After a deadly terror attack in the popular tourist area of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-firing-in-baisaran-pahalgam-sources-say-two-tourists-injured-8989711">Pahalgam </a>in South Kashmir, a heart-wrenching video has gone viral, in which a terrified woman is seen pleading for her husband to be rescued.&nbsp;
"Please save my husband, please," she was heard saying in the video.&nbsp;
The man recording the video was heard saying to reassure her while trying to get more information about the situation.
"He (the gunman) said he was not a Muslim and shot him," she said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-jammu-kashmir-terror-attack-tourists-dead-injured-april-22-2025-omar-abdullah-8990687">Pahalgam terror attack LIVE: Death toll climbs to 24; Amit Shah boards flight to Srinagar for urgent security review</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Islamic Terrorists asked the name of her husband. He was Hindu so they shot him. Terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. 12 injured, 1 dead in attack. Remember, secular Hindus, you are just Kafir for them. That's it. Om Shanti 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/ybuSMXwPw2">pic.twitter.com/ybuSMXwPw2</a>
&mdash; Sunanda Roy 👑 (@SaffronSunanda) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaffronSunanda/status/1914660953553019347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Two to three militants opened fire on a group of tourists at Baisaran on Tuesday (April 22), a scenic off-road meadow in Pahalgam.&nbsp;
According to AFP, at least 24 people have died, while more than 20 are injured. The death count is, however, expected to rise, as several tourists were rushed to hospitals with serious injuries.&nbsp;
The terrifying videos of several women are making rounds on social media, in which she is seen pleading for help.&nbsp;
"We were having a snack when a man came and shot my husband," one of the women said, as another, with blood splattered on her face, looked helplessly at the man recording the video.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/several-tourists-fired-upon-in-jks-pahalgam-amit-shah-to-visit-attack-site-8990572">Several tourists fired upon in J&amp;K's Pahalgam, Amit Shah to visit attack site</a>
Meanwhile, two men were seen lying on the ground, while blood splattered on their faces.&nbsp;
Reportedly, the Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot called The Resistance Front (TRF) has claimed responsibility for the incident.&nbsp;
The terrorists targeted a group of people, including women and elderly individuals.&nbsp;
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack, vowing that those responsible for the &ldquo;heinous act will be brought to justice.&rdquo; He also said that their &ldquo;evil agenda will never succeed.&rdquo;
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the assault as unprecedented in recent times. &ldquo;Needless to say this attack is much larger than anything we&rsquo;ve seen directed at civilians in recent years,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terror-attack-in-pahalgam-tourist-killed-several-injured-pm-modi-says-perpetrators-will-not-be-spared-8990496">Terror attack in J&amp;K's Pahalgam, tourist killed, several injured; PM Modi says perpetrators "will not be spared"</a>

Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot called TRF has claimed responsibility for the incident. The terrorists targeted a group of people, including women and elderly. India news

After a deadly terror attack in the popular tourist area of Pahalgam in South Kashmir, a heart-wrenching video has gone viral, in which a terrified woman is seen pleading for her husband to be rescued. "Please save my husband, please," she was heard saying in the video. The man recording the video was heard saying to reassure her while trying to get more information about the situation. "He (the gunman) said he was not a Muslim and shot him," she said. Also read: Pahalgam terror attack LIVE: Death toll climbs to 24; Amit Shah boards flight to Srinagar for urgent security review Islamic Terrorists asked the name of her husband. He was Hindu so they shot him. Terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. 12 injured, 1 dead in attack. Remember, secular Hindus, you are just Kafir for them. That's it. Om Shanti 🙏 pic.twitter.com/ybuSMXwPw2 — Sunanda Roy 👑 (@SaffronSunanda) April 22, 2025 Two to three militants opened fire on a group of tourists at Baisaran on Tuesday (April 22), a scenic off-road meadow in Pahalgam. According to AFP, at least 24 people have died, while more than 20 are injured. The death count is, however, expected to rise, as several tourists were rushed to hospitals with serious injuries. The terrifying videos of several women are making rounds on social media, in which she is seen pleading for help. "We were having a snack when a man came and shot my husband," one of the women said, as another, with blood splattered on her face, looked helplessly at the man recording the video. WATCH | Several tourists fired upon in J&K's Pahalgam, Amit Shah to visit attack site Meanwhile, two men were seen lying on the ground, while blood splattered on their faces. Reportedly, the Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot called The Resistance Front (TRF) has claimed responsibility for the incident. The terrorists targeted a group of people, including women and elderly individuals. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack, vowing that those responsible for the “heinous act will be brought to justice.” He also said that their “evil agenda will never succeed.” Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the assault as unprecedented in recent times. “Needless to say this attack is much larger than anything we’ve seen directed at civilians in recent years,” he said. Also read: Terror attack in J&K's Pahalgam, tourist killed, several injured; PM Modi says perpetrators "will not be spared"

'Please save my husband': Horrified woman pleads for help after her husband shot in J&K terror attack | Video

Four separatist groups from Jammu and Kashmir have severed their ties with the Hurriyat conference in the last one week. The Home Minister of India Amit Shah took to social media and shared that two groups have discarded separatism and reposed their trust in India.&nbsp;
Home Minister Amit Shah said, &ldquo;Another great news from Kashmir Valley. Two more groups affiliated with the Hurriyat, namely J&amp;K Tahreeqi Isteqlal and J&amp;K Tahreek-I-Istiqamat, have discarded separatism and reposed their trust in the new Bharat built by PM Shri @narendramodi Ji.&ldquo;
He also added that &ldquo;Under the Modi government, separatism is breathing its last, and the triumph of unity is echoing across Kashmir.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-underway-in-jammu-divisions-kathua-security-forces-face-off-against-foreign-terrorists-8895566">Encounter underway in Jammu division's Kathua: Security forces face off against foreign terrorists</a>
Earlier this week, the Home Minister had shared that two more separatist groups associated with Hurriyat have announced to cut all their ties with Separatism.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Separatism has become history in Kashmir. The unifying policies of the Modi government have tossed separatism out of J&amp;K. Two organizations associated with the Hurriyat have announced the severing of all ties with separatism, &ldquo; said Home Minister Amit Shah.&nbsp;
He added that &ldquo;I welcome this step towards strengthening Bharat's unity and urge all such groups to come forward and shed separatism once and for all. It is a big victory for PM Shri @narendramodi Ji's vision of building a developed, peaceful and unified Bharat.&rdquo;
Hurriyat Conference was banned by the Home Ministry along with Organisations like Jamaat Islami in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

India news | Earlier this week, the Home Minister had shared that two more separatist groups associated with Hurriyat have announced to cut all their ties with Separatism.

Four separatist groups from Jammu and Kashmir have severed their ties with the Hurriyat conference in the last one week. The Home Minister of India Amit Shah took to social media and shared that two groups have discarded separatism and reposed their trust in India. Home Minister Amit Shah said, “Another great news from Kashmir Valley. Two more groups affiliated with the Hurriyat, namely J&K Tahreeqi Isteqlal and J&K Tahreek-I-Istiqamat, have discarded separatism and reposed their trust in the new Bharat built by PM Shri @narendramodi Ji.“ He also added that “Under the Modi government, separatism is breathing its last, and the triumph of unity is echoing across Kashmir.” Also read | Encounter underway in Jammu division's Kathua: Security forces face off against foreign terrorists Earlier this week, the Home Minister had shared that two more separatist groups associated with Hurriyat have announced to cut all their ties with Separatism. “Separatism has become history in Kashmir. The unifying policies of the Modi government have tossed separatism out of J&K. Two organizations associated with the Hurriyat have announced the severing of all ties with separatism, “ said Home Minister Amit Shah. He added that “I welcome this step towards strengthening Bharat's unity and urge all such groups to come forward and shed separatism once and for all. It is a big victory for PM Shri @narendramodi Ji's vision of building a developed, peaceful and unified Bharat.” Hurriyat Conference was banned by the Home Ministry along with Organisations like Jamaat Islami in Jammu and Kashmir.

Four Separatist groups sever ties with Hurriyat Conference, says Home Minister Amit Shah

An encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday evening after security forces launched a massive search operation in the forest area near the international border, officials said.
The search operation was launched in the Sanyal village of Indo-Pak border in Hiranagar sector area of Kathua district following suspicious movement of persons on Sunday evening.
Three terrorists were spotted by the security forces near the India-Pakistan border.&nbsp; A fierce gunfight started after security forces intercepted a heavily armed group of terrorists. According to sources, the operation may go on for long as it is a densely forested area.
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Officials said reinforcements have been rushed to the spot and further details are awaited. Earlier in the day, security forces started a joint search operation after some &lsquo;suspicious movement&rsquo; was noticed in Sangla, Surankot, of Jammu and Kashmir&rsquo;s Poonch district, said an ANI report.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-muskan-and-sahil-did-during-their-trip-to-shimla-cab-driver-reveals-details-in-meerut-murder-8879512" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What Muskan and Sahil did during their trip to Shimla? Cab driver reveals details in Meerut murder</a>
The operation was launched by the Indian Army&rsquo;s Romeo Forces along with Poonch Police.
In another development, a terrorist hideout was unearthed in the forest area of Doda district and security personnel recovered a pistol and some ammunition, officials told PTI on Sunday. The hideout was unearthed during a joint search operation by the Special Operations Group (SOG) of police and Army in Bhalra forest area of Bhaderwah on Saturday.
<h2>Grenade hurled at security forces in Rajouri</h2>
On March 21, suspected terrorists hurled a grenade on a police vehicle in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir. A police officer said that the grenade missed the target and exploded on roadside without causing any harm to cops.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/satanic-graffiti-and-black-magic-occult-angle-in-meerut-murder-case-as-accuseds-room-reveals-chilling-secrets-8877943" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;Satanic graffiti, black magic&rsquo;: Occult angle in Meerut murder case as accused&rsquo;s room reveals chilling secrets</a> The officer informed that the vehicle belonging to the special operations group (SOG) was on a routine patrol and was on its way to Thannamandi from Dera Ki Gali when suspected terrorists lobbed the grenade around 8.30 pm. Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed tensions over terrorist infiltration. Just last week, one terrorist was shot dead during a gunbattle with security forces in Kupwara.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: Three terrorists were spotted by the security forces near the India-Pakistan border. A fierce gunfight started after security forces intercepted a heavily armed group of terrorists.

An encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday evening after security forces launched a massive search operation in the forest area near the international border, officials said. The search operation was launched in the Sanyal village of Indo-Pak border in Hiranagar sector area of Kathua district following suspicious movement of persons on Sunday evening. Three terrorists were spotted by the security forces near the India-Pakistan border. A fierce gunfight started after security forces intercepted a heavily armed group of terrorists. According to sources, the operation may go on for long as it is a densely forested area. Also read | Self-styled Punjab pastor Bajinder Singh assaults woman with baby, other staffers; video goes viral Officials said reinforcements have been rushed to the spot and further details are awaited. Earlier in the day, security forces started a joint search operation after some ‘suspicious movement’ was noticed in Sangla, Surankot, of Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, said an ANI report. Also read: What Muskan and Sahil did during their trip to Shimla? Cab driver reveals details in Meerut murder The operation was launched by the Indian Army’s Romeo Forces along with Poonch Police. In another development, a terrorist hideout was unearthed in the forest area of Doda district and security personnel recovered a pistol and some ammunition, officials told PTI on Sunday. The hideout was unearthed during a joint search operation by the Special Operations Group (SOG) of police and Army in Bhalra forest area of Bhaderwah on Saturday. Grenade hurled at security forces in Rajouri On March 21, suspected terrorists hurled a grenade on a police vehicle in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir. A police officer said that the grenade missed the target and exploded on roadside without causing any harm to cops. Also read: ‘Satanic graffiti, black magic’: Occult angle in Meerut murder case as accused’s room reveals chilling secrets The officer informed that the vehicle belonging to the special operations group (SOG) was on a routine patrol and was on its way to Thannamandi from Dera Ki Gali when suspected terrorists lobbed the grenade around 8.30 pm. Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed tensions over terrorist infiltration. Just last week, one terrorist was shot dead during a gunbattle with security forces in Kupwara. (With inputs from agencies)

Encounter breaks out between security forces and terrorists near Pak border in J&K’s Kathua

Massive fire breaks out in Sonmarg market Srinagar, Feb 8 (PTI) A massive fire broke out in the market of the famous resort town of Sonmarg in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, officials said.
The fire, which started from a restaurant quickly spread to the adjacent shops in the Sonmarg market, they said.
Fire tenders are on the spot, working to bring the fire under control, officials added.
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Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he was in constant touch with the local administration to ensure all possible assistance.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-indian-army-soldiers-killed-in-vehicular-accident-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-poonch-786532" rel="dofollow">Five Indian Army soldiers killed as vehicle falls into gorge in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch</a>
"Deeply saddened by the devastating fire incident in the Sonmarg market. My office is in constant touch with the local administration to ensure all possible assistance reaches those in need. My thoughts and prayers are with the affected families and businesses. In this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with you and will do everything possible to support your recovery," Abdullah posted on X.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news: Fire started from a restaurant quickly spread to the adjacent shops in the Sonmarg market. Fire tenders are on the spot, working to bring the fire under control. 

Massive fire breaks out in Sonmarg market Srinagar, Feb 8 (PTI) A massive fire broke out in the market of the famous resort town of Sonmarg in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, officials said. The fire, which started from a restaurant quickly spread to the adjacent shops in the Sonmarg market, they said. Fire tenders are on the spot, working to bring the fire under control, officials added. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir braces for severe and harsh winter with La Niña impact Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he was in constant touch with the local administration to ensure all possible assistance. Also read: Five Indian Army soldiers killed as vehicle falls into gorge in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch "Deeply saddened by the devastating fire incident in the Sonmarg market. My office is in constant touch with the local administration to ensure all possible assistance reaches those in need. My thoughts and prayers are with the affected families and businesses. In this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with you and will do everything possible to support your recovery," Abdullah posted on X. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Massive fire breaks out in J&K's Sonamarg market

Five suspected Pakistani militants have been killed in a landmine explosion along the Line of Control, in the Battal sector of Jammu and Kashmir&rsquo;s border district of Poonch on Friday (Feb 7).
The incident took place when one of the militants, allegedly tried to cross over to the Indian side from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and stepped on a landmine laid on the Indian side.
Notably, the militants were carrying an IED which too exploded killing the infiltrators.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kejriwal-accuses-bjp-of-attempting-to-poach-aap-candidates-bjp-delhi-chief-hits-back-8698637">Kejriwal accuses BJP of attempting to poach AAP candidates; BJP Delhi chief hits back</a>
The LoC area has been fitted with landmines by the Indian Army to prevent infiltration by the terrorists.
<h2 dir="ltr">&lsquo;No man&rsquo;s land&rsquo;</h2>
In Jammu and Kashmir, landmines are crucial in preventing infiltration, supplementing other security measures such as night vision devices, electronic surveillance, and human vigilance.
The area near the Line of Control (LoC) is often referred to as "no man's land", serving as a warning to deter anyone from entering this sensitive region.
Security forces and the Indian Army have heightened vigil along the LoC and the hinterland in J&amp;K as very little snowfall this season so far has left all mountain routes used by the terrorists open in the UT.
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<h2 dir="ltr">Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired security review meeting</h2>
Earlier this week, Amit Shah emphasised the need to step up the fight against terrorism with the goal of "zero infiltration," while chairing the Jammu and Kashmir security review meeting in the national capital.
Noting that sustained and coordinated efforts of the union government resulted in a significantly weak terrorism ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir, Shah directed all security agencies to step up the fight against terrorism by aiming for the 'zero infiltration' goal.
Shah asked all security agencies to take "more stringent action on infiltration and acts of terror with a ruthless approach." In over two-hour-long meeting, the Minister said "It should be our goal to uproot the existence of terrorists."
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: A tragic landmine explosion along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district claims the lives of five suspected Pakistani militants on February 7.

Five suspected Pakistani militants have been killed in a landmine explosion along the Line of Control, in the Battal sector of Jammu and Kashmir’s border district of Poonch on Friday (Feb 7). The incident took place when one of the militants, allegedly tried to cross over to the Indian side from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and stepped on a landmine laid on the Indian side. Notably, the militants were carrying an IED which too exploded killing the infiltrators. Also read | Kejriwal accuses BJP of attempting to poach AAP candidates; BJP Delhi chief hits back The LoC area has been fitted with landmines by the Indian Army to prevent infiltration by the terrorists. ‘No man’s land’ In Jammu and Kashmir, landmines are crucial in preventing infiltration, supplementing other security measures such as night vision devices, electronic surveillance, and human vigilance. The area near the Line of Control (LoC) is often referred to as "no man's land", serving as a warning to deter anyone from entering this sensitive region. Security forces and the Indian Army have heightened vigil along the LoC and the hinterland in J&K as very little snowfall this season so far has left all mountain routes used by the terrorists open in the UT. Also read | Maha Kumbh: Fire started from ISKCON camp, burnt 20-22 tents in Prayagraj- VIDEO Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired security review meeting Earlier this week, Amit Shah emphasised the need to step up the fight against terrorism with the goal of "zero infiltration," while chairing the Jammu and Kashmir security review meeting in the national capital. Noting that sustained and coordinated efforts of the union government resulted in a significantly weak terrorism ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir, Shah directed all security agencies to step up the fight against terrorism by aiming for the 'zero infiltration' goal. Shah asked all security agencies to take "more stringent action on infiltration and acts of terror with a ruthless approach." In over two-hour-long meeting, the Minister said "It should be our goal to uproot the existence of terrorists." (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistani militants try to infiltrate across LoC, five killed in landmine blast

Srinagar: One Indian Army soldier has been killed in an ongoing gunfight between terrorists and security forces in the Sopore area of North Kashmir in India. The encounter that started on Sunday in the Gujjarpatti area of Sopore in Baramulla district continues on the second day. Security forces had received an input about the presence of terrorists, after which a Joint Cordon and Search Operation was launched by the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
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According to the Indian Army, suspicious activity was observed by the troops, and the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on being challenged, resulting in a gunbattle. The troops retaliated, and during the gunfight, one Indian Army soldier was critically injured. The soldier later succumbed to the injuries. The Indian Army is yet to officially announce the death of the soldier.
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The Indian Army had earlier said, &ldquo;In the ensuing firefight during the day, one soldier suffered critical injuries and is being evacuated for requisite medical care. Operation is in progress.&rdquo;
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Security forces believe that two to three terrorists are holed up at the encounter site in the Sopore area. A massive operation is being carried out by the forces. The operation had started on Sunday and was halted during the night. With the first light in the morning, the operation was resumed, and a brief gunfight was reported from the operation site.
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Security forces have brought in reinforcements for deployment in the area.
The security forces maintained tight vigil during the night and intensified searches for suspected terrorists in the morning, officials said.
&nbsp;

India News: As per the Indian Army, suspicious activity was observed by the troops, and the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on being challenged. The troops retaliated, and during the gunfight, one Indian Army soldier was critically injured.

Srinagar: One Indian Army soldier has been killed in an ongoing gunfight between terrorists and security forces in the Sopore area of North Kashmir in India. The encounter that started on Sunday in the Gujjarpatti area of Sopore in Baramulla district continues on the second day. Security forces had received an input about the presence of terrorists, after which a Joint Cordon and Search Operation was launched by the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police. Also Read | Jammu and Kashmir records least rainfall in 50 years, Jhelum level lowest ever According to the Indian Army, suspicious activity was observed by the troops, and the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on being challenged, resulting in a gunbattle. The troops retaliated, and during the gunfight, one Indian Army soldier was critically injured. The soldier later succumbed to the injuries. The Indian Army is yet to officially announce the death of the soldier. Also Read | TikTok returns in US, thanks Trump for 'clarity' and assurance on delaying federal ban The Indian Army had earlier said, “In the ensuing firefight during the day, one soldier suffered critical injuries and is being evacuated for requisite medical care. Operation is in progress.” Also Read | Trump vows to end 'American decline', says 'will prevent World War 3 from happening' Security forces believe that two to three terrorists are holed up at the encounter site in the Sopore area. A massive operation is being carried out by the forces. The operation had started on Sunday and was halted during the night. With the first light in the morning, the operation was resumed, and a brief gunfight was reported from the operation site. Also Read | Trump’s presidency: Economic success or growing inequality? Security forces have brought in reinforcements for deployment in the area. The security forces maintained tight vigil during the night and intensified searches for suspected terrorists in the morning, officials said.

Indian Army soldier killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Sopore

Srinagar: Six Army soldiers were injured on Tuesday (Jan 14) during an accidental mine blast close to the Line of Control in the Rajouri area of Jammu division. The incident took place when an army patrolling party was carrying out a routine patrol in the Makri area of the Bhawani sector in Nowshera of Rajouri district.
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Sources in the Indian Army said that at least six Indian army soldiers were injured in an accidental blast along LoC in Makri area of Bhawani sector in Nowshera of Rajouri district during routine patrol when a soldier accidentally stepped on a mine, which triggered the blast.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-records-least-rainfall-in-50-years-jhelum-water-level-lowest-ever-8621151" rel="dofollow">Jammu and Kashmir records least rainfall in 50 years, Jhelum level lowest ever</a>
All the six injured soldiers were immediately shifted to 150 General Hospital (GH) Rajouri for treatment. The Indian Army officials have said that all the soldiers injured in the incident are stated to be in stable condition, as all of them had received minor injuries only. Security forces lay these landmines close to the line of control to create an anti-infiltration obstacle system, but these mines move due to bad weather conditions, resulting in such incidents.
According to the Indian Army officials, an inquiry has been initiated by the Indian Army into the incident to find out the cause of the blast.

India News: At least six Indian army soldiers were injured in an accidental mine blast along LoC in Makri area of Bhawani sector in Nowshera of Rajouri district.

Srinagar: Six Army soldiers were injured on Tuesday (Jan 14) during an accidental mine blast close to the Line of Control in the Rajouri area of Jammu division. The incident took place when an army patrolling party was carrying out a routine patrol in the Makri area of the Bhawani sector in Nowshera of Rajouri district. Also Read | India ‘incomplete’ without Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, declares Rajnath Singh in fierce warning Sources in the Indian Army said that at least six Indian army soldiers were injured in an accidental blast along LoC in Makri area of Bhawani sector in Nowshera of Rajouri district during routine patrol when a soldier accidentally stepped on a mine, which triggered the blast. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir records least rainfall in 50 years, Jhelum level lowest ever All the six injured soldiers were immediately shifted to 150 General Hospital (GH) Rajouri for treatment. The Indian Army officials have said that all the soldiers injured in the incident are stated to be in stable condition, as all of them had received minor injuries only. Security forces lay these landmines close to the line of control to create an anti-infiltration obstacle system, but these mines move due to bad weather conditions, resulting in such incidents. According to the Indian Army officials, an inquiry has been initiated by the Indian Army into the incident to find out the cause of the blast.

Six army personnel injured in mine blast in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a drastic change in weather patterns. In the year 2024, the Union territory experienced the lowest rainfall in the last 50 years, and the rain deficit continues even in the beginning of 2025. As the Valley experienced the driest year in five decades, the river Jhelum has been flowing at its all-time low water level as well.
Jammu and Kashmir has experienced a precipitation deficit in the last year, with rainfall plunging to just 870.9 mm against the normal annual average of 1232.3 mm&mdash;a significant deficit of 29%. This marks the fifth consecutive year of below-normal precipitation in the Union Territory.
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A closer look at the rainfall trends over recent years highlights the alarming pattern: 2023 recorded 1146.6 mm (7% deficit), 2022 witnessed 1040.4 mm (16% deficit), 2021 saw 892.5 mm (28% deficit), and 2020 experienced 982.2 mm (20% deficit). With the 2024 figures nearing the previous low of 802.5 mm recorded in 1974, the region&rsquo;s precipitation levels continue to dwindle.
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&ldquo;Jammu and Kashmir has seen the least rainfall in the year 2024. From January onwards last year, Jammu and Kashmir has seen very less rain, and it was only in April last year that we witnessed excess rain, and the deficit worsened towards the end of the year. It was around 29 per cent deficit, which was the lowest. The previous low was recorded in the year 1974, and if we talk about the river Jhelum, it&rsquo;s also flowing at its lowest right now. We have taken its average this season and its flowing at its lowest. The drinking water has been affected as well,&rdquo; said Faizan Arif, weather analyst and forecaster.
The continuous decline in the rainfall pattern over the years emphasises the urgent need for climate adaptation measures and comprehensive water management strategies to mitigate the effects of prolonged dry spells in Jammu and Kashmir. The Flood and Irrigation Department of the Kashmir Valley is also getting ready to deal with any drought-like situation in the coming days.
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&ldquo;Last year we witnessed very low precipitation and low water levels, which affected our lift irrigation schemes. We somehow managed in 2024, but it also gave us a lesson that if it continues in the year 2025, we will need some plan of action. The precipitation and snowfall are not in our hands, and we witnessed low water levels. We have made a drought action plan, as the lift irrigation schemes are the most affected as the sump tanks are at certain levels of the river. Last year, we couldn&rsquo;t lift water as the levels had depleted, but this year, we have made a plan of planting drought pumps and lifting the river water to put in sumps and deliver it to farmers,&rdquo; said Braham Jyoti Sharma, Chief Engineer, Irrigation and Flood Control.
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There are around 18,000 glaciers in Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, and all are melting at a very rapid pace. Kolahoi Glacier, which is the biggest glacier in Kashmir, has lost around 23 per cent of its mass since 1962.

India News | Trending: Jammu and Kashmir experienced a precipitation deficit last year, with rainfall plunging to 870.9 mm against the normal average of 1232.3 mm—a significant deficit of 29%. 

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a drastic change in weather patterns. In the year 2024, the Union territory experienced the lowest rainfall in the last 50 years, and the rain deficit continues even in the beginning of 2025. As the Valley experienced the driest year in five decades, the river Jhelum has been flowing at its all-time low water level as well. Jammu and Kashmir has experienced a precipitation deficit in the last year, with rainfall plunging to just 870.9 mm against the normal annual average of 1232.3 mm—a significant deficit of 29%. This marks the fifth consecutive year of below-normal precipitation in the Union Territory. Also Read | Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Millions gather in Prayagraj to take part in first 'Amrit Snan' A closer look at the rainfall trends over recent years highlights the alarming pattern: 2023 recorded 1146.6 mm (7% deficit), 2022 witnessed 1040.4 mm (16% deficit), 2021 saw 892.5 mm (28% deficit), and 2020 experienced 982.2 mm (20% deficit). With the 2024 figures nearing the previous low of 802.5 mm recorded in 1974, the region’s precipitation levels continue to dwindle. Also Read | India to summon Meta over Zuckerberg's 'factually incorrect' claim about 2024 election results “Jammu and Kashmir has seen the least rainfall in the year 2024. From January onwards last year, Jammu and Kashmir has seen very less rain, and it was only in April last year that we witnessed excess rain, and the deficit worsened towards the end of the year. It was around 29 per cent deficit, which was the lowest. The previous low was recorded in the year 1974, and if we talk about the river Jhelum, it’s also flowing at its lowest right now. We have taken its average this season and its flowing at its lowest. The drinking water has been affected as well,” said Faizan Arif, weather analyst and forecaster. The continuous decline in the rainfall pattern over the years emphasises the urgent need for climate adaptation measures and comprehensive water management strategies to mitigate the effects of prolonged dry spells in Jammu and Kashmir. The Flood and Irrigation Department of the Kashmir Valley is also getting ready to deal with any drought-like situation in the coming days. Also Read | Hamas expected to release 33 hostages in first phase of emerging truce deal with Israel: Report “Last year we witnessed very low precipitation and low water levels, which affected our lift irrigation schemes. We somehow managed in 2024, but it also gave us a lesson that if it continues in the year 2025, we will need some plan of action. The precipitation and snowfall are not in our hands, and we witnessed low water levels. We have made a drought action plan, as the lift irrigation schemes are the most affected as the sump tanks are at certain levels of the river. Last year, we couldn’t lift water as the levels had depleted, but this year, we have made a plan of planting drought pumps and lifting the river water to put in sumps and deliver it to farmers,” said Braham Jyoti Sharma, Chief Engineer, Irrigation and Flood Control. Also Read | How to stay safe from HMPV? WION asks experts as virus spreads across globe There are around 18,000 glaciers in Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, and all are melting at a very rapid pace. Kolahoi Glacier, which is the biggest glacier in Kashmir, has lost around 23 per cent of its mass since 1962.

Jammu and Kashmir records least rainfall in 50 years, Jhelum level lowest ever

As peace is returning to the Kashmir Valley, it has opened doors for international events to be hosted in the Indian Union Territory. After the G20 Summit, Srinagar is now hosting the World Craft Council’s 60th Jubilee. Events organised by the government of Jammu and Kashmir aim to highlight the Valley’s rich craftsmanship and cultural heritage on a global platform.

On the banks of the world-famous Dal Lake, the artisans from across the world will be meeting Kashmiri artisans. The event has brought together 15 international delegates who are WCC members from diverse regions, including Kuwait, Australia, France, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Central Asia, and beyond.&nbsp;

Alongside these delegates, artisans from various parts of the world have also gathered to showcase their exceptional craftsmanship, reflecting a rich tapestry of global heritage.

“The relation between Kashmir and the World Craft Council has begun after Srinagar was designated as World Craft City. Having this designation is in direct benefit to the artisans and craft masters of Kashmir. It also puts the artisans on the Global map as the craft city. Two years ago, UNESCO also gave it the title of creative cities and now with the World Craft Council, this will all fall in the direction of bringing Kashmir in focus at a global level. But I have to say that Kashmiris are the most peaceful and hospitable people. Even in the street when we interact with people it just feels like home,”&nbsp;Sa’ad Hani Al-Qaddumi, president of World Crafts Council International.&nbsp;

The delegates were taken on a Craft Safari through the historic lanes of the old city. To experience the intricate artistry and vibrant traditions of the Valley. Some of the artisans from across the world interacted and exchanged ideas with the local artisans.

“We have a family business of fabric production of fabric; this is camel wool with natural cotton and colors. So, our main concept is to do that fabric. We started with camel wool, later on to cotton and also added silk to it. Now we do home decor as well. I think it's very important to do such exchanges as I am aware of the Kashmiri crafts, we have our own technique of embroidery and this kind of event gives us the opportunity to exchange knowledge,” said Merjaan, a delegate from Turkmenistan.

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These events also featured an expert panel discussion where renowned craft experts explored the contemporary challenges and opportunities in the global craft industry. A vibrant craft bazaar was also set up, showcasing exquisite creations from Jammu and Kashmir and beyond, offering artisans a platform to display and sell their work.

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“I think it's a very big opportunity for the Kashmir craft and the World Craft Council is here celebrating the 60th anniversary, this will bring all the attention of all the art lovers to Kashmir, and it will benefit the art in a big way. There are a lot of people who love craft and hand made things, all will now have to focus on Kashmir. It's a big thing and we should all celebrate it. It's also the recognition of our craft as well,” Tariq Dar, founder of Pashmkaar.

The event and celebrations are not only a testament to the timeless craftsmanship of Jammu and Kashmir but also a step forward in positioning the region as a global hub for artisanal excellence.

As peace is returning to the Kashmir Valley, it has opened doors for international events to be hosted in the Indian Union Territory. After the G20 Summit, Srinagar is now hosting the World Craft Council’s 60th Jubilee.

As peace is returning to the Kashmir Valley, it has opened doors for international events to be hosted in the Indian Union Territory. After the G20 Summit, Srinagar is now hosting the World Craft Council’s 60th Jubilee. Events organised by the government of Jammu and Kashmir aim to highlight the Valley’s rich craftsmanship and cultural heritage on a global platform. On the banks of the world-famous Dal Lake, the artisans from across the world will be meeting Kashmiri artisans. The event has brought together 15 international delegates who are WCC members from diverse regions, including Kuwait, Australia, France, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Central Asia, and beyond. Alongside these delegates, artisans from various parts of the world have also gathered to showcase their exceptional craftsmanship, reflecting a rich tapestry of global heritage. “The relation between Kashmir and the World Craft Council has begun after Srinagar was designated as World Craft City. Having this designation is in direct benefit to the artisans and craft masters of Kashmir. It also puts the artisans on the Global map as the craft city. Two years ago, UNESCO also gave it the title of creative cities and now with the World Craft Council, this will all fall in the direction of bringing Kashmir in focus at a global level. But I have to say that Kashmiris are the most peaceful and hospitable people. Even in the street when we interact with people it just feels like home,” Sa’ad Hani Al-Qaddumi, president of World Crafts Council International. The delegates were taken on a Craft Safari through the historic lanes of the old city. To experience the intricate artistry and vibrant traditions of the Valley. Some of the artisans from across the world interacted and exchanged ideas with the local artisans. “We have a family business of fabric production of fabric; this is camel wool with natural cotton and colors. So, our main concept is to do that fabric. We started with camel wool, later on to cotton and also added silk to it. Now we do home decor as well. I think it's very important to do such exchanges as I am aware of the Kashmiri crafts, we have our own technique of embroidery and this kind of event gives us the opportunity to exchange knowledge,” said Merjaan, a delegate from Turkmenistan. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir: Security Grid tightened ahead of winters, forces have input about infiltration attempts These events also featured an expert panel discussion where renowned craft experts explored the contemporary challenges and opportunities in the global craft industry. A vibrant craft bazaar was also set up, showcasing exquisite creations from Jammu and Kashmir and beyond, offering artisans a platform to display and sell their work. Also read: India: Local recruitment of terror groups in Kashmir hits zero; majority of active militants now foreign “I think it's a very big opportunity for the Kashmir craft and the World Craft Council is here celebrating the 60th anniversary, this will bring all the attention of all the art lovers to Kashmir, and it will benefit the art in a big way. There are a lot of people who love craft and hand made things, all will now have to focus on Kashmir. It's a big thing and we should all celebrate it. It's also the recognition of our craft as well,” Tariq Dar, founder of Pashmkaar. The event and celebrations are not only a testament to the timeless craftsmanship of Jammu and Kashmir but also a step forward in positioning the region as a global hub for artisanal excellence.

Kashmir opens doors for international events, hosts World Craft Council’s 60th anniversary

The third and last phase of the assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir is to be held on Tuesday (Oct 1). All the preparations have been made and ample security arrangements have been put in place, especially in the areas close to the Line of Control (LoC). Areas like Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, Kathua and Udhampur close to the LoC and international border will also see polling amid tight security.&nbsp;

Around 3.9 million electors are eligible to vote across 40 Assembly Constituencies and 415 candidates in the fray. The Election Commission of India has established 5060 polling stations with 240 special polling stations across seven districts.&nbsp;

16 assembly constituencies will go to vote in the Kashmir Division, while 24 assembly constituencies will see voter participation in Jammu. In total, more than 20,000 Polling staff will be deployed on duty for the third phase election.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/war-of-words-between-bjp-and-congress-over-kharges-will-stay-alive-until-indian-pm-modi-is-ousted-remark-763116">Also read |&nbsp;War of words between BJP and Congress over Kharge's 'will stay alive until Indian PM Modi is ousted' remark</a>

Among 3.9 million eligible to exercise their franchise,&nbsp;there are over two million male voters, 1.9 million female voters and 57 third-gender voters. As many as 190,000 youths between the age of 18-19 years, along with 35,860 Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and 32,953 elderly voters above the age of 85 are also eligible to exercise their franchise in this phase.&nbsp;

There will be 50 polling booths managed by women, known as Pink Polling Stations, 43 polling stations manned by specially-abled persons and 40 polling stations manned by youths. Also, there will be 45 green polling stations in order to spread messages about environmental concerns and 33 Unique Polling stations. 29 polling stations are established near the LOC/ IB for residents residing there.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Jammu &amp; Kashmir Election: 239 Candidates Contest In Second Phase Of Assembly Polls

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The important candidates in the fray in the last phase of assembly elections are&nbsp;Sajad Gani Lone of the People's Conference, Muzaffar Hussain Baig as Independent, Raman Bhalla from Congress and Tara Chand from Congress.&nbsp;

The election commission is also making sure to use the technology. Webcasting of Polling stations and GPS for vehicles has been done in almost&nbsp;All Polling stations.&nbsp;&nbsp;They will have CCTV-type cameras for live webcasting to control rooms established at the district and CEO offices. Cameras will be positioned in such a way so that they don’t violate the secrecy of the vote. The voting will take place from 7.00 am to 6.00 pm IST.&nbsp;

The third and last phase of the assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir is to be held on Tuesday (Oct 1). All the preparations have been made and ample security arrangements have been put in place, especially in the areas close to the Line of Control (LoC).

The third and last phase of the assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir is to be held on Tuesday (Oct 1). All the preparations have been made and ample security arrangements have been put in place, especially in the areas close to the Line of Control (LoC). Areas like Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, Kathua and Udhampur close to the LoC and international border will also see polling amid tight security. Around 3.9 million electors are eligible to vote across 40 Assembly Constituencies and 415 candidates in the fray. The Election Commission of India has established 5060 polling stations with 240 special polling stations across seven districts. 16 assembly constituencies will go to vote in the Kashmir Division, while 24 assembly constituencies will see voter participation in Jammu. In total, more than 20,000 Polling staff will be deployed on duty for the third phase election. Also read | War of words between BJP and Congress over Kharge's 'will stay alive until Indian PM Modi is ousted' remark Among 3.9 million eligible to exercise their franchise, there are over two million male voters, 1.9 million female voters and 57 third-gender voters. As many as 190,000 youths between the age of 18-19 years, along with 35,860 Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and 32,953 elderly voters above the age of 85 are also eligible to exercise their franchise in this phase. There will be 50 polling booths managed by women, known as Pink Polling Stations, 43 polling stations manned by specially-abled persons and 40 polling stations manned by youths. Also, there will be 45 green polling stations in order to spread messages about environmental concerns and 33 Unique Polling stations. 29 polling stations are established near the LOC/ IB for residents residing there. Watch | Jammu & Kashmir Election: 239 Candidates Contest In Second Phase Of Assembly Polls × The important candidates in the fray in the last phase of assembly elections are Sajad Gani Lone of the People's Conference, Muzaffar Hussain Baig as Independent, Raman Bhalla from Congress and Tara Chand from Congress. The election commission is also making sure to use the technology. Webcasting of Polling stations and GPS for vehicles has been done in almost All Polling stations. They will have CCTV-type cameras for live webcasting to control rooms established at the district and CEO offices. Cameras will be positioned in such a way so that they don’t violate the secrecy of the vote. The voting will take place from 7.00 am to 6.00 pm IST.

Jammu & Kashmir set for third phase of elections, security on high alert near LoC polling stations

In a fresh twist in the political arena of Jammu and Kashmir, Engineer Rashid's Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) has forged an alliance with the Jamaat-e-Islami (JEI) candidates for the upcoming assembly elections. National Conference leaders allege that these alliances are at the behest of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which wants to divide the vote in the valley.

The AIP-JEI coalition said their strategic alliance will champion the cause of the people of J&amp;K. While Jamaat is fighting electoral politics after four long decades, the AIP is also fielding candidates across the valley for the first time.

A joint meeting of the AIP delegation was led by MP Rashid while the JEI delegation was led by Ghulam Qadir Wani. Following deliberations, it was agreed that AIP would support JEI-backed candidates in Kulgam and Pulwama.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jammu-kashmir-elections-2024-how-separatism-converted-into-mainstream-758665">Watch |&nbsp;Jammu &amp; Kashmir Elections 2024: How separatism converted into mainstream</a>

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Similarly, JEI will support &nbsp;AIP candidates across Kashmir. In areas where both AIP and JEI have fielded candidates, the alliance has agreed to a “friendly contest,” particularly in constituencies like Langate, Devsar and Zainapora.

''We had a meeting with Jamaat members in Srinagar and after the meeting, we have given a joint statement that we will support each other in places where they have fielded candidates and they will help us where our candidates are fighting. This decision has been taken only to unite together and fight against oppression,'' said Rashid.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-assembly-polls-2024-dozens-of-separatists-family-members-in-election-fray-758454">Also read |&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls 2024: Dozens of separatists, family members in election fray</a>

Meanwhile, former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah has criticised the alliance of Jamaat members with AIP.&nbsp;

''The wires are connected somewhere else, they are getting direction from somewhere else. They are puppets who are being run from somewhere else. They have been put in the field to target the National Conference and the National Conference is all set and ready to face them, '' said Abdullah.&nbsp;

While AIP and Jamaat have come together to fight the assembly elections, it has created a new challenge for the established regional political parties like NC and PDP.

In a fresh twist in the political arena of Jammu and Kashmir, Engineer Rashid's Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) has forged an alliance with the Jamaat-e-Islami (JEI) candidates for the upcoming assembly elections.

In a fresh twist in the political arena of Jammu and Kashmir, Engineer Rashid's Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) has forged an alliance with the Jamaat-e-Islami (JEI) candidates for the upcoming assembly elections. National Conference leaders allege that these alliances are at the behest of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which wants to divide the vote in the valley. The AIP-JEI coalition said their strategic alliance will champion the cause of the people of J&K. While Jamaat is fighting electoral politics after four long decades, the AIP is also fielding candidates across the valley for the first time. A joint meeting of the AIP delegation was led by MP Rashid while the JEI delegation was led by Ghulam Qadir Wani. Following deliberations, it was agreed that AIP would support JEI-backed candidates in Kulgam and Pulwama. Watch | Jammu & Kashmir Elections 2024: How separatism converted into mainstream × Similarly, JEI will support AIP candidates across Kashmir. In areas where both AIP and JEI have fielded candidates, the alliance has agreed to a “friendly contest,” particularly in constituencies like Langate, Devsar and Zainapora. ''We had a meeting with Jamaat members in Srinagar and after the meeting, we have given a joint statement that we will support each other in places where they have fielded candidates and they will help us where our candidates are fighting. This decision has been taken only to unite together and fight against oppression,'' said Rashid. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls 2024: Dozens of separatists, family members in election fray Meanwhile, former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah has criticised the alliance of Jamaat members with AIP. ''The wires are connected somewhere else, they are getting direction from somewhere else. They are puppets who are being run from somewhere else. They have been put in the field to target the National Conference and the National Conference is all set and ready to face them, '' said Abdullah. While AIP and Jamaat have come together to fight the assembly elections, it has created a new challenge for the established regional political parties like NC and PDP.

J&K polls: With Jamaat forging alliance with Rashid’s AIP, NC says all of it happening at behest of BJP

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday (Aug 26) released a list of 44 candidates for the three-phase&nbsp;election to the 90 assembly seats in Jammu and Kashmir but withdrew it hours later.&nbsp;

According to reports, the now-deleted list was missing the names of key BJP leaders in the union territory, like&nbsp;J&amp;K BJP president Ravinder Raina and former deputy chief ministers Nirmal Singh and Kavinder Gupta.&nbsp;

While some claim that the BJP only meant to release the names of the candidates under the first phase, other reports have claimed that the exclusion of party heavyweights attracted instant backlash - forcing the high command to withdraw the complete list.&nbsp;

The preliminary list had 36 candidates from the Jammu region, eight from Kashmir Valley, including two Kashmiri Pandits (Veer Saraf from&nbsp;Shangus, Anantnag East and Ashok Bhat from&nbsp;Habbakadal).&nbsp;

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:228,&quot;w&quot;:549,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2068}" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jk-elections-political-moves-intensify-ahead-of-september-18-polls-751758">Watch |&nbsp;J&amp;K Elections: Political moves intensify ahead of September 18 polls</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:263,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2103}">The now-deleted list of candidates:&nbsp;</h2>

First phase

<ul bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:339,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:255,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2179}">
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:339,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2179}">Pampore:&nbsp;Er. Syed Showkat Gayoor Andrabi</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:356,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2196}">Anantnag West:&nbsp;Mohd. Rafiq Wani</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:373,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2213}">Rajpora:&nbsp;Arshid Bhat</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:390,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2230}">Shopian:&nbsp;Javed Ahmad Qadri</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:408,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2248}">Anantnag:&nbsp;Adv&nbsp;Syed Wazahat</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:425,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2265}">Srigufwara–Bijbehara:&nbsp;Sofi Yousuf</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:442,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2282}">Shangus–Anantnag East:&nbsp;Veer Saraf</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:459,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2299}">Inderwal:&nbsp;Tariq Keen</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:476,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2316}">Kishtwar:&nbsp;Shagun Parihar</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:493,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2333}">Padder–Nagseni:&nbsp;Sunil Sharma</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:510,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2350}">Bhadarwah:&nbsp;Daleep Singh Parihar</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:527,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2367}">Doda:&nbsp;Gajay Singh Rana</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:544,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2384}">Doda West:&nbsp;Shakti Raj Parihar</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:561,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2401}">Ramban:&nbsp;Rakesh Thakur</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:578,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2418}">Banihal:&nbsp;Salim Bhat</li>
</ul>

Second phase

<ul bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:642,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:170,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2482}">
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:642,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2482}">Habbakadal: Ashok Bhat</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:659,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2499}">Gulabgarh (ST): Mohammad Akram Chaudhary</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:676,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2516}">Reasi:&nbsp;Kuldeep Raj Dubey</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:693,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2533}">Shri Mata Vaishno Devi:&nbsp;Rohit Dubey</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:710,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2550}">Kalakote–Sunderbani: Thakur Randhir Singh</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:727,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2567}">Budhal (ST):&nbsp;Chowdhary Zulfikar Ali</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:744,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2584}">Thannamandi (ST):&nbsp;Mohd. Iqbal Malik</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:761,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2601}">Surankote (ST):&nbsp;Syed Mushtaq Ahmad</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:778,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2618}">Bukhari Poonch Haveli:&nbsp;&nbsp;Chowdhary&nbsp;Abdul Ghani</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:795,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2635}">Mendhar (ST): Murtaza Khan</li>
</ul>

Third Phase

<ul bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:859,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:323,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2699}">
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:859,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2699}">Udhampur West:&nbsp;Pawan Gupta</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:876,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2716}">Chenani:&nbsp;Balwant Singh Mankotia</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:893,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2733}">Ramnagar (SC): Sunil Bhardwaj</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:910,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2750}">Bani: Jeevan Lal</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:927,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2767}">Billawar:&nbsp;Satish Sharma</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:945,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2785}">Basohli:&nbsp;Darshan Singh</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:962,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2802}">Jasrota:&nbsp;Rajiv Jasrotia</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:979,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2819}">Hiranagar: Adv Vijay Kumar Sharma</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:996,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2836}">Ramgarh (SC:&nbsp;Dr Devinder Kumar Maniyal</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:1013,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2853}">Samba: Surjit Singh Slathia</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:1030,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2870}">Vijaypur: Chandra Prakash Ganga</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:1047,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2887}">Suchetgarh (SC):&nbsp;Gharu Ram Bhagat</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:1064,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2904}">R.S. Pura–Jammu South: Dr Narinder Singh Raina</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:1081,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2921}">Jammu East: Yudhvir Sethi</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:1098,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2938}">Nagrota: Dr&nbsp;Devender Singh Rana</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:1115,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2955}">Jammu West: Arvind Gupta</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:1132,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2972}">Jammu North: Sham Lal Sharma</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:1149,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2989}">Akhnoor (SC): Mohan Lal Bhagat</li>
	<li bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:47,&quot;y&quot;:1166,&quot;w&quot;:733,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:80,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3006}">Chhamb:&nbsp;Rajeev Sharma</li>
</ul>

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1198,&quot;w&quot;:614,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3038}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-congress-nc-alliance-hits-roadblock-on-seat-sharing-753367">Also read |&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir: Congress-NC alliance hits roadblock on seat sharing</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1636,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3476}">Elections in Jammu and Kashmir</h2>

Earlier this month, the Election Commission of India (ECI), announced dates for the assembly polls in the UT, set to be held for the first time since Article 370 was abrogated in the year 2019.

The election will be held in three phases and the counting will take place on October 4.&nbsp;

“We have seen long queues of people in Jammu and Kashmir during Lok Sabha polls, which showed they want to be part of the democratic process and preferred ballot over the bullet,” said&nbsp;Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar during the announcement.&nbsp;

The UT has 8.7 million eligible voters with an equal percentage of males and females. Over 300,000 will be first-time voters, casting their ballots in over 11,800 polling stations, spread across the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On X, the BJP party has now released a name of selected candidates.

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भारतीय जनता पार्टी की केन्द्रीय चुनाव समिति ने आगामी जम्मू व कश्मीर विधानसभा चुनाव 2024 के लिए एक नाम पर अपनी स्वीकृति प्रदान की है। <a href="https://t.co/RJGwS5nkOx">pic.twitter.com/RJGwS5nkOx</a>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1828013305727779228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday (Aug 26) released a list of 44 candidates for the three-phase election to the 90 assembly seats in Jammu and Kashmir but withdrew it hours later.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday (Aug 26) released a list of 44 candidates for the three-phase election to the 90 assembly seats in Jammu and Kashmir but withdrew it hours later. According to reports, the now-deleted list was missing the names of key BJP leaders in the union territory, like J&K BJP president Ravinder Raina and former deputy chief ministers Nirmal Singh and Kavinder Gupta. While some claim that the BJP only meant to release the names of the candidates under the first phase, other reports have claimed that the exclusion of party heavyweights attracted instant backlash - forcing the high command to withdraw the complete list. The preliminary list had 36 candidates from the Jammu region, eight from Kashmir Valley, including two Kashmiri Pandits (Veer Saraf from Shangus, Anantnag East and Ashok Bhat from Habbakadal). Watch | J&K Elections: Political moves intensify ahead of September 18 polls The now-deleted list of candidates: First phase Pampore: Er. Syed Showkat Gayoor Andrabi Anantnag West: Mohd. Rafiq Wani Rajpora: Arshid Bhat Shopian: Javed Ahmad Qadri Anantnag: Adv Syed Wazahat Srigufwara–Bijbehara: Sofi Yousuf Shangus–Anantnag East: Veer Saraf Inderwal: Tariq Keen Kishtwar: Shagun Parihar Padder–Nagseni: Sunil Sharma Bhadarwah: Daleep Singh Parihar Doda: Gajay Singh Rana Doda West: Shakti Raj Parihar Ramban: Rakesh Thakur Banihal: Salim Bhat Second phase Habbakadal: Ashok Bhat Gulabgarh (ST): Mohammad Akram Chaudhary Reasi: Kuldeep Raj Dubey Shri Mata Vaishno Devi: Rohit Dubey Kalakote–Sunderbani: Thakur Randhir Singh Budhal (ST): Chowdhary Zulfikar Ali Thannamandi (ST): Mohd. Iqbal Malik Surankote (ST): Syed Mushtaq Ahmad Bukhari Poonch Haveli: Chowdhary Abdul Ghani Mendhar (ST): Murtaza Khan Third Phase Udhampur West: Pawan Gupta Chenani: Balwant Singh Mankotia Ramnagar (SC): Sunil Bhardwaj Bani: Jeevan Lal Billawar: Satish Sharma Basohli: Darshan Singh Jasrota: Rajiv Jasrotia Hiranagar: Adv Vijay Kumar Sharma Ramgarh (SC: Dr Devinder Kumar Maniyal Samba: Surjit Singh Slathia Vijaypur: Chandra Prakash Ganga Suchetgarh (SC): Gharu Ram Bhagat R.S. Pura–Jammu South: Dr Narinder Singh Raina Jammu East: Yudhvir Sethi Nagrota: Dr Devender Singh Rana Jammu West: Arvind Gupta Jammu North: Sham Lal Sharma Akhnoor (SC): Mohan Lal Bhagat Chhamb: Rajeev Sharma Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Congress-NC alliance hits roadblock on seat sharing × Elections in Jammu and Kashmir Earlier this month, the Election Commission of India (ECI), announced dates for the assembly polls in the UT, set to be held for the first time since Article 370 was abrogated in the year 2019. The election will be held in three phases and the counting will take place on October 4. “We have seen long queues of people in Jammu and Kashmir during Lok Sabha polls, which showed they want to be part of the democratic process and preferred ballot over the bullet,” said Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar during the announcement. The UT has 8.7 million eligible voters with an equal percentage of males and females. Over 300,000 will be first-time voters, casting their ballots in over 11,800 polling stations, spread across the region. On X, the BJP party has now released a name of selected candidates. भारतीय जनता पार्टी की केन्द्रीय चुनाव समिति ने आगामी जम्मू व कश्मीर विधानसभा चुनाव 2024 के लिए एक नाम पर अपनी स्वीकृति प्रदान की है। pic.twitter.com/RJGwS5nkOx — BJP (@BJP4India) August 26, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir: Did BJP withdraw its 1st list of candidates for assembly polls?

The National Conference (NC) and Congress party have hit a roadblock on seat sharing after they announced the pre-poll alliance for the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. According to sources, the Congress party has demanded some seats but the NC is unwilling to give them.

To discuss the seat-sharing issue with the NC, the Congress party flew in KC Venugopal to Srinagar. Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid has been in the Kashmir Valley for the last few days, holding meetings regarding seat sharing. Both the Congress leaders will meet Omar Abdullah and other NC leaders on Monday at his residence to decide on the seat-sharing issue.

Also watch |&nbsp;Explained: Kashmir question &amp; Article 370 | Story from Kashmir accession to Parliament's integration

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''I can give you an update after the meeting is over, the big update is that some Congress senior leaders are coming to meet our senior leaders Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. They needed some clarification over some issues and it's always better to sit face to face to clear them. We will see what happens but whatever has to happen will happen today only as it's the last day,'' said senior NC leader Nasir Aslam Wani. 
&nbsp; 
Venugopal and Khurshid reached the residence of Farooq Abdullah to discuss the seat-sharing issue between the two parties. Tuesday (Aug 27) is the last day for filing nominations for the first phase of assembly elections. Although NC has filed nominations of two candidates for D.H. Pora and Doda, the rest of the seats are still open.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ladakh-gets-five-new-districts-this-is-what-it-means-for-ut-753354">Also read |&nbsp;Ladakh gets five new districts; this is what it means for UT</a>

The decision of both parties will be out on Monday as deliberations have been continuously going on between and within both the parties. Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections will be held in three phases starting on September 18. The counting will be held on October 4.

The National Conference (NC) and Congress party have hit a roadblock on seat sharing after they announced the pre-poll alliance for the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

The National Conference (NC) and Congress party have hit a roadblock on seat sharing after they announced the pre-poll alliance for the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. According to sources, the Congress party has demanded some seats but the NC is unwilling to give them. To discuss the seat-sharing issue with the NC, the Congress party flew in KC Venugopal to Srinagar. Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid has been in the Kashmir Valley for the last few days, holding meetings regarding seat sharing. Both the Congress leaders will meet Omar Abdullah and other NC leaders on Monday at his residence to decide on the seat-sharing issue. Also watch | Explained: Kashmir question & Article 370 | Story from Kashmir accession to Parliament's integration ''I can give you an update after the meeting is over, the big update is that some Congress senior leaders are coming to meet our senior leaders Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. They needed some clarification over some issues and it's always better to sit face to face to clear them. We will see what happens but whatever has to happen will happen today only as it's the last day,'' said senior NC leader Nasir Aslam Wani. Venugopal and Khurshid reached the residence of Farooq Abdullah to discuss the seat-sharing issue between the two parties. Tuesday (Aug 27) is the last day for filing nominations for the first phase of assembly elections. Although NC has filed nominations of two candidates for D.H. Pora and Doda, the rest of the seats are still open. Also read | Ladakh gets five new districts; this is what it means for UT The decision of both parties will be out on Monday as deliberations have been continuously going on between and within both the parties. Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections will be held in three phases starting on September 18. The counting will be held on October 4.

Jammu and Kashmir: Congress-NC alliance hits roadblock on seat sharing

One CRPF officer has been killed in an encounter in the remote Dudu area of Basantgarh in Udhampur district of Jammu region. Security forces had input about the presence of three to four terrorists in the area, after which they were carrying out a joint cordon and search operation. The terrorists fired on the forces when they were in close vicinity, which resulted in injury to one CRPF officer, who was taken to hospital, where he succumbed to injuries.

The officer has been identified as Kuldeep Singh of the 187th Battalion of Central Reserve Police Force. He was directly hit by a bullet and was declared dead by the doctors after reaching the hospital. According to sources, the terrorists managed to escape from the spot, but security forces have now cordoned off the entire area.

Security forces believe that three to four terrorists are hiding in the area and more deployment has been brought in to nab the attackers in the area.

Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a steep rise in terror attacks in the last few months. With the Jammu and Kashmir Police confirming that around 70-80 foreign terrorists are active in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, most of them are believed to be in the higher reaches of the North Kashmir and Jammu region. The dense forest range and the steep mountains have become a safe haven for infiltrated terrorists.

Meanwhile, the security forces are coming up with new strategies and training to make sure that there are no successful infiltrations at the LoC and International Border.

According to recent data, over 125 terror incidents happened in the last three years in the Union Territory, and out of them, 53 per cent were witnessed in the hills of Jammu. Over 57 security personnel have lost their lives in the Union territory since June 2021. The terrorists are continuously targeting security forces in Poonch, Rajouri, Kathua, Reasi, Doda, and Udhampur districts.

One CRPF officer has been killed in an encounter in the remote Dudu area of Basantgarh in Udhampur district of Jammu region. Security forces had input about the presence of three to four terrorists in the area, after which they were carrying out a joint cordon and search operation.

One CRPF officer has been killed in an encounter in the remote Dudu area of Basantgarh in Udhampur district of Jammu region. Security forces had input about the presence of three to four terrorists in the area, after which they were carrying out a joint cordon and search operation. The terrorists fired on the forces when they were in close vicinity, which resulted in injury to one CRPF officer, who was taken to hospital, where he succumbed to injuries. The officer has been identified as Kuldeep Singh of the 187th Battalion of Central Reserve Police Force. He was directly hit by a bullet and was declared dead by the doctors after reaching the hospital. According to sources, the terrorists managed to escape from the spot, but security forces have now cordoned off the entire area. Security forces believe that three to four terrorists are hiding in the area and more deployment has been brought in to nab the attackers in the area. Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a steep rise in terror attacks in the last few months. With the Jammu and Kashmir Police confirming that around 70-80 foreign terrorists are active in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, most of them are believed to be in the higher reaches of the North Kashmir and Jammu region. The dense forest range and the steep mountains have become a safe haven for infiltrated terrorists. Meanwhile, the security forces are coming up with new strategies and training to make sure that there are no successful infiltrations at the LoC and International Border. According to recent data, over 125 terror incidents happened in the last three years in the Union Territory, and out of them, 53 per cent were witnessed in the hills of Jammu. Over 57 security personnel have lost their lives in the Union territory since June 2021. The terrorists are continuously targeting security forces in Poonch, Rajouri, Kathua, Reasi, Doda, and Udhampur districts.

CRPF officer killed in J&K's Udhampur, search operation continues 

Kashmir Valley used to be the Hindi film industry's favourite destination for decades before the insurgency. And now the Jammu and Kashmir government is working for the revival of film tourism in the valley. 
 
Hundreds of films&nbsp;have been shot&nbsp;in the valley in the last few years and on Thursday&nbsp;(Aug&nbsp;1) the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, inaugurated the J&amp;K Film Conclave. During the event, he also unveiled the J&amp;K Film Policy 2024, a single-window&nbsp;portal for film shooting permissions and subsidies.

J&amp;K Film Policy 2024 will attract, support and facilitate regional, national and international film production in the Union Territory (UT). This film-friendly and pragmatic policy will ensure that the Kashmir Valley, often referred to as&nbsp;the "heaven on&nbsp;earth" is truly a haven for filmmakers.

The Single Window portal will&nbsp;ensure the efficient handling of intricate formalities and the seamless release of subsidies.&nbsp;The government’s new initiatives will have a strong multiplier effect and play a pivotal role in developing J&amp;K as a global film production hub.

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Earlier today, inaugurated J&amp;K Film Conclave, which will host series of events for filmmakers, industry professionals &amp; cinema enthusiasts. Also, unveiled J&amp;K Film Policy 2024 to attract, support &amp; facilitate regional, national &amp; international film production in the UT. <a href="https://t.co/ZCdcl5xyUN">pic.twitter.com/ZCdcl5xyUN</a>
— Office of LG J&amp;K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfLGJandK/status/1818936725227672013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"The J&amp;K administration is following a model to build film-shooting infrastructure on the lines of European countries so that J&amp;K becomes a global film destination soon. In the last five years, we have succeeded in reviving the Cinema culture in J&amp;K. We had rolled out a film policy in 2021, but there were some gaps and loopholes. Today, we have launched the New Film Policy 2024 where all previous gaps have been filled. The new policy entails Single window cell that will make film shooting easier for directors and producers interested in shooting in J&amp;K. There will be ease in giving permissions for shooting and also hiring local talent as well,"&nbsp;said Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.

In the past five years, there has been an effort to reconnect J&amp;K with the culture of cinema and theatre. Bollywood filmmakers have been visiting the valley often to shoot their movies, ads, and short films.

Bollywood filmmaker, Madhur Bhandarkar,&nbsp;lauded the Lt governor-led UT administration for the progressive film policy and initiatives to create a vibrant film ecosystem in J&amp;K.

"It's a great initiative by the government of Jammu and Kashmir. And I feel such an initiative was very essential for the filmmakers across India. The single window clearance is a great way of attracting filmmakers. The locals get a lot of chances if films are shot in these locations, and I see a lot of talent here. This will be beneficial for the talent,"&nbsp;said Madhur Bhandarkar.

J&amp;K Film Conclave&nbsp;offers a platform for collaboration, exchanging ideas, and showcasing talent. The initiative aspires to build a sustainable and thriving film ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. The conclave is also hosting a series of workshops on filmmaking, besides insightful panel discussions with film personalities.

"I am very happy. This is one of my dreams. Any activity around films is my dream. I started the Kashmir world film festival, and I have been fighting for the opening of cinema halls in Kashmir. But one is not enough but we want more. We also want film makers from across India and abroad to come and shoot here. It is an open studio, and every place is great to shoot. There is one window permission for filmmakers and its great,"&nbsp;said Mushtaq Ali Khan, festival director of the Kashmir World&nbsp;Film Festival and filmmaker.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also felicitated the winners of the Naya Jammu Kashmir Short Film Making Competition.

Kashmir Valley used to be the Hindi film industry's favourite destination for decades before the insurgency. And now the Jammu and Kashmir government is working for the revival of film tourism in the valley.

Kashmir Valley used to be the Hindi film industry's favourite destination for decades before the insurgency. And now the Jammu and Kashmir government is working for the revival of film tourism in the valley. Hundreds of films have been shot in the valley in the last few years and on Thursday (Aug 1) the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, inaugurated the J&K Film Conclave. During the event, he also unveiled the J&K Film Policy 2024, a single-window portal for film shooting permissions and subsidies. J&K Film Policy 2024 will attract, support and facilitate regional, national and international film production in the Union Territory (UT). This film-friendly and pragmatic policy will ensure that the Kashmir Valley, often referred to as the "heaven on earth" is truly a haven for filmmakers. The Single Window portal will ensure the efficient handling of intricate formalities and the seamless release of subsidies. The government’s new initiatives will have a strong multiplier effect and play a pivotal role in developing J&K as a global film production hub. Earlier today, inaugurated J&K Film Conclave, which will host series of events for filmmakers, industry professionals & cinema enthusiasts. Also, unveiled J&K Film Policy 2024 to attract, support & facilitate regional, national & international film production in the UT. pic.twitter.com/ZCdcl5xyUN — Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) August 1, 2024 × "The J&K administration is following a model to build film-shooting infrastructure on the lines of European countries so that J&K becomes a global film destination soon. In the last five years, we have succeeded in reviving the Cinema culture in J&K. We had rolled out a film policy in 2021, but there were some gaps and loopholes. Today, we have launched the New Film Policy 2024 where all previous gaps have been filled. The new policy entails Single window cell that will make film shooting easier for directors and producers interested in shooting in J&K. There will be ease in giving permissions for shooting and also hiring local talent as well," said Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. In the past five years, there has been an effort to reconnect J&K with the culture of cinema and theatre. Bollywood filmmakers have been visiting the valley often to shoot their movies, ads, and short films. Bollywood filmmaker, Madhur Bhandarkar, lauded the Lt governor-led UT administration for the progressive film policy and initiatives to create a vibrant film ecosystem in J&K. "It's a great initiative by the government of Jammu and Kashmir. And I feel such an initiative was very essential for the filmmakers across India. The single window clearance is a great way of attracting filmmakers. The locals get a lot of chances if films are shot in these locations, and I see a lot of talent here. This will be beneficial for the talent," said Madhur Bhandarkar. J&K Film Conclave offers a platform for collaboration, exchanging ideas, and showcasing talent. The initiative aspires to build a sustainable and thriving film ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. The conclave is also hosting a series of workshops on filmmaking, besides insightful panel discussions with film personalities. "I am very happy. This is one of my dreams. Any activity around films is my dream. I started the Kashmir world film festival, and I have been fighting for the opening of cinema halls in Kashmir. But one is not enough but we want more. We also want film makers from across India and abroad to come and shoot here. It is an open studio, and every place is great to shoot. There is one window permission for filmmakers and its great," said Mushtaq Ali Khan, festival director of the Kashmir World Film Festival and filmmaker. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also felicitated the winners of the Naya Jammu Kashmir Short Film Making Competition.

Lt Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurates J&K Film conclave, unveils J&K film policy 2024

India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) on Saturday (March 16) announced that the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir would be conducted after the Lok Sabha elections.

"We are yet to hold assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The way for conducting legal elections has opened since December 23. This is March, and there is snowfall in the region, hence the question of holding elections does not arise at this point," Kumar was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI.

"We (ECI) went to Jammu and Kashmir and were asked by all the political parties there to hold the state assembly elections with the Lok Sabha polls. After that, we held administrative meetings wherein it was discussed that a lot of security forces would be required to conduct state assembly election with Lok Sabha election in J-K," he said.

"All political parties asked the ECI to conduct an assembly election with Lok Sabha polls, but security agencies advised us that it would not be possible to provide security as there was a need for the deployment of huge security forces. But we are seriously thinking of conducting polls in JK after the Lok Sabha polls. JK will be the first state to go in the election after the Lok Sabha polls," he said.

He further said that the ECI is "seriously" looking into conducting the elections in Jammu and Kashmir after the Lok Sabha polls.

Speaking about the high-level committee submitting its report on the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal, Kumar said that the ECI would conduct elections according to the constitutional provisions.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: CEC Rajiv Kumar explains over not conducting Parliamentary &amp; Assembly polls together in J&amp;K; says, "During our recent visit to Srinagar and Jammu, the J&amp;K Administration told us that two elections can't be held at the same time due to more security requirements.… <a href="https://t.co/xfzVt7hKxY">pic.twitter.com/xfzVt7hKxY</a>
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&nbsp;

"There is a provision in the Constitution for conducting elections. Article 83(2) of the Constitution of India states that the House of the People will continue for five years from the date of its first meeting. There is a clause in Section 14 of the RP Act, 1951 that elections for the Parliament be must held six months before the end of the Assembly. As long as this article is there in the Constitution and there are provisions for People's Representation and People's Act, our job is to conduct elections according to them," Kumar said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-date-announced-check-full-schedule-voting-and-result-of-india-general-elections-700677">Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voting from April 19 in 7 phases: Check full schedule</a>

<h2>'How is security alright for parliamentary polls and not state elections,' questions Farooq Abdullah</h2>

National Conference supremo Farooq Abdullah, expressed dismay over ECI's decision to not conduct Parliamentary and Assembly polls simultaneously in Jammu and Kashmir.

The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said that the poll body on one hand was planning on conducting Assembly polls in four states that would be coinciding with Lok Sabha elections but J&amp;K was denied this opportunity.

"On one side the Govt of India wanted One Nation, One Election and on the other side, they are holding State elections and parliamentary elections in four states, why is this (J-K) being denied? When every party wanted elections (in J-K) then what is the reason it is not being done?," news agency ANI quoted Abdullah as saying.

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&nbsp;

Abdullah, further questioning the observations made by Kumar, said, "If they say security is the reason, I do not think so. How is that security is alright for the parliamentary elections and not for the state elections?"

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) on Saturday (March 16) announced that the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir would be conducted after the Lok Sabha elections.

India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) on Saturday (March 16) announced that the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir would be conducted after the Lok Sabha elections. "We are yet to hold assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The way for conducting legal elections has opened since December 23. This is March, and there is snowfall in the region, hence the question of holding elections does not arise at this point," Kumar was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI. "We (ECI) went to Jammu and Kashmir and were asked by all the political parties there to hold the state assembly elections with the Lok Sabha polls. After that, we held administrative meetings wherein it was discussed that a lot of security forces would be required to conduct state assembly election with Lok Sabha election in J-K," he said. "All political parties asked the ECI to conduct an assembly election with Lok Sabha polls, but security agencies advised us that it would not be possible to provide security as there was a need for the deployment of huge security forces. But we are seriously thinking of conducting polls in JK after the Lok Sabha polls. JK will be the first state to go in the election after the Lok Sabha polls," he said. He further said that the ECI is "seriously" looking into conducting the elections in Jammu and Kashmir after the Lok Sabha polls. Speaking about the high-level committee submitting its report on the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal, Kumar said that the ECI would conduct elections according to the constitutional provisions. #WATCH | Delhi: CEC Rajiv Kumar explains over not conducting Parliamentary & Assembly polls together in J&K; says, "During our recent visit to Srinagar and Jammu, the J&K Administration told us that two elections can't be held at the same time due to more security requirements.… pic.twitter.com/xfzVt7hKxY — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2024 × "There is a provision in the Constitution for conducting elections. Article 83(2) of the Constitution of India states that the House of the People will continue for five years from the date of its first meeting. There is a clause in Section 14 of the RP Act, 1951 that elections for the Parliament be must held six months before the end of the Assembly. As long as this article is there in the Constitution and there are provisions for People's Representation and People's Act, our job is to conduct elections according to them," Kumar said. Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voting from April 19 in 7 phases: Check full schedule 'How is security alright for parliamentary polls and not state elections,' questions Farooq Abdullah National Conference supremo Farooq Abdullah, expressed dismay over ECI's decision to not conduct Parliamentary and Assembly polls simultaneously in Jammu and Kashmir. The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said that the poll body on one hand was planning on conducting Assembly polls in four states that would be coinciding with Lok Sabha elections but J&K was denied this opportunity. "On one side the Govt of India wanted One Nation, One Election and on the other side, they are holding State elections and parliamentary elections in four states, why is this (J-K) being denied? When every party wanted elections (in J-K) then what is the reason it is not being done?," news agency ANI quoted Abdullah as saying. #WATCH | On the announcement of Lok Sabha election dates, National Conference Chief Farooq Abdullah says, "On one side the Govt of India wanted One Nation, One Election and on the other side, they are holding State elections and parliamentary elections in 4 states, why is this… pic.twitter.com/zwZDWOL6By — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2024 × Abdullah, further questioning the observations made by Kumar, said, "If they say security is the reason, I do not think so. How is that security is alright for the parliamentary elections and not for the state elections?" (With inputs from agencies)

Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir to be held after Lok Sabha polls, announces CEC Rajiv Kumar

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 17) addressed more than 11,000 delegates of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in one of its biggest organisational get-togethers. The meeting focussed on deciding the campaign theme ahead of the upcoming general elections.

Addressing the party workers, PM Modi said they should set the target of winning 370 seats as a tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the founder of Jana Sangh. Jana Sangh was the political arm of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Jana Sangh underwent several transformations before eventually becoming what the world today knows as the BJP, the world’s largest political party.

Syama Prasad Mookerjee campaigned against Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which granted special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. In August 2019, the Modi government scrapped Article 370, fulfilling a decades-old promise.

Speaking at the Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, Modi said each party worker should focus on his or her polling booth now, promote the welfare measures and development work of the BJP government among the voters, and ensure that he or she gets 370 more votes than the last time for the party in his or her booth.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | First Hindu temple in UAE: PM Modi to inaugurate BAPS temple

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In the 2019 general elections, PM Modi’s BJP won 303 seats in the lower house of the parliament, surpassing expectations and also the majority mark of 272.

Addressing the media at the BJP National Council meeting, party National General Secretary Vinod Tawde said that PM Modi talked about their party’s Mission 370 for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0Krt074PxHNPWlmbzt_fGr" data-ved="2ahUKEwi_9rTN67KEAxXfqVYBHRn8AFIQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pm-modi-calls-congress-corrupt-with-polls-just-months-away-690944" jsname="YKoRaf">Indian PM Modi calls Congress `corrupt`, with polls just months away</a>

“In today’s meeting, while guiding all the party workers, PM Modi said that BJP will get 370 and NDA 400 (seats), where 370 is not just a number but a tribute from us to Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee. Our campaign will be centred around development, the welfare of the poor and putting the nation at a place of pride in the world, we need to take these things to the people,” Tawde said.

Later, BJP chief JP Nadda told the delegates that BJP was the only party that had maintained the same ideological stand from 1951 to the present day.

He emphasised that despite having a tough, busy schedule, PM Modi gives priority to the party and always thinks about taking it to new heights.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 17) addressed more than 11,000 delegates of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in one of its biggest organisational get-togethers.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 17) addressed more than 11,000 delegates of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in one of its biggest organisational get-togethers. The meeting focussed on deciding the campaign theme ahead of the upcoming general elections. Addressing the party workers, PM Modi said they should set the target of winning 370 seats as a tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the founder of Jana Sangh. Jana Sangh was the political arm of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Jana Sangh underwent several transformations before eventually becoming what the world today knows as the BJP, the world’s largest political party. Syama Prasad Mookerjee campaigned against Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which granted special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. In August 2019, the Modi government scrapped Article 370, fulfilling a decades-old promise. Speaking at the Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, Modi said each party worker should focus on his or her polling booth now, promote the welfare measures and development work of the BJP government among the voters, and ensure that he or she gets 370 more votes than the last time for the party in his or her booth. Watch: Gravitas | First Hindu temple in UAE: PM Modi to inaugurate BAPS temple × In the 2019 general elections, PM Modi’s BJP won 303 seats in the lower house of the parliament, surpassing expectations and also the majority mark of 272. Addressing the media at the BJP National Council meeting, party National General Secretary Vinod Tawde said that PM Modi talked about their party’s Mission 370 for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024. Also read: Indian PM Modi calls Congress `corrupt`, with polls just months away “In today’s meeting, while guiding all the party workers, PM Modi said that BJP will get 370 and NDA 400 (seats), where 370 is not just a number but a tribute from us to Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee. Our campaign will be centred around development, the welfare of the poor and putting the nation at a place of pride in the world, we need to take these things to the people,” Tawde said. Later, BJP chief JP Nadda told the delegates that BJP was the only party that had maintained the same ideological stand from 1951 to the present day. He emphasised that despite having a tough, busy schedule, PM Modi gives priority to the party and always thinks about taking it to new heights. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP’s 370 seats will be real tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee, his fight for J&K’s integration: Modi

The Indian government on Wednesday (Dec 27) declared the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction)&nbsp;(MLJK-MA) as an 'unlawful association' under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA) for "supporting terrorist activities and inciting people to establish Islamic rule" in Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K).&nbsp;

The announcement has been implemented with immediate effect and is for the next five years.&nbsp;

The Union Home Ministry said that the organisation and its members are involved in anti-national and secessionist activities in J&amp;K.&nbsp;

The organisation is led by Masarat Alam, interim chairman of the hardline faction of the All India Hurriyat Conference. MLJK-MA is known for its anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-home-minister-amit-shah-reiterates-no-one-can-stop-implementation-of-caa-674070">Indian Home Minister Amit Shah reiterates 'no one can stop' implementation of CAA</a>&nbsp;

Union Minister Amit Shah posted on X: "The 'Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction)'/MLJK-MA is declared as an 'Unlawful Association' under UAPA."&nbsp;

"This organisation and its members are involved in anti-national and secessionist activities in J-K, supporting terrorist activities and inciting people to establish Islamic rule in Jammu and Kashmir," he added.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued a notification claiming that there had been several inputs which showed linkages of the MLJK-MA with banned organisations.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-will-wipe-out-terrorism-from-jammu-and-kashmir-says-rajnath-singh-674017">Indian Army will wipe out terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir, says defence minister Rajnath Singh</a>&nbsp;

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"In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of Section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), the Central Government hereby declares the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) as an unlawful association with immediate effect for a period of five years," the notification read.&nbsp;

Shah further said on social media that that anyone acting against India's unity, sovereignty and integrity will not be spared.&nbsp;

"The PM @narendramodi government's message is loud and clear that anyone acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of our nation will not be spared and will face the full wrath of the law," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Indian government on Wednesday (Dec 27) declared the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) (MLJK-MA) as an 'unlawful association' under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA) for "supporting terrorist activities and inciting people to establish Islamic rule" in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).

The Indian government on Wednesday (Dec 27) declared the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) (MLJK-MA) as an 'unlawful association' under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA) for "supporting terrorist activities and inciting people to establish Islamic rule" in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The announcement has been implemented with immediate effect and is for the next five years. The Union Home Ministry said that the organisation and its members are involved in anti-national and secessionist activities in J&K. The organisation is led by Masarat Alam, interim chairman of the hardline faction of the All India Hurriyat Conference. MLJK-MA is known for its anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda. Also read: Indian Home Minister Amit Shah reiterates 'no one can stop' implementation of CAA Union Minister Amit Shah posted on X: "The 'Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction)'/MLJK-MA is declared as an 'Unlawful Association' under UAPA." "This organisation and its members are involved in anti-national and secessionist activities in J-K, supporting terrorist activities and inciting people to establish Islamic rule in Jammu and Kashmir," he added. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued a notification claiming that there had been several inputs which showed linkages of the MLJK-MA with banned organisations. Also read: Indian Army will wipe out terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir, says defence minister Rajnath Singh The ‘Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction)’/MLJK-MA is declared as an 'Unlawful Association' under UAPA. This organization and its members are involved in anti-national and secessionist activities in J&K supporting terrorist activities and inciting people to… — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 27, 2023 × "In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of Section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), the Central Government hereby declares the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) as an unlawful association with immediate effect for a period of five years," the notification read. Shah further said on social media that that anyone acting against India's unity, sovereignty and integrity will not be spared. "The PM @narendramodi government's message is loud and clear that anyone acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of our nation will not be spared and will face the full wrath of the law," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

India declares Muslim League Jammu Kashmir an ‘unlawful association’

Two unidentified terrorists were neutralised by security forces in India's Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Nov 15) as police foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC), said officials in a statement.

The alert troops detected a movement near the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri sector after which an exchange of fire took place between the two sides, officials said.

So far, two militants have been killed in the operation, which they said lasted till the last reports came in.

According to the Kashmir Zone police, incriminating materials, arms and ammunition were also recovered during the operation.

Comprehensive search operations are underway in the area, added the police.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-military-discussing-possibilities-of-hiring-transgenders-in-defence-roles-report-658949">Indian military discussing possibilities of hiring transgenders in defence roles: Report</a>

Earlier on Wednesday (Nov 15), one infiltrating terrorist was shot dead by alert security troops in the Uri sector.

According to the police, the terrorists were attempting to sneak in, taking advantage of poor visibility and bad weather.

As per the officials, though the attempts by terrorists to sneak into the Indian territory have gone down significantly, it is pertinent to note that infiltration attempts continue to take place in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-massive-fire-engulfs-express-train-in-indias-up-three-coaches-gutted-658911">Watch: Massive fire engulfs express train in India's UP, three coaches gutted</a>

Earlier in October, five terrorists were killed along the LoC in the Macchil sector of Kupwara district and two were killed in a failed infiltration bid in the Uri sector of Baramulla district on October 22.

A total of 11 infiltrators were neutralised in June, including four in the Macchil sector and five in the nearby Jumagund area of the Keran sector.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two unidentified terrorists were neutralised by security forces in India's Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Nov 15) as police foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC), said officials in a statement.

Two unidentified terrorists were neutralised by security forces in India's Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Nov 15) as police foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC), said officials in a statement. The alert troops detected a movement near the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri sector after which an exchange of fire took place between the two sides, officials said. So far, two militants have been killed in the operation, which they said lasted till the last reports came in. According to the Kashmir Zone police, incriminating materials, arms and ammunition were also recovered during the operation. Comprehensive search operations are underway in the area, added the police. Also read: Indian military discussing possibilities of hiring transgenders in defence roles: Report Earlier on Wednesday (Nov 15), one infiltrating terrorist was shot dead by alert security troops in the Uri sector. According to the police, the terrorists were attempting to sneak in, taking advantage of poor visibility and bad weather. As per the officials, though the attempts by terrorists to sneak into the Indian territory have gone down significantly, it is pertinent to note that infiltration attempts continue to take place in the country. Also read: Watch: Massive fire engulfs express train in India's UP, three coaches gutted Earlier in October, five terrorists were killed along the LoC in the Macchil sector of Kupwara district and two were killed in a failed infiltration bid in the Uri sector of Baramulla district on October 22. A total of 11 infiltrators were neutralised in June, including four in the Macchil sector and five in the nearby Jumagund area of the Keran sector. (With inputs from agencies)

Security forces kill two terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, foil infiltration bid

The recently built motorable road leading to Amarnath Cave in Kashmir Valley has come under immense criticism from regional political parties who have deemed it an environmental disaster.

Former chief minister Omar Abdullah slammed the government for letting construction activity take place in ecologically sensitive areas.

''It's the case of the environment. The courts have always given decisions in favour of saving green belts across the valley. No one is allowed to construct&nbsp;anything around Dal Lake, people living in Dal are not even allowed to repair their houseboats. People in Pahalgam and Gulmarg are not allowed to repair their&nbsp;houses. Same way in Sonamarg, so many constructions have been stopped due to environmental factors. If we have been saving Dal Lake, Gulmarg, Pahalgam then we need to save the Amarnath Cave as well, '' he said.

He further said, ''It is our responsibility to save the environment. The yatra has been going on for years, why do we need to take the vehicles to the cave.&nbsp;The main motive&nbsp;of the yatra is to walk till the cave. When we go for Hajj, we do it on foot. Same way, when Hindus go to Mata Vaishno Devi. We need to rethink the decision as taking vehicles to these areas will be disastrous. The Amarnath yatra is always welcome but the&nbsp;government can't play with the environment like this, ''&nbsp;

Earlier, the Border Roads Organisation said that they created history after the first set of vehicles reached the Amarnath cave at an altitude of 13,000 feet in the Himalayan range of Kashmir Valley. The BRO said that around 13 km of road has been completed from the Sangam base to the cave shrine.&nbsp;

Earlier, Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that the construction of the 110-km-long Amarnath Marg leading to the holy Amarnath cave shrine in Pahalgam came at a cost of approximately Rs 53 billion ($636 million approx.) to enhance the convenience of pilgrims.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-its-not-entirely-stubble-burning-what-else-fueling-air-pollution-656447">New Delhi: It's not entirely stubble burning. What else is fueling air pollution?</a>

Not only politicians but Kashmir Pandit community have also criticised the move of the government saying it will destroy the environment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-faces-flak-for-sex-talks-in-assembly-656282">India: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar faces flak for bizarre sex talk in assembly</a>

Mohit Bhan in a post on X said, “After seeing the wrath of God in Joshimath &amp; Kedarnath, LG administration is not learning any lesson, instead inviting a new catastrophe in Kashmir around Amarnath Cave.”

''No one is against the Yatra, it's an example of brotherhood in the valley but the way they have started a motorable road till the cave will lead to an environmental&nbsp;disaster. We have examples of Kedarnath, Joshimath and Himachal in front of us. The numbers have been increased which as well has affected the formation of shivling. Within 10 days the shivling disappears due to the number of pilgrims allowed. Yatra has to be done while walking to the cave, that is the main way of doing it. The political parties are using it for political gains, '' said Mohit Bhat, PDP Leader.&nbsp;

The government plans to operationalise the motorable road by next year.&nbsp;

The recently built motorable road leading to Amarnath Cave in Kashmir Valley has come under immense criticism from regional political parties who have deemed it an environmental disaster.

The recently built motorable road leading to Amarnath Cave in Kashmir Valley has come under immense criticism from regional political parties who have deemed it an environmental disaster. Former chief minister Omar Abdullah slammed the government for letting construction activity take place in ecologically sensitive areas. ''It's the case of the environment. The courts have always given decisions in favour of saving green belts across the valley. No one is allowed to construct anything around Dal Lake, people living in Dal are not even allowed to repair their houseboats. People in Pahalgam and Gulmarg are not allowed to repair their houses. Same way in Sonamarg, so many constructions have been stopped due to environmental factors. If we have been saving Dal Lake, Gulmarg, Pahalgam then we need to save the Amarnath Cave as well, '' he said. He further said, ''It is our responsibility to save the environment. The yatra has been going on for years, why do we need to take the vehicles to the cave. The main motive of the yatra is to walk till the cave. When we go for Hajj, we do it on foot. Same way, when Hindus go to Mata Vaishno Devi. We need to rethink the decision as taking vehicles to these areas will be disastrous. The Amarnath yatra is always welcome but the government can't play with the environment like this, '' Earlier, the Border Roads Organisation said that they created history after the first set of vehicles reached the Amarnath cave at an altitude of 13,000 feet in the Himalayan range of Kashmir Valley. The BRO said that around 13 km of road has been completed from the Sangam base to the cave shrine. Earlier, Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that the construction of the 110-km-long Amarnath Marg leading to the holy Amarnath cave shrine in Pahalgam came at a cost of approximately Rs 53 billion ($636 million approx.) to enhance the convenience of pilgrims. Also read | New Delhi: It's not entirely stubble burning. What else is fueling air pollution? Not only politicians but Kashmir Pandit community have also criticised the move of the government saying it will destroy the environment. Also read | India: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar faces flak for bizarre sex talk in assembly Mohit Bhan in a post on X said, “After seeing the wrath of God in Joshimath & Kedarnath, LG administration is not learning any lesson, instead inviting a new catastrophe in Kashmir around Amarnath Cave.” ''No one is against the Yatra, it's an example of brotherhood in the valley but the way they have started a motorable road till the cave will lead to an environmental disaster. We have examples of Kedarnath, Joshimath and Himachal in front of us. The numbers have been increased which as well has affected the formation of shivling. Within 10 days the shivling disappears due to the number of pilgrims allowed. Yatra has to be done while walking to the cave, that is the main way of doing it. The political parties are using it for political gains, '' said Mohit Bhat, PDP Leader. The government plans to operationalise the motorable road by next year.

Amarnath cave road connectivity project kicks-up row, politicians say environmental disaster in making

India’s longest and highest motorable Zojila tunnel getting ready will strengthen the armed forces deployed on the Line of Actual Control on Indo-China and Line of Control on the Indo-Pakistan Border in the Ladakh region. The all-weather tunnel will connect the Ladakh region to the rest of the country throughout the year.&nbsp;

Ladakh generally is disconnected from the rest of the country during the winter season. The Zojila Pass gets covered under several feet of snow and frequent landslides leave the Ladakh region cut off from rest of the country.

Being constructed by the Hyderabad-based Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Ltd (MEIL), Zojila tunnel is an under-construction 9.5 metre wide, 7.57 m high and 13.145 km long, horseshoe-shaped single-tube, two-lane road tunnel which passes under the Zoji La pass in the Himalayas between Ganderbal of Kashmir (J&amp;K) and Drass town in Kargil district of Ladakh.&nbsp;

“We are building 19km tunnels in this area. Five km tunnelling has been completed between Sonamarg and this place. And main Zojila tunnel starts from here which is 13 km long. From this side, we have advanced three km and from Ladakh side also we have advanced three km. We are working at a good speed. Ladakh is not a small area and with three lakh people and huge deployment of Indian Army, we can imagine any place in the world which is not connected to main land for four months via road transport. Zojila witnesses lot of snowfall and everything gets cut off,” said Harpal Singh, project head, MEIL.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-says-situation-stands-fragile-on-india-china-relationship-573514">WATCH |&nbsp;S Jaishankar says 'Situation stands fragile' on India-China relationship</a>

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The major benefit of this tunnel would be to the armed forces deployed on the border areas. While China has built major roads and routes to the Indo-China border in the Ladakh region, the Indian side had lagged behind on the infrastructure front over the years.

However, with this tunnel, the Indian soldiers posted on LAC would be connected via surface transport throughout the year,&nbsp;thereby making sure any arms and ammunition can be supplied during any eventuality.&nbsp;

The tunnel would also impact the cost incurred on the defence in the Ladakh region. According to experts, around Rs 500-600 crore&nbsp;are spent on transportation during the period when Ladakh gets cut off from the rest of the country.&nbsp;

“Our neighbouring countries are totally hostile and are preparing to trouble us. And after the completion of Zojila, I don’t think they can trouble us or dream of doing anything, so it’s a very important tunnel from a defence point of view. For four months our defence forces cannot pass through the Zojila, so the access for eight months and everything is stored in advanced, the cost is huge and any supply during the war is not possible during winter months. So the completion of the Zojila tunnel&nbsp;will enable supplies to our Army throughout the year," added Singh.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/srinagar-being-converted-into-smart-city-at-a-fast-pace-before-g20-meetings-next-month-580203">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Srinagar being converted into smart city at fast pace for G20 meetings next month</a>

The Zojila tunnel project comprises of smart tunnel system (SCADA), constructed using the New Austrian tunnelling method and equipped with CCTV, radio control, uninterrupted power supply and ventilation. The project consists of two small tunnels Nilgrar 1 and Nilgrar 2 which are already completed as of April 9, 2023. In the Zojila tunnel, out of 13.145 km, 5.832 km of tunnel excavation is already completed. In addition, the construction of three vertical ventilation shafts is also in place and moving smoothly.

“We are spending more than Rs 600 crore&nbsp;to supply to defence forces and locals in Ladakh. So, Rs 500-600 crore&nbsp;would be direct saving, we would be saving in fuel as the travel time would be cut. Thousands of crores would be saved due to this tunnel. This tunnel is being built with the latest technology in the world. We call it the new Austrian tunnelling method. Life of tunnel will be 100 years," said Singh.&nbsp;

The Zojila Tunnel would be fully functional and thrown open to the public in 2026.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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India’s longest and highest motorable Zojila tunnel getting ready will strengthen the armed forces deployed on the Line of Actual Control on Indo-China and Line of Control on the Indo-Pakistan Border in the Ladakh region.

India’s longest and highest motorable Zojila tunnel getting ready will strengthen the armed forces deployed on the Line of Actual Control on Indo-China and Line of Control on the Indo-Pakistan Border in the Ladakh region. The all-weather tunnel will connect the Ladakh region to the rest of the country throughout the year. Ladakh generally is disconnected from the rest of the country during the winter season. The Zojila Pass gets covered under several feet of snow and frequent landslides leave the Ladakh region cut off from rest of the country. Being constructed by the Hyderabad-based Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Ltd (MEIL), Zojila tunnel is an under-construction 9.5 metre wide, 7.57 m high and 13.145 km long, horseshoe-shaped single-tube, two-lane road tunnel which passes under the Zoji La pass in the Himalayas between Ganderbal of Kashmir (J&K) and Drass town in Kargil district of Ladakh. “We are building 19km tunnels in this area. Five km tunnelling has been completed between Sonamarg and this place. And main Zojila tunnel starts from here which is 13 km long. From this side, we have advanced three km and from Ladakh side also we have advanced three km. We are working at a good speed. Ladakh is not a small area and with three lakh people and huge deployment of Indian Army, we can imagine any place in the world which is not connected to main land for four months via road transport. Zojila witnesses lot of snowfall and everything gets cut off,” said Harpal Singh, project head, MEIL. WATCH | S Jaishankar says 'Situation stands fragile' on India-China relationship × The major benefit of this tunnel would be to the armed forces deployed on the border areas. While China has built major roads and routes to the Indo-China border in the Ladakh region, the Indian side had lagged behind on the infrastructure front over the years. However, with this tunnel, the Indian soldiers posted on LAC would be connected via surface transport throughout the year, thereby making sure any arms and ammunition can be supplied during any eventuality. The tunnel would also impact the cost incurred on the defence in the Ladakh region. According to experts, around Rs 500-600 crore are spent on transportation during the period when Ladakh gets cut off from the rest of the country. “Our neighbouring countries are totally hostile and are preparing to trouble us. And after the completion of Zojila, I don’t think they can trouble us or dream of doing anything, so it’s a very important tunnel from a defence point of view. For four months our defence forces cannot pass through the Zojila, so the access for eight months and everything is stored in advanced, the cost is huge and any supply during the war is not possible during winter months. So the completion of the Zojila tunnel will enable supplies to our Army throughout the year," added Singh. ALSO READ | Srinagar being converted into smart city at fast pace for G20 meetings next month The Zojila tunnel project comprises of smart tunnel system (SCADA), constructed using the New Austrian tunnelling method and equipped with CCTV, radio control, uninterrupted power supply and ventilation. The project consists of two small tunnels Nilgrar 1 and Nilgrar 2 which are already completed as of April 9, 2023. In the Zojila tunnel, out of 13.145 km, 5.832 km of tunnel excavation is already completed. In addition, the construction of three vertical ventilation shafts is also in place and moving smoothly. “We are spending more than Rs 600 crore to supply to defence forces and locals in Ladakh. So, Rs 500-600 crore would be direct saving, we would be saving in fuel as the travel time would be cut. Thousands of crores would be saved due to this tunnel. This tunnel is being built with the latest technology in the world. We call it the new Austrian tunnelling method. Life of tunnel will be 100 years," said Singh. The Zojila Tunnel would be fully functional and thrown open to the public in 2026. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India’s longest, highest all-weather tunnel connecting Ladakh to rest of country getting ready

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir are facing a major challenge of drone droppings from across the border in the areas close to the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border. While the&nbsp;LoC and the International border have been sealed by the security forces,&nbsp;terror groups from across the border are using drones to drop payloads, carrying arms and ammunition as well as narcotics.

On April 3, security forces recovered a payload containing three&nbsp;pistols, six magazines and 4 grenades in the Samba area of the Jammu region. Security forces said that the payload was dropped by a drone from across the border. Before it could be picked up by the over-the-ground&nbsp;workers in the area, the security forces managed to bust it and recover the ammunition.

''The packet we have recovered has been opened and we have found three&nbsp;Chinese pistols, six&nbsp;magazines and four grenades from it. We are making an inventory and investigating the case. This area falls under Vijaypur thana of Samba district. We will investigate and see who the arms and ammunition was being handed over to, '' said Surinder Chaudhary, Additional SP Samba.

Hundreds of payloads carrying arms and ammunition as well as narcotics have been dropped with the help of drones from across the border in areas close to the Line of Control and International Border in the last year. The security forces have also introduced anti-drone technology in these areas close to the LoC. Recently, security forces also recovered sticky bombs and perfume IED payloads from areas close to the border areas. Security forces say new techniques and technology are being used to tackle the issue of these payloads with the help of anti-drone equipment.

''As I said, the threat keeps evolving and the enemy also tries to evolve and come up with new things, so sticky bomb is nothing new and perfume IED is something which has come up, my point is whenever such threat emerges, all the stakeholders sit and put their heads together to neutralise that threat before it can do any damage, we also evolve our own SOPs as to how to deal with such situation on the ground. We also try to train and brief our Jawans as to who will be responding on the ground. How to tackle such an emerging threat. It's important to brief it down the line to the last man on the ground so that he is aware of the threat and can neutralise it, '' said M S Bhatia, IG CPRF (Kashmir Operations).

The security forces in these bordering areas have many times brought down the drones coming from across the border. And most of the drones that were recovered are made in China and have a capacity of carrying around 20-30 kgs. They are used to carry arms and ammunition like AK-47 rifles, pistols, grenades, IEDs as well as narcotics and cash.

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Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir are facing a major challenge of drone droppings from across the border in the areas close to the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border.

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir are facing a major challenge of drone droppings from across the border in the areas close to the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border. While the LoC and the International border have been sealed by the security forces, terror groups from across the border are using drones to drop payloads, carrying arms and ammunition as well as narcotics. On April 3, security forces recovered a payload containing three pistols, six magazines and 4 grenades in the Samba area of the Jammu region. Security forces said that the payload was dropped by a drone from across the border. Before it could be picked up by the over-the-ground workers in the area, the security forces managed to bust it and recover the ammunition. ''The packet we have recovered has been opened and we have found three Chinese pistols, six magazines and four grenades from it. We are making an inventory and investigating the case. This area falls under Vijaypur thana of Samba district. We will investigate and see who the arms and ammunition was being handed over to, '' said Surinder Chaudhary, Additional SP Samba. Hundreds of payloads carrying arms and ammunition as well as narcotics have been dropped with the help of drones from across the border in areas close to the Line of Control and International Border in the last year. The security forces have also introduced anti-drone technology in these areas close to the LoC. Recently, security forces also recovered sticky bombs and perfume IED payloads from areas close to the border areas. Security forces say new techniques and technology are being used to tackle the issue of these payloads with the help of anti-drone equipment. ''As I said, the threat keeps evolving and the enemy also tries to evolve and come up with new things, so sticky bomb is nothing new and perfume IED is something which has come up, my point is whenever such threat emerges, all the stakeholders sit and put their heads together to neutralise that threat before it can do any damage, we also evolve our own SOPs as to how to deal with such situation on the ground. We also try to train and brief our Jawans as to who will be responding on the ground. How to tackle such an emerging threat. It's important to brief it down the line to the last man on the ground so that he is aware of the threat and can neutralise it, '' said M S Bhatia, IG CPRF (Kashmir Operations). The security forces in these bordering areas have many times brought down the drones coming from across the border. And most of the drones that were recovered are made in China and have a capacity of carrying around 20-30 kgs. They are used to carry arms and ammunition like AK-47 rifles, pistols, grenades, IEDs as well as narcotics and cash. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Drone droppings a new challenge for forces in JK; police recovers packet with 3 pistols 4 grenades in Samba

Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti has called for unity of opposition against the BJP. Mufti alleged that the right-wing party is eroding the democracy of India and it is high time for all opposition parties in the country to unite and fight together against the BJP.

Talking to reporters at&nbsp;her party office in Srinagar,&nbsp;she said "attack on democracy by the right-wing party started in 2018 when Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) along with National Conference (NC) and Congress intended to form a coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir but BJP didn't allow this to happen. It was the first attack on democracy by BJP and unfortunately, the rest of the opposition in the country didn't react to it as they should have reacted.''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jammu-and-kashmir-government-to-restore-temple-by-april-2023-575892">WATCH |&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir government to restore temple by April 2023</a>

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Mufti added that she is happy to see the opposition coming together on the issue of the disqualification of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi from the parliament. It's high time for all the opposition parties in the country to come together and fight against BJP, she added.&nbsp;

“Muslims are the first target. Ultimately, it's going to be BJP vs all. It won't stop at Muslims only, it will go further. Rahul Gandhi is not a Muslim, Manish Sisodia is not a Muslim, and those who are threatened to be sent to jail by using investigative agencies as a tool. This is going to be BJP rashtra vs all others, one by one everyone would be affected, from Muslims to Dalits to all. I am glad all opposition is coming together with Congress. If there is a way to save democracy, the opposition parties have to get together to mobilise the people,'' said Mufti.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/young-kashmiri-girl-memorises-holy-quran-handwrites-it-in-four-months-575902">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Fond of calligraphy, young Kashmiri girl memorises holy Quran, writes it by hand in four months</a> 
 
 
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Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti has called for unity of opposition against the BJP. Mufti alleged that the right-wing party is eroding the democracy of India and it is high time for all opposition parties in the country to unite and fight together against the BJP.

Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti has called for unity of opposition against the BJP. Mufti alleged that the right-wing party is eroding the democracy of India and it is high time for all opposition parties in the country to unite and fight together against the BJP. Talking to reporters at her party office in Srinagar, she said "attack on democracy by the right-wing party started in 2018 when Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) along with National Conference (NC) and Congress intended to form a coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir but BJP didn't allow this to happen. It was the first attack on democracy by BJP and unfortunately, the rest of the opposition in the country didn't react to it as they should have reacted.'' WATCH | Jammu and Kashmir government to restore temple by April 2023 × Mufti added that she is happy to see the opposition coming together on the issue of the disqualification of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi from the parliament. It's high time for all the opposition parties in the country to come together and fight against BJP, she added. “Muslims are the first target. Ultimately, it's going to be BJP vs all. It won't stop at Muslims only, it will go further. Rahul Gandhi is not a Muslim, Manish Sisodia is not a Muslim, and those who are threatened to be sent to jail by using investigative agencies as a tool. This is going to be BJP rashtra vs all others, one by one everyone would be affected, from Muslims to Dalits to all. I am glad all opposition is coming together with Congress. If there is a way to save democracy, the opposition parties have to get together to mobilise the people,'' said Mufti. ALSO READ | Fond of calligraphy, young Kashmiri girl memorises holy Quran, writes it by hand in four months WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Mehbooba Mufti calls for opposition unity against BJP, says it’s time to save democracy

Kashmir Valley has been reeling under darkness with the onset of winter. The government has issued a power curtailment schedule with an eight-hour power cut in non-metered areas and a 4.5-hour power cut in metered areas every day. The power cuts in the sub-zero temperatures make the winter cold much harsher and difficult to endure.&nbsp;

The frequent&nbsp;power outages are not going down well with the local population and have received a lot of criticism.

"Kashmir has been facing harsh winter conditions already and with this new power cut schedule, it becomes unbearable for us to live without electricity. The government should rethink the schedule as people can't bear the cold. Kashmir produces so much electricity and despite that, we have to face such hardships,'' said Bashir Ahmad, a local resident.

Jammu and Kashmir produces more than 3500 megawatts of electricity via 24 hydropower projects spread across various districts of the union territory. The Kashmir region produces around 2500 megawatts of electricity, which is sufficient for the valley to be provided with 24/7 electricity throughout the year.

Political leaders have also lashed out at the government for the disruption of the power supply. People's Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti lashed out at the administration and demanded an uninterrupted power supply.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-to-beat-the-cold-kashmiris-eat-harissa-this-centuries-old-cuisine-keeps-kashmiris-warm-535046">Read more:&nbsp;To beat the cold, Kashmiris eat Harissa. This centuries-old cuisine keeps Kashmiris warm</a>

''Our state produces maximum electricity via these NHPC projects, and the whole country's electricity and factories are running due to that electricity. And due to this, political parties like BJP promise people in other states free electricity and the state which produces this electricity is being told to not use the electricity,"&nbsp;said Mehbooba Mufti, former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir.

This is a stepmotherly treatment by BJP towards Jammu and Kashmir. We should be provided free electricity instead and compensated for our power projects."

Government data suggests that out of the 24 hydropower projects, 13 are being run by the UT through the Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation (JKPDC) which produces 1197 megawatts of electricity.&nbsp;

State-owned&nbsp;NHPC operates six hydropower projects, mostly in Kashmir, which generate 2250 megawatts of electricity. The remaining five power projects are being run by other public-private partnership companies which generate 57.5 megawatts of electricity.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-kashmir-gets-its-first-electric-train-to-run-between-budgam-baramulla-budgam-banihal-521244">WATCH |&nbsp;India's Kashmir gets its first electric train; to run between Budgam-Baramulla, Budgam-Banihal</a>

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The NHPC-owned power projects relate to the northern grid of India and the UT of Jammu and Kashmir has to purchase electricity from them to meet the demand for electric supply here.

However, the political parties have also started playing free electricity politics over the issue. Apni Party President, Altaf Bukhari has demanded the return of NHPC-owned power projects and promised free electricity up to 500 units for every household in Jammu and Kashmir if they come to power in the UT.

The UT administration has recently hiked the power tariff by 18 per cent which has further angered the local population in the region.

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Kashmir Valley has been reeling under darkness with the onset of winter. The government has issued a power curtailment schedule with an eight-hour power cut in non-metered areas and a 4.

Kashmir Valley has been reeling under darkness with the onset of winter. The government has issued a power curtailment schedule with an eight-hour power cut in non-metered areas and a 4.5-hour power cut in metered areas every day. The power cuts in the sub-zero temperatures make the winter cold much harsher and difficult to endure. The frequent power outages are not going down well with the local population and have received a lot of criticism. "Kashmir has been facing harsh winter conditions already and with this new power cut schedule, it becomes unbearable for us to live without electricity. The government should rethink the schedule as people can't bear the cold. Kashmir produces so much electricity and despite that, we have to face such hardships,'' said Bashir Ahmad, a local resident. Jammu and Kashmir produces more than 3500 megawatts of electricity via 24 hydropower projects spread across various districts of the union territory. The Kashmir region produces around 2500 megawatts of electricity, which is sufficient for the valley to be provided with 24/7 electricity throughout the year. Political leaders have also lashed out at the government for the disruption of the power supply. People's Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti lashed out at the administration and demanded an uninterrupted power supply. Read more: To beat the cold, Kashmiris eat Harissa. This centuries-old cuisine keeps Kashmiris warm ''Our state produces maximum electricity via these NHPC projects, and the whole country's electricity and factories are running due to that electricity. And due to this, political parties like BJP promise people in other states free electricity and the state which produces this electricity is being told to not use the electricity," said Mehbooba Mufti, former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir. This is a stepmotherly treatment by BJP towards Jammu and Kashmir. We should be provided free electricity instead and compensated for our power projects." Government data suggests that out of the 24 hydropower projects, 13 are being run by the UT through the Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation (JKPDC) which produces 1197 megawatts of electricity. State-owned NHPC operates six hydropower projects, mostly in Kashmir, which generate 2250 megawatts of electricity. The remaining five power projects are being run by other public-private partnership companies which generate 57.5 megawatts of electricity. WATCH | India's Kashmir gets its first electric train; to run between Budgam-Baramulla, Budgam-Banihal × The NHPC-owned power projects relate to the northern grid of India and the UT of Jammu and Kashmir has to purchase electricity from them to meet the demand for electric supply here. However, the political parties have also started playing free electricity politics over the issue. Apni Party President, Altaf Bukhari has demanded the return of NHPC-owned power projects and promised free electricity up to 500 units for every household in Jammu and Kashmir if they come to power in the UT. The UT administration has recently hiked the power tariff by 18 per cent which has further angered the local population in the region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kashmir valley reels under darkness with eight-hour power curtailment schedule

Jammu and Kashmir Police claimed that a hybrid terrorist was killed when he was taken for identification of a hideout in South Kashmir's Bijbehara area.&nbsp;According to police, when the search party reached the suspected hideout, terrorists opened fire which hit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) hybrid terrorist Sajjad Tantray who was with the search party for identification of the hideout. Police said Sajjad was taken to Sub District Hospital (SDH) Bijbehara where doctors declared him dead.

''When the search party reached the suspected hideout, terrorists opened fire which hit one LeT hybrid terrorist Sajjad Tantray of Kulgam, who was with the search party for identification of hideout. He was rushed to SDH Bijbehara where doctors declared him dead,'' said Jammu and Kashmir Police in a statement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-terrorist-attack-in-jammu-and-kashmir-kashmiri-pandit-shot-dead-525709">WATCH |&nbsp;India: Terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir; Kashmiri Pandit shot dead</a>

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Police said Sajjad was involved in the civilian killings of outside labourers in the valley. During the investigation, police recovered arms and ammunition from the hideout.&nbsp;

''During investigation hybrid terrorist Sajjad Tantray, who was earlier a terrorist associate of LeT and released from PSA, revealed that he had attacked two outside labourers on November 13, 2022, at Rakhmomen, Bijbehara in Anantnag in which two labourers got seriously injured,'' said Jammu and Kashmir Police in a statement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-two-labourers-shot-at-and-injured-by-terrorists-in-south-kashmirs-anantnag-531004">Read more:&nbsp;India: Two labourers shot at and injured by terrorists in south Kashmir’s Anantnag</a>

While in Srinagar, the Indian Army (2RR) and Srinagar Police arrested three hybrid terrorists along with a huge consignment of three AK rifles, two pistols, nine magazines &amp; 200 rounds.

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Jammu and Kashmir Police claimed that a hybrid terrorist was killed when he was taken for identification of a hideout in South Kashmir's Bijbehara area. According to police, when the search party reached the suspected hideout, terrorists opened fire which hit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) hybrid terrorist Sajjad Tantray who was with the search party for identification of the hideout.

Jammu and Kashmir Police claimed that a hybrid terrorist was killed when he was taken for identification of a hideout in South Kashmir's Bijbehara area. According to police, when the search party reached the suspected hideout, terrorists opened fire which hit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) hybrid terrorist Sajjad Tantray who was with the search party for identification of the hideout. Police said Sajjad was taken to Sub District Hospital (SDH) Bijbehara where doctors declared him dead. ''When the search party reached the suspected hideout, terrorists opened fire which hit one LeT hybrid terrorist Sajjad Tantray of Kulgam, who was with the search party for identification of hideout. He was rushed to SDH Bijbehara where doctors declared him dead,'' said Jammu and Kashmir Police in a statement. WATCH | India: Terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir; Kashmiri Pandit shot dead × Police said Sajjad was involved in the civilian killings of outside labourers in the valley. During the investigation, police recovered arms and ammunition from the hideout. ''During investigation hybrid terrorist Sajjad Tantray, who was earlier a terrorist associate of LeT and released from PSA, revealed that he had attacked two outside labourers on November 13, 2022, at Rakhmomen, Bijbehara in Anantnag in which two labourers got seriously injured,'' said Jammu and Kashmir Police in a statement. Read more: India: Two labourers shot at and injured by terrorists in south Kashmir’s Anantnag While in Srinagar, the Indian Army (2RR) and Srinagar Police arrested three hybrid terrorists along with a huge consignment of three AK rifles, two pistols, nine magazines & 200 rounds. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Hybrid terrorist taken for identification of hideout killed in encounter with holed terrorists

Two non-local labourers were killed in a grenade attack by terrorists in South Kashmir’s Shopian district. Jammu and Kashmir’s Police claimed to have arrested two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists involved in lobbing the grenade.&nbsp;

Terrorists lobbed a hand grenade in Harmen Shopian area. Two labourers from India's Uttar Pradesh (UP) namely Monish Kumar &amp; Ram Sagar, both residents of Kannauj, UP were grievously injured in the attack. They were shifted to the hospital where they succumbed to injuries.&nbsp;

"Terrorists lobbed hand grenade in Harmen #Shopian in which two labourers from UP namely Monish Kumar &amp; Ram Sagar, both residents of Kannauj, UP got injured. They were shifted to hospital where they succumbed. Area cordoned off,"&nbsp;said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

According to the Jammu and Kashmir Police official, terrorists lobbed a grenade at the structure in which these labourers were living. And a massive search operation was launched by the security forces after the attack. One local Lashkar terrorist was arrested by forces. Police said he was the one who lobbed the grenade at the deceased civilians.&nbsp;

"Two arrests have been made so far. Hybrid terrorist of proscribed terror outfit LeT Imran Bashir Ganie of Harmen Shopian who lobbed grenade arrested by Shopian police. Further investigation and raids are going on," said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, &nbsp;Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

A massive search operation across the Shopian district has been launched after the attack. So far, 24 civilians have been killed in 2022.

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Two non-local labourers were killed in a grenade attack by terrorists in South Kashmir’s Shopian district. Jammu and Kashmir’s Police claimed to have arrested two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists involved in lobbing the grenade.

Two non-local labourers were killed in a grenade attack by terrorists in South Kashmir’s Shopian district. Jammu and Kashmir’s Police claimed to have arrested two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists involved in lobbing the grenade. Terrorists lobbed a hand grenade in Harmen Shopian area. Two labourers from India's Uttar Pradesh (UP) namely Monish Kumar & Ram Sagar, both residents of Kannauj, UP were grievously injured in the attack. They were shifted to the hospital where they succumbed to injuries. "Terrorists lobbed hand grenade in Harmen #Shopian in which two labourers from UP namely Monish Kumar & Ram Sagar, both residents of Kannauj, UP got injured. They were shifted to hospital where they succumbed. Area cordoned off," said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police. According to the Jammu and Kashmir Police official, terrorists lobbed a grenade at the structure in which these labourers were living. And a massive search operation was launched by the security forces after the attack. One local Lashkar terrorist was arrested by forces. Police said he was the one who lobbed the grenade at the deceased civilians. "Two arrests have been made so far. Hybrid terrorist of proscribed terror outfit LeT Imran Bashir Ganie of Harmen Shopian who lobbed grenade arrested by Shopian police. Further investigation and raids are going on," said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police. A massive search operation across the Shopian district has been launched after the attack. So far, 24 civilians have been killed in 2022. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two non-local labourers killed in South Kashmir attack, police arrest two LeT terrorists

Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi on Friday batted for the need to do more in terms of different dynamics exhibited on the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh and said the armed forces have learnt valuable lessons from 'Operation Snow Leopard' in Ladakh.

He stressed the need for better technologies for guarding the most sensitive operational area falling under Northern Command as it is 'always in combat'.

"The Northern Command exemplifies the notion of 'two-and-a-half front'. It has unique frontiers and varied terrain ranging from plains to super-high altitude, as also the normal to extreme weather conditions with temperatures going to as low as minus 50 to 70 degrees," Lt Gen Dwivedi said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/using-violence-as-a-political-resource-is-an-act-of-terrorism-says-tamil-nadu-governor-rn-ravi-476788">Using violence as a political resource is an act of terrorism, says Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi</a>

At a two-day 'North Tech Symposium 2022' at the Northern Command Headquarters here, he said the lessons of Operational Snow Leopard have been "fully assimilated and fused into our capacities of swift mobilisation, appropriate force posturing and infrastructure development in synergy with the Central Armed Police Forces and civil administration".

He said the solutions that the Army is seeking for border guarding and internal security challenges will lead to operational convergence of all forces co-employed within the Northern Command.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Amarnath Yatra terror plot busted

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Referring to the clash between Indian and Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley in June 2020, Lt Gen Dwivedi said, "There is still more that needs to be done considering the dynamics exhibited in terms of differing perceptions on the Line of Actual Control."

There is a need to be geared up at all times and be battle-hardened to counter the dynamic operational situations and challenges, and come out as winners, he said.

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"This needs adaptability of our troops to the ever-changing battlefield environment as well as the adoption of innovative solutions to surprise the adversary, gain ascendancy and be always a step ahead in cognitive, virtual and physical space," he said.

The Northern Army Commander said the "eyeball to eyeball" deployment, from the plains of Jammu to the Siachen Glaciers and further to eastern Ladakh, and the dynamic internal security situation in the Jammu and Kashmir make Northern Command the most unique theatre.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-3-years-jet-airways-conducts-first-test-flight-in-hyderabad-476761">After 3 years, Jet Airways conducts first test flight in Hyderabad</a>

"Ever since its raising, the Northern Command has been 'Always in Combat', he said.

,.

Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi on Friday batted for the need to do more in terms of different dynamics exhibited on the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh and said the armed forces have learnt valuable lessons from 'Operation Snow Leopard' in Ladakh.

Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi on Friday batted for the need to do more in terms of different dynamics exhibited on the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh and said the armed forces have learnt valuable lessons from 'Operation Snow Leopard' in Ladakh. He stressed the need for better technologies for guarding the most sensitive operational area falling under Northern Command as it is 'always in combat'. "The Northern Command exemplifies the notion of 'two-and-a-half front'. It has unique frontiers and varied terrain ranging from plains to super-high altitude, as also the normal to extreme weather conditions with temperatures going to as low as minus 50 to 70 degrees," Lt Gen Dwivedi said. Also read | Using violence as a political resource is an act of terrorism, says Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi At a two-day 'North Tech Symposium 2022' at the Northern Command Headquarters here, he said the lessons of Operational Snow Leopard have been "fully assimilated and fused into our capacities of swift mobilisation, appropriate force posturing and infrastructure development in synergy with the Central Armed Police Forces and civil administration". He said the solutions that the Army is seeking for border guarding and internal security challenges will lead to operational convergence of all forces co-employed within the Northern Command. Watch | Gravitas: Amarnath Yatra terror plot busted Referring to the clash between Indian and Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley in June 2020, Lt Gen Dwivedi said, "There is still more that needs to be done considering the dynamics exhibited in terms of differing perceptions on the Line of Actual Control." There is a need to be geared up at all times and be battle-hardened to counter the dynamic operational situations and challenges, and come out as winners, he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: "This needs adaptability of our troops to the ever-changing battlefield environment as well as the adoption of innovative solutions to surprise the adversary, gain ascendancy and be always a step ahead in cognitive, virtual and physical space," he said. The Northern Army Commander said the "eyeball to eyeball" deployment, from the plains of Jammu to the Siachen Glaciers and further to eastern Ladakh, and the dynamic internal security situation in the Jammu and Kashmir make Northern Command the most unique theatre. Also read | After 3 years, Jet Airways conducts first test flight in Hyderabad "Ever since its raising, the Northern Command has been 'Always in Combat', he said. ,.

More needs to be done in terms of different dynamics on LAC, says Northern Army commander

The provision, article 370 of the constitution, prevented the Indian government from having any say in the affairs of Jammu and Kashmir except in matters of defence, finance, foreign affairs, and communications. This contributed to the province’s struggles: While the rest of India experienced strong social and economic development, Jammu and Kashmir lagged in terms of economic growth, employment, fighting corruption, gender equality, literacy, and many other indicators.

Pakistan has its own stakes in preventing prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir, and in the Ladakh area of Kashmir because a weak economy fuels separatist sentiments in some quarters. This fits into Pakistan’s larger strategy of using terrorism as a political tool. Therefore, it also opposes the repeal of article 370, which legitimized discrimination and hindered economic progress.

The decision of the Indian Parliament to reorganise the province and rescind this article corrects a historic wrong. It opens the door to rejuvenate a moribund economy and promote horticulture, tourism and handicrafts that are the unique strength of its culture. This change is now delivering social and economic justice to a region that was out of step with the rest of the nation.

Article 370 was an obstacle to progressive legislation prevalent in the rest of India, such as affirmative action, equal rights for women, juvenile protection, and safeguards against domestic violence. Laws that protect the right to education and information under the Indian Constitution did not apply in Jammu and Kashmir. Clearly, this prospect for a more prosperous Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, cut the ground under the feet of Pakistan.&nbsp;

In past, we have seen a plethora of comments from Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan and senior officials of his government painting an apocalyptic picture of India’s reorganisation of its province of Jammu and Kashmir — and raising the threat of conflict, including nuclear war, with India.

Under Prime Minister Khan’s watch, the people of Pakistan are reeling under economic depression, with inflation at a five-year high, national debt exceeding gross domestic product, and asking for an International Monetary Fund bailout. Mr. Khan has, of course, every right to run his own economy into the ground. But his determination to inflict similar damage on the province of a neighbouring country must be challenged. What Prime Minister Khan finds difficult to accept is that the Kashmir region is now back on the road to progress and prosperity because the Indian government has repealed an anachronistic and temporary provision of law that has hindered development. Its prime minister claims that he offered to work for peace, progress, and prosperity with India. What he does not say is that the assembly line of terrorists that is a major industry of his country continues without pause.

He suggests that institutions like the Financial Action Task Force, an international organization that investigates terrorist financing, are part of a conspiracy against Pakistan. He obscures the fact that the mastermind of the Mumbai terrorist attack of 2008 has been shielded by Pakistan. And that the Pulwama suicide bombing was carried out by Jaish-e-Muhammad, a United Nations-proscribed terrorist outfit that operates openly from one of his major cities.

Mr. Khan has criticised India for its treatment of Muslims and other non-Hindu minorities. This would be laughable if the reality was not so tragic. When Pakistan was created, its population was 23 percent minorities. This is now down to 3 per cent, a figure that speaks for itself. And there are countless faces — Shias, Ahmadis, Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs — who can testify to this tragic reality. Fellow Muslims are not spared; ask the Shia, the Pashtun, Sindhi or the Baloch people of Pakistan. The irony of seeing Islamabad refusing to recognize the legitimacy of Israel and tolerating anti-Semitic sentiment, but now invoking images of European fascism, is simply astounding. Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, are now in transition. The changes introduced by India have challenged entrenched interests who benefited from the old system at a cost to the people. Incitement and support from across the border for violence and terrorism are to be expected. Many of the restrictions on travel and communications intended to ensure public order and safety have since been relaxed. Preventing loss of life is the highest priority.

India’s actions regarding article 370 had no implications outside of India. Its external boundaries have not changed. What has changed is that there is now hope for development that will help the residents of the region — and that will obstruct Pakistan’s longstanding support of cross-border terrorism. That is why the prime minister concocts alarming scenarios, hoping to stop these improvements. The development will happen, progress will be visible, prosperity will take root and terrorism will fail. India will hope that Pakistan renounces hostility, violence, and terrorism to become the normal neighbour that the entire world desires.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The provision, article 370 of the constitution, prevented the Indian government from having any say in the affairs of Jammu and Kashmir except in matters of defence, finance, foreign affairs, and communications.

The provision, article 370 of the constitution, prevented the Indian government from having any say in the affairs of Jammu and Kashmir except in matters of defence, finance, foreign affairs, and communications. This contributed to the province’s struggles: While the rest of India experienced strong social and economic development, Jammu and Kashmir lagged in terms of economic growth, employment, fighting corruption, gender equality, literacy, and many other indicators. Pakistan has its own stakes in preventing prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir, and in the Ladakh area of Kashmir because a weak economy fuels separatist sentiments in some quarters. This fits into Pakistan’s larger strategy of using terrorism as a political tool. Therefore, it also opposes the repeal of article 370, which legitimized discrimination and hindered economic progress. The decision of the Indian Parliament to reorganise the province and rescind this article corrects a historic wrong. It opens the door to rejuvenate a moribund economy and promote horticulture, tourism and handicrafts that are the unique strength of its culture. This change is now delivering social and economic justice to a region that was out of step with the rest of the nation. Article 370 was an obstacle to progressive legislation prevalent in the rest of India, such as affirmative action, equal rights for women, juvenile protection, and safeguards against domestic violence. Laws that protect the right to education and information under the Indian Constitution did not apply in Jammu and Kashmir. Clearly, this prospect for a more prosperous Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, cut the ground under the feet of Pakistan. In past, we have seen a plethora of comments from Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan and senior officials of his government painting an apocalyptic picture of India’s reorganisation of its province of Jammu and Kashmir — and raising the threat of conflict, including nuclear war, with India. Under Prime Minister Khan’s watch, the people of Pakistan are reeling under economic depression, with inflation at a five-year high, national debt exceeding gross domestic product, and asking for an International Monetary Fund bailout. Mr. Khan has, of course, every right to run his own economy into the ground. But his determination to inflict similar damage on the province of a neighbouring country must be challenged. What Prime Minister Khan finds difficult to accept is that the Kashmir region is now back on the road to progress and prosperity because the Indian government has repealed an anachronistic and temporary provision of law that has hindered development. Its prime minister claims that he offered to work for peace, progress, and prosperity with India. What he does not say is that the assembly line of terrorists that is a major industry of his country continues without pause. He suggests that institutions like the Financial Action Task Force, an international organization that investigates terrorist financing, are part of a conspiracy against Pakistan. He obscures the fact that the mastermind of the Mumbai terrorist attack of 2008 has been shielded by Pakistan. And that the Pulwama suicide bombing was carried out by Jaish-e-Muhammad, a United Nations-proscribed terrorist outfit that operates openly from one of his major cities. Mr. Khan has criticised India for its treatment of Muslims and other non-Hindu minorities. This would be laughable if the reality was not so tragic. When Pakistan was created, its population was 23 percent minorities. This is now down to 3 per cent, a figure that speaks for itself. And there are countless faces — Shias, Ahmadis, Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs — who can testify to this tragic reality. Fellow Muslims are not spared; ask the Shia, the Pashtun, Sindhi or the Baloch people of Pakistan. The irony of seeing Islamabad refusing to recognize the legitimacy of Israel and tolerating anti-Semitic sentiment, but now invoking images of European fascism, is simply astounding. Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, are now in transition. The changes introduced by India have challenged entrenched interests who benefited from the old system at a cost to the people. Incitement and support from across the border for violence and terrorism are to be expected. Many of the restrictions on travel and communications intended to ensure public order and safety have since been relaxed. Preventing loss of life is the highest priority. India’s actions regarding article 370 had no implications outside of India. Its external boundaries have not changed. What has changed is that there is now hope for development that will help the residents of the region — and that will obstruct Pakistan’s longstanding support of cross-border terrorism. That is why the prime minister concocts alarming scenarios, hoping to stop these improvements. The development will happen, progress will be visible, prosperity will take root and terrorism will fail. India will hope that Pakistan renounces hostility, violence, and terrorism to become the normal neighbour that the entire world desires. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion-Jammu and Kashmir: With positive approach on path of progress

Kashmir Valley has been hit by an intense cold wave with temperatures&nbsp;dipping to sub-zero as&nbsp;people in the Valley have been using every method and appliance to keep themselves warm. But the age-old Kangri (earthen pot) still is the favourite to keep themselves&nbsp;warm.&nbsp;

Kangri is an earthen pot encased in a wicker basket. The weaving around it is intricate and beautifully designed. The locals in the Valley call it a portable heater to keep warm under freezing condictions.&nbsp;

The Chraar-e-Shareef area in central Kashmir's Budgam district is known for making the best Kangri's in the Kashmir Valley. For its craftsmanship and quality, lakhs of Kangri's are sold every winter from this area.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kangri weavers in J&amp;K" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c56a2b23-6c2f-48d7-879f-bf6bfab5fde8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/kk3.jpeg" />

''Necessity is the mother of invention. We live in a region which is very cold with&nbsp;at least for 4-5 months of winter. And to counter the cold, Kangri was invented. It keeps us warm. It has new designs&nbsp;now as well,"&nbsp; said Ghulam Hassan Bhat, a Kangri businessman.&nbsp;

"We get raw material from the jungle for weaving. We dry the twigs and later colour it. There is an earthen pot inside. It's a lot of work for the artisans. There are various types of Kangris. And their&nbsp;pricing also depends on the same. It's a part of our culture and also a necessity,"&nbsp; Bhat added.

"Although there are new heating devices in the market, this can never go out of fashion. It's a craft which will always stay here. The best craftsmanship of making the Kangri is in this area of Chraar-e-Shareef. There is no electricity in our areas, we have huge power cuts and that's why Kangri is our best way to keep warm,'' he said.&nbsp;

One artisan makes around 3-4 Kangris in a day. The artisans say that the demand for Kangri has gone up. The long power cuts make most of the new gadgets and appliances useless while countering cold. So Kangri is a tradition as well as a&nbsp;necessity for the&nbsp;Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kangri weavers in J&amp;K" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="88f71468-14db-4546-aac8-e56bb8768079" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/KK4.jpeg" />

"I have been making these Kangris for 21 years. Our Kangris are famous for weaving. We take a lot of time to gather the raw material and use the best quality. We also get orders to weave Kangris for decoration. In our area, we must be making around 3 lakh Kangris every year. Now even people who were not associated with this craft have started making these Kangris,'' said Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, an artisan.&nbsp;

Kangri making is also an art in itself. Artisans use different colours while weaving to make it look beautiful. The weaving is done stepwise and that decides the pricing of the Kangri.&nbsp;

''I make around four&nbsp;Kangris a day. The best quality Kangri is made in our area. We have beautiful colourful Kangris. It has many types, we differentiate the Kangris on the basis of workmanship. The weaving is done in steps and there are many such steps which make them better. I have been making Kangris&nbsp;for ages, although the rate of raw material has gone up. Kashmiris cannot do without the Kangri,'' Ghulam Nabi&nbsp;Bhat said.&nbsp;

The younger generation has also started to pick up this art. They say&nbsp;with growing unemployment, they have also learnt the art from their elders and will teach the next generation as well.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kangri weavers in J&amp;K" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c247882b-393c-4143-a463-4781d651ec50" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/JJ1.jpeg" />

''I have been making it for the last fiver&nbsp;years due to unemployment I started making Kangris. I looked for a job and didn't&nbsp;get any so finally started making them. The younger generation doesn't want to be associated with it. We were taught by our elders and we will teach it to our future generations. '' said Nasir Hussain Bhat, an artisan.

Kangri works on burning coal and it does have side effects. Experts say that it can cause skin burns, pollution and sometimes also be responsible for fire incidents in many areas,&nbsp;so while using Kangri's a lot of protection needs to be taken.

Kashmir Valley has been hit by an intense cold wave with temperatures dipping to sub-zero as people in the Valley have been using every method and appliance to keep themselves warm.

Kashmir Valley has been hit by an intense cold wave with temperatures dipping to sub-zero as people in the Valley have been using every method and appliance to keep themselves warm. But the age-old Kangri (earthen pot) still is the favourite to keep themselves warm. Kangri is an earthen pot encased in a wicker basket. The weaving around it is intricate and beautifully designed. The locals in the Valley call it a portable heater to keep warm under freezing condictions. The Chraar-e-Shareef area in central Kashmir's Budgam district is known for making the best Kangri's in the Kashmir Valley. For its craftsmanship and quality, lakhs of Kangri's are sold every winter from this area. ''Necessity is the mother of invention. We live in a region which is very cold with at least for 4-5 months of winter. And to counter the cold, Kangri was invented. It keeps us warm. It has new designs now as well," said Ghulam Hassan Bhat, a Kangri businessman. "We get raw material from the jungle for weaving. We dry the twigs and later colour it. There is an earthen pot inside. It's a lot of work for the artisans. There are various types of Kangris. And their pricing also depends on the same. It's a part of our culture and also a necessity," Bhat added. "Although there are new heating devices in the market, this can never go out of fashion. It's a craft which will always stay here. The best craftsmanship of making the Kangri is in this area of Chraar-e-Shareef. There is no electricity in our areas, we have huge power cuts and that's why Kangri is our best way to keep warm,'' he said. One artisan makes around 3-4 Kangris in a day. The artisans say that the demand for Kangri has gone up. The long power cuts make most of the new gadgets and appliances useless while countering cold. So Kangri is a tradition as well as a necessity for the Kashmir Valley. "I have been making these Kangris for 21 years. Our Kangris are famous for weaving. We take a lot of time to gather the raw material and use the best quality. We also get orders to weave Kangris for decoration. In our area, we must be making around 3 lakh Kangris every year. Now even people who were not associated with this craft have started making these Kangris,'' said Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, an artisan. Kangri making is also an art in itself. Artisans use different colours while weaving to make it look beautiful. The weaving is done stepwise and that decides the pricing of the Kangri. ''I make around four Kangris a day. The best quality Kangri is made in our area. We have beautiful colourful Kangris. It has many types, we differentiate the Kangris on the basis of workmanship. The weaving is done in steps and there are many such steps which make them better. I have been making Kangris for ages, although the rate of raw material has gone up. Kashmiris cannot do without the Kangri,'' Ghulam Nabi Bhat said. The younger generation has also started to pick up this art. They say with growing unemployment, they have also learnt the art from their elders and will teach the next generation as well. ''I have been making it for the last fiver years due to unemployment I started making Kangris. I looked for a job and didn't get any so finally started making them. The younger generation doesn't want to be associated with it. We were taught by our elders and we will teach it to our future generations. '' said Nasir Hussain Bhat, an artisan. Kangri works on burning coal and it does have side effects. Experts say that it can cause skin burns, pollution and sometimes also be responsible for fire incidents in many areas, so while using Kangri's a lot of protection needs to be taken.

Kashmiris prefer Kangri to keep themselves warm in sub-zero temperature

In a strongly-worded letter to Twitter CEO, the Indian government has expressed its dismay over the social media giants' act of misrepresentation of the Indian map and asserted any attempts to disrespect the country's sovereignty and integrity would not be accepted.&nbsp;

IT Secretary Ajay Sawhney has penned a letter to Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey after Twitter in a recent post showed geo-location of Leh in Jammu and Kashmir as a Chinese region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twitter-under-fire-as-it-shows-jk-as-part-of-china-336260">Twitter issues clarification following backlash for showing J&amp;K in China</a>

Such acts bring not only disrepute to Twitter but also raises the question about its neutrality and fairness as an intermediary, the letter said.&nbsp;

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twitter-under-fire-as-it-shows-jk-as-part-of-china-336260">Twitter under fire as it shows J&amp;K as part of China</a>

Sawhney has also reminded the social media giant that Leh is the headquarter of Union Territory of Ladakh and both Ladakh as well as Jammu and Kashmir are India's integral and inalienable parts of India, governed by the Indian constitution.

The Indian government had asked Twitter to respect the sensitivities of Indians and has also firmly said that any effort to disrespect sovereignty and integrity of India, which is also reflected through its maps, is completely unacceptable and unlawful.

Earlier, the incident happened Nitin Gokhale’s was conducting a live broadcast from Leh’s Hall of Fame, a war memorial for martyred soldiers, and Twitter's geotagging feature showed Leh in Jammu and Kashmir, People's Republic of China.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We became aware of this technical issue on Sunday, &amp; understand &amp; respect the sensitivities around it. Teams have worked swiftly to investigate &amp; resolve the concerned geotag issue: Twitter Spokesperson on location tag in a live broadcast showing Jammu &amp; Kashmir as part of China. <a href="https://t.co/UqpCCgma1q">pic.twitter.com/UqpCCgma1q</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1318082535570616320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Twitter called the issue "technical" and said it has been resolved swiftly.&nbsp;

In a strongly-worded letter to Twitter CEO, the Indian government has expressed its dismay over the social media giants' act of misrepresentation of the Indian map and asserted any attempts to disrespect the country's sovereignty and integrity would not be accepted.

In a strongly-worded letter to Twitter CEO, the Indian government has expressed its dismay over the social media giants' act of misrepresentation of the Indian map and asserted any attempts to disrespect the country's sovereignty and integrity would not be accepted. IT Secretary Ajay Sawhney has penned a letter to Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey after Twitter in a recent post showed geo-location of Leh in Jammu and Kashmir as a Chinese region. Also read | Twitter issues clarification following backlash for showing J&K in China Such acts bring not only disrepute to Twitter but also raises the question about its neutrality and fairness as an intermediary, the letter said. Also read | Twitter under fire as it shows J&K as part of China Sawhney has also reminded the social media giant that Leh is the headquarter of Union Territory of Ladakh and both Ladakh as well as Jammu and Kashmir are India's integral and inalienable parts of India, governed by the Indian constitution. The Indian government had asked Twitter to respect the sensitivities of Indians and has also firmly said that any effort to disrespect sovereignty and integrity of India, which is also reflected through its maps, is completely unacceptable and unlawful. Earlier, the incident happened Nitin Gokhale’s was conducting a live broadcast from Leh’s Hall of Fame, a war memorial for martyred soldiers, and Twitter's geotagging feature showed Leh in Jammu and Kashmir, People's Republic of China. We became aware of this technical issue on Sunday, & understand & respect the sensitivities around it. Teams have worked swiftly to investigate & resolve the concerned geotag issue: Twitter Spokesperson on location tag in a live broadcast showing Jammu & Kashmir as part of China. pic.twitter.com/UqpCCgma1q — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2020 × Twitter called the issue "technical" and said it has been resolved swiftly.

Indian govt issues stern warning to Twitter over settings showing Leh in China

A day after facing severe backlash for showing Jammu and Kashmir as a Chinese territory, Twitter has issued a clarification on Monday and called it a "technical issue".

"We became aware of this technical issue on Sunday, and understand and respect the sensitivities around it. Teams have worked swiftly to investigate and resolve the concerned geotag issue," a Twitter spokesperson said on Monday, as quoted by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We became aware of this technical issue on Sunday, &amp; understand &amp; respect the sensitivities around it. Teams have worked swiftly to investigate &amp; resolve the concerned geotag issue: Twitter Spokesperson on location tag in a live broadcast showing Jammu &amp; Kashmir as part of China. <a href="https://t.co/UqpCCgma1q">pic.twitter.com/UqpCCgma1q</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1318082535570616320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On Sunday, the social media giant was harshly criticised after its location tag in a live broadcast displayed Jammu and Kashmir as a region in China.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twitter-under-fire-as-it-shows-jk-as-part-of-china-336260">Twitter under fire as it shows J&amp;K as part of China</a>

The issue first came into fore after Kanchan Gupta, Distinguished Fellow, Observer Research Foundation (ORF) raised the matter on Sunday, calling Twitter's actions as a move to "reconfigure history".

"So Twitter has decided to reconfigure geography and declare Jammu &amp; Kashmir as part of People's Republic of China. If this is not a violation of India laws, what is? Citizens of India have been punished for far less. But US Big Tech is above the law?, Gupta tweeted.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A day after facing severe backlash for showing Jammu and Kashmir as a Chinese territory, Twitter has issued a clarification on Monday and called it a "technical issue".

A day after facing severe backlash for showing Jammu and Kashmir as a Chinese territory, Twitter has issued a clarification on Monday and called it a "technical issue". "We became aware of this technical issue on Sunday, and understand and respect the sensitivities around it. Teams have worked swiftly to investigate and resolve the concerned geotag issue," a Twitter spokesperson said on Monday, as quoted by news agency ANI. We became aware of this technical issue on Sunday, & understand & respect the sensitivities around it. Teams have worked swiftly to investigate & resolve the concerned geotag issue: Twitter Spokesperson on location tag in a live broadcast showing Jammu & Kashmir as part of China. pic.twitter.com/UqpCCgma1q — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2020 × On Sunday, the social media giant was harshly criticised after its location tag in a live broadcast displayed Jammu and Kashmir as a region in China. Also read | Twitter under fire as it shows J&K as part of China The issue first came into fore after Kanchan Gupta, Distinguished Fellow, Observer Research Foundation (ORF) raised the matter on Sunday, calling Twitter's actions as a move to "reconfigure history". "So Twitter has decided to reconfigure geography and declare Jammu & Kashmir as part of People's Republic of China. If this is not a violation of India laws, what is? Citizens of India have been punished for far less. But US Big Tech is above the law?, Gupta tweeted.

Twitter issues clarification following backlash for showing J&K in China