India are nuclear powers and if tension escalates the world will face danger," Khan said while addressing a gathering of the Sikh community at the Governor's House in Lahore.

It is the latest example of a flip-flop by Imran Khan, although the Pakistani foreign ministry spokesperson sought to put a spin on Khan's remarks by saying that his comments were taken out of context and that they did not represent a change in Pakistan's nuclear policy.

"PM was simply reiterating Pakistan's commitment to peace and the need for both nuclear states to demonstrate responsible behaviour," spokesman Mohammad Faisal said on his official Twitter account.

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Prime Minister’s comments on Pakistan’s approach towards conflict between two nuclear armed states are being taken out of context. While conflict should not take place between two nuclear states, there’s no change in Pakistan’s nuclear policy.
— Dr Mohammad Faisal (@ForeignOfficePk) <a href="https://twitter.com/ForeignOfficePk/status/1168588771081838596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan has resorted to nuclear blackmail every time it has been pushed to the wall.

And true to form, Pakistan has ratcheted up the nuclear rhetoric after recent Indian moves on Jammu and Kashmir. It starts right at the top - with Prime Minister Imran Khan.

In an article published by the New York Times newspaper of the United States, Khan said that if the world does nothing to stop the alleged Indian assault on Jammu and Kashmir and its people, two nuclear-armed states will get ever closer to a direct military confrontation.

Khan is not alone - some of his cabinet ministers have been equally indiscreet.

Sheikh Rashid, Pakistan's minister of railways, boasts of Pakistan having small nukes.

Imran Khan's nuclear bombast is the latest in a series of embarrassing moves by Pakistan. He gave the call for a so-called "Kashmir solidarity hour" to be observed every Friday at noon local time.

But if the response to his call was anything to go by, last Friday's "Kashmir solidarity hour" proved to be a damp squib.

Days after making a threat of using nuclear weapons against India, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has made a U-turn. Khan said that Pakistan stands by 'no first use' doctrine when it comes to using nuclear weapons.

Days after making a threat of using nuclear weapons against India, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has made a U-turn. Khan said that Pakistan stands by 'no first use' doctrine when it comes to using nuclear weapons. "We will never start the war. Both Pakistan and India are nuclear powers and if tension escalates the world will face danger," Khan said while addressing a gathering of the Sikh community at the Governor's House in Lahore. It is the latest example of a flip-flop by Imran Khan, although the Pakistani foreign ministry spokesperson sought to put a spin on Khan's remarks by saying that his comments were taken out of context and that they did not represent a change in Pakistan's nuclear policy. "PM was simply reiterating Pakistan's commitment to peace and the need for both nuclear states to demonstrate responsible behaviour," spokesman Mohammad Faisal said on his official Twitter account. Prime Minister’s comments on Pakistan’s approach towards conflict between two nuclear armed states are being taken out of context. While conflict should not take place between two nuclear states, there’s no change in Pakistan’s nuclear policy. — Dr Mohammad Faisal (@ForeignOfficePk) September 2, 2019 × Pakistan has resorted to nuclear blackmail every time it has been pushed to the wall. And true to form, Pakistan has ratcheted up the nuclear rhetoric after recent Indian moves on Jammu and Kashmir. It starts right at the top - with Prime Minister Imran Khan. In an article published by the New York Times newspaper of the United States, Khan said that if the world does nothing to stop the alleged Indian assault on Jammu and Kashmir and its people, two nuclear-armed states will get ever closer to a direct military confrontation. Khan is not alone - some of his cabinet ministers have been equally indiscreet. Sheikh Rashid, Pakistan's minister of railways, boasts of Pakistan having small nukes. Imran Khan's nuclear bombast is the latest in a series of embarrassing moves by Pakistan. He gave the call for a so-called "Kashmir solidarity hour" to be observed every Friday at noon local time. But if the response to his call was anything to go by, last Friday's "Kashmir solidarity hour" proved to be a damp squib.

Imran Khan makes U-turn, says Pakistan would not use nuclear weapons first

Former US Ambassador to India has slammed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-saudi-crown-prince-discuss-kashmir-issue-third-time-246030">Pakistani prime minister</a> Imran khan for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/pakistan-trying-hard-to-spread-false-narratives-on-jammu-and-kashmir-246411">increasing the volatility in the region</a>.

Former envoy Tim Roemer's comments came after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-calls-us-president-donald-trump-to-discuss-kashmir-243492">Imran Khan </a>wrote an opinion piece in a US Newspaper.

Khan accused India of not wanting to have a dialogue for peace.

He threatened that there would be severe consequences for the whole world over Kashmir, especially if a nuclear war takes place.

In a tweet, Roemer tagged Imran's opinion piece and said that the US Should continue to back India.

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Pakistan PM Imran Khan hypes the Kashmir situation, personally attacks PM Modi, and increases the volatility in the region. US policy should remain steady toward strategic relations with India, emphasize CT cooperation, and push Pakistan for real results. <a href="https://t.co/VeAG7PepFJ">https://t.co/VeAG7PepFJ</a>
— Tim Roemer (@Tim_Roemer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tim_Roemer/status/1167851401231441920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Roemer said that Pakistan PM Imran Khan hypes the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-reorganisation-bill-passed-in-rajya-sabha-with-125-members-in-favour-240893">Kashmir situation</a>, personally attacks PM Modi, and increases the volatility in the region.&nbsp;

US policy should remain steady toward strategic relations with India, emphasize counter-terror cooperation, and push Pakistan for real results.

Tim Roemer was the American ambassador to India from 2009 to 2011 during the leadership of President Barack Obama.

Watch: Imran Khan's Flop 'Kashmir Hour' in Pakistan

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He oversaw several policies increasing cooperation between India and the United States.

One of the key policies was the counterterrorism cooperation initiative with India which focussed on areas such as money laundering, terror-financing and border security.

Former US Ambassador to India has slammed Pakistani prime minister Imran khan for increasing the volatility in the region. Former envoy Tim Roemer's comments came after Imran Khan wrote an opinion piece in a US Newspaper.

Former US Ambassador to India has slammed Pakistani prime minister Imran khan for increasing the volatility in the region. Former envoy Tim Roemer's comments came after Imran Khan wrote an opinion piece in a US Newspaper. Khan accused India of not wanting to have a dialogue for peace. He threatened that there would be severe consequences for the whole world over Kashmir, especially if a nuclear war takes place. In a tweet, Roemer tagged Imran's opinion piece and said that the US Should continue to back India. Pakistan PM Imran Khan hypes the Kashmir situation, personally attacks PM Modi, and increases the volatility in the region. US policy should remain steady toward strategic relations with India, emphasize CT cooperation, and push Pakistan for real results. https://t.co/VeAG7PepFJ — Tim Roemer (@Tim_Roemer) August 31, 2019 × Roemer said that Pakistan PM Imran Khan hypes the Kashmir situation, personally attacks PM Modi, and increases the volatility in the region. US policy should remain steady toward strategic relations with India, emphasize counter-terror cooperation, and push Pakistan for real results. Tim Roemer was the American ambassador to India from 2009 to 2011 during the leadership of President Barack Obama. Watch: Imran Khan's Flop 'Kashmir Hour' in Pakistan × He oversaw several policies increasing cooperation between India and the United States. One of the key policies was the counterterrorism cooperation initiative with India which focussed on areas such as money laundering, terror-financing and border security.

Imran Khan hypes Kashmir situation, personally attacks PM Modi, says former US envoy to India

Indian Sikh group writes to Pakistan PM and said that Pakistan failed to protect Sikhs

Indian Sikh group writes to Pakistan PM

Imran Khan's Flop ''Kashmir Hour'' in Pakistan. Watch video to know more.

Imran Khan's Flop ''Kashmir Hour'' in Pakistan

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has called for mass demonstrations across the country to protest against Delhi's actions in Kashmir, as tensions between the nuclear-armed rivals continued to boil

Pak PM Imran Khan's call for 'Kashmir Hour'

Imran Khan cancels visit to Shiv temple in Pakistan. Watch this video to know more.

Imran Khan cancels visit to Shiv temple in Pakistan

Pakistan's economy is in a shambles. The country is surviving on doles. Even the PMO faces a power cut due to non-payment of bills. Watch this video to know more.

WION Gravitas: Pakistan can't get its priorities right

Pakistan Is Considering Shutting Its Airspace For India

Gravitas: Can Pakistan really afford to shut Airspace for India again?

Pakistan PM Imran Khan to lose electricity at the office? Watch WION's report.

WION Fineprint: Pakistan PM to lose electricity at office?

Pakistan’s frustration is that abrogation of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir will expose its terrorists fuelling the proxy war in the valley, out of the umbrella of local political patronage. The separatists will be exposed and its terror industry in Kashmir over the decades will start crumbling.

Pakistan Army, ISI and political class have enjoyed power domestically, on their narrative of efforts of Kashmir’s liberation so far; hence Indian action has disturbed their plans. China’s disgruntlement stems from the fact that Ladakh becoming a Union Territory&nbsp;weakens their false, incremental claims in that region, besides weakening Pakistan’s proxy to keep Indians engaged on their behalf.&nbsp;

Pakistan has been waging hybrid war with a large number of terrorists, along with separatists instigating violence, coupled with conventional ceasefire violations at LoC. Its efforts to re-ignite hybrid war post abrogation of Article 370 have not met much success because of heavy deployment of forces and alertness of Indian security forces and restrictions on mobile and internet.&nbsp;

Pakistan’s irrational actions like degrading diplomatic relations with India, scrapping trade ties, stopping rail communication and blocking air routes have been to its disadvantage. Pakistan and China went through a diplomatic offensive by approaching UNSC for an informal meeting, which also yielded no results as the world community did not find it worthwhile to even issue any joint statement.&nbsp;

On sidelines of G7 Summit, Prime Minister Modi while talking to US President Donald Trump ruled out any mediation efforts by any other country, which Pakistan was vehemently trying. This has put to rest all diplomatic efforts by Pakistan seeking mediation of Kashmir Issue.&nbsp;

Enhanced military deployment along the LoC is part of escalating the hybrid war. Attempts to infiltrate terrorists is to create fear psychosis among people of Kashmir.

China seems to be signalling moral and material support to Pakistan through MoUs for defence capacity building and cooperation during the visit of Deputy Chairman of its Central Military Commission, which seems to be more of optics as China already accounts for more than 70 per cent of import of military hardware to Pakistan. After UNSC embarrassment China has been relatively quiet on propaganda or rhetoric.&nbsp;

Pakistan has enhanced the dimension of warfare by graduating to all-out ‘Information Warfare’ (IW), which encompasses propaganda, fake news, threatening statements, rhetoric and invisible cyberwar. Their first narrative is to give religious colour to propaganda campaign, &nbsp;and restrictions on internet and mobile (which is the lifeline of its terror networking, propaganda campaign) as atrocities on Kashmiris. The aim is to garner support on the global platform. Unfortunately for them, except for members of their terror industry and their sympathisers, not very many have bought this narrative.&nbsp;

The second narrative is posing threat from India, posing helplessness, repeatedly threatening the world of its nuclear status and it’s irrationality to get into nuclear exchange, blackmailing world community to intervene and save the situation. The third narrative is to blackmail the US for its need to quit Afghanistan and blackmail China for protecting its economic interests and workers in the country. However, Imran Khan’s acceptance of approximately 40,000 terrorists operating in Pakistan and the threat of Pulwama type attacks do not deter India.

Pakistan’s targets for information warfare are different for each type of narrative. For religious agenda, it is targeting people of Kashmir valley, Muslim diaspora (like planned processions in UK), Khalistan terrorists and sympathisers.

It is also targeting some disgruntled elements in India including political opponents trying to fish in troubled water by following a narrative against the national mandate to score some petty political gains. The methodologies adopted for IW ranges from running psychological operations, electronic warfare, misinformation campaigns, information attacks and manipulating public perception through social media. Mobile, internet and radio transmissions are fast modes of connectivity being used. Structured television programmes are also being made by Pakistan.

Fake and old videos are being played up as the current situation in Kashmir, which are getting identified to be of different incidents globally on investigations. Pakistan has also influenced some international news agencies to carry fake news on their behalf.

Information war by Pakistan cannot be taken lightly and needs to be combated professionally. One of the best methods of combating it is to flood the global environment with hard facts to counter fake news and propaganda. India had anticipated the security challenges arising out of such decision and has done its best to quarantine the potential problem creators and flash spots with tight restrictions.&nbsp;

Kashmir valley has been quite peaceful after India strengthened the security force level in the valley and imposed restrictions on the use of mobile and internet there to ensure the safety of citizens. India’s priority is to save the lives of innocent people.

With Pakistan openly trying everything possible to re-ignite Kashmir valley through its terrorists, Indian administrators and security forces will have to strike a fine balance by relaxing restrictions with an option to re-clamp the same again if problem creators pose threat to prevailing peace. &nbsp;

The criticism of the government for imposing restrictions by those who abused power when Article 370 is natural, but if it can save lives of innocent people then it can be endured.

The recent attempt of Pakistani PM Imran Khan trying to portray himself as the poster boy for Kashmiris must be rebutted with his continued silence over atrocities in Balochistan and Xinjiang. Indian secular fabric is strong enough to not&nbsp;fall prey to religious fundamentalism, but counter-propaganda speeches may well be the need of the hour to quarantine the thought process of innocents from radicalised sleeper cells.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan’s frustration is that abrogation of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir will expose its terrorists fuelling the proxy war in the valley, out of the umbrella of local political patronage.

Pakistan’s frustration is that abrogation of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir will expose its terrorists fuelling the proxy war in the valley, out of the umbrella of local political patronage. The separatists will be exposed and its terror industry in Kashmir over the decades will start crumbling. Pakistan Army, ISI and political class have enjoyed power domestically, on their narrative of efforts of Kashmir’s liberation so far; hence Indian action has disturbed their plans. China’s disgruntlement stems from the fact that Ladakh becoming a Union Territory weakens their false, incremental claims in that region, besides weakening Pakistan’s proxy to keep Indians engaged on their behalf. Pakistan has been waging hybrid war with a large number of terrorists, along with separatists instigating violence, coupled with conventional ceasefire violations at LoC. Its efforts to re-ignite hybrid war post abrogation of Article 370 have not met much success because of heavy deployment of forces and alertness of Indian security forces and restrictions on mobile and internet. Pakistan’s irrational actions like degrading diplomatic relations with India, scrapping trade ties, stopping rail communication and blocking air routes have been to its disadvantage. Pakistan and China went through a diplomatic offensive by approaching UNSC for an informal meeting, which also yielded no results as the world community did not find it worthwhile to even issue any joint statement. On sidelines of G7 Summit, Prime Minister Modi while talking to US President Donald Trump ruled out any mediation efforts by any other country, which Pakistan was vehemently trying. This has put to rest all diplomatic efforts by Pakistan seeking mediation of Kashmir Issue. Enhanced military deployment along the LoC is part of escalating the hybrid war. Attempts to infiltrate terrorists is to create fear psychosis among people of Kashmir. China seems to be signalling moral and material support to Pakistan through MoUs for defence capacity building and cooperation during the visit of Deputy Chairman of its Central Military Commission, which seems to be more of optics as China already accounts for more than 70 per cent of import of military hardware to Pakistan. After UNSC embarrassment China has been relatively quiet on propaganda or rhetoric. Pakistan has enhanced the dimension of warfare by graduating to all-out ‘Information Warfare’ (IW), which encompasses propaganda, fake news, threatening statements, rhetoric and invisible cyberwar. Their first narrative is to give religious colour to propaganda campaign, and restrictions on internet and mobile (which is the lifeline of its terror networking, propaganda campaign) as atrocities on Kashmiris. The aim is to garner support on the global platform. Unfortunately for them, except for members of their terror industry and their sympathisers, not very many have bought this narrative. The second narrative is posing threat from India, posing helplessness, repeatedly threatening the world of its nuclear status and it’s irrationality to get into nuclear exchange, blackmailing world community to intervene and save the situation. The third narrative is to blackmail the US for its need to quit Afghanistan and blackmail China for protecting its economic interests and workers in the country. However, Imran Khan’s acceptance of approximately 40,000 terrorists operating in Pakistan and the threat of Pulwama type attacks do not deter India. Pakistan’s targets for information warfare are different for each type of narrative. For religious agenda, it is targeting people of Kashmir valley, Muslim diaspora (like planned processions in UK), Khalistan terrorists and sympathisers. It is also targeting some disgruntled elements in India including political opponents trying to fish in troubled water by following a narrative against the national mandate to score some petty political gains. The methodologies adopted for IW ranges from running psychological operations, electronic warfare, misinformation campaigns, information attacks and manipulating public perception through social media. Mobile, internet and radio transmissions are fast modes of connectivity being used. Structured television programmes are also being made by Pakistan. Fake and old videos are being played up as the current situation in Kashmir, which are getting identified to be of different incidents globally on investigations. Pakistan has also influenced some international news agencies to carry fake news on their behalf. Information war by Pakistan cannot be taken lightly and needs to be combated professionally. One of the best methods of combating it is to flood the global environment with hard facts to counter fake news and propaganda. India had anticipated the security challenges arising out of such decision and has done its best to quarantine the potential problem creators and flash spots with tight restrictions. Kashmir valley has been quite peaceful after India strengthened the security force level in the valley and imposed restrictions on the use of mobile and internet there to ensure the safety of citizens. India’s priority is to save the lives of innocent people. With Pakistan openly trying everything possible to re-ignite Kashmir valley through its terrorists, Indian administrators and security forces will have to strike a fine balance by relaxing restrictions with an option to re-clamp the same again if problem creators pose threat to prevailing peace. The criticism of the government for imposing restrictions by those who abused power when Article 370 is natural, but if it can save lives of innocent people then it can be endured. The recent attempt of Pakistani PM Imran Khan trying to portray himself as the poster boy for Kashmiris must be rebutted with his continued silence over atrocities in Balochistan and Xinjiang. Indian secular fabric is strong enough to not fall prey to religious fundamentalism, but counter-propaganda speeches may well be the need of the hour to quarantine the thought process of innocents from radicalised sleeper cells. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Pakistan trying hard to spread false narratives on Jammu and Kashmir

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