Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that there is no possibility of a diplomatic dialogue with India in the prevailing situation, according to a media report on Thursday.

New Delhi has already been maintaining its stand that "talks and terror" cannot go together as it continues to ask Islamabad to take demonstrable steps against terror groups responsible for launching various attacks on India.

"There is no possibility of a backdoor or diplomatic dialogue with India in the prevailing situation...The circumstances are not suitable for any dialogue at the moment," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn newspaper.

Qureshi made the comments while talking to reporters in his hometown Multan on Wednesday, the paper said.

Ties between India and Pakistan nosedived after a terror attack on the Pathankot Air Force base in 2016 by terror groups based in the neighbouring country. Subsequent attacks, including one on Indian Army camp in Uri, further deteriorated the relationship.

The relationship further dipped after India's war planes pounded a Jaish-e-Mohammed terorrist training camp deep inside Pakistan on February 26 last year in response to the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed.

Withdrawal of Jammu and Kashmir's special powers and bifurcating the state into two union territories in August last year also evoked a strong reaction from Pakistan, which has been unsuccessfully trying to rally international support against India on the Kashmir issue.

India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that there is no possibility of a diplomatic dialogue with India in the prevailing situation, according to a media report on Thursday.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that there is no possibility of a diplomatic dialogue with India in the prevailing situation, according to a media report on Thursday. New Delhi has already been maintaining its stand that "talks and terror" cannot go together as it continues to ask Islamabad to take demonstrable steps against terror groups responsible for launching various attacks on India. "There is no possibility of a backdoor or diplomatic dialogue with India in the prevailing situation...The circumstances are not suitable for any dialogue at the moment," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn newspaper. Qureshi made the comments while talking to reporters in his hometown Multan on Wednesday, the paper said. Ties between India and Pakistan nosedived after a terror attack on the Pathankot Air Force base in 2016 by terror groups based in the neighbouring country. Subsequent attacks, including one on Indian Army camp in Uri, further deteriorated the relationship. The relationship further dipped after India's war planes pounded a Jaish-e-Mohammed terorrist training camp deep inside Pakistan on February 26 last year in response to the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed. Withdrawal of Jammu and Kashmir's special powers and bifurcating the state into two union territories in August last year also evoked a strong reaction from Pakistan, which has been unsuccessfully trying to rally international support against India on the Kashmir issue. India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

No possibility of dialogue with India in prevailing situation, says Pakistan foreign minister

The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued visas to two groups of Indian Hindu&nbsp;yatrees&nbsp;(travellers) to visit Shadani Darbar in Sukkur and Katas Raj Temples, also known as&nbsp;Qila Katas or the complex of Katas Temples,&nbsp;in Chakwal in December 2020.

The travellers will be visiting the temples from December 23 to 29 this year. "Yesterday, a group of 47 Indian Hindu Yatrees has been issued visas. They would visit Shree Katas Raj Temples, also known as Qila Katas or complex of Katas Temples in Chakwal district of Punjab, Pakistan from 23-29 December 2020. The Katas Raj temples surround a sacred pond to Hindu devotees," a statement by the Pakistan High Commission read.

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Shadani Darbar is a holy place&nbsp;founded in 1786 by Sant Shadaram Sahib.

The visas have been issued a day after another group of Hindu travellers returned from Pakistan after visiting Sukkur, Sindh from December 15 to 21.

"Another group of 44 Indian Hindu Yatrees returned yesterday from Pakistan where they participated in the 312th Birth Anniversary celebrations of Shiv Avtari Satguru Sant Shadaram Sahib, at Sukkur, Sindh from 15-21 December 2020," the statement read.

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The Commission also claimed that thousands of Indian Sikh and Hindu pilgrims visit the South Asian country Pakistan under the&nbsp;bilateral Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines of 1974 to visit the country during several religious festivals.

"The visas issued from New Delhi are in addition to the visas granted to Sikh and Hindu pilgrims participating in these events from other countries," the commission said.

"The issuance of pilgrimage visas to Sikh and Hindu pilgrims is part of the Government of Pakistan’s endeavors to facilitate their visits to religious shrines. Pakistan remains committed to preserving sacred religious places and extending all possible facilitation for the visiting pilgrims of all faiths," it added.

The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued visas to two groups of Indian Hindu yatrees (travellers) to visit Shadani Darbar in Sukkur and Katas Raj Temples, also known as Qila Katas or the complex of Katas Temples, in Chakwal in December 2020.

The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued visas to two groups of Indian Hindu yatrees (travellers) to visit Shadani Darbar in Sukkur and Katas Raj Temples, also known as Qila Katas or the complex of Katas Temples, in Chakwal in December 2020. The travellers will be visiting the temples from December 23 to 29 this year. "Yesterday, a group of 47 Indian Hindu Yatrees has been issued visas. They would visit Shree Katas Raj Temples, also known as Qila Katas or complex of Katas Temples in Chakwal district of Punjab, Pakistan from 23-29 December 2020. The Katas Raj temples surround a sacred pond to Hindu devotees," a statement by the Pakistan High Commission read. Also read| Renowned activist Karima Baloch who once made Rakhi appeal to brother PM Modi found dead, Pakistan link suspected Shadani Darbar is a holy place founded in 1786 by Sant Shadaram Sahib. The visas have been issued a day after another group of Hindu travellers returned from Pakistan after visiting Sukkur, Sindh from December 15 to 21. "Another group of 44 Indian Hindu Yatrees returned yesterday from Pakistan where they participated in the 312th Birth Anniversary celebrations of Shiv Avtari Satguru Sant Shadaram Sahib, at Sukkur, Sindh from 15-21 December 2020," the statement read. Also read| Pakistan signs $1.7 billion debt relief deal The Commission also claimed that thousands of Indian Sikh and Hindu pilgrims visit the South Asian country Pakistan under the bilateral Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines of 1974 to visit the country during several religious festivals. "The visas issued from New Delhi are in addition to the visas granted to Sikh and Hindu pilgrims participating in these events from other countries," the commission said. "The issuance of pilgrimage visas to Sikh and Hindu pilgrims is part of the Government of Pakistan’s endeavors to facilitate their visits to religious shrines. Pakistan remains committed to preserving sacred religious places and extending all possible facilitation for the visiting pilgrims of all faiths," it added.

Pakistan High Commission issues visas to Hindu travellers for temple visits

A Pakistani fisherman has been apprehended with his boat after he intruded into the Indian territory off the Gujarat coast.

The apprehended man has been identified as Khalid Hussain, 35, a resident of the Sindh region in the neighbouring country.

The Border Security Force (BSF) said on Sunday the intruder was held in the Sir Creek area on Saturday evening during a patrolling by the personnel of the Gujarat Frontier of the BSF.

"It is to inform that on December 19 at 1750 hours, BSF troops while patrolling in general area Sir Creek observed one Pakistani fishing boat which had intruded into Indian territory, taking advantage of rough sea state and restricted visibility," the BSF said in a statement.

"Alert BSF patrolling party seized the boat along with one Pakistani fisherman," it added.

A jerrycan with 20 litres of diesel, one mobile phone, two fishing nets, eight bundles of plastic threads and some crabs were seized from his possession.

A Pakistani fisherman has been apprehended with his boat after he intruded into the Indian territory off the Gujarat coast. The apprehended man has been identified as Khalid Hussain, 35, a resident of the Sindh region in the neighbouring country.

A Pakistani fisherman has been apprehended with his boat after he intruded into the Indian territory off the Gujarat coast. The apprehended man has been identified as Khalid Hussain, 35, a resident of the Sindh region in the neighbouring country. The Border Security Force (BSF) said on Sunday the intruder was held in the Sir Creek area on Saturday evening during a patrolling by the personnel of the Gujarat Frontier of the BSF. "It is to inform that on December 19 at 1750 hours, BSF troops while patrolling in general area Sir Creek observed one Pakistani fishing boat which had intruded into Indian territory, taking advantage of rough sea state and restricted visibility," the BSF said in a statement. "Alert BSF patrolling party seized the boat along with one Pakistani fisherman," it added. A jerrycan with 20 litres of diesel, one mobile phone, two fishing nets, eight bundles of plastic threads and some crabs were seized from his possession.

Pak fisherman apprehended off Gujarat coast

A day after Pakistan claimed that India fired at UN Vehicles at Line of Control (LoC), New Delhi has conveyed its finds to Islamabad and asked it to "responsibly investigate" lapses on its side.

In the aftermath of Pakistan's allegations, New Delhi has investigated the incident and found the allegations "incorrect and false" and in a strongly worded response, the minister of external affairs said, "Instead of repeating baseless and fabricated allegations against India to cover up its own failure in ensuring the safety and security of UN personnel in territory under its control, Pakistan should responsibly investigate its lapses."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-refuses-to-take-position-on-pakistans-claims-of-india-firing-at-agencys-vehicles-350934">UN refuses to take position on Pakistan's claims of India firing at agency's vehicles</a>

Pakistan's army had released pictures of damaged UN vehicles on Friday, claiming they were damaged by Indian forces, something that the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-dismisses-pakistans-claim-of-army-targetting-un-vehicle-along-loc-350912"> Indian Army had immediately dismissed</a>. In fact, the Indian forces were aware of the visit of UN Military Observers in the area and did not conduct any firing that day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unmo-vehicle-impacted-while-conducting-routine-monitoring-along-loc-351007">WATCH|</a>

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The United Nations has also refused to take the Pakistani position on the matter. In response to a WION's question, Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for UN Secretary-General said United Nations Military Observer Group (UNMOGIP) vehicle carrying UN military observers "was impacted by an unidentified object" while "conducting routine monitoring activities" near Rawalakot as a "part of its mandate to observe and report on ceasefire violations at the Line of Control (LOC) in Jammu and Kashmir."

UN Spokesperson did not identify it as an act of Indian troops as claimed by the Pakistani Army. Farhan said, "UNMOGIP personnel and the driver were not harmed but the vehicle sustained some damage" and the mission is "currently investigating the incident."

A day after Pakistan claimed that India fired at UN Vehicles at Line of Control (LoC), New Delhi has conveyed its finds to Islamabad and asked it to "responsibly investigate" lapses on its side.

A day after Pakistan claimed that India fired at UN Vehicles at Line of Control (LoC), New Delhi has conveyed its finds to Islamabad and asked it to "responsibly investigate" lapses on its side. In the aftermath of Pakistan's allegations, New Delhi has investigated the incident and found the allegations "incorrect and false" and in a strongly worded response, the minister of external affairs said, "Instead of repeating baseless and fabricated allegations against India to cover up its own failure in ensuring the safety and security of UN personnel in territory under its control, Pakistan should responsibly investigate its lapses." Also read| UN refuses to take position on Pakistan's claims of India firing at agency's vehicles Pakistan's army had released pictures of damaged UN vehicles on Friday, claiming they were damaged by Indian forces, something that the Indian Army had immediately dismissed. In fact, the Indian forces were aware of the visit of UN Military Observers in the area and did not conduct any firing that day. WATCH| × The United Nations has also refused to take the Pakistani position on the matter. In response to a WION's question, Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for UN Secretary-General said United Nations Military Observer Group (UNMOGIP) vehicle carrying UN military observers "was impacted by an unidentified object" while "conducting routine monitoring activities" near Rawalakot as a "part of its mandate to observe and report on ceasefire violations at the Line of Control (LOC) in Jammu and Kashmir." UN Spokesperson did not identify it as an act of Indian troops as claimed by the Pakistani Army. Farhan said, "UNMOGIP personnel and the driver were not harmed but the vehicle sustained some damage" and the mission is "currently investigating the incident."

UN vehicles targetted: India asks Islamabad to investigate its lapses, conveys finding

The reports emerging from Pakistan regarding attacks on UN vehicles by Indian troops along the Line of Control are completely false, baseless and factually incorrect, official sources have said.

The Pakistan army had earlier accused the Indian side of “deliberately” targetting a United Nations Military Observers (UNMO) vehicle in the Chirikot Sector along the Line of Control.

"The Indian Army resorted to unprovoked fire in the Chirikot Sector of the Line of Control. Indian troops deliberately targetted a United Nations vehicle with two UN military observers on board," the Pakistan Army said in a statement.

In response, sources from the Indian military said there was no firing from their side in that sector on Friday. Since movements of UN vehicles are known in advance, the question does not arise of any such firing, the sources said, adding the allegations are baseless.

"The reports emerging from the Pakistan side regarding attacks on UN vehicles are completely false and factually incorrect," said a source.

Military sources also rejected the allegation by the Pakistan Army. "Reports of targetting United Nations vehicle are not true," said a military source.&nbsp;

The reports emerging from Pakistan regarding attacks on UN vehicles by Indian troops along the Line of Control are completely false, baseless and factually incorrect, official sources have said.

The reports emerging from Pakistan regarding attacks on UN vehicles by Indian troops along the Line of Control are completely false, baseless and factually incorrect, official sources have said. The Pakistan army had earlier accused the Indian side of “deliberately” targetting a United Nations Military Observers (UNMO) vehicle in the Chirikot Sector along the Line of Control. "The Indian Army resorted to unprovoked fire in the Chirikot Sector of the Line of Control. Indian troops deliberately targetted a United Nations vehicle with two UN military observers on board," the Pakistan Army said in a statement. In response, sources from the Indian military said there was no firing from their side in that sector on Friday. Since movements of UN vehicles are known in advance, the question does not arise of any such firing, the sources said, adding the allegations are baseless. "The reports emerging from the Pakistan side regarding attacks on UN vehicles are completely false and factually incorrect," said a source. Military sources also rejected the allegation by the Pakistan Army. "Reports of targetting United Nations vehicle are not true," said a military source.

India dismisses Pakistan’s claim of army targetting UN vehicle along LoC

With Pakistan in focus, India, and Australia have called for "sustained" and "irreversible" action on terrorism during the 12th meeting of Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism between the 2 countries.

Without taking Islamabad's name, a joint release after the virtual talks said both sides, "underlined the urgent need for all countries to take immediate, sustained, verifiable and irreversible action" to ensure that "no territory under their control is used for terrorist attacks".

Both sides also called " to expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators of such attacks", something that in diplomatic parlance means, Pakistan acting on the perpetrators of terror attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

The release said, "Australia reiterated its condemnation of terrorist attacks in India, including 26/11 Mumbai, Pathankot and Pulwama and reiterated its support for the people and the government of India in the fight against terrorism."

All the 3 terror attacks were masterminded by terrorists and terror organisations based in Pakistan and by the country's own admission, many of these terrorists remain on its soil. &nbsp;Pakistan's top investigative authority, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in November of this year accepted the presence of eleven 26/11 terrorists who facilitated the 26/11 terror attack on its soil.

During the talks, India and Australia, "condemned the use of terrorist proxies for cross-border terrorism", and exchanged views on areas of cooperation like countering radicalization, combating the financing of terrorism, exploitation of the internet for terrorism, and violent extremism. The focus was also on counter-terrorism cooperation at UN, G20, FATF and the Quad--grouping.

Mahaveer Singhvi, Joint Secretary for Counter-Terrorism in the Ministry of External Affairs represented India in the talks, while from the Australian side, Tony Sheehan, Deputy Secretary International Security was present.

With Pakistan in focus, India, and Australia have called for "sustained" and "irreversible" action on terrorism during the 12th meeting of Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism between the 2 countries.

With Pakistan in focus, India, and Australia have called for "sustained" and "irreversible" action on terrorism during the 12th meeting of Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism between the 2 countries. Without taking Islamabad's name, a joint release after the virtual talks said both sides, "underlined the urgent need for all countries to take immediate, sustained, verifiable and irreversible action" to ensure that "no territory under their control is used for terrorist attacks". Both sides also called " to expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators of such attacks", something that in diplomatic parlance means, Pakistan acting on the perpetrators of terror attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The release said, "Australia reiterated its condemnation of terrorist attacks in India, including 26/11 Mumbai, Pathankot and Pulwama and reiterated its support for the people and the government of India in the fight against terrorism." All the 3 terror attacks were masterminded by terrorists and terror organisations based in Pakistan and by the country's own admission, many of these terrorists remain on its soil. Pakistan's top investigative authority, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in November of this year accepted the presence of eleven 26/11 terrorists who facilitated the 26/11 terror attack on its soil. During the talks, India and Australia, "condemned the use of terrorist proxies for cross-border terrorism", and exchanged views on areas of cooperation like countering radicalization, combating the financing of terrorism, exploitation of the internet for terrorism, and violent extremism. The focus was also on counter-terrorism cooperation at UN, G20, FATF and the Quad--grouping. Mahaveer Singhvi, Joint Secretary for Counter-Terrorism in the Ministry of External Affairs represented India in the talks, while from the Australian side, Tony Sheehan, Deputy Secretary International Security was present.

With Pakistan in focus, India, Australia call for sustainable, irreversible action on terrorism

Two minor sisters who had crossed the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district have been handed over to the authorities from Pakistan occupied Kashmir at Chakan Da Bagh crossing point on Monday, officials told WION.

17-year-old Laiba Zabair and 13-year old Sana Zabair, were apprehended by the Indian army after noticing them moving in the Sarla sector along the LoC in Poonch on Sunday, a defence spokesperson had said.

 
“Own troops deployed along the LoC, having detected the crossing, exercised complete restraint to prevent any harm to the teenagers,” the spokesperson had said.

Sources said that a meeting was arranged at the Chakan Da Bagh in which officials from Pakistan and India were present and the girls were handed over with gifts for the duo.

Residents of Abbasspur in Kahuta Tehsil of PoK, the sisters were taken to a hospital in the district for a health check-up before they were handed over, a source said.

Two minor sisters who had crossed the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district have been handed over to the authorities from Pakistan occupied Kashmir at Chakan Da Bagh crossing point on Monday, officials told WION.

Two minor sisters who had crossed the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district have been handed over to the authorities from Pakistan occupied Kashmir at Chakan Da Bagh crossing point on Monday, officials told WION. 17-year-old Laiba Zabair and 13-year old Sana Zabair, were apprehended by the Indian army after noticing them moving in the Sarla sector along the LoC in Poonch on Sunday, a defence spokesperson had said. “Own troops deployed along the LoC, having detected the crossing, exercised complete restraint to prevent any harm to the teenagers,” the spokesperson had said. Sources said that a meeting was arranged at the Chakan Da Bagh in which officials from Pakistan and India were present and the girls were handed over with gifts for the duo. Residents of Abbasspur in Kahuta Tehsil of PoK, the sisters were taken to a hospital in the district for a health check-up before they were handed over, a source said.

Two minor sisters from Pakistan repatriated via LoC in Poonch, J&K

Vice-President of India Venkaiah Naidu said during his address at the SCO council of heads meeting that India condemned all forms of terrorism.

India hosts SCO heads of govt meet; PM Modi & Pak PM Imran Khan skips the meet

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans shrill campaign to internationalise Kashmir has bombed after the 57-member Islamic bloc brushed aside Islamabads frenzied attempt to haul up India for abrogating Article 370 more than a year ago. 
 
In the latest attempt to slam India for its decision to fully mainstream Kashmir with the rest of India, it was once again Pakistan`s light-headed Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi who had an egg on his face. Qureshi was left red-faced after the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), holding its 47th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers in Niger`s Niamey, snubbed Pakistan by making no mention of Kashmir in its agenda. 
 
Despite the embarrassment, Qureshi, took the `Islamophobia` route to mention Kashmir in his speech, another wasted exercise, as the participating ministers remained focused on session`s theme "United against Terrorism for Peace and Development".

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/never-pressured-by-military-leadership-on-any-matter-imran-khan-346205" hreflang="en">Never pressured by military leadership on any matter: Imran Khan</a> 
 
The OIC, through its Secretary General Yousef Al-Othaimeen, had made it aptly clear that the agenda of this year`s Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) session would include a list of topics and "issues of concern" to the Muslim world. 
 
"In addition to the Palestinian cause, the fight against violence, extremism and terrorism, Islamophobia and defamation of religious, the Council will discuss the situation of Muslim minorities and communities in non-member states, fundraising for the Rohingya case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), as well as the promotion of dialogue among civilizations, cultures and religions, and other emerging matters," the OIC, with a membership of 57 states spread over four continents, said in a statement released prior to the meeting. 
 
The much-expected agenda though came as a huge shocker for Pakistan which had for long been demanding a special OIC meeting on Kashmir.

"The meeting has not been convened so far because the Saudis, who wield a virtual veto in the 57-member bloc of Muslim countries, has not supported Islamabad`s move. The latest omission of Kashmir from the agenda of the regular foreign ministers` meeting comes at a time when ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia/UAE remain strained over what Pakistani diplomats say are `unfulfilled expectations`," Pakistan`s leading daily Dawn said in a report.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bilawal-bhutto-slams-imran-khans-heartless-government-for-sacking-over-4500-psm-employees-346106" hreflang="en">Bilawal Bhutto slams Imran Khan's 'heartless government' for sacking over 4,500 PSM employees</a> 
 
Qureshi was to face more embarrassment after landing in Niger along with Sardar Masood Khan, the former Pakistani Ambassador to the UN, who is now president of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). 
 
The duo referred Niger as a "brotherly Islamic country" and urged the founding member of the OIC to raise the Kashmir issue at the forum of African Union (AU) and various other international platforms. 
 
But, as the two-day session kicked off on Friday, neither Mahamadou Issoufou, President of the Republic of Niger, nor any other participating country diverted from the pre-decided agenda. 
 
OIC Secretary General Al-Othaimeen said that the choice of the theme for the session, "United against Terrorism for Peace and Development", is a strong reminder that "terrorism is the single most serious threat to the region and the world, given its negative impact on growth rates and cooperation ties, in addition to worsening Human Development Indices (HDI) ranking". 
 
He also valued the role assigned to the OIC Sawt al-Hikma (Voice of Wisdom) Center, which acts in coordination with the International Islamic Fiqh Academy to bring reason to bear and promote moderation and tolerance.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans shrill campaign to internationalise Kashmir has bombed after the 57-member Islamic bloc brushed aside Islamabads frenzied attempt to haul up India for abrogating Article 370 more than a year ago.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans shrill campaign to internationalise Kashmir has bombed after the 57-member Islamic bloc brushed aside Islamabads frenzied attempt to haul up India for abrogating Article 370 more than a year ago. In the latest attempt to slam India for its decision to fully mainstream Kashmir with the rest of India, it was once again Pakistan`s light-headed Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi who had an egg on his face. Qureshi was left red-faced after the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), holding its 47th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers in Niger`s Niamey, snubbed Pakistan by making no mention of Kashmir in its agenda. Despite the embarrassment, Qureshi, took the `Islamophobia` route to mention Kashmir in his speech, another wasted exercise, as the participating ministers remained focused on session`s theme "United against Terrorism for Peace and Development". Also read| Never pressured by military leadership on any matter: Imran Khan The OIC, through its Secretary General Yousef Al-Othaimeen, had made it aptly clear that the agenda of this year`s Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) session would include a list of topics and "issues of concern" to the Muslim world. "In addition to the Palestinian cause, the fight against violence, extremism and terrorism, Islamophobia and defamation of religious, the Council will discuss the situation of Muslim minorities and communities in non-member states, fundraising for the Rohingya case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), as well as the promotion of dialogue among civilizations, cultures and religions, and other emerging matters," the OIC, with a membership of 57 states spread over four continents, said in a statement released prior to the meeting. The much-expected agenda though came as a huge shocker for Pakistan which had for long been demanding a special OIC meeting on Kashmir. "The meeting has not been convened so far because the Saudis, who wield a virtual veto in the 57-member bloc of Muslim countries, has not supported Islamabad`s move. The latest omission of Kashmir from the agenda of the regular foreign ministers` meeting comes at a time when ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia/UAE remain strained over what Pakistani diplomats say are `unfulfilled expectations`," Pakistan`s leading daily Dawn said in a report. Also read| Bilawal Bhutto slams Imran Khan's 'heartless government' for sacking over 4,500 PSM employees Qureshi was to face more embarrassment after landing in Niger along with Sardar Masood Khan, the former Pakistani Ambassador to the UN, who is now president of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The duo referred Niger as a "brotherly Islamic country" and urged the founding member of the OIC to raise the Kashmir issue at the forum of African Union (AU) and various other international platforms. But, as the two-day session kicked off on Friday, neither Mahamadou Issoufou, President of the Republic of Niger, nor any other participating country diverted from the pre-decided agenda. OIC Secretary General Al-Othaimeen said that the choice of the theme for the session, "United against Terrorism for Peace and Development", is a strong reminder that "terrorism is the single most serious threat to the region and the world, given its negative impact on growth rates and cooperation ties, in addition to worsening Human Development Indices (HDI) ranking". He also valued the role assigned to the OIC Sawt al-Hikma (Voice of Wisdom) Center, which acts in coordination with the International Islamic Fiqh Academy to bring reason to bear and promote moderation and tolerance.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan's Kashmir campaign bombs at Islamic meet

India on Tuesday lambasted Islamabad for presenting a "dossier of lies" against New Delhi at the United Nations, saying "concocting documents and peddling false narratives" is not new to Pakistan, which hosts the worlds largest number of UN proscribed terrorists.

Pakistan has given to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a dossier accusing India of `stoking` terrorism in Pakistan, just a day after New Delhi provided a dossier to some UN Security Council members over a last week terror attempt by four terrorists belonged to Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), a terrorist organisation proscribed by the UN, in Jammu and Kashmir.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-gives-un-a-dossier-on-india-after-india-submits-one-on-it-345185" hreflang="en">Pakistan gives UN a dossier on India after India submits one on it</a>

Responding to Pakistan`s move at the UN, India`s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador, TS Tirumurti, took to Twitter and said, "The `dossier of lies` presented by Pakistan enjoys zero credibility. Concocting documents and peddling false narratives is not new to Pakistan. The top Indian envoy further added that "Pakistan is a host to the world`s largest number of UN proscribed terrorists and entities.

"Remember Abbottabad!" - Osama Bin Laden, the founder of the militant terrorist organisation al-Qaeda, was killed by US security forces in Abbottabad on May 2, 2011. He was shot in the head, during the firefight in the compound in Pakistan, where he was taking shelter.

Pakistan had long denied his presence in the country.The presentation of the dossiers comes ahead of India joining the 15-member council for a two-year term starting January 1, 2021.

On November 19, four terrorists were killed and two policemen were injured in a gun battle in Jammu and Kashmir`s Nagrota.

The encounter broke out after a truck was intercepted in the morning during a routine check. Inspector-General of Police, Jammu Zone had said that it was possible that they were planning a big attack and targeting the upcoming District Development Council (DDC) elections in the Union territory.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistans-refusal-to-act-against-2611-culprits-shows-insincere-approach-ex-pentagon-official-345084" hreflang="en">Pakistan's refusal to act against 26/11 culprits shows 'insincere approach': Ex-Pentagon official</a>

The terrorists were infiltrated in India using a 150-metre long tunnel.Meanwhile, Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla briefed a select group of head of missions in New Delhi about Pakistan`s direct role in planning the terror attack which was foiled by Indian security forces.

ANI learned that heads of missions were provided a detailed information docket giving details of the incident as it transpired as well as list of items and ammunition that was recovered from terrorists clearly indicating their Pakistani origins.

Sources said they were also briefed on how terrorists got into India, which is now clear as an underground tunnel has been found in the Samba sector.They said envoys were told how preliminary investigations by police and intelligence authorities and markings on the recovered AK-47 rifles and other items brought it out that terrorists belonged to JeM.

India on Tuesday lambasted Islamabad for presenting a "dossier of lies" against New Delhi at the United Nations, saying "concocting documents and peddling false narratives" is not new to Pakistan, which hosts the worlds largest number of UN proscribed terrorists.

India on Tuesday lambasted Islamabad for presenting a "dossier of lies" against New Delhi at the United Nations, saying "concocting documents and peddling false narratives" is not new to Pakistan, which hosts the worlds largest number of UN proscribed terrorists. Pakistan has given to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a dossier accusing India of `stoking` terrorism in Pakistan, just a day after New Delhi provided a dossier to some UN Security Council members over a last week terror attempt by four terrorists belonged to Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), a terrorist organisation proscribed by the UN, in Jammu and Kashmir. Also read: Pakistan gives UN a dossier on India after India submits one on it Responding to Pakistan`s move at the UN, India`s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador, TS Tirumurti, took to Twitter and said, "The `dossier of lies` presented by Pakistan enjoys zero credibility. Concocting documents and peddling false narratives is not new to Pakistan. The top Indian envoy further added that "Pakistan is a host to the world`s largest number of UN proscribed terrorists and entities. "Remember Abbottabad!" - Osama Bin Laden, the founder of the militant terrorist organisation al-Qaeda, was killed by US security forces in Abbottabad on May 2, 2011. He was shot in the head, during the firefight in the compound in Pakistan, where he was taking shelter. Pakistan had long denied his presence in the country.The presentation of the dossiers comes ahead of India joining the 15-member council for a two-year term starting January 1, 2021. On November 19, four terrorists were killed and two policemen were injured in a gun battle in Jammu and Kashmir`s Nagrota. The encounter broke out after a truck was intercepted in the morning during a routine check. Inspector-General of Police, Jammu Zone had said that it was possible that they were planning a big attack and targeting the upcoming District Development Council (DDC) elections in the Union territory. Also read: Pakistan's refusal to act against 26/11 culprits shows 'insincere approach': Ex-Pentagon official The terrorists were infiltrated in India using a 150-metre long tunnel.Meanwhile, Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla briefed a select group of head of missions in New Delhi about Pakistan`s direct role in planning the terror attack which was foiled by Indian security forces. ANI learned that heads of missions were provided a detailed information docket giving details of the incident as it transpired as well as list of items and ammunition that was recovered from terrorists clearly indicating their Pakistani origins. Sources said they were also briefed on how terrorists got into India, which is now clear as an underground tunnel has been found in the Samba sector.They said envoys were told how preliminary investigations by police and intelligence authorities and markings on the recovered AK-47 rifles and other items brought it out that terrorists belonged to JeM.

'Remember Abbottabad!' India slams Pakistan for presenting 'dossier of lies' at UN

Pakistan has given UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a dossier accusing India of stoking terrorism on its soil.

This came a day after India provided a dossier to some UN Security Council members accusing militants from Pakistan of attempting an attack in the disputed Indian territory Kashmir.

The tit-for-tat move comes ahead of India joining the 15-member council for a two-year term starting January 1, 2021.

Pakistan's UN Ambassador Munir Akram accused India of violating international law, the UN Charter and Security Council resolutions by sponsoring terrorism.

He said Pakistan called on Guterres and the international community "to take note of Indian terrorism and subversion against Pakistan and to prevail on India to desist from these illegal and aggressive activities."

A spokesperson for India's mission to the United Nations in New York denied the charges.

"Pakistan can cry hoarse from the rooftops. But they cannot change the fact that they are the epicenter of terrorism," the spokesperson said. "Their lies have no takers."

The Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir has long been a flashpoint between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan, with both claiming Kashmir in full but ruling it in part.&nbsp; 
UN peacekeepers have been deployed since 1949 to observe a ceasefire between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir.

India said on Monday that four militants, belonging to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad, made their way into Indian Kashmir through a tunnel last week and opened fire when their truck was stopped for a routine inspection.

Pakistan has rejected allegations of any involvement in the alleged attack and said they were aimed at diverting attention from India's repression of the people of Kashmir.

The UN Security Council blacklisted the head of the Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed in May last year after China dropped its objection to the move, ending a decade-long diplomatic impasse.

(with inputs from Reuters)

Pakistan has given UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a dossier accusing India of stoking terrorism on its soil. This came a day after India provided a dossier to some UN Security Council members accusing militants from Pakistan of attempting an attack in the disputed Indian territory Kashmir.

Pakistan has given UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a dossier accusing India of stoking terrorism on its soil. This came a day after India provided a dossier to some UN Security Council members accusing militants from Pakistan of attempting an attack in the disputed Indian territory Kashmir. The tit-for-tat move comes ahead of India joining the 15-member council for a two-year term starting January 1, 2021. Pakistan's UN Ambassador Munir Akram accused India of violating international law, the UN Charter and Security Council resolutions by sponsoring terrorism. He said Pakistan called on Guterres and the international community "to take note of Indian terrorism and subversion against Pakistan and to prevail on India to desist from these illegal and aggressive activities." A spokesperson for India's mission to the United Nations in New York denied the charges. "Pakistan can cry hoarse from the rooftops. But they cannot change the fact that they are the epicenter of terrorism," the spokesperson said. "Their lies have no takers." The Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir has long been a flashpoint between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan, with both claiming Kashmir in full but ruling it in part. UN peacekeepers have been deployed since 1949 to observe a ceasefire between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. India said on Monday that four militants, belonging to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad, made their way into Indian Kashmir through a tunnel last week and opened fire when their truck was stopped for a routine inspection. Pakistan has rejected allegations of any involvement in the alleged attack and said they were aimed at diverting attention from India's repression of the people of Kashmir. The UN Security Council blacklisted the head of the Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed in May last year after China dropped its objection to the move, ending a decade-long diplomatic impasse. (with inputs from Reuters)

Pakistan gives UN a dossier on India after India submits one on it

Pakistan's plot to infiltrate through drones on the LoC has failed. Indian security agencies have become more alert since Pakistani drones appeared in Mendhar sector of Poonch district.

Pakistan drone spotted flying near Poonch's Mendhar sector

ndia has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Delhi to strongly protest against the Nagrota terror and Islamabad's involvement in cross border terrorism.&nbsp;

The Pakistani CDA-charges de affairs was handed a protest note in which New Delhi conveyed its "strong concern" on the terror attack planned by Jaish e Mohammed in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorists-had-planned-attack-on-2611-anniversary-pm-modi-holds-review-meet-344309">Terrorists had planned attack on 26/11 anniversary: PM Modi holds review meet</a>

The protest note asked Pakistan to "stop supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from their territory and dismantle the terrorism infrastructure", top sources told WION.&nbsp;

He was also told that India is "firm and resolute" in taking all necessary measures to safeguard its national security in the fight against terrorism.

Earlier this week, a major terror attack was thwarted with the killing of 4 Jaish terrorists. The terrorists were neutralised at a toll plaza on Jammu--Srinagar national highway in Nagrota area of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

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Pakistan's involvement in the incident has emerged, especially in the supply of phones. The phones recovered from the slained terrorists have been manufactured by a Pakistani company.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On Thursday Indian Prime Minister held a review meeting attended by Home minister Amit Shah, NSA Ajit Doval, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla. The terrorists were planning a major attack ahead of the 26/11 attack anniversary.

ndia has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Delhi to strongly protest against the Nagrota terror and Islamabad's involvement in cross border terrorism. The Pakistani CDA-charges de affairs was handed a protest note in which New Delhi conveyed its "strong concern" on the terror attack planned by Jaish e Mohammed in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.

ndia has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Delhi to strongly protest against the Nagrota terror and Islamabad's involvement in cross border terrorism. The Pakistani CDA-charges de affairs was handed a protest note in which New Delhi conveyed its "strong concern" on the terror attack planned by Jaish e Mohammed in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir. Also read| Terrorists had planned attack on 26/11 anniversary: PM Modi holds review meet The protest note asked Pakistan to "stop supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from their territory and dismantle the terrorism infrastructure", top sources told WION. He was also told that India is "firm and resolute" in taking all necessary measures to safeguard its national security in the fight against terrorism. Earlier this week, a major terror attack was thwarted with the killing of 4 Jaish terrorists. The terrorists were neutralised at a toll plaza on Jammu--Srinagar national highway in Nagrota area of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. × Pakistan's involvement in the incident has emerged, especially in the supply of phones. The phones recovered from the slained terrorists have been manufactured by a Pakistani company. On Thursday Indian Prime Minister held a review meeting attended by Home minister Amit Shah, NSA Ajit Doval, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla. The terrorists were planning a major attack ahead of the 26/11 attack anniversary.

Nagrota incident: India summons Pak's top diplomat; lodges 'strong concerns'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi kept with his practice of spending time with soldiers on the festival of Diwali. He on Saturday addressed troops at Longewala Post in Rajasthan, and asserted that India will give a "prachand jawaab" [fierce reply] if it is provoked.

Modi, in an apparent jibe at China, said the entire world feels troubled by "expansionist" forces and expansionism shows a "distorted mindset" which belongs to 18th century.

"India believes in policy of understanding others and making them understand but if an attempt to test it is made, then the country will give a fierce reply," he asserted.

His unambiguous message came amid continuing standoff with China at Ladakh border.

No force in the world can prevent our soldiers from protecting our borders, he said, adding that India has shown that it has strength and the political will to give a befitting reply to those challenging it.

"The world now knows that India will not compromise with its interests even one bit," he said.

India has become a forceful voice against forces of expansionism, he said and also took aim at Pakistan, adding that Indian soldiers have hit "sponsors of terrorism" in their home, a reference to air and surgical strikes against terror camps in the neighbouring country.

He said India today believes in the policy of understanding others and making them understand but if it is tested, then it will give a fierce reply. The country has the capability and political will to give a befitting response to those who challenge it, he added.

The prime minister also underlined the importance of having strong capability, saying despite advanced international cooperation and equations, vigilance is the path to security, alertness leads to happiness and peace is the prize of having strength.

"History of the world tells us that only those nations have remained safe and advanced who had the ability to take on invaders," he said, adding that 130 crore Indians stand with the country's soldiers and bow to their bravely.

"They are proud of your valour," he told soldiers, saying their bravery has got better of all adversities, be it in deserts, forests or deep oceans.

Modi said his Diwali is complete only after he comes among soldiers, adding he cannot stay away from his own on this festival. He said the more time he spends with the soldiers, the stronger his resolve to serve and protect the country gets.

"Your sacrifices teach the country discipline and sense of service," the prime minister told soldiers, referring to his government's efforts to combat the coronavirus and also to restart the economic activity fully.

Urging soldiers to make innovation and yoga a part of their daily lives, he also asked them to learn one language other than Hindi, English and their mother tongue, saying it will enrich their lives.

The prime minister referred to his government's stress on self-reliance and 'vocal for local' campaign, and complimented the armed forces for the decision to bar import over 100 weapons and defence equipment.

Recalling the glorious battle of Longewala, he said it will always be remembered in the annals of strategic planning and military valour. He said this was the time when the ugly face of Pakistan was exposed as its army was terrorising innocent citizens of Bangladesh and committing atrocities against women.

On the occasion, he recalled the fierce fight the post had witnessed in the 1971 war against Pakistan and paid tributes to Brig Kuldeep Singh Chandpuri, a hero of the battle who was then a Major, saying he became "rashtra deep" with his feat of bravery.

It was also an example of exemplary coordination among Army, Navy and Air Force, he said.

India had defeated Pakistan in the 1971 war, leading to the independence of Bangladesh. 
Modi has been visiting forward posts every Diwali since his government came to power in 2014.

He was in Rajouri last year, in Uttarakhand in 2018 and in Gurez in 2017.

(with inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi kept with his practice of spending time with soldiers on the festival of Diwali. He on Saturday addressed troops at Longewala Post in Rajasthan, and asserted that India will give a "prachand jawaab" [fierce reply] if it is provoked.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi kept with his practice of spending time with soldiers on the festival of Diwali. He on Saturday addressed troops at Longewala Post in Rajasthan, and asserted that India will give a "prachand jawaab" [fierce reply] if it is provoked. Modi, in an apparent jibe at China, said the entire world feels troubled by "expansionist" forces and expansionism shows a "distorted mindset" which belongs to 18th century. "India believes in policy of understanding others and making them understand but if an attempt to test it is made, then the country will give a fierce reply," he asserted. His unambiguous message came amid continuing standoff with China at Ladakh border. No force in the world can prevent our soldiers from protecting our borders, he said, adding that India has shown that it has strength and the political will to give a befitting reply to those challenging it. "The world now knows that India will not compromise with its interests even one bit," he said. India has become a forceful voice against forces of expansionism, he said and also took aim at Pakistan, adding that Indian soldiers have hit "sponsors of terrorism" in their home, a reference to air and surgical strikes against terror camps in the neighbouring country. He said India today believes in the policy of understanding others and making them understand but if it is tested, then it will give a fierce reply. The country has the capability and political will to give a befitting response to those who challenge it, he added. The prime minister also underlined the importance of having strong capability, saying despite advanced international cooperation and equations, vigilance is the path to security, alertness leads to happiness and peace is the prize of having strength. "History of the world tells us that only those nations have remained safe and advanced who had the ability to take on invaders," he said, adding that 130 crore Indians stand with the country's soldiers and bow to their bravely. "They are proud of your valour," he told soldiers, saying their bravery has got better of all adversities, be it in deserts, forests or deep oceans. Modi said his Diwali is complete only after he comes among soldiers, adding he cannot stay away from his own on this festival. He said the more time he spends with the soldiers, the stronger his resolve to serve and protect the country gets. "Your sacrifices teach the country discipline and sense of service," the prime minister told soldiers, referring to his government's efforts to combat the coronavirus and also to restart the economic activity fully. Urging soldiers to make innovation and yoga a part of their daily lives, he also asked them to learn one language other than Hindi, English and their mother tongue, saying it will enrich their lives. The prime minister referred to his government's stress on self-reliance and 'vocal for local' campaign, and complimented the armed forces for the decision to bar import over 100 weapons and defence equipment. Recalling the glorious battle of Longewala, he said it will always be remembered in the annals of strategic planning and military valour. He said this was the time when the ugly face of Pakistan was exposed as its army was terrorising innocent citizens of Bangladesh and committing atrocities against women. On the occasion, he recalled the fierce fight the post had witnessed in the 1971 war against Pakistan and paid tributes to Brig Kuldeep Singh Chandpuri, a hero of the battle who was then a Major, saying he became "rashtra deep" with his feat of bravery. It was also an example of exemplary coordination among Army, Navy and Air Force, he said. India had defeated Pakistan in the 1971 war, leading to the independence of Bangladesh. Modi has been visiting forward posts every Diwali since his government came to power in 2014. He was in Rajouri last year, in Uttarakhand in 2018 and in Gurez in 2017. (with inputs from agencies)

India will give befitting reply if provoked: Indian PM Modi at Longewala Post

Pakistan troops opened fire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Gurez sector on Friday, including in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K). Indian Army retaliated destroying Pakistan Armies bunkers along the LoC.

Indian Army hits back at Pakistan, 7-8 Pak Army soldiers killed near LoC

Pakistan troops opened fire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Gurez sector on Friday, including in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K). Reports say two Army soldiers were killed in Uri and a BSF sub-inspector was killed in action in Haji Peer sector.

News Alert: Pakistan opens fire in multiple positions along LoC; Indian Army retaliates

Pakistan lawmaker Ayaz Sadiq, who faced criticism from the Pakistan government and Army for revealing that Imran Khan-led govt had released Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman fearing an imminent attack from India, said he stands by his statement, adding that he knows “many secrets” but never made irresponsible statements.

Speaking in the Pakistan National Assembly, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Sadiq had recounted the events of the February 2019 meeting during a speech in the country’s National Assembly.

He had revealed why Imran Khan’s government decided to release Abhinandan Varthaman, saying Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa’s “legs were shaking” while Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told the meeting of parliamentary leaders that India was about to attack their country.

His statement was heavily criticised by ruling party ministers and also prompted the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) chief Major General Babar Iftikhar to hold a presser in which he sought to “correct the record” regarding the events.

“But these are political differences. Their attempt to associate my statement with the armed forces of Pakistan was not a service to the country,” Dawn quoted Sadiq as saying.

“You (the government) have played into the hands of Indian media and you have not done justice to Pakistan. I am standing by my stance and you will see in future, I have many secrets. I had been heading the National Security Committee,” it added.

Information Minister Shibli Faraz has slammed PML-N leader Ayaz Sadiq for his remarks recalling the incident that led to the release of Abhinandan.

“The remarks by Ayaz Sadiq are beyond apology. Now the law will take its course. Weakening the state is an unforgivable crime for which Ayaz Sadiq and his companions must be punished,” Faraz tweeted on Friday.

Wing Commander Varthaman came into the limelight after he shot down a Pakistani aircraft F-16, which had transgressed into the Indian airspace during a dogfight between Indian and Pakistani air force on February 27, 2019 and in the process, his plane crossed over to the Pakistani side and was shot down.

Abhinandan was returned to India from the Attari-Wagah border on March 1, 2019. He has been awarded the Vir Chakra on Independence Day by President Ram Nath Kovind for his exemplary bravery.

Pakistan lawmaker Ayaz Sadiq, who faced criticism from the Pakistan government and Army for revealing that Imran Khan-led govt had released Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman fearing an imminent attack from India, said he stands by his statement, adding that he knows “many secrets” but never made irresponsible statements.

Pakistan lawmaker Ayaz Sadiq, who faced criticism from the Pakistan government and Army for revealing that Imran Khan-led govt had released Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman fearing an imminent attack from India, said he stands by his statement, adding that he knows “many secrets” but never made irresponsible statements. Speaking in the Pakistan National Assembly, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Sadiq had recounted the events of the February 2019 meeting during a speech in the country’s National Assembly. He had revealed why Imran Khan’s government decided to release Abhinandan Varthaman, saying Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa’s “legs were shaking” while Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told the meeting of parliamentary leaders that India was about to attack their country. His statement was heavily criticised by ruling party ministers and also prompted the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) chief Major General Babar Iftikhar to hold a presser in which he sought to “correct the record” regarding the events. “But these are political differences. Their attempt to associate my statement with the armed forces of Pakistan was not a service to the country,” Dawn quoted Sadiq as saying. “You (the government) have played into the hands of Indian media and you have not done justice to Pakistan. I am standing by my stance and you will see in future, I have many secrets. I had been heading the National Security Committee,” it added. Information Minister Shibli Faraz has slammed PML-N leader Ayaz Sadiq for his remarks recalling the incident that led to the release of Abhinandan. “The remarks by Ayaz Sadiq are beyond apology. Now the law will take its course. Weakening the state is an unforgivable crime for which Ayaz Sadiq and his companions must be punished,” Faraz tweeted on Friday. Wing Commander Varthaman came into the limelight after he shot down a Pakistani aircraft F-16, which had transgressed into the Indian airspace during a dogfight between Indian and Pakistani air force on February 27, 2019 and in the process, his plane crossed over to the Pakistani side and was shot down. Abhinandan was returned to India from the Attari-Wagah border on March 1, 2019. He has been awarded the Vir Chakra on Independence Day by President Ram Nath Kovind for his exemplary bravery.

Pakistani lawmaker stands by Abhinandan Varthaman’s release statement

Ahead of the announcement by the financial action task force (FATF) on Pakistan's continued listing or delisting, India has said that Islamabad has not taken any action on terrorist it has been providing safe haven to.

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said," As is well known, Pakistan continues to provide safe havens to terrorist entities and individuals and has also not yet taken any action against several terrorist entities and individuals including those proscribed by the UNSC such as Masood Azhar, Dawood Ibrahim, Zakir-ur-Rahman Lakhvi etc."

The terrorist listed by India are responsible for a number of terror attacks in India like the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Pakistan has addressed only 21 action items so far out of total 27 point FATF Action Plan and "6 important action items are yet to be addressed", the MEA spokesperson highlighted.&nbsp;

FATF's 3-day virtual meet is underway with an announcement due on Friday. Pakistan was put on FATF's grey-list in 2018 and given an action plan to it so that money in the country is not used in terror financing. If Pakistan fails to act on the plan it could be blacklisted or continues to remain on the grey list, something that impacts the economy of the country.&nbsp;

MEA also pointed out increased "unprovoked ceasefire violations, often from civilian areas" by Pakistani forces at the Line of Control "to support infiltration of terrorists".

Till now, this year, Pakistani forces have carried out more than 3800 unprovoked ceasefire violations. It has also been observed that Pakistan has been trying to drop arms and ammunition close to the LoC and smuggling of arms and narcotic substances have spilt over to the International Boundary.

Ahead of the announcement by the financial action task force (FATF) on Pakistan's continued listing or delisting, India has said that Islamabad has not taken any action on terrorist it has been providing safe haven to.

Ahead of the announcement by the financial action task force (FATF) on Pakistan's continued listing or delisting, India has said that Islamabad has not taken any action on terrorist it has been providing safe haven to. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said," As is well known, Pakistan continues to provide safe havens to terrorist entities and individuals and has also not yet taken any action against several terrorist entities and individuals including those proscribed by the UNSC such as Masood Azhar, Dawood Ibrahim, Zakir-ur-Rahman Lakhvi etc." The terrorist listed by India are responsible for a number of terror attacks in India like the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Pakistan has addressed only 21 action items so far out of total 27 point FATF Action Plan and "6 important action items are yet to be addressed", the MEA spokesperson highlighted. FATF's 3-day virtual meet is underway with an announcement due on Friday. Pakistan was put on FATF's grey-list in 2018 and given an action plan to it so that money in the country is not used in terror financing. If Pakistan fails to act on the plan it could be blacklisted or continues to remain on the grey list, something that impacts the economy of the country. MEA also pointed out increased "unprovoked ceasefire violations, often from civilian areas" by Pakistani forces at the Line of Control "to support infiltration of terrorists". Till now, this year, Pakistani forces have carried out more than 3800 unprovoked ceasefire violations. It has also been observed that Pakistan has been trying to drop arms and ammunition close to the LoC and smuggling of arms and narcotic substances have spilt over to the International Boundary.

Islamabad has not taken action on terrorists, says India ahead of FATF's decision on Pakistan’s listing

Pakistan has invited Indian Sikhs to attend the 551st birth anniversary celebrations of Sikh faith's founder, Guru Nanak Dev.

The three-day celebrations, known as Guru Nanak Gurpurab, will begin on November 27 at the Nankana Sahib.

Every year, a large number of Sikh pilgrims from India and different parts of the world gather at the Gurdwara Janamasthan Nankana Sahib, the birth place of Guru Nanak, in Pakistan's Punjab province to mark his birth anniversary.

The coronavirus pandemic, however, is likely to affect festivities this year.

The Indian pilgrims will be offered a five-day visa to enter the country upon the proof of a mandatory COVID-19 negative test, The Express Tribune reported.

The Abandoned Waqf Property Board and the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) have also sent regular invitations and itineraries to various Sikh societies, including the Shiromani Committee of India, for attending the festivities.

In view of the coronavirus pandemic, the Sikhs from India will be allowed to stay in the country only for a limited period of time, with no extensions.

The special five-day Nankana Sahib Visa will effectively expire on December 2.

As per the Pakistan-India bilateral agreement, 3,000 Indian Sikh pilgrims will be allowed entry into the country for the Gurpurab celebrations.

However, this time around, visitors will only have the option of the Nankana Sahib Visa, unlike last year when they had the option of a 10-day visa to visit multiple gurdwaras in Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Hassan Abdal, Kartarpur, Rohri Sahib and Farooqbad.

For the first time, Sikh pilgrims visiting the country will also not have the option to stay or shop in Lahore and be required to exit the country upon conclusion of religious festivities.

India has said a decision to re-open the Kartarpur corridor would be taken in accordance with the protocols relating COVID-19 and easing of restrictions.

The corridor links Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur in India to Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan - the final resting place of Guru Nanak.

Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine.

In November last year, the two countries threw open the corridor linking Dera Baba Sahib in Gurdaspur in India and Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan, in a historic people-to-people initiative.

Pakistan has invited Indian Sikhs to attend the 551st birth anniversary celebrations of Sikh faith's founder, Guru Nanak Dev. The three-day celebrations, known as Guru Nanak Gurpurab, will begin on November 27 at the Nankana Sahib.

Pakistan has invited Indian Sikhs to attend the 551st birth anniversary celebrations of Sikh faith's founder, Guru Nanak Dev. The three-day celebrations, known as Guru Nanak Gurpurab, will begin on November 27 at the Nankana Sahib. Every year, a large number of Sikh pilgrims from India and different parts of the world gather at the Gurdwara Janamasthan Nankana Sahib, the birth place of Guru Nanak, in Pakistan's Punjab province to mark his birth anniversary. The coronavirus pandemic, however, is likely to affect festivities this year. The Indian pilgrims will be offered a five-day visa to enter the country upon the proof of a mandatory COVID-19 negative test, The Express Tribune reported. The Abandoned Waqf Property Board and the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) have also sent regular invitations and itineraries to various Sikh societies, including the Shiromani Committee of India, for attending the festivities. In view of the coronavirus pandemic, the Sikhs from India will be allowed to stay in the country only for a limited period of time, with no extensions. The special five-day Nankana Sahib Visa will effectively expire on December 2. As per the Pakistan-India bilateral agreement, 3,000 Indian Sikh pilgrims will be allowed entry into the country for the Gurpurab celebrations. However, this time around, visitors will only have the option of the Nankana Sahib Visa, unlike last year when they had the option of a 10-day visa to visit multiple gurdwaras in Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Hassan Abdal, Kartarpur, Rohri Sahib and Farooqbad. For the first time, Sikh pilgrims visiting the country will also not have the option to stay or shop in Lahore and be required to exit the country upon conclusion of religious festivities. India has said a decision to re-open the Kartarpur corridor would be taken in accordance with the protocols relating COVID-19 and easing of restrictions. The corridor links Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur in India to Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan - the final resting place of Guru Nanak. Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine. In November last year, the two countries threw open the corridor linking Dera Baba Sahib in Gurdaspur in India and Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan, in a historic people-to-people initiative.

Pakistan invites Indian Sikhs for Guru Nanak's 551st birth anniversary

Two security force personnel, including a jawan of the SSB, have gone missing along with some weapons and ammunition from Chadoora area of central Kashmir's Budgam district, officials said here on Wednesday.

A special police officer, identified as Altaf Hussain, was reported missing from the camp of a special operations group at Chadoora, the officials said.

Two AK rifles and three magazines have also gone missing from the camp, the officials said, adding the matter is being investigated.

In another incident, a constable of the SSB -- also named Altaf Hussain -- has gone missing from the camp at Nagam area, near Chadoora.

One magazine of INSAS rifle and 20 rounds have been reported missing from the SSB camp, the officials said.

While the SPO is a local from Chadoora area, the SSB constable hails from Koteranka area of Rajouri district.

Two security force personnel, including a jawan of the SSB, have gone missing along with some weapons and ammunition from Chadoora area of central Kashmir's Budgam district, officials said here on Wednesday.

Two security force personnel, including a jawan of the SSB, have gone missing along with some weapons and ammunition from Chadoora area of central Kashmir's Budgam district, officials said here on Wednesday. A special police officer, identified as Altaf Hussain, was reported missing from the camp of a special operations group at Chadoora, the officials said. Two AK rifles and three magazines have also gone missing from the camp, the officials said, adding the matter is being investigated. In another incident, a constable of the SSB -- also named Altaf Hussain -- has gone missing from the camp at Nagam area, near Chadoora. One magazine of INSAS rifle and 20 rounds have been reported missing from the SSB camp, the officials said. While the SPO is a local from Chadoora area, the SSB constable hails from Koteranka area of Rajouri district.

Two security personnel go missing in Jammu and Kashmir

Pakistan is planning to oppose India’s claim of Geographical Indication (GI) tag to basmati rice in the European Union (EU).&nbsp;

A Pakistani legal team will file its formal opposition with the EU.

Pakistan representatives are of the view that their country is a major grower and producer of basmati rice and India’s claim for exclusivity is unjustified. Pakistan is hence planning to vehemently oppose India’s application in the European Union and restrain India from obtaining exclusive GI tag of basmati rice.

India submitted an application with the European Union claiming sole ownership of basmati rice in September. And Pakistan started with their planning when they got a whiff of this.

Basmati is grown in various parts of India, and New Delhi is looking for a GI tag for the variety grown in these states.

Pakistan produces 35% of the world's basmati, and India dominates 65% of the market.

India's basmati is also held at a more premium position. It is priced more than Pakistani basmati. And simply, because the rice is defined by its quality and aroma.

Starting 2017, Pakistan tried to double its basmati export -- but that has not helped its cause.

India produces 7.5 million tonnes of basmati rice, and exports around 4.5 million tonnes of it.

In 2019, India earned Rs 34,000 crore from basmati exports.

The battle for basmati is not new. New Delhi has always been possessive about its basmati.

In the 1990s, India took on an american firm that wanted a patent under the brand, and it won the case.

Basmati has always been associated with India. If Pakistan wants a GI tag for the rice, it would have to prove that basmati is grown only in Pakistan. And even the sound of it spells impossible.

Pakistan is planning to oppose India’s claim of Geographical Indication (GI) tag to basmati rice in the European Union (EU). A Pakistani legal team will file its formal opposition with the EU.

Pakistan is planning to oppose India’s claim of Geographical Indication (GI) tag to basmati rice in the European Union (EU). A Pakistani legal team will file its formal opposition with the EU. Pakistan representatives are of the view that their country is a major grower and producer of basmati rice and India’s claim for exclusivity is unjustified. Pakistan is hence planning to vehemently oppose India’s application in the European Union and restrain India from obtaining exclusive GI tag of basmati rice. India submitted an application with the European Union claiming sole ownership of basmati rice in September. And Pakistan started with their planning when they got a whiff of this. Basmati is grown in various parts of India, and New Delhi is looking for a GI tag for the variety grown in these states. Pakistan produces 35% of the world's basmati, and India dominates 65% of the market. India's basmati is also held at a more premium position. It is priced more than Pakistani basmati. And simply, because the rice is defined by its quality and aroma. Starting 2017, Pakistan tried to double its basmati export -- but that has not helped its cause. India produces 7.5 million tonnes of basmati rice, and exports around 4.5 million tonnes of it. In 2019, India earned Rs 34,000 crore from basmati exports. The battle for basmati is not new. New Delhi has always been possessive about its basmati. In the 1990s, India took on an american firm that wanted a patent under the brand, and it won the case. Basmati has always been associated with India. If Pakistan wants a GI tag for the rice, it would have to prove that basmati is grown only in Pakistan. And even the sound of it spells impossible.

Pakistan plans to challenge Indian claim of GI tag on basmati rice in EU

Two Indian army solider have been killed in action during an unprovoked ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Naugam sector in north Kashmir's Kupwara district while four others have been inured who are being evacuated to an army facility.&nbsp;

Earlier, Pakistan Army resorted to an unprovoked ceasefire violation on the line of control in Krishna Ghati Sector in Poonch district of Jammu region, killing a solider while another was injured.&nbsp;

In the morning, army said that "Pakistan fired mortars and other weapons while a befitting response is being given."&nbsp;

Three Indian army soldiers have been killed so far since last night in Pakistan's provocation. Before the snow sets in, Pakistan usually tries to push more terrorists to the Indian side because passes and tracks usually used by them get covered and closed.&nbsp;

In the past, Indian army has said that Pakistan violates ceasefire to provide cover to the infiltrators but their alertness have resulted in successfully soiling of these attempts.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two Indian army solider have been killed in action during an unprovoked ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Naugam sector in north Kashmir's Kupwara district while four others have been inured who are being evacuated to an army facility.

Two Indian army solider have been killed in action during an unprovoked ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Naugam sector in north Kashmir's Kupwara district while four others have been inured who are being evacuated to an army facility. Earlier, Pakistan Army resorted to an unprovoked ceasefire violation on the line of control in Krishna Ghati Sector in Poonch district of Jammu region, killing a solider while another was injured. In the morning, army said that "Pakistan fired mortars and other weapons while a befitting response is being given." Three Indian army soldiers have been killed so far since last night in Pakistan's provocation. Before the snow sets in, Pakistan usually tries to push more terrorists to the Indian side because passes and tracks usually used by them get covered and closed. In the past, Indian army has said that Pakistan violates ceasefire to provide cover to the infiltrators but their alertness have resulted in successfully soiling of these attempts. (With inputs from agencies)

Three Indian army men killed, five injured as Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in J&K

India on Wednesday highlighted Pakistan's hate speeches against Indian leadership and the situation of minorities in the country at the United Nations Human Rights Council.

India's first secretary at United Nations in Geneva, Pawan Badhe said, "We are not baffled that Pakistan does well when it comes to inciting hatred against religious minorities and targeting our leadership with hate speeches."

"It’s well cherished and inherited culture of hatred makes it the perfect candidate for carrying forward the legacy of intolerance against anybody having modern views on human rights," he added.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and other members of the ruling PTI have been making remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India. Infact, Khan mentioned India 20 times during his United Nations General Assembly speech last week.

The Indian diplomat said, "No fabricated words against India are going to change the fact that Pakistan and territories under its control are deathtraps for journalists, human rights defenders, social activists and religious and ethnic minorities.

"Perennial India bashing project of Pakistan in the UN system is also not going to change the fact that hundreds of journalists and human rights defenders die each year in Pakistan due to systematic killings including extrajudicial ones. Incessant attempts to malign India in all international forums is not going to change the fact that tens of thousands of minorities would not stop fleeing Pakistan."

A number of reports of minority Hindu and Sikh girls have been converted in the country. Recent abduction and conversion of Jagjit Kaur to Ayesha Bibi has been dominating the news on both sides of the border with a number of Sikh groups protesting against it near Pakistani High Commission in Delhi.

To this end, Pawan said, "While the world has progressed well, Pakistan is still at the crossroads to understand the real meaning of modern laws, democracy and human rights. The language of accountability, civic space, fundamental freedoms, public participation is yet to find resonance with the authorities of Pakistan."

India on Wednesday highlighted Pakistan's hate speeches against Indian leadership and the situation of minorities in the country at the United Nations Human Rights Council.

India on Wednesday highlighted Pakistan's hate speeches against Indian leadership and the situation of minorities in the country at the United Nations Human Rights Council. India's first secretary at United Nations in Geneva, Pawan Badhe said, "We are not baffled that Pakistan does well when it comes to inciting hatred against religious minorities and targeting our leadership with hate speeches." "It’s well cherished and inherited culture of hatred makes it the perfect candidate for carrying forward the legacy of intolerance against anybody having modern views on human rights," he added. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and other members of the ruling PTI have been making remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India. Infact, Khan mentioned India 20 times during his United Nations General Assembly speech last week. The Indian diplomat said, "No fabricated words against India are going to change the fact that Pakistan and territories under its control are deathtraps for journalists, human rights defenders, social activists and religious and ethnic minorities. "Perennial India bashing project of Pakistan in the UN system is also not going to change the fact that hundreds of journalists and human rights defenders die each year in Pakistan due to systematic killings including extrajudicial ones. Incessant attempts to malign India in all international forums is not going to change the fact that tens of thousands of minorities would not stop fleeing Pakistan." A number of reports of minority Hindu and Sikh girls have been converted in the country. Recent abduction and conversion of Jagjit Kaur to Ayesha Bibi has been dominating the news on both sides of the border with a number of Sikh groups protesting against it near Pakistani High Commission in Delhi. To this end, Pawan said, "While the world has progressed well, Pakistan is still at the crossroads to understand the real meaning of modern laws, democracy and human rights. The language of accountability, civic space, fundamental freedoms, public participation is yet to find resonance with the authorities of Pakistan."

At UNHRC, India highlights Pakistan's 'hate speeches'

The Indian&nbsp;delegate at&nbsp;the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) walked out of the high-level meeting hall as soon as a recorded address by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan got underway.

The junior&nbsp;diplomat, Mijito Vinito, on Friday picked up his papers, and&nbsp;left the meeting hall as soon as Imran Khan began his usual diatribe against India.

Khan, on expected lines, raked the Kashmir issue and targetted&nbsp;India during his UNGA speech.

To this end, TS Tirumurti, PR of India to UN in New York, posted on Twitter: "PM of Pakistan statement a new diplomatic low - at 75th UN General Assembly. Another litany of vicious falsehood, personal attacks, war mongering and obfuscation of Pakistan’s persecution of its own minorities &amp; of its cross-border terrorism. Befitting Right of Reply awaits."

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PM of Pakistan statement a new diplomatic low - at 75th UN General Assembly. Another litany of vicious falsehood, personal attacks, war mongering and obfuscation of Pakistan’s persecution of its own minorities &amp; of its cross-border terrorism. Befitting Right of Reply awaits.
— PR UN Tirumurti (@ambtstirumurti) <a href="https://twitter.com/ambtstirumurti/status/1309537464013520897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Imran Khan&nbsp;termed New Delhi as a 'state sponsor' of Islamophobia in his UNGA address.

"Muslims continue to be targeted with impunity in many countries. Our shrines are being destroyed; our Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) insulted; the Holy Quran burnt – and all this in the name of freedom of speech," Khan said in his unsual demeanour, adding, "and the one country in the world today where, I am sad to say, the state sponsors Islamophobia, is India. The reason behind this is RSS ideology that unfortunately rules India today."

To this end, Khan urged the Assembly to declare an “International Day to Combat Islamophobia” and build a coalition to fight this scourge.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-targets-india-at-unga-terms-it-state-sponsor-of-islamophobia-330309">Also read |&nbsp;Pak PM targets India at UNGA, terms it 'state sponsor' of Islamophobia</a>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will speak on Saturday at the UNGA at 6.30 pm IST.

The Indian delegate at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) walked out of the high-level meeting hall as soon as a recorded address by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan got underway.

The Indian delegate at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) walked out of the high-level meeting hall as soon as a recorded address by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan got underway. The junior diplomat, Mijito Vinito, on Friday picked up his papers, and left the meeting hall as soon as Imran Khan began his usual diatribe against India. Khan, on expected lines, raked the Kashmir issue and targetted India during his UNGA speech. To this end, TS Tirumurti, PR of India to UN in New York, posted on Twitter: "PM of Pakistan statement a new diplomatic low - at 75th UN General Assembly. Another litany of vicious falsehood, personal attacks, war mongering and obfuscation of Pakistan’s persecution of its own minorities & of its cross-border terrorism. Befitting Right of Reply awaits." PM of Pakistan statement a new diplomatic low - at 75th UN General Assembly. Another litany of vicious falsehood, personal attacks, war mongering and obfuscation of Pakistan’s persecution of its own minorities & of its cross-border terrorism. Befitting Right of Reply awaits. — PR UN Tirumurti (@ambtstirumurti) September 25, 2020 × Imran Khan termed New Delhi as a 'state sponsor' of Islamophobia in his UNGA address. "Muslims continue to be targeted with impunity in many countries. Our shrines are being destroyed; our Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) insulted; the Holy Quran burnt – and all this in the name of freedom of speech," Khan said in his unsual demeanour, adding, "and the one country in the world today where, I am sad to say, the state sponsors Islamophobia, is India. The reason behind this is RSS ideology that unfortunately rules India today." To this end, Khan urged the Assembly to declare an “International Day to Combat Islamophobia” and build a coalition to fight this scourge. Also read | Pak PM targets India at UNGA, terms it 'state sponsor' of Islamophobia Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will speak on Saturday at the UNGA at 6.30 pm IST.

Indian diplomat walks out of UNGA hall as Pak PM mentions Kashmir in speech

India hit out at Pakistan, telling the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) that UN-listed international terror groups have been collecting funds in name of charity to finance terrorism.

Calling the development a "disturbing trend", India's first secretary to the United Nations in Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The collection of funds by proscribed terrorist outfits ostensibly for undertaking charitable activities are in reality being used to finance terror."

The national investigation agency or NIA recently said Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF) founded by United Nations-listed terrorist Hafiz Saeed has been supporting terror activities in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking at the debate "Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention", Pawan Badhe highlighted how "malevolent attempts by terrorists" has been observed whose aim is "to exploit the financial and emotional distress caused by the lock-downs to disturb the cohesiveness of societies".

"Terror groups have also exhorted supporters to target security forces and health workers."

India also raised the issue of fake news and detailed how "increased presence of people online and on social media has been targeted by terrorists to disseminate misinformation through hate speeches, fake news and doctored videos" with the intent to "entice and establish links with vulnerable individuals and recruit them in their cadres."

India also called on states to cooperate to fight against terrorism and called it "a grossest affront to the enjoyment of the inalienable human right to life and to live in peace and security"

India hit out at Pakistan, telling the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) that UN-listed international terror groups have been collecting funds in name of charity to finance terrorism.

India hit out at Pakistan, telling the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) that UN-listed international terror groups have been collecting funds in name of charity to finance terrorism. Calling the development a "disturbing trend", India's first secretary to the United Nations in Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The collection of funds by proscribed terrorist outfits ostensibly for undertaking charitable activities are in reality being used to finance terror." The national investigation agency or NIA recently said Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF) founded by United Nations-listed terrorist Hafiz Saeed has been supporting terror activities in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at the debate "Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention", Pawan Badhe highlighted how "malevolent attempts by terrorists" has been observed whose aim is "to exploit the financial and emotional distress caused by the lock-downs to disturb the cohesiveness of societies". "Terror groups have also exhorted supporters to target security forces and health workers." India also raised the issue of fake news and detailed how "increased presence of people online and on social media has been targeted by terrorists to disseminate misinformation through hate speeches, fake news and doctored videos" with the intent to "entice and establish links with vulnerable individuals and recruit them in their cadres." India also called on states to cooperate to fight against terrorism and called it "a grossest affront to the enjoyment of the inalienable human right to life and to live in peace and security"

Funds being collected by proscribed terror outfits in name of charity: India hits out at Pak at UNHRC

India has said that Pakistan has no legal basis to convert Pakistan occupied Kashmir's Gilgit-Baltistan region as its 5th province and the action will be "void ab initio".&nbsp;

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava in response to a WION question said, “Any action by Pakistan to alter the status of the militarily occupied so-called “Gilgit-Baltistan” has no legal basis whatsoever and is totally void ab-initio."

Reiterating its "clear and consistent" position on PoK, MEA said, "The entire territories of the UTs of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been and are an integral part of India and would remain so. Pakistan has no locus standi to comment on India’s internal matters."

Pakistan has announced it will conduct elections in PoK's Gilgit-Baltistan area in November.&nbsp;

Hectic political activity is taking place in Pakistan over plans to make the area the country's 5th province, other 4 being--Punjab, the most populated, Balochistan, the largest one, khyber Pakhtunkhwa bordering Afghanistan and southern Sindh province.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the Pakistani Army Chief Javed Bajwa and ISI DG Lt Gen Faiz Hameed had a meeting with opposition parties over the issue.

India has said that Pakistan has no legal basis to convert Pakistan occupied Kashmir's Gilgit-Baltistan region as its 5th province and the action will be "void ab initio".

India has said that Pakistan has no legal basis to convert Pakistan occupied Kashmir's Gilgit-Baltistan region as its 5th province and the action will be "void ab initio". Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava in response to a WION question said, “Any action by Pakistan to alter the status of the militarily occupied so-called “Gilgit-Baltistan” has no legal basis whatsoever and is totally void ab-initio." Reiterating its "clear and consistent" position on PoK, MEA said, "The entire territories of the UTs of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been and are an integral part of India and would remain so. Pakistan has no locus standi to comment on India’s internal matters." Pakistan has announced it will conduct elections in PoK's Gilgit-Baltistan area in November. Hectic political activity is taking place in Pakistan over plans to make the area the country's 5th province, other 4 being--Punjab, the most populated, Balochistan, the largest one, khyber Pakhtunkhwa bordering Afghanistan and southern Sindh province. Earlier this week, the Pakistani Army Chief Javed Bajwa and ISI DG Lt Gen Faiz Hameed had a meeting with opposition parties over the issue.

Pakistan has no legal basis to convert Gilgit-Baltistan as its 5th province: India

India on Tuesday rejected Pakistan’s contention that the Kashmir issue is one of the most long-standing disputes at the United Nations

India slams Pakistan for raising J&k issue at UN

India has strongly raised the matter of abduction of a Sikh girl in Pakistan with the Pakistani establishment. On Friday, India summoned a senior Pakistani diplomat from the Pakistani high commission in Delhi over the issue and issue a strong demarche or letter of protest on the issue.

Last week, it came to light that the daughter of Pritam Singh, Bulbul Kaur has been abducted and being converted forcibly. Pritam Singh is the head Granthi of Gurdwara Panja Sahib. Panja Sahib located in Pakistan's Hasan Abdal is considered an important Sikh place of worship since it has the handprint of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak.

A candlelight march will take place near Pakistan high commission in Delhi on Tuesday to protest against the development. Around 50 Sikh ladies will be part of the candlelight march.

Earlier conversion of Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur to Ayesha Bibi had rocked the Sikh community in Pakistan. A court had ruled that Jagjit should go with her "husband" Muhammad Hassan. Hassan says Jagjit alias "Ayesha bibi" married to him on her own accord which has been disputed by her family.

Jagjit Kaur is the daughter of the Granthi of Nankana Sahib Gurudwara, one of the holiest Sikh places of worship since it is the birthplace of the founder of Sikhism-- Guru Nanak.

9 family members of "converted" Sikh Girl Jagjit Kaur from Pakistan's Nankana Sahib had written to authorities asking them to make a passport for them as they want to leave the country.

United States Commission on International Religious Freedom 2020 report has taken note of forced conversation of girls from minority Hindu, Christian and Sikh communities in Pakistan and how local police has been often complicit to it. The Sikh community in the country has reported more than 55 such instances of abductions and forced conversions in the past few months.

India has strongly raised the matter of abduction of a Sikh girl in Pakistan with the Pakistani establishment. On Friday, India summoned a senior Pakistani diplomat from the Pakistani high commission in Delhi over the issue and issue a strong demarche or letter of protest on the issue.

India has strongly raised the matter of abduction of a Sikh girl in Pakistan with the Pakistani establishment. On Friday, India summoned a senior Pakistani diplomat from the Pakistani high commission in Delhi over the issue and issue a strong demarche or letter of protest on the issue. Last week, it came to light that the daughter of Pritam Singh, Bulbul Kaur has been abducted and being converted forcibly. Pritam Singh is the head Granthi of Gurdwara Panja Sahib. Panja Sahib located in Pakistan's Hasan Abdal is considered an important Sikh place of worship since it has the handprint of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak. A candlelight march will take place near Pakistan high commission in Delhi on Tuesday to protest against the development. Around 50 Sikh ladies will be part of the candlelight march. Earlier conversion of Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur to Ayesha Bibi had rocked the Sikh community in Pakistan. A court had ruled that Jagjit should go with her "husband" Muhammad Hassan. Hassan says Jagjit alias "Ayesha bibi" married to him on her own accord which has been disputed by her family. Jagjit Kaur is the daughter of the Granthi of Nankana Sahib Gurudwara, one of the holiest Sikh places of worship since it is the birthplace of the founder of Sikhism-- Guru Nanak. 9 family members of "converted" Sikh Girl Jagjit Kaur from Pakistan's Nankana Sahib had written to authorities asking them to make a passport for them as they want to leave the country. United States Commission on International Religious Freedom 2020 report has taken note of forced conversation of girls from minority Hindu, Christian and Sikh communities in Pakistan and how local police has been often complicit to it. The Sikh community in the country has reported more than 55 such instances of abductions and forced conversions in the past few months.

India raises the issue of abduction of Sikh girl with Pakistan

Pakistan has blocked the appointment of Jayant Khobragade as India's chargé d'affaires in Islamabad. It has denied a visa to Khobragade, a Times of India report said on Sunday.

Pakistan downgraded diplomatic ties with India and&nbsp;expelled&nbsp;Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria in 2019 when India revoked Article 370 and bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir region into Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Since then, the Indian mission in Islamabad and the Pakistani mission in New Delhi have been headed by their charge d’affaires.

Khobragade's name was proposed in June this year.

Meanwhile, the prime ministers of both countries are slated to address the landmark 75th anniversary of the UN amid the COVID-19 pandemic raging across the world. The annual session of the UN General Assembly begins September 21.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address this special event through a pre-recorded video statement. The General Debate will commence on September 22 and run through September 29.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is likely to raise the issue in his UNGA address on September 25.&nbsp;

Pakistan has blocked the appointment of Jayant Khobragade as India's chargé d'affaires in Islamabad. It has denied a visa to Khobragade, a Times of India report said on Sunday.

Pakistan has blocked the appointment of Jayant Khobragade as India's chargé d'affaires in Islamabad. It has denied a visa to Khobragade, a Times of India report said on Sunday. Pakistan downgraded diplomatic ties with India and expelled Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria in 2019 when India revoked Article 370 and bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir region into Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Since then, the Indian mission in Islamabad and the Pakistani mission in New Delhi have been headed by their charge d’affaires. Khobragade's name was proposed in June this year. Meanwhile, the prime ministers of both countries are slated to address the landmark 75th anniversary of the UN amid the COVID-19 pandemic raging across the world. The annual session of the UN General Assembly begins September 21. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address this special event through a pre-recorded video statement. The General Debate will commence on September 22 and run through September 29. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is likely to raise the issue in his UNGA address on September 25.

Pakistan blocks Indian envoy's appointment; bilateral ties take another hit

Knives made out of frozen faeces, narcissistic eyebrows and a helium-breathing alligator were among the bizarre scientific studies featured in this year's Ig Nobel awards.&nbsp;

Harvard University's annual spoof on the Nobel Prize awards rewards amusing and often weird scientific discoveries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Thursday, at the 30th annual Ig Nobel ceremony's -- a 75-minute pre-recorded virtual event -- ten awards were handed out for notable achievements in physics, peace, psychology, economics, medicine and more. In lieu of a handsome windfall and medal, the winners received a paper cube and a £10tn dollar bill from Zimbabwe.

The night's most memorable award was the peace prize. It was given to the governments of India and Pakistan for having their diplomats ring each other’s doorbells in the middle of the night and run away before anyone answered.

Another memorable award was given to a US-based researcher, Metin Eren, for concluding that 'knives manufactured from frozen human faeces do not work'. He made a knife from his frozen faeces, and then set about butchering an animal hide, an endeavour that ended in failure.

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This year’s awards also included a physics prize for work that recorded the shapes earthworms adopt when vibrated at high frequency.&nbsp;

Chris Watkins, a British psychologist, shared the economics prize. His research found that French kissing was more common between partners in areas of high income inequality.&nbsp;

Boris Johnson shared the medical education prize with Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin and a choice selection of other world leaders for demonstrating during the Covid-19 pandemic that politicians can have a more immediate effect on life and death than scientists and doctors can.

The psychology prize went to researchers who discovered a way to identify grandiose narcissists from their eyebrows.

The acoustics prize went to a team that enticed a Chinese alligator to bellow at high pitch after inhaling helium.

The management prize went to five Chinese assassins who subcontracted the hit to each other but failed to get the job done.

Award winners also included a team of Dutch and Belgian researchers who looked at why the sound of chewing drives people mad.

Knives made out of frozen faeces, narcissistic eyebrows and a helium-breathing alligator were among the bizarre scientific studies featured in this year's Ig Nobel awards.

Knives made out of frozen faeces, narcissistic eyebrows and a helium-breathing alligator were among the bizarre scientific studies featured in this year's Ig Nobel awards. Harvard University's annual spoof on the Nobel Prize awards rewards amusing and often weird scientific discoveries. On Thursday, at the 30th annual Ig Nobel ceremony's -- a 75-minute pre-recorded virtual event -- ten awards were handed out for notable achievements in physics, peace, psychology, economics, medicine and more. In lieu of a handsome windfall and medal, the winners received a paper cube and a £10tn dollar bill from Zimbabwe. The night's most memorable award was the peace prize. It was given to the governments of India and Pakistan for having their diplomats ring each other’s doorbells in the middle of the night and run away before anyone answered. Another memorable award was given to a US-based researcher, Metin Eren, for concluding that 'knives manufactured from frozen human faeces do not work'. He made a knife from his frozen faeces, and then set about butchering an animal hide, an endeavour that ended in failure. × This year’s awards also included a physics prize for work that recorded the shapes earthworms adopt when vibrated at high frequency. Chris Watkins, a British psychologist, shared the economics prize. His research found that French kissing was more common between partners in areas of high income inequality. Boris Johnson shared the medical education prize with Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin and a choice selection of other world leaders for demonstrating during the Covid-19 pandemic that politicians can have a more immediate effect on life and death than scientists and doctors can. The psychology prize went to researchers who discovered a way to identify grandiose narcissists from their eyebrows. The acoustics prize went to a team that enticed a Chinese alligator to bellow at high pitch after inhaling helium. The management prize went to five Chinese assassins who subcontracted the hit to each other but failed to get the job done. Award winners also included a team of Dutch and Belgian researchers who looked at why the sound of chewing drives people mad.

Frozen poo, narcissists' eyebrows and alligator studies win spoof 'Ig Nobel' awards

India has slammed Pakistan, Turkey and Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) at United Nation's Human Rights Council (UNHRC) after they raked the Kashmir matter at the Geneva-based body.

India slams Pakistan, Turkey and OIC at UN Human Rights Council

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