Eight terrorist associates who were involved in threatening and intimidation of locals by publishing and circulating of posters on the behest of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) affiliates, were arrested on Monday, said sources.

Those arrested have been identified as Aijaz Mir, Omar Mir, Tawseef Najar, Imitiyaz Najar, Omar Akbar, Faizan Latief, Danish Habib, and Showkat Ahmad Mir who are accused of preparing the threatening posters and circulating them in the locality.

According to sources, it is learnt that an active local terrorist namely Sajad Mir alias Haidar and his other associates Muddasir Pandith and Asif Maqbool Bhat affiliated with proscribed terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were the principal architects on whose behest the posters were published and circulated.

Police recovered and seized the computers, other accessories and incriminating materials which were used for drafting and publishing of the posters, they added.

The police are also investigating the complicity of terrorists in the recent killing of civilians in the area.

Further, an investigation is underway. 
&nbsp;

Eight terrorist associates who were involved in threatening and intimidation of locals by publishing and circulating of posters on the behest of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) affiliates, were arrested on Monday, said sources.

Eight terrorist associates who were involved in threatening and intimidation of locals by publishing and circulating of posters on the behest of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) affiliates, were arrested on Monday, said sources. Those arrested have been identified as Aijaz Mir, Omar Mir, Tawseef Najar, Imitiyaz Najar, Omar Akbar, Faizan Latief, Danish Habib, and Showkat Ahmad Mir who are accused of preparing the threatening posters and circulating them in the locality. According to sources, it is learnt that an active local terrorist namely Sajad Mir alias Haidar and his other associates Muddasir Pandith and Asif Maqbool Bhat affiliated with proscribed terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were the principal architects on whose behest the posters were published and circulated. Police recovered and seized the computers, other accessories and incriminating materials which were used for drafting and publishing of the posters, they added. The police are also investigating the complicity of terrorists in the recent killing of civilians in the area. Further, an investigation is underway.

J&K: 8 LeT terrorist associates arrested for publishing, circulating threatening posters in Sopore

India on Tuesday slammed the mention of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unsc-closed-door-meet-russia-supports-india-says-no-unsc-role-in-jammu-and-kashmir-issue-243493">Jammu and Kashmir in China-Pakistan joint statement</a> during the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and raised its concerns regarding the massive infrastructure project—the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Rejecting Jammu and Kashmir's reference, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, 'J&amp;K is an integral part of India.'

The joint statement issued last week said, "Both sides further exchanged views on the situation in Jammu &amp; Kashmir. The Pakistani side briefed China on the situation, including its concerns, position, and urgent humanitarian issues. China opposes any unilateral actions that complicate the situation."

Watch: Understanding China's stance on Kashmir

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/understanding-chinas-stance-on-kashmir-241920/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;Both Pakistan and China have been trying to rake up Kashmir at international forums after New Delhi's August 5th decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state. On August 16 India was able to thwart a joint effort by Bejing and Islamabad to raise Kashmir at United Nations security council with Pakistan keen on an emergency session on Kashmir, which could not happen due to lack of support at the council.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, New Delhi has expressed its concern to "both China and Pakistan on the projects in so-called “China Pakistan Economic Corridor” saying it "resolutely opposed to any actions by other countries to change the status quo in Pakistan occupied J&amp;K" and asked them "to cease such actions."

CPEC passes through Pakistan occupied Kashmir, a region that has been under Pakistani occupation since 1947. India has boycotted China's One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative due to CPEC, which New Delhi says violates its sovereignty.

India on Tuesday slammed the mention of Jammu and Kashmir in China-Pakistan joint statement during the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and raised its concerns regarding the massive infrastructure project—the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

India on Tuesday slammed the mention of Jammu and Kashmir in China-Pakistan joint statement during the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and raised its concerns regarding the massive infrastructure project—the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Rejecting Jammu and Kashmir's reference, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, 'J&K is an integral part of India.' The joint statement issued last week said, "Both sides further exchanged views on the situation in Jammu & Kashmir. The Pakistani side briefed China on the situation, including its concerns, position, and urgent humanitarian issues. China opposes any unilateral actions that complicate the situation." Watch: Understanding China's stance on Kashmir Both Pakistan and China have been trying to rake up Kashmir at international forums after New Delhi's August 5th decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state. On August 16 India was able to thwart a joint effort by Bejing and Islamabad to raise Kashmir at United Nations security council with Pakistan keen on an emergency session on Kashmir, which could not happen due to lack of support at the council. Meanwhile, New Delhi has expressed its concern to "both China and Pakistan on the projects in so-called “China Pakistan Economic Corridor” saying it "resolutely opposed to any actions by other countries to change the status quo in Pakistan occupied J&K" and asked them "to cease such actions." CPEC passes through Pakistan occupied Kashmir, a region that has been under Pakistani occupation since 1947. India has boycotted China's One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative due to CPEC, which New Delhi says violates its sovereignty.

India slams Jammu and Kashmir's mention in China-Pakistan joint statement; raises concerns on CPEC

There is a tyrannical alliance between totalitarian Pakistan and authoritarian China, which is based on a shared rejection of democracy and who are both determined to extinguish liberty and subjugate the individual, either to sharia or the state.

India, the world’s largest democracy, is at the forefront of that battle in the strategically critical region of northern India bordering Pakistan, China and Afghanistan.

Pakistan was created as an Islamic state out of the partition of the British Indian Empire in August 1947.

Islam is the societal “glue” that holds Pakistan together, an otherwise artificial state composed of ethnic groups that never interacted in any significant way.

Since the late 1970s, under President Zia ul-Haq, Pakistan has pursued a policy of aggressive “Islamization” with the proliferation of religious schools “madrasas” and religious political parties, resulting in a society that has become ever more extreme and intolerant.

Through Islamization, ethnic self-determination in Pakistan is being suppressed and Islamic fighters have been found to be useful proxies for the Pakistani military and its Inter-service Intelligence agency (ISI), particularly in the form of terrorist operations against India and Afghanistan.

The concept of Ummah or Islamic community, the basis for pan-Islamism, provides Islamabad with a convenient, if illegitimate, rationale for the selective interference in the affairs of other nations for the “protection” of fellow Muslims, an exception being China, Pakistan’s “all weather” ally and brutal oppressor of Muslim Uighurs.

China seeks global domination. One vehicle to achieve it is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a collection of infrastructure projects and a network of commercial agreements designed to link the entire world directly to the Chinese economy through inter-connected land-based and maritime routes.

The guarantor of China’s soft power approach to economic hegemony is the hard power of Chinese military expansion, which includes a plan to establish military bases in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan, Pakistan’s southwestern province.

Those bases would control the vital maritime lanes of the Arabian Sea at the mouth of the Persian Gulf and provide a critical link between China’s military facilities in the South China Sea and its naval base in Djibouti at the entrance of the Red Sea and the Suez Canal.

The flagship of BRI and also its weakest link is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a development project, the backbone of which is a transportation network connecting China to the Pakistani seaports of Gwadar and Karachi located on the Arabian Sea.

CPEC violates Indian sovereignty and territorial integrity because it runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, a section of undivided Jammu and Kashmir and an integral part of India.

China’s growing and ever more risky investment in Pakistan has forced Beijing to overlook and sometimes shield Islamabad's use of terror against India, especially attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.

That situation persists despite the fact that China is obligated under the charter of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) agreement to condemn and oppose terrorism.

Nowhere has broader Pakistani-Chinese goals for regional domination been more clearly and publicly articulated than in a June 2018 China Daily article by former Pakistani diplomat, Zamir Ahmed Awan, who works for the Beijing-controlled Center for China and Globalization.

“Peace in Afghanistan will allow economic activity between Central Asia, Russia, China and the Arabian Sea…It can change the fate of the whole region. Chinese projects like the Belt and Road Initiative and the objectives of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization [SCO] … At the recent SCO summit, the Afghanistan president was invited as a guest and observer. Hopefully, the country will soon join SCO. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor may also be extended to benefit Afghanistan in the near future if there is peace.”

With China’s growing geopolitical strength, Pakistan now has significant strategic and economic incentives to exclude India and Western countries from maintaining any influence in Afghanistan.

An extension of CPEC to Afghanistan would benefit both China and Pakistan, whose economic goals include exploiting the estimated $3 trillion in untapped Afghan mineral resources.

In addition, Chinese-Pakistani de facto control of Afghanistan would be a victory for authoritarianism and an affirmation of Pakistan’s use of terrorist proxies as a successful means to extend its influence with its aim to damage and isolate India.

The evolving situation in South Asia has now made Jammu and Kashmir, not just an international centre of attention, but a strategic centre of gravity to thwart the tyrannical ambitions of the Chinese-Pakistani alliance.

Support for the restoration of Indian sovereignty to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is not just in accordance with international law and diplomatic norms, but it is ultimately a battle for the survival of democracy.

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

There is a tyrannical alliance between totalitarian Pakistan and authoritarian China, which is based on a shared rejection of democracy and who are both determined to extinguish liberty and subjugate the individual, either to sharia or the state.

There is a tyrannical alliance between totalitarian Pakistan and authoritarian China, which is based on a shared rejection of democracy and who are both determined to extinguish liberty and subjugate the individual, either to sharia or the state. India, the world’s largest democracy, is at the forefront of that battle in the strategically critical region of northern India bordering Pakistan, China and Afghanistan. Pakistan was created as an Islamic state out of the partition of the British Indian Empire in August 1947. Islam is the societal “glue” that holds Pakistan together, an otherwise artificial state composed of ethnic groups that never interacted in any significant way. Since the late 1970s, under President Zia ul-Haq, Pakistan has pursued a policy of aggressive “Islamization” with the proliferation of religious schools “madrasas” and religious political parties, resulting in a society that has become ever more extreme and intolerant. Through Islamization, ethnic self-determination in Pakistan is being suppressed and Islamic fighters have been found to be useful proxies for the Pakistani military and its Inter-service Intelligence agency (ISI), particularly in the form of terrorist operations against India and Afghanistan. The concept of Ummah or Islamic community, the basis for pan-Islamism, provides Islamabad with a convenient, if illegitimate, rationale for the selective interference in the affairs of other nations for the “protection” of fellow Muslims, an exception being China, Pakistan’s “all weather” ally and brutal oppressor of Muslim Uighurs. China seeks global domination. One vehicle to achieve it is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a collection of infrastructure projects and a network of commercial agreements designed to link the entire world directly to the Chinese economy through inter-connected land-based and maritime routes. The guarantor of China’s soft power approach to economic hegemony is the hard power of Chinese military expansion, which includes a plan to establish military bases in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan, Pakistan’s southwestern province. Those bases would control the vital maritime lanes of the Arabian Sea at the mouth of the Persian Gulf and provide a critical link between China’s military facilities in the South China Sea and its naval base in Djibouti at the entrance of the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. The flagship of BRI and also its weakest link is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a development project, the backbone of which is a transportation network connecting China to the Pakistani seaports of Gwadar and Karachi located on the Arabian Sea. CPEC violates Indian sovereignty and territorial integrity because it runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, a section of undivided Jammu and Kashmir and an integral part of India. China’s growing and ever more risky investment in Pakistan has forced Beijing to overlook and sometimes shield Islamabad's use of terror against India, especially attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. That situation persists despite the fact that China is obligated under the charter of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) agreement to condemn and oppose terrorism. Nowhere has broader Pakistani-Chinese goals for regional domination been more clearly and publicly articulated than in a June 2018 China Daily article by former Pakistani diplomat, Zamir Ahmed Awan, who works for the Beijing-controlled Center for China and Globalization. “Peace in Afghanistan will allow economic activity between Central Asia, Russia, China and the Arabian Sea…It can change the fate of the whole region. Chinese projects like the Belt and Road Initiative and the objectives of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization [SCO] … At the recent SCO summit, the Afghanistan president was invited as a guest and observer. Hopefully, the country will soon join SCO. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor may also be extended to benefit Afghanistan in the near future if there is peace.” With China’s growing geopolitical strength, Pakistan now has significant strategic and economic incentives to exclude India and Western countries from maintaining any influence in Afghanistan. An extension of CPEC to Afghanistan would benefit both China and Pakistan, whose economic goals include exploiting the estimated $3 trillion in untapped Afghan mineral resources. In addition, Chinese-Pakistani de facto control of Afghanistan would be a victory for authoritarianism and an affirmation of Pakistan’s use of terrorist proxies as a successful means to extend its influence with its aim to damage and isolate India. The evolving situation in South Asia has now made Jammu and Kashmir, not just an international centre of attention, but a strategic centre of gravity to thwart the tyrannical ambitions of the Chinese-Pakistani alliance. Support for the restoration of Indian sovereignty to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is not just in accordance with international law and diplomatic norms, but it is ultimately a battle for the survival of democracy. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

A global battle for democracy is being fought in Jammu and Kashmir

Due to the continuous unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir, the locals in bordering districts like Poonch are living in an atmosphere of fear and are demanding the Centre to come up with a solution to get rid of this menace.

Speaking to ANI, a local named Mohammad Qasim stated that the cross border firing has forced people in the district to stay indoors.

"Almost every other day firing is taking place here from the Pakistani side. There is an atmosphere of terror. The parents are afraid while sending their children to school as they worry for their safety," he said.

Meanwhile, another local, Sanjeev Kumar has requested the Narendra Modi-led central government to take measures to ensure that the normal life is not affected.

"We request the Modi government to make some arrangements so that the life of people living on the border is not affected," Kumar said.

He continued, "During the firing, many small children get traumatised. In this atmosphere, neither we do any household work, neither we go out. Even cars and trucks stop plying on the road."

Pakistan on Saturday violated ceasefire in Poonch district which led to a befitting response by the Indian Army.Last week, Pakistan indulged in unprovoked cross border firing in the district due to which an Indian Army soldier had lost his life.&nbsp;

Due to the continuous unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir, the locals in bordering districts like Poonch are living in an atmosphere of fear and are demanding the Centre to come up with a solution to get rid of this menace.

Due to the continuous unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir, the locals in bordering districts like Poonch are living in an atmosphere of fear and are demanding the Centre to come up with a solution to get rid of this menace. Speaking to ANI, a local named Mohammad Qasim stated that the cross border firing has forced people in the district to stay indoors. "Almost every other day firing is taking place here from the Pakistani side. There is an atmosphere of terror. The parents are afraid while sending their children to school as they worry for their safety," he said. Meanwhile, another local, Sanjeev Kumar has requested the Narendra Modi-led central government to take measures to ensure that the normal life is not affected. "We request the Modi government to make some arrangements so that the life of people living on the border is not affected," Kumar said. He continued, "During the firing, many small children get traumatised. In this atmosphere, neither we do any household work, neither we go out. Even cars and trucks stop plying on the road." Pakistan on Saturday violated ceasefire in Poonch district which led to a befitting response by the Indian Army.Last week, Pakistan indulged in unprovoked cross border firing in the district due to which an Indian Army soldier had lost his life.

Jammu and Kashmir: Incessant ceasefire violation by Pakistan along LoC causing constant worry among locals

The situation in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh is turning back to normal as the majority of areas continue to function peacefully without any day-time restrictions, said official sources in the government of India.

"91 per cent of Kashmir valley is free from any day time restrictions, while all of Jammu and Ladakh regions are free from any day-time restrictions," said sources.

Adding that telephone and mobile communications have been restarted in the majority of the regions, the sources added, "All landlines are functional. Mobile facility restored in all districts of Jammu and Ladakh division and Kupwara district of Kashmir."

The administration is also going to launch the biggest ever recruitment drive in the two Union territories to fill up close to 50,000 positions lying vacant in the government sector.

The information has come almost a month after the Central government scrapped Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

The Centre, in August, had also bifurcated the state into two union territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The sources also added that there were hardly any instances of violence reported from the Valley region and the minuscule number of protests which took place were handled by the police without any significant damage to life and property.

"The situation has remained peaceful across the Kashmir valley. There has been no incident of major violence. Not even a single live bullet has been fired. There has been no loss of life. Some protests have been handled by local police while exercising full restraint," the government sources said.

All primary, middle and high schools are running with improved performance while the banks and ATMs are functioning normally in the region.

They also said that the administration has set up a media centre to enable both the local and national media houses to cover events in the region.

A media centre has also been set up in Jammu and Kashmir to enable the media to cover events in the region. While regular press briefings are being held, over 400 press passes have been issued, the majority to local journalists.&nbsp;

"All mainstream newspapers are being printed. Satellite channels and cable TV networks are operational," the sources said.

" The full focus is on returning the situation to normalcy. Some remaining restrictions on the communications and preventive detentions remain intending to maintain public law and order.&nbsp;

These restrictions are being reviewed continuously and being eased by local administration based on the ground situation," they added.

The situation in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh is turning back to normal as the majority of areas continue to function peacefully without any day-time restrictions, said official sources in the government of India.

The situation in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh is turning back to normal as the majority of areas continue to function peacefully without any day-time restrictions, said official sources in the government of India. "91 per cent of Kashmir valley is free from any day time restrictions, while all of Jammu and Ladakh regions are free from any day-time restrictions," said sources. Adding that telephone and mobile communications have been restarted in the majority of the regions, the sources added, "All landlines are functional. Mobile facility restored in all districts of Jammu and Ladakh division and Kupwara district of Kashmir." The administration is also going to launch the biggest ever recruitment drive in the two Union territories to fill up close to 50,000 positions lying vacant in the government sector. The information has come almost a month after the Central government scrapped Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The Centre, in August, had also bifurcated the state into two union territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The sources also added that there were hardly any instances of violence reported from the Valley region and the minuscule number of protests which took place were handled by the police without any significant damage to life and property. "The situation has remained peaceful across the Kashmir valley. There has been no incident of major violence. Not even a single live bullet has been fired. There has been no loss of life. Some protests have been handled by local police while exercising full restraint," the government sources said. All primary, middle and high schools are running with improved performance while the banks and ATMs are functioning normally in the region. They also said that the administration has set up a media centre to enable both the local and national media houses to cover events in the region. A media centre has also been set up in Jammu and Kashmir to enable the media to cover events in the region. While regular press briefings are being held, over 400 press passes have been issued, the majority to local journalists. "All mainstream newspapers are being printed. Satellite channels and cable TV networks are operational," the sources said. " The full focus is on returning the situation to normalcy. Some remaining restrictions on the communications and preventive detentions remain intending to maintain public law and order. These restrictions are being reviewed continuously and being eased by local administration based on the ground situation," they added.

91 per cent of Kashmir Valley region free from any day-time restrictions

India has regretted Pakistan's "futile" decision of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-ram-nath-kovind-denied-permission-to-use-pakistan-airspace-qureshi-248282">not allowing President Ram Nath Kovind's plane</a> to use the country's airspace.

The President will be in Europe from September 9 to 17 and will visit Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "To deny overflight clearance for the VVIP special flight which is otherwise granted routinely by any normal country. We call upon Pakistan to recognise the futility of such unilateral actions."

Pakistan rejected the Indian government's request for President Ram Nath Kovind's plane to use Pakistani airspace during his upcoming visit to Europe on back of ongoing India-Pakistan tensions.

"Indian government had asked Pakistan to use its airspace for its president's movement. Given the current situation we have decided not to give permission to India for this airspace usage, " Pak FM SM Qureshi said.

Pakistani government sources say Prime Minister Imran Khan had himself endorsed this decision to decline usage of Pakistani airspace for Indian President’s movement.

Interestingly, Qureshi announced it even before notifying the Indian government. Before every VVIP visit outside India, New Delhi requests the neighbouring country over which the plane passes for use of airspace.&nbsp;

Last month India had requested Islamabad to grant the use of airspace for Prime minister Narendra Modi's visit to France which the country allowed despite the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions. This led to considerable political fallout in the country since on one hand, Imran Khan government was castigating India on its August 5 internal decision to remove a special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and on the other hand allowing the use of airspace by Indian VVIPs. Pakistan government after a cabinet meeting had then announced that it is considering closing its airspace for India but airspace remains open and no decision has been taken regarding this.

Pakistan had closed its airspace on February 27 after India's counter-terror operation in Balakot on February 26 on the back of February 14th Pulwama attack that killed more than 40 Indian security personnel. The closure that lasted for more than four months had caused considerable problem globally especially to Afghans who could easily travel to India.

Closure of Pakistan airspace had affected around 600 flights that operate per day across India-Pakistan airspace boundary and these flights were re-routed Arabian sea airspace.

India has regretted Pakistan's "futile" decision of not allowing President Ram Nath Kovind's plane to use the country's airspace. The President will be in Europe from September 9 to 17 and will visit Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia.

India has regretted Pakistan's "futile" decision of not allowing President Ram Nath Kovind's plane to use the country's airspace. The President will be in Europe from September 9 to 17 and will visit Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia. Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "To deny overflight clearance for the VVIP special flight which is otherwise granted routinely by any normal country. We call upon Pakistan to recognise the futility of such unilateral actions." Pakistan rejected the Indian government's request for President Ram Nath Kovind's plane to use Pakistani airspace during his upcoming visit to Europe on back of ongoing India-Pakistan tensions. "Indian government had asked Pakistan to use its airspace for its president's movement. Given the current situation we have decided not to give permission to India for this airspace usage, " Pak FM SM Qureshi said. Pakistani government sources say Prime Minister Imran Khan had himself endorsed this decision to decline usage of Pakistani airspace for Indian President’s movement. Interestingly, Qureshi announced it even before notifying the Indian government. Before every VVIP visit outside India, New Delhi requests the neighbouring country over which the plane passes for use of airspace. Last month India had requested Islamabad to grant the use of airspace for Prime minister Narendra Modi's visit to France which the country allowed despite the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions. This led to considerable political fallout in the country since on one hand, Imran Khan government was castigating India on its August 5 internal decision to remove a special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and on the other hand allowing the use of airspace by Indian VVIPs. Pakistan government after a cabinet meeting had then announced that it is considering closing its airspace for India but airspace remains open and no decision has been taken regarding this. Pakistan had closed its airspace on February 27 after India's counter-terror operation in Balakot on February 26 on the back of February 14th Pulwama attack that killed more than 40 Indian security personnel. The closure that lasted for more than four months had caused considerable problem globally especially to Afghans who could easily travel to India. Closure of Pakistan airspace had affected around 600 flights that operate per day across India-Pakistan airspace boundary and these flights were re-routed Arabian sea airspace.

India regrets Pakistan's 'Futile' decision to deny overflight clearance to President's plane

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-security-advisor-ajit-doval-meets-his-french-counterpart-emmanuel-bonne-during-g7-summit-246376">National Security Advisor Ajit Doval</a> on Saturday said that Pakistan is trying to create trouble in Jammu and Kashmir. "Some 230 Pakistani terrorists were spotted, some of them have infiltrated, some arrested," Doval was quoted by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

"There are Pakistani communication towers 20 kilometres along the border, they are trying to send messages, we heard intercepts, they were telling their men here 'how so many apple trucks are moving, can’t you stop them? Should we send you bangles?" Doval said.&nbsp;

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NSA Ajit Doval: There are Pakistani communication towers 20 kilometers along border ,they are trying send messages, we heard intercepts, they were telling their men here 'how so many apple trucks are moving, can’t you stop them? Should we send you bangles?' <a href="https://t.co/9rou0RVMG0">https://t.co/9rou0RVMG0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1170238300918964224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We are determined to protect the lives of Kashmiris from Pakistani terrorists, even if we have to impose restrictions. Terror is the only instrument Pakistan has to create unrest," he told media.&nbsp;

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NSA Ajit Doval: There are Pakistani communication towers 20 kilometers along border ,they are trying send messages, we heard intercepts, they were telling their men here 'how so many apple trucks are moving, can’t you stop them? Should we send you bangles?' <a href="https://t.co/9rou0RVMG0">https://t.co/9rou0RVMG0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1170238300918964224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Doval said he is convinced that the majority of Kashmiris support the abrogation of Article 370, "they see greater opportunities, future, economic progress and employment opportunities, only a few miscreants are opposing it".

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NSA Doval: We would like to see all restrictions go,depends on how Pakistan behaves ,it’s a stimulant and response situation.if Pakistan starts behaving,terrorists don’t intimidate&amp;infiltrate,if Pak stops sending signals through its towers to operatives,we can lift restrictions
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1170242679361265664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The NSA informed that out of 199 police station areas in Jammu and Kashmir, just 10 have prohibitory orders in place with no restrictions on the rest.&nbsp;

"100 per cent landline connections are operational in the state," he said.&nbsp;

He added that 92.5 per cent of the geographical area of Jammu and Kashmir is free of restrictions.

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NSA Ajit Doval: None of them(J&amp;K political leaders) have been charged with criminal offence or sedition, they are in preventive custody till environment is created for democracy to function, which I believe may happen soon <a href="https://t.co/nMqKxn7Wfo">https://t.co/nMqKxn7Wfo</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1170239818711744512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On the matter of the detention of political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir, Doval said that the leaders are in preventive detention, adding that the terrorists would have used the situation.

He said that none of the political leaders have been charged with criminal offence or sedition. "They are in preventive custody till environment is created for democracy to function, which I believe may happen soon".

"Everything is done according to the framework of law, they can challenge their detention in Court,"&nbsp;he added.

He hoped for the situation in Jammu and Kashmir to get back to normal with complete phasing out of all restrictions.&nbsp;

Speaking on removing complete restrictions, Doval said, "We would like to see all restrictions go, depends on how Pakistan behaves, it’s a stimulant and response situation.if Pakistan starts behaving, terrorists don’t intimidate and infiltrate, if Pakistan stops sending signals through its towers to operatives, we can lift restrictions."

"More than 750 trucks are moving daily from Srinagar, yesterday two militants came, they wanted to target a prominent fruit merchant Hamidullah Rather. They could not find him as he went to offer Namaz or something. They took two of his workers to his home five kilometres inside Sopore where they shot at his son Mohammed Irshad and also fired upon his two and a half-year-old daughter Asma Jaan. Both Pakistani militants had pistols and were speaking Punjabi, both are absconding, " he added.

He further said, "Another incident happened where a shopkeeper was trying to open his shop, he was shot by militants. Pakistan is trying to create a situation and then tell the international community that there is unrest."

The National Security Advisor said, "Pakistan is indulging in false and black propaganda and some uninformed people are taking one or two incidents as public opinion."&nbsp;

Calling Article 370 "discrimination", Doval said, "There were many laws for modern and upcoming societies which were denied to people of Jammu and Kashmir, right to education, right to property was denied, 106 such laws were taking the protection of article 370 before August 5. It was not a special status, it was special discrimination."

He also said Pakistan used article 370 to catalyze terrorism in Kashmir adding that they launched operation Topaz in 1988 through which they wanted to exploit political space.

"Modus operandi of operation Topaz was to use same tactics which Pakistani non-state actors used in Afghanistan, " Doval said.

&nbsp;

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Saturday said that Pakistan is trying to create trouble in Jammu and Kashmir. "Some 230 Pakistani terrorists were spotted, some of them have infiltrated, some arrested," Doval was quoted by news agency ANI.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Saturday said that Pakistan is trying to create trouble in Jammu and Kashmir. "Some 230 Pakistani terrorists were spotted, some of them have infiltrated, some arrested," Doval was quoted by news agency ANI. "There are Pakistani communication towers 20 kilometres along the border, they are trying to send messages, we heard intercepts, they were telling their men here 'how so many apple trucks are moving, can’t you stop them? Should we send you bangles?" Doval said. NSA Ajit Doval: There are Pakistani communication towers 20 kilometers along border ,they are trying send messages, we heard intercepts, they were telling their men here 'how so many apple trucks are moving, can’t you stop them? Should we send you bangles?' https://t.co/9rou0RVMG0 — ANI (@ANI) September 7, 2019 × "We are determined to protect the lives of Kashmiris from Pakistani terrorists, even if we have to impose restrictions. Terror is the only instrument Pakistan has to create unrest," he told media. NSA Ajit Doval: There are Pakistani communication towers 20 kilometers along border ,they are trying send messages, we heard intercepts, they were telling their men here 'how so many apple trucks are moving, can’t you stop them? Should we send you bangles?' https://t.co/9rou0RVMG0 — ANI (@ANI) September 7, 2019 × Doval said he is convinced that the majority of Kashmiris support the abrogation of Article 370, "they see greater opportunities, future, economic progress and employment opportunities, only a few miscreants are opposing it". NSA Doval: We would like to see all restrictions go,depends on how Pakistan behaves ,it’s a stimulant and response situation.if Pakistan starts behaving,terrorists don’t intimidate&infiltrate,if Pak stops sending signals through its towers to operatives,we can lift restrictions — ANI (@ANI) September 7, 2019 × The NSA informed that out of 199 police station areas in Jammu and Kashmir, just 10 have prohibitory orders in place with no restrictions on the rest. "100 per cent landline connections are operational in the state," he said. He added that 92.5 per cent of the geographical area of Jammu and Kashmir is free of restrictions. NSA Ajit Doval: None of them(J&K political leaders) have been charged with criminal offence or sedition, they are in preventive custody till environment is created for democracy to function, which I believe may happen soon https://t.co/nMqKxn7Wfo — ANI (@ANI) September 7, 2019 × On the matter of the detention of political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir, Doval said that the leaders are in preventive detention, adding that the terrorists would have used the situation. He said that none of the political leaders have been charged with criminal offence or sedition. "They are in preventive custody till environment is created for democracy to function, which I believe may happen soon". "Everything is done according to the framework of law, they can challenge their detention in Court," he added. He hoped for the situation in Jammu and Kashmir to get back to normal with complete phasing out of all restrictions. Speaking on removing complete restrictions, Doval said, "We would like to see all restrictions go, depends on how Pakistan behaves, it’s a stimulant and response situation.if Pakistan starts behaving, terrorists don’t intimidate and infiltrate, if Pakistan stops sending signals through its towers to operatives, we can lift restrictions." "More than 750 trucks are moving daily from Srinagar, yesterday two militants came, they wanted to target a prominent fruit merchant Hamidullah Rather. They could not find him as he went to offer Namaz or something. They took two of his workers to his home five kilometres inside Sopore where they shot at his son Mohammed Irshad and also fired upon his two and a half-year-old daughter Asma Jaan. Both Pakistani militants had pistols and were speaking Punjabi, both are absconding, " he added. He further said, "Another incident happened where a shopkeeper was trying to open his shop, he was shot by militants. Pakistan is trying to create a situation and then tell the international community that there is unrest." The National Security Advisor said, "Pakistan is indulging in false and black propaganda and some uninformed people are taking one or two incidents as public opinion." Calling Article 370 "discrimination", Doval said, "There were many laws for modern and upcoming societies which were denied to people of Jammu and Kashmir, right to education, right to property was denied, 106 such laws were taking the protection of article 370 before August 5. It was not a special status, it was special discrimination." He also said Pakistan used article 370 to catalyze terrorism in Kashmir adding that they launched operation Topaz in 1988 through which they wanted to exploit political space. "Modus operandi of operation Topaz was to use same tactics which Pakistani non-state actors used in Afghanistan, " Doval said.

There are Pak communication towers 20 kilometres along border, we've heard their messages: NSA Doval

This story must be told to make the point on how governments allowed a lobby supporting Pakistan in Kashmir to grow big at the cost of the common Kashmiri, who were betrayed and pushed to the wall.

In the 1990s, then MOS home, Rajesh Pilot, was projected as the proverbial carrot of the policy as against the stick of an administration led by Governor Girish Chandra Saxena in J&amp;K.&nbsp;

The illusion of the two being at loggerheads was deliberate. Saxena, whose soft-spoken persona bellied the image of a former RAW chief, was left to deal with terrorism, unrest and growing influence of the pro-Pakistanis in the Valley; Pilot, the politician, would listen to public, appease some, help others and carry a big bundle of applications — for jobs, phone connections and release of arrested men — back to Delhi.

During one of his visits, Pilot asked me and my husband George Joseph to meet him in the Guest House No 5 in uptown Srinagar. I worked for the Tribune while George reported for the Indian Express. We were happy at the possibility of getting a scoop!

Pilot ushered us into the bedroom, probably to create an informal setting. He straightaway asked us: What can I do for you? I found his question strange while George, who failed to get the nuances of Hindi language, replied, “Please make sure we get press notes from the (police) control room on time. Just because we are Indians does not mean we should be the last ones to get it.”&nbsp;

Pilot’s bright expression suddenly looked sullen; he probably expected us to value his authority more than just a supplier of police handout on killings and encounters in Kashmir. He promised to do the needful and after a small conversation, the meeting was over.

George’s demand reflected the level of frustration of ‘Indians’ in Kashmir. We were not the only ones to not believe in the supremacy of the Hizbuls, JKLFs and Pakistan. Many Kashmiri Muslims felt betrayed and abandoned by the System, which appeased the rebels and the ever-burgeoning ‘Pakistan lobby’.&nbsp;

People who were Indians by belief, temperament and through professions or by simply being normal, would face smirks, social ostracism and pressure to ‘raliv, galiv ya challiv’ (join, die or simply vanish).&nbsp;

The word Indian was an invective; it was blackened out from the boards of organisations, restaurants and shops in Kashmir; people who could not compromise on their identity were counseled to keep a low profile.&nbsp;

Hizbul Mujahideen issued a threat to George and me in 1992, asking us to leave Kashmir within 48 hours. Our crime was that as journalists we had reported the fact of Hizbul splitting due to financial dispute between its factions.

Issuing the threat to us was part of the plan to banish Indians from Kashmir.&nbsp;

Many Kashmiris were simply left at the mercy of new jihadi commanders and their suit-wearing embedded omnipresent supporters. They were in offices, hospitals, buses, schools, restaurants and places where media persons met informally. They were feared the most for they always behaved more loyal than the king.&nbsp;

A handful of leftists – poets, writers, thinkers and academicians – were targeted by the new defacto oligarchs in Kashmir. A couple of them were killed in cold blood and others subjected to the humiliation of seeking pardon for their lack of belief in Allah (La-deen) inside the local mosques. This made many others retract into silence while some fell in line.

Nothing in Kashmir was spontaneous; a well-organised plot to create chaos and undermine the State of India was unfolding without any resistance as the elected government had fled and small-time leaders had been silenced by the gun – many of them were killed in cold blood, often after Friday congregation as they come out of the mosques.

Today people in Kashmir are genuinely disturbed by the blockade of mobile and internet services. However, may I remind everyone that the Valley had remained incommunicado for six months in the 1991-92 after Hizbul Mujahidden blew up a transmission tower atop Peer Panjal at Banihal.&nbsp;

In comparison, the miseries of common people were manifold then. Journalists like me had to look for friends, acquaintances or even rely on a stranger flying to Jammu to carry our typed news stories to our local offices. The telegraph machine in the Central Telegraph Office was resting without connectivity.

Indians were treated as second-grade citizens often making them wonder why a State would appease those who were working against it. I remember the words of Rammohan Rao, media advisor to JK government and a seasoned bureaucrat, “Well, India is a soft state; can’t be seen as being harsh to those against us.”

A Jordanian envoy visiting Kashmir had rattled Governor `Gary’ Saxena when he said that ‘India is a soft State, you have no guts to take on the enemy within.’ &nbsp;

The envoy was a member of the diplomatic corps invited by the PV Narsimha Rao government to visit Kashmir. He had read local newspapers in his guest house and was aghast to see the anti-India coverage in Urdu and English newspapers. He had thrown the papers at Saxena’s desk and asked him how a government could allow it to happen?

An Israeli high-up on a secret visit to Kashmir in the mid-1990s also told the government that it can never crush terror as long as anti-India supporters were allowed a free run.

Contrary to expectations, the return of an elected government led by Farooq Abdullah was a boon to ‘Pakistanis’; they had turned into power brokers. The new dispensation was too keen to appease them with government bungalows and other largesse.

The man in the street got his clue – it was prudent to be seen on the side of ‘Pakistanis’ for survival. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-how-the-pak-lobby-prospered-2787706">original article</a>) 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

This story must be told to make the point on how governments allowed a lobby supporting Pakistan in Kashmir to grow big at the cost of the common Kashmiri, who were betrayed and pushed to the wall.

This story must be told to make the point on how governments allowed a lobby supporting Pakistan in Kashmir to grow big at the cost of the common Kashmiri, who were betrayed and pushed to the wall. In the 1990s, then MOS home, Rajesh Pilot, was projected as the proverbial carrot of the policy as against the stick of an administration led by Governor Girish Chandra Saxena in J&K. The illusion of the two being at loggerheads was deliberate. Saxena, whose soft-spoken persona bellied the image of a former RAW chief, was left to deal with terrorism, unrest and growing influence of the pro-Pakistanis in the Valley; Pilot, the politician, would listen to public, appease some, help others and carry a big bundle of applications — for jobs, phone connections and release of arrested men — back to Delhi. During one of his visits, Pilot asked me and my husband George Joseph to meet him in the Guest House No 5 in uptown Srinagar. I worked for the Tribune while George reported for the Indian Express. We were happy at the possibility of getting a scoop! Pilot ushered us into the bedroom, probably to create an informal setting. He straightaway asked us: What can I do for you? I found his question strange while George, who failed to get the nuances of Hindi language, replied, “Please make sure we get press notes from the (police) control room on time. Just because we are Indians does not mean we should be the last ones to get it.” Pilot’s bright expression suddenly looked sullen; he probably expected us to value his authority more than just a supplier of police handout on killings and encounters in Kashmir. He promised to do the needful and after a small conversation, the meeting was over. George’s demand reflected the level of frustration of ‘Indians’ in Kashmir. We were not the only ones to not believe in the supremacy of the Hizbuls, JKLFs and Pakistan. Many Kashmiri Muslims felt betrayed and abandoned by the System, which appeased the rebels and the ever-burgeoning ‘Pakistan lobby’. People who were Indians by belief, temperament and through professions or by simply being normal, would face smirks, social ostracism and pressure to ‘raliv, galiv ya challiv’ (join, die or simply vanish). The word Indian was an invective; it was blackened out from the boards of organisations, restaurants and shops in Kashmir; people who could not compromise on their identity were counseled to keep a low profile. Hizbul Mujahideen issued a threat to George and me in 1992, asking us to leave Kashmir within 48 hours. Our crime was that as journalists we had reported the fact of Hizbul splitting due to financial dispute between its factions. Issuing the threat to us was part of the plan to banish Indians from Kashmir. Many Kashmiris were simply left at the mercy of new jihadi commanders and their suit-wearing embedded omnipresent supporters. They were in offices, hospitals, buses, schools, restaurants and places where media persons met informally. They were feared the most for they always behaved more loyal than the king. A handful of leftists – poets, writers, thinkers and academicians – were targeted by the new defacto oligarchs in Kashmir. A couple of them were killed in cold blood and others subjected to the humiliation of seeking pardon for their lack of belief in Allah (La-deen) inside the local mosques. This made many others retract into silence while some fell in line. Nothing in Kashmir was spontaneous; a well-organised plot to create chaos and undermine the State of India was unfolding without any resistance as the elected government had fled and small-time leaders had been silenced by the gun – many of them were killed in cold blood, often after Friday congregation as they come out of the mosques. Today people in Kashmir are genuinely disturbed by the blockade of mobile and internet services. However, may I remind everyone that the Valley had remained incommunicado for six months in the 1991-92 after Hizbul Mujahidden blew up a transmission tower atop Peer Panjal at Banihal. In comparison, the miseries of common people were manifold then. Journalists like me had to look for friends, acquaintances or even rely on a stranger flying to Jammu to carry our typed news stories to our local offices. The telegraph machine in the Central Telegraph Office was resting without connectivity. Indians were treated as second-grade citizens often making them wonder why a State would appease those who were working against it. I remember the words of Rammohan Rao, media advisor to JK government and a seasoned bureaucrat, “Well, India is a soft state; can’t be seen as being harsh to those against us.” A Jordanian envoy visiting Kashmir had rattled Governor `Gary’ Saxena when he said that ‘India is a soft State, you have no guts to take on the enemy within.’ The envoy was a member of the diplomatic corps invited by the PV Narsimha Rao government to visit Kashmir. He had read local newspapers in his guest house and was aghast to see the anti-India coverage in Urdu and English newspapers. He had thrown the papers at Saxena’s desk and asked him how a government could allow it to happen? An Israeli high-up on a secret visit to Kashmir in the mid-1990s also told the government that it can never crush terror as long as anti-India supporters were allowed a free run. Contrary to expectations, the return of an elected government led by Farooq Abdullah was a boon to ‘Pakistanis’; they had turned into power brokers. The new dispensation was too keen to appease them with government bungalows and other largesse. The man in the street got his clue – it was prudent to be seen on the side of ‘Pakistanis’ for survival. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How a lobby supporting Pakistan prospered in Jammu and Kashmir

Pakistan has been responding hysterically since the time Indian government scrapped Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir is all Pakistan talks about these days. First, Islamabad downgraded diplomatic ties with India, suspended trade, Samjhauta and Thar Express and then announced that there will be no talks with India till India withdraws its decision of abrogating Article 370 and bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs).&nbsp;

Pakistan tried to portray a manipulated picture with false narratives, however, got no traction from global leaders. It stands isolated. US President Donald Trump, who had earlier offered mediation between the two countries, termed Kashmir a bilateral issue after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the recently held G7 Summit.

Ignoring Khan's appeal, Islamic countries have also maintained that Kashmir is India's integral issue. In fact, UAE honoured Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the 'Order of Zayed', country's highest civilian award.

Moreover, the Taliban has strongly criticised Pakistan for linking the Kashmir issue&nbsp;with the situation in Afghanistan

Pakistan is now&nbsp;making embarrassing statements, organising protests and fighting a war on social media, instead of accepting the reality. Deserted on the global platform, Pakistan Prime Minister even threatened India with a Nuclear war.

Several ministers in the Pakistan government have repeated the war rhetoric of their prime minister. The neighbours also tested nuclear-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missile last week to spread the war hysteria.

It's high time Islamabad wake up and smell the coffee. They need to set their own house in order. &nbsp;

On the economic front, the Asia-Pacific Group (APG) of the global terror financing and money laundering watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has put Pakistan in the Enhanced Expedited Follow Up List for failing to comply with commitments.

The development makes it more difficult for the South Asian country to leave FATF's grey list and can expedite its process of blacklisting in October's FATF plenary.&nbsp;

Imran Khan is also facing the ire of Pakistan's opposition parties for failing to handle the Kasmir situation.

Other than the crippling economy, Pakistan also needs to focus on increasing cases of forced conversions and alleged atrocities on civilians in Balochistan province of Pakistan.

Islamabad must&nbsp;realise that irrational reactions and baseless statements won't get them attention. The global community has understood and supported India's decision and rightly so.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

Pakistan has been responding hysterically since the time Indian government scrapped Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir is all Pakistan talks about these days.

Pakistan has been responding hysterically since the time Indian government scrapped Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir is all Pakistan talks about these days. First, Islamabad downgraded diplomatic ties with India, suspended trade, Samjhauta and Thar Express and then announced that there will be no talks with India till India withdraws its decision of abrogating Article 370 and bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs). Pakistan tried to portray a manipulated picture with false narratives, however, got no traction from global leaders. It stands isolated. US President Donald Trump, who had earlier offered mediation between the two countries, termed Kashmir a bilateral issue after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the recently held G7 Summit. Ignoring Khan's appeal, Islamic countries have also maintained that Kashmir is India's integral issue. In fact, UAE honoured Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the 'Order of Zayed', country's highest civilian award. Moreover, the Taliban has strongly criticised Pakistan for linking the Kashmir issue with the situation in Afghanistan Pakistan is now making embarrassing statements, organising protests and fighting a war on social media, instead of accepting the reality. Deserted on the global platform, Pakistan Prime Minister even threatened India with a Nuclear war. Several ministers in the Pakistan government have repeated the war rhetoric of their prime minister. The neighbours also tested nuclear-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missile last week to spread the war hysteria. It's high time Islamabad wake up and smell the coffee. They need to set their own house in order. On the economic front, the Asia-Pacific Group (APG) of the global terror financing and money laundering watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has put Pakistan in the Enhanced Expedited Follow Up List for failing to comply with commitments. The development makes it more difficult for the South Asian country to leave FATF's grey list and can expedite its process of blacklisting in October's FATF plenary. Imran Khan is also facing the ire of Pakistan's opposition parties for failing to handle the Kasmir situation. Other than the crippling economy, Pakistan also needs to focus on increasing cases of forced conversions and alleged atrocities on civilians in Balochistan province of Pakistan. Islamabad must realise that irrational reactions and baseless statements won't get them attention. The global community has understood and supported India's decision and rightly so. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Pakistan is left with no option on Jammu and Kashmir

There is sufficient stock of medicines and other medical products in Kashmir Valley and the Drug and Food Control Organisation (DFCO) is conducting regular surveys of retail outlets to ensure this, said the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir government.

"No shortage of essential drugs, other medical products in the Kashmir region. Regular survey of retail outlets being conducted by DFCO. Medicines worth approximately Rs 50 crore supplied to distributors in the Valley since July 20 till date," a tweet by the official handle of DIPR, Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday read.

The DIPR added that major drug manufacturing companies have been providing medicines regularly through their supply chains without any breaks.

"Major companies providing regular supplies of almost all categories of drugs viz antidiabetic (Human Insulin), antihypertensive, anticancer and other specialized categories of medical products to their supply chain located across Kashmir unhindered," another tweet by the DIPR read while also urging stakeholders to register their genuine concerns with the State Drugs Controller at Jammu and Srinagar offices.Several restrictions were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir last month after the government scrapped some provisions of Article 370.

However, the administration is lifting restrictions in a phased manner.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

There is sufficient stock of medicines and other medical products in Kashmir Valley and the Drug and Food Control Organisation (DFCO) is conducting regular surveys of retail outlets to ensure this, said the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir government.

There is sufficient stock of medicines and other medical products in Kashmir Valley and the Drug and Food Control Organisation (DFCO) is conducting regular surveys of retail outlets to ensure this, said the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir government. "No shortage of essential drugs, other medical products in the Kashmir region. Regular survey of retail outlets being conducted by DFCO. Medicines worth approximately Rs 50 crore supplied to distributors in the Valley since July 20 till date," a tweet by the official handle of DIPR, Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday read. The DIPR added that major drug manufacturing companies have been providing medicines regularly through their supply chains without any breaks. "Major companies providing regular supplies of almost all categories of drugs viz antidiabetic (Human Insulin), antihypertensive, anticancer and other specialized categories of medical products to their supply chain located across Kashmir unhindered," another tweet by the DIPR read while also urging stakeholders to register their genuine concerns with the State Drugs Controller at Jammu and Srinagar offices.Several restrictions were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir last month after the government scrapped some provisions of Article 370. However, the administration is lifting restrictions in a phased manner.

No shortage of essential drugs, medical products in Kashmir: Jammu and Kashmir administration

In an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-maldives-pakistan-raises-kashmir-in-another-international-forum-in-colombo-247399">embarrassment to Pakistan</a>, its lawyer at the International Court of Justice Khawar Qureshi has said that it would be "extremely difficult" for his country to prove the charge of genocide in Kashmir for want of evidence.

Qureshi's statement comes at a time when Pakistan is blatantly threatening to approach the ICJ against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-makes-u-turn-says-pakistan-would-not-use-nuclear-weapons-first-247323">India over Kashmir </a>after India abrogated Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;

The lawyer said that Pakistan can approach the ICJ under the Genocide Convention of 1948 to which both the South Asian nations are signatories.

"ICJ is the main court of the United Nations. There is a convention called the Genocide Convention of 1948 to which Pakistan and India both are signatories. The state that has committed genocide, about to commit genocide or and failing to prevent genocide can be made the subject to the proceeding before the ICJ," Khawar Qureshi said during a talk show on a Pakistan news channel 92 News.

"However, in the absence of these pieces of evidence, it is extremely difficult for Pakistan to take this case to the ICJ," he said.&nbsp;

India's decision has been hailed internationally with several countries calling the move as India's internal matter even as Pakistan has been trying to internationalise the issue.

Islamabad has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue.

Pakistan has approached various world leaders, including Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, French President Emmanuel Macron and the Jordanian King Abdullah II to seek their interventions into the issue, but in vain.

However, Pakistan has been told to engage bilaterally with India to end tensions. India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror.&nbsp;

In an embarrassment to Pakistan, its lawyer at the International Court of Justice Khawar Qureshi has said that it would be "extremely difficult" for his country to prove the charge of genocide in Kashmir for want of evidence.

In an embarrassment to Pakistan, its lawyer at the International Court of Justice Khawar Qureshi has said that it would be "extremely difficult" for his country to prove the charge of genocide in Kashmir for want of evidence. Qureshi's statement comes at a time when Pakistan is blatantly threatening to approach the ICJ against India over Kashmir after India abrogated Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The lawyer said that Pakistan can approach the ICJ under the Genocide Convention of 1948 to which both the South Asian nations are signatories. "ICJ is the main court of the United Nations. There is a convention called the Genocide Convention of 1948 to which Pakistan and India both are signatories. The state that has committed genocide, about to commit genocide or and failing to prevent genocide can be made the subject to the proceeding before the ICJ," Khawar Qureshi said during a talk show on a Pakistan news channel 92 News. "However, in the absence of these pieces of evidence, it is extremely difficult for Pakistan to take this case to the ICJ," he said. India's decision has been hailed internationally with several countries calling the move as India's internal matter even as Pakistan has been trying to internationalise the issue. Islamabad has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue. Pakistan has approached various world leaders, including Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, French President Emmanuel Macron and the Jordanian King Abdullah II to seek their interventions into the issue, but in vain. However, Pakistan has been told to engage bilaterally with India to end tensions. India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror.

Lack of evidence to prove 'genocide' in Kashmir: Pakistan's ICJ lawyer

The Counter Insurgency Force (Uniform) of Indian Army is organising the first Army recruitment rally in Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370.&nbsp;

The seven days recruitment rally through Army Recruitment Office, Jammu, commenced on September 3 at Subsidiary Training Centre (STC) of Jammu and Kashmir Police at Talwara, Reasi and will continue till September 9.

"This rally is being conducted to provide employment to youth from seven districts - Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri, Poonch, Udhampur, Ramban and Reasi," Lieutenant Colonel Devender Anand said in a release.

"Over 29,000 aspiring youths from Jammu Region have registered and are likely to be screened for their physical and medical fitness during the week-long Army recruitment rally in Reasi. On the first day of the rally, more than 2,500 candidates from districts of Kishtwar and Ramban converged for the physical fitness tests," the release added.

The vacancies are open for six categories which are Soldier General Duty, Soldier Technical, Soldier Technical Nursing Assistance (AMC)/ Soldier Technical Nursing Assistance Veterinary, Soldier Clerk, Store Keeper Technical and Soldier Tradesman.&nbsp;

The recruitment process is divided into several categories and rounds which include physical fitness test, medical test and written test. Selected candidates will be inducted into the various arms and services of the Indian Army.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Counter Insurgency Force (Uniform) of Indian Army is organising the first Army recruitment rally in Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370. The seven days recruitment rally through Army Recruitment Office, Jammu, commenced on September 3 at Subsidiary Training Centre (STC) of Jammu and Kashmir Police at Talwara, Reasi and will continue till September 9.

The Counter Insurgency Force (Uniform) of Indian Army is organising the first Army recruitment rally in Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370. The seven days recruitment rally through Army Recruitment Office, Jammu, commenced on September 3 at Subsidiary Training Centre (STC) of Jammu and Kashmir Police at Talwara, Reasi and will continue till September 9. "This rally is being conducted to provide employment to youth from seven districts - Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri, Poonch, Udhampur, Ramban and Reasi," Lieutenant Colonel Devender Anand said in a release. "Over 29,000 aspiring youths from Jammu Region have registered and are likely to be screened for their physical and medical fitness during the week-long Army recruitment rally in Reasi. On the first day of the rally, more than 2,500 candidates from districts of Kishtwar and Ramban converged for the physical fitness tests," the release added. The vacancies are open for six categories which are Soldier General Duty, Soldier Technical, Soldier Technical Nursing Assistance (AMC)/ Soldier Technical Nursing Assistance Veterinary, Soldier Clerk, Store Keeper Technical and Soldier Tradesman. The recruitment process is divided into several categories and rounds which include physical fitness test, medical test and written test. Selected candidates will be inducted into the various arms and services of the Indian Army.

First Army recruitment rally in Jammu and Kashmir after abrogation of Article 370 commences at Reasi

Home Minister Amit Shah told a citizens group from Jammu and Kashmir on Monday that repeal of 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will open multiple doors of progress and assured them that local bodies will get "enough" funds for development works. 
 
It was the first such meeting of a citizens group from Jammu and Kashmir with Shah since the repeal of Article 370 and reorganisation of the state into two Union Territories. 
 
The meeting was also attended by Ministers of State for Home Nityanand Rai and G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Home Secretary AK Bhalla and All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Association Chairman Anil Sharma. It discussed the agenda of development of Jammu and Kashmir. 
 
Sources in the ministry said that Shah told the sarpanches that they should take responsibility of development works in their areas. He said local bodies will now get "enough" funds for development as was the case with other states. Shah said the repeal of Article 370 will be beneficial to the state and open more doors of development in the Valley. 
 
"Employment opportunities will come to your home and your future will be brighter," Shah told the group. The home minister also met a group of apple growers from Kashmir who apprised him of their problems. He assured to look into their issues. Meer Junaid, a sarpanch who was present at the meeting, told ANI that Shah assured them to give statehood to Jammu and Kashmir once normalcy is returned. 
 
"The Home Minister presented a roadmap for the development of Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

Home Minister Amit Shah told a citizens group from Jammu and Kashmir on Monday that repeal of 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will open multiple doors of progress and assured them that local bodies will get "enough" funds for development works.

Home Minister Amit Shah told a citizens group from Jammu and Kashmir on Monday that repeal of 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will open multiple doors of progress and assured them that local bodies will get "enough" funds for development works. It was the first such meeting of a citizens group from Jammu and Kashmir with Shah since the repeal of Article 370 and reorganisation of the state into two Union Territories. The meeting was also attended by Ministers of State for Home Nityanand Rai and G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Home Secretary AK Bhalla and All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Association Chairman Anil Sharma. It discussed the agenda of development of Jammu and Kashmir. Sources in the ministry said that Shah told the sarpanches that they should take responsibility of development works in their areas. He said local bodies will now get "enough" funds for development as was the case with other states. Shah said the repeal of Article 370 will be beneficial to the state and open more doors of development in the Valley. "Employment opportunities will come to your home and your future will be brighter," Shah told the group. The home minister also met a group of apple growers from Kashmir who apprised him of their problems. He assured to look into their issues. Meer Junaid, a sarpanch who was present at the meeting, told ANI that Shah assured them to give statehood to Jammu and Kashmir once normalcy is returned. "The Home Minister presented a roadmap for the development of Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

Jammu and Kashmir citizens group meets Amit Shah, assured of enough development funds

One Indian Army soldier lost his life in a&nbsp;ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Poonch district on Sunday.

At about 1:00pm&nbsp;Pakistan initiated ceasefire violations by firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in Poonch, officials said.

Indian Army retaliated befittingly.

Pakistan has frequently violated ceasefire along the Line of Control ever since the Central government announced the decision to abrogate Article 370, withdrawing special status to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

One Indian Army soldier lost his life in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Poonch district on Sunday. At about 1:00pm Pakistan initiated ceasefire violations by firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in Poonch, officials said.

One Indian Army soldier lost his life in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Poonch district on Sunday. At about 1:00pm Pakistan initiated ceasefire violations by firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in Poonch, officials said. Indian Army retaliated befittingly. Pakistan has frequently violated ceasefire along the Line of Control ever since the Central government announced the decision to abrogate Article 370, withdrawing special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir: Army soldier killed in ceasefire violation by Pakistan

What is happening to India’s oldest political formation, the Indian National Congress? Not only is it apparently headless but also in complete disarray. While Sonia Gandhi has reluctantly reassumed its reigns as its interim acting president, its leadership crisis is far from over. In the meanwhile, its top leaders such as P Chidambaram and, now, Karnataka’s DK Shivakumar, are in serious legal trouble. The former, despite his formidable financial and political clout, not to speak of legendry legal acumen, has spent days in detention. More recently, Shivakumar is facing the heat from the Enforcement Directorate, with the Karnataka High Court refusing to grant him protection from arrest.&nbsp;

Earlier in the week, Rahul Gandhi scored another self-goal. After his failed visit to Srinagar on August 24, when he was not allowed to leave the airport and forced to return politically empty-handed, Gandhi tweeted against the government for unleashing draconian measures and brute force on the people of our newest Union Territory. “Things in Jammu and Kashmir are going very wrong,” Gandhi said, “There are reports of violence. There are reports of people dying in Jammu and Kashmir.”&nbsp;

Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Human Rights, Shireen Mazari, was quick to take advantage of Gandhi’s alarmist remarks, quite in consonance with its own strategy to internationalise the Kashmir issue. In her letter to officials of the United Nations, Mazari quoted Gandhi’s comment that people were dying in J&amp;K. Attacked by senior BJP ministers, Gandhi had to hastily beat a retreat by calling out Pakistan as a terror-sponsoring state on social media: “I disagree with this government on many issues,” he tweeted, “But, let me make this absolutely clear: Kashmir is India’s internal issue and there is no room for Pakistan or any other foreign country to interfere in it… There is violence in Jammu &amp; Kashmir. There is violence because it is instigated and supported by Pakistan which is known to be the prime supporter of terrorism across the world.”&nbsp;

Randeep Singh Surjewala, Congress communications chief, had to jump in to defend his former party president. Accusing Pakistan of mischievously trying to use Gandhi to peddle a “pack of lies”, he said, “Let no one in the world be in doubt that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were, are and shall always remain integral parts of India. No amount of diabolical deception by Pakistan shall change this truth.” But the damage was done. Information and Broadcasting Minister and BJP political veteran, Prakash Javadekar accused Gandhi of helping Pakistan against India on the international stage. He rightly pointed out that Gandhi had been forced to make “a complete U-turn…due to circumstances and public pressure”. Earlier, during the 2019 election campaign, Gandhi had also failed to tarnish Modi’s incorruptible image with his “chowkidar chor hai” campaign.

It seems from all this that Jairam Ramesh certainly has a point. Demonising Narendra Modi isn’t helping the Congress. Rather, it shows the deep division, bordering on disarray, that afflicts India’s oldest political party. This was evident in the manner in which its high-profile and loquacious leader, three-times Lok Sabha MP from Thiruvananthapuram, Shashi Tharoor, was targeted by his own state leadership. Pulled up by the Kerala Congress president, Mullapally Ramachandran, he was issued a show-cause notice.&nbsp;

The “original sinner”, as a report dubbed him, was not Tharoor, but Ramesh. The latter’s comments at a book launch in the national capital were also supported by party spokesman and lawyer, Abhishek Manu Singhvi. But only Tharoor was targeted. It was the following remark that probably earned Tharoor his party’s ire: “As you know, I have argued for six years now that Narendra Modi should be praised whenever he says or does the right thing, which would add credibility to our criticism and whenever he errs. I welcome others in Opposition coming around to a view for which I was excoriated at the time.” Tharoor was forced to clarify that he was no admirer of Modi and the Kerala Congress had to be “satisfied” with his explanation. The party only earned itself some needless embarrassment and discomfiture in the process.

After the Modi Sarkar’s surgical strike against Article 370, several Congress leaders came out in support of the government. These included Jyotraditya Scindia, Deepender Hooda, RPN Singh and Jitin Prasada, in addition to the son of the former Maharaja of Kashmir and first regent of the state, Dr Karan Singh. Bhuvaneshwar Kalita, the Congress chief whip, went to the extent of resigning. With considerable difficulty, if not force, the CWC eventually passed a resolution opposing the government’s abrogation of Article 370’s key provisions. The Congress is now a divided house. Not only does it lack credible leadership, but a plan of action. As if this were not bad enough, it has also shown itself utterly unsuccessful in denting, leave alone destroying, Narendra Modi’s popularity and appeal.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-discomfiture-and-disarray-in-congress-2786246">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

What is happening to India’s oldest political formation, the Indian National Congress? Not only is it apparently headless but also in complete disarray. While Sonia Gandhi has reluctantly reassumed its reigns as its interim acting president, its leadership crisis is far from over.

What is happening to India’s oldest political formation, the Indian National Congress? Not only is it apparently headless but also in complete disarray. While Sonia Gandhi has reluctantly reassumed its reigns as its interim acting president, its leadership crisis is far from over. In the meanwhile, its top leaders such as P Chidambaram and, now, Karnataka’s DK Shivakumar, are in serious legal trouble. The former, despite his formidable financial and political clout, not to speak of legendry legal acumen, has spent days in detention. More recently, Shivakumar is facing the heat from the Enforcement Directorate, with the Karnataka High Court refusing to grant him protection from arrest. Earlier in the week, Rahul Gandhi scored another self-goal. After his failed visit to Srinagar on August 24, when he was not allowed to leave the airport and forced to return politically empty-handed, Gandhi tweeted against the government for unleashing draconian measures and brute force on the people of our newest Union Territory. “Things in Jammu and Kashmir are going very wrong,” Gandhi said, “There are reports of violence. There are reports of people dying in Jammu and Kashmir.” Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Human Rights, Shireen Mazari, was quick to take advantage of Gandhi’s alarmist remarks, quite in consonance with its own strategy to internationalise the Kashmir issue. In her letter to officials of the United Nations, Mazari quoted Gandhi’s comment that people were dying in J&K. Attacked by senior BJP ministers, Gandhi had to hastily beat a retreat by calling out Pakistan as a terror-sponsoring state on social media: “I disagree with this government on many issues,” he tweeted, “But, let me make this absolutely clear: Kashmir is India’s internal issue and there is no room for Pakistan or any other foreign country to interfere in it… There is violence in Jammu & Kashmir. There is violence because it is instigated and supported by Pakistan which is known to be the prime supporter of terrorism across the world.” Randeep Singh Surjewala, Congress communications chief, had to jump in to defend his former party president. Accusing Pakistan of mischievously trying to use Gandhi to peddle a “pack of lies”, he said, “Let no one in the world be in doubt that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were, are and shall always remain integral parts of India. No amount of diabolical deception by Pakistan shall change this truth.” But the damage was done. Information and Broadcasting Minister and BJP political veteran, Prakash Javadekar accused Gandhi of helping Pakistan against India on the international stage. He rightly pointed out that Gandhi had been forced to make “a complete U-turn…due to circumstances and public pressure”. Earlier, during the 2019 election campaign, Gandhi had also failed to tarnish Modi’s incorruptible image with his “chowkidar chor hai” campaign. It seems from all this that Jairam Ramesh certainly has a point. Demonising Narendra Modi isn’t helping the Congress. Rather, it shows the deep division, bordering on disarray, that afflicts India’s oldest political party. This was evident in the manner in which its high-profile and loquacious leader, three-times Lok Sabha MP from Thiruvananthapuram, Shashi Tharoor, was targeted by his own state leadership. Pulled up by the Kerala Congress president, Mullapally Ramachandran, he was issued a show-cause notice. The “original sinner”, as a report dubbed him, was not Tharoor, but Ramesh. The latter’s comments at a book launch in the national capital were also supported by party spokesman and lawyer, Abhishek Manu Singhvi. But only Tharoor was targeted. It was the following remark that probably earned Tharoor his party’s ire: “As you know, I have argued for six years now that Narendra Modi should be praised whenever he says or does the right thing, which would add credibility to our criticism and whenever he errs. I welcome others in Opposition coming around to a view for which I was excoriated at the time.” Tharoor was forced to clarify that he was no admirer of Modi and the Kerala Congress had to be “satisfied” with his explanation. The party only earned itself some needless embarrassment and discomfiture in the process. After the Modi Sarkar’s surgical strike against Article 370, several Congress leaders came out in support of the government. These included Jyotraditya Scindia, Deepender Hooda, RPN Singh and Jitin Prasada, in addition to the son of the former Maharaja of Kashmir and first regent of the state, Dr Karan Singh. Bhuvaneshwar Kalita, the Congress chief whip, went to the extent of resigning. With considerable difficulty, if not force, the CWC eventually passed a resolution opposing the government’s abrogation of Article 370’s key provisions. The Congress is now a divided house. Not only does it lack credible leadership, but a plan of action. As if this were not bad enough, it has also shown itself utterly unsuccessful in denting, leave alone destroying, Narendra Modi’s popularity and appeal. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Discomfiture and disarray in Congress

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that Pakistan is ready for a "conditional dialogue" with India, reported Dunya News quoted a foreign News Agency.

The report comes after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India is willing to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-willing-to-discuss-outstanding-issues-with-pakistan-bilaterally-jaishankar-246803">discuss outstanding issues with Pakistan bilaterally</a> in an atmosphere free of terror and violence.

Pakistan is upset with the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue.

Watch: Imran Khan cancels visit to Shiv temple in Pakistan

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However, Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi`s internal matter.

Pakistan has approached various world leaders to seek their interventions into the issue.

However, Pakistan has been told to engage bilaterally with India to end tensions.

India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that Pakistan is ready for a "conditional dialogue" with India, reported Dunya News quoted a foreign News Agency. The report comes after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India is willing to discuss outstanding issues with Pakistan bilaterally in an atmosphere free of terror and violence.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that Pakistan is ready for a "conditional dialogue" with India, reported Dunya News quoted a foreign News Agency. The report comes after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India is willing to discuss outstanding issues with Pakistan bilaterally in an atmosphere free of terror and violence. Pakistan is upset with the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue. Watch: Imran Khan cancels visit to Shiv temple in Pakistan × However, Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi`s internal matter. Pakistan has approached various world leaders to seek their interventions into the issue. However, Pakistan has been told to engage bilaterally with India to end tensions. India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror.

Pakistan ready for 'conditional dialogue' with India: Shah Mahmood Qureshi

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

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

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

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

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that Pakistan is ready for a "conditional dialogue" with India, reported Dunya News quoted a foreign News Agency.

The report comes after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India is willing to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-willing-to-discuss-outstanding-issues-with-pakistan-bilaterally-jaishankar-246803">discuss outstanding issues with Pakistan bilaterally</a> in an atmosphere free of terror and violence.

Pakistan is upset with the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue.

However, Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi`s internal matter.

Pakistan has approached various world leaders to seek their interventions into the issue.

However, Pakistan has been told to engage bilaterally with India to end tensions.

India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that Pakistan is ready for a "conditional dialogue" with India, reported Dunya News quoted a foreign News Agency. The report comes after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India is willing to discuss outstanding issues with Pakistan bilaterally in an atmosphere free of terror and violence. Pakistan is upset with the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue. However, Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi`s internal matter. Pakistan has approached various world leaders to seek their interventions into the issue. However, Pakistan has been told to engage bilaterally with India to end tensions. India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Saturday denied reports claiming a shortage of medicines or healthcare crisis in the Valley.

Calling the reports&nbsp;"baseless", the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir asserted that health services are functioning normally in the region and urged people to not believe in "rumours and fake news".

In a series of tweets, the administration said, "Srinagar: Health Services functioning normally. Don't believe in rumours and fake news. 1. Nearly 5000 major surgeries have been performed in hospitals in Srinagar from August 5 till date."

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News reports suggesting shortage of medicines or healthcare crisis in Kashmir are therefore clearly baseless (17/17) <a href="https://twitter.com/dwivedimk_ias?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dwivedimk_ias</a>
— DIPR-J&amp;K (@diprjk) <a href="https://twitter.com/diprjk/status/1167646028499079168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It added, "Besides the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences or SKIMS at Soura and the SKIMS Medical College and Hospital at Bemina, the surgeries have been performed in all associated hospitals of the Government Medical College or GMC Srinagar."

The Jammu and Kashmir administration stated, "In the Government Medical College (GMC) in Srinagar associated hospitals, the number of surgical procedures are over 3000 -- including around 700 in the main trauma SMHS Hospital, over 800 in the main orthopaedic Bone and Joints hospital and around 400 in the Super Speciality hospital."

In the Lal Ded hospital which is Kashmir's main maternity hospital, "around 1200 surgeries have been performed during this period," it added.

"Besides surgeries, the general healthcare services provided to patients in these hospitals during this period has been business as usual with around 95000 patients seen in their OPDs and over 10 thousand patients admitted for treatment in their IPDs," DIPR stated.

The routine laboratory investigations and radiological procedures like MRI and CT scan performed in the hospitals during the period add up to over one lakh, "These include among others around 5500 X-Rays, over 6000 USGs, around 2000 ECGs, around 2000 CT Scans, 220 MRIs and some 750 super-speciality procedures," it added.

The general healthcare services like patients seen in outpatient departments and those admitted to inpatient departments of these hospitals include totals of over 60,000 OPDs and over 5000 IPDs."Different medical investigations of patients conducted in SKIMS MCH alone add up to around 70000," it added.

The primary "healthcare across Kashmir has also been as usual."

"In Srinagar alone, some 30000 patients were seen in OPDs and around 1100 admitted in IPDs of different centres. 10 Major surgeries and some 800 different kinds of medical tests were also performed," DIPR tweeted.

"These figures are a clear indication that healthcare services in Kashmir have been delivering as usual. While the period has seen about 20 per cent decrease in services it is not unusual in times of major festivals or events like it was in this month," it stated.

With regards to the status of stocks of medicines in hospitals in Kashmir, the administration stated that supplies are made in two equal halves for two six-month periods per annum.

"The first half is still sufficient to last until the end of September. The second half of the order that will last until March 2020 will be received and distributed as usual before October. Additional requirements if any are being provided immediately," it stated.

In Srinagar, the administration said that it has provided funds to several hospitals for procuring additional medicines. The latter is to cover requirements that patients usually get from retail markets.

The administration further noted that "staff attendance in all these healthcare institutions is being strictly monitored."

"It has been around 95 per cent throughout this period," DIPR said.

In conclusion, DIPR stated, "News reports suggesting a shortage of medicines or healthcare crisis in Kashmir are therefore clearly baseless.

"Earlier this month, the Centre had abrogated Article 370 in the region and passed the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Act, 2019, bifurcating it into two Union Territories.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Saturday denied reports claiming a shortage of medicines or healthcare crisis in the Valley. Calling the reports "baseless", the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir asserted that health services are functioning normally in the region and urged people to not believe in "rumours and fake news".

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Saturday denied reports claiming a shortage of medicines or healthcare crisis in the Valley. Calling the reports "baseless", the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir asserted that health services are functioning normally in the region and urged people to not believe in "rumours and fake news". In a series of tweets, the administration said, "Srinagar: Health Services functioning normally. Don't believe in rumours and fake news. 1. Nearly 5000 major surgeries have been performed in hospitals in Srinagar from August 5 till date." News reports suggesting shortage of medicines or healthcare crisis in Kashmir are therefore clearly baseless (17/17) @dwivedimk_ias — DIPR-J&K (@diprjk) August 31, 2019 × It added, "Besides the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences or SKIMS at Soura and the SKIMS Medical College and Hospital at Bemina, the surgeries have been performed in all associated hospitals of the Government Medical College or GMC Srinagar." The Jammu and Kashmir administration stated, "In the Government Medical College (GMC) in Srinagar associated hospitals, the number of surgical procedures are over 3000 -- including around 700 in the main trauma SMHS Hospital, over 800 in the main orthopaedic Bone and Joints hospital and around 400 in the Super Speciality hospital." In the Lal Ded hospital which is Kashmir's main maternity hospital, "around 1200 surgeries have been performed during this period," it added. "Besides surgeries, the general healthcare services provided to patients in these hospitals during this period has been business as usual with around 95000 patients seen in their OPDs and over 10 thousand patients admitted for treatment in their IPDs," DIPR stated. The routine laboratory investigations and radiological procedures like MRI and CT scan performed in the hospitals during the period add up to over one lakh, "These include among others around 5500 X-Rays, over 6000 USGs, around 2000 ECGs, around 2000 CT Scans, 220 MRIs and some 750 super-speciality procedures," it added. The general healthcare services like patients seen in outpatient departments and those admitted to inpatient departments of these hospitals include totals of over 60,000 OPDs and over 5000 IPDs."Different medical investigations of patients conducted in SKIMS MCH alone add up to around 70000," it added. The primary "healthcare across Kashmir has also been as usual." "In Srinagar alone, some 30000 patients were seen in OPDs and around 1100 admitted in IPDs of different centres. 10 Major surgeries and some 800 different kinds of medical tests were also performed," DIPR tweeted. "These figures are a clear indication that healthcare services in Kashmir have been delivering as usual. While the period has seen about 20 per cent decrease in services it is not unusual in times of major festivals or events like it was in this month," it stated. With regards to the status of stocks of medicines in hospitals in Kashmir, the administration stated that supplies are made in two equal halves for two six-month periods per annum. "The first half is still sufficient to last until the end of September. The second half of the order that will last until March 2020 will be received and distributed as usual before October. Additional requirements if any are being provided immediately," it stated. In Srinagar, the administration said that it has provided funds to several hospitals for procuring additional medicines. The latter is to cover requirements that patients usually get from retail markets. The administration further noted that "staff attendance in all these healthcare institutions is being strictly monitored." "It has been around 95 per cent throughout this period," DIPR said. In conclusion, DIPR stated, "News reports suggesting a shortage of medicines or healthcare crisis in Kashmir are therefore clearly baseless. "Earlier this month, the Centre had abrogated Article 370 in the region and passed the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Act, 2019, bifurcating it into two Union Territories.

Reports claiming shortage of medicines, healthcare crisis in Kashmir are baseless: J&K administration

Australian High Commissioner to New Delhi Harinder Sidhu said on Friday that the Indian government's decision to abrogate Article 370 is country's internal matter, and stressed that the Kashmir issue should be resolved bilaterally by New Delhi and Islamabad.

"The Indian government said this is its internal matter. We respect the Indian position on that. Australia's long-held view on Kashmir has been that it should be resolved bilaterally by India and Pakistan," Sidhu told ANI.

Sidhu expressed hope the region would become stable and peaceful and the economic development would eventuate.

"We do hope as situation proceeds in Kashmir that it will be stable, peaceful and that economic development eventuate. We do hope that both countries act in restraint and consider the safety and security of the people in the process," she added.

Earlier this month, India had announced its decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and reorganise it into two union territories.

Pakistan, with the help of China, approached the United Nations over the issue.

However, the China-Pakistan axis failed at the UNSC closed-door meeting when a majority of the Council members, including Russia, refused to take up the Kashmir matter and rejected the Chinese position.

China and Pakistan stood isolated after the other members refused to endorse their position.

Australian High Commissioner to New Delhi Harinder Sidhu said on Friday that the Indian government's decision to abrogate Article 370 is country's internal matter, and stressed that the Kashmir issue should be resolved bilaterally by New Delhi and Islamabad.

Australian High Commissioner to New Delhi Harinder Sidhu said on Friday that the Indian government's decision to abrogate Article 370 is country's internal matter, and stressed that the Kashmir issue should be resolved bilaterally by New Delhi and Islamabad. "The Indian government said this is its internal matter. We respect the Indian position on that. Australia's long-held view on Kashmir has been that it should be resolved bilaterally by India and Pakistan," Sidhu told ANI. Sidhu expressed hope the region would become stable and peaceful and the economic development would eventuate. "We do hope as situation proceeds in Kashmir that it will be stable, peaceful and that economic development eventuate. We do hope that both countries act in restraint and consider the safety and security of the people in the process," she added. Earlier this month, India had announced its decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and reorganise it into two union territories. Pakistan, with the help of China, approached the United Nations over the issue. However, the China-Pakistan axis failed at the UNSC closed-door meeting when a majority of the Council members, including Russia, refused to take up the Kashmir matter and rejected the Chinese position. China and Pakistan stood isolated after the other members refused to endorse their position.

Abrogation of Article-370 is India's internal matter: Aussie envoy Harinder Sidhu

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Friday briefed his South Korean counterpart Kang Kyung-wha about the situation in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/removal-of-article-370-heralds-an-era-of-progress-for-jammu-and-kashmir-242889"> Jammu and Kashmir</a>, as part of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/pakistan-trying-hard-to-spread-false-narratives-on-jammu-and-kashmir-246411">Islamabad`s nefarious designs</a> to internationalise the issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region.

During a telephonic conversation, the South Korean Foreign Minister said that her country is keeping a close eye on developments in the region, Radio <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-karachi-airspace-shut-three-routes-till-august-31-246139">Pakistan</a> reported.

Pakistan is upset with the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue.

However, Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi`s internal matter.

On Thursday, Qureshi also held a telephonic conversation with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Tilak Janak Marapana to discuss the same.

The foreign minister briefed his Sri Lankan counterpart on what he called "the illegal and unilateral actions of India to alter the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir, which was in contravention of the international law and UNSC resolutions."

He further underlined that the steps taken by India in Jammu and Kashmir entailed a "grave risk for peace and security in the region."

Qureshi had written letters on 1, 6 and 13th of this month to the United Nations to apprise the world body of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, referring to the diplomatic efforts to internationalise the Kashmir situation.

He also said that the recently held discussion on Kashmir at the UN Security Council was a great achievement of Pakistan, which was held despite India`s hectic efforts to stop it.

The foreign minister stressed that the services of the world`s best lawyers are being sought to devise a course of action that could strengthen Pakistan`s case on Kashmir in the Hague-based International Court of Justice.

The cash-strapped nation, which is finding it hard to uphold its struggling economy, is now looking forward to raising the issue during the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York next month.&nbsp;

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Friday briefed his South Korean counterpart Kang Kyung-wha about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Friday briefed his South Korean counterpart Kang Kyung-wha about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region. During a telephonic conversation, the South Korean Foreign Minister said that her country is keeping a close eye on developments in the region, Radio Pakistan reported. Pakistan is upset with the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue. However, Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi`s internal matter. On Thursday, Qureshi also held a telephonic conversation with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Tilak Janak Marapana to discuss the same. The foreign minister briefed his Sri Lankan counterpart on what he called "the illegal and unilateral actions of India to alter the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir, which was in contravention of the international law and UNSC resolutions." He further underlined that the steps taken by India in Jammu and Kashmir entailed a "grave risk for peace and security in the region." Qureshi had written letters on 1, 6 and 13th of this month to the United Nations to apprise the world body of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, referring to the diplomatic efforts to internationalise the Kashmir situation. He also said that the recently held discussion on Kashmir at the UN Security Council was a great achievement of Pakistan, which was held despite India`s hectic efforts to stop it. The foreign minister stressed that the services of the world`s best lawyers are being sought to devise a course of action that could strengthen Pakistan`s case on Kashmir in the Hague-based International Court of Justice. The cash-strapped nation, which is finding it hard to uphold its struggling economy, is now looking forward to raising the issue during the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York next month.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi now dials up South Korean counterpart, briefs on Kashmir

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WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 30th, 2019

Pakistan on Thursday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Mendhar sector of Poonch district.

Officials said at about 1130 hours, Pakistan initiated ceasefire violation by firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in Mendhar.

Indian Army is retaliating befittingly.

Pakistan had violated ceasefire in Poonch on Tuesday as well.

Pakistan on Thursday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Mendhar sector of Poonch district. Officials said at about 1130 hours, Pakistan initiated ceasefire violation by firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in Mendhar.

Pakistan on Thursday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Mendhar sector of Poonch district. Officials said at about 1130 hours, Pakistan initiated ceasefire violation by firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in Mendhar. Indian Army is retaliating befittingly. Pakistan had violated ceasefire in Poonch on Tuesday as well.

Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire in Mendhar sector of Poonch district

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-economic-crisis-countrys-debts-liabilities-exceed-the-size-of-its-gdp-245554">Pakistan</a> on Thursday carried out night training launch of&nbsp;surface to surface ballistic missile Ghaznavi in Balochistan.

The director-general of Pakistan military operations tweeted out a video of the missile test which was carried out at night.

The missile has a reported distance capability of 290 kilometres.It can deliver multiple types of warheads.

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Pakistan successfully carried out night training launch of surface to surface ballistic missile Ghaznavi, capable of delivering multiple types of warheads upto 290 KMs. CJCSC &amp; Services Chiefs congrat team. President &amp; PM conveyed appreciation to team &amp; congrats to the nation. <a href="https://t.co/hmoUKRPWev">pic.twitter.com/hmoUKRPWev</a>
— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialDGISPR/status/1166955085924130816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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These tests are a last-ditch effort by Pakistan to try and internationalise Jammu and Kashmir — something it has failed to do multiple times over the last few weeks.

Pakistan has closed its airspace form August 28 to August 31, and now it seems clear as to why this decision was taken.

The airspace closure was probably in light of the reported missile tests.

Pakistan had issued a notice to airmen that the Sonmiani base in Balochistan has been activated and all ships were asked to steer clear due to an incoming missile.

Reports indicate that Pakistan had informed India about the missile tests on August 26, keeping with the confidence-building measures adopted between the two countries in 2005.

According to the agreement, both countries are supposed to inform each other about missile tests three days before the actual testing.But, the Indian government seems unperturbed by the possible missile tests.

The tests have reportedly been attributed to the huge pressure on Imran Khan from anti-India elements within his country to take some sort of action.So the missile tests are nothing but a continuation of the Pakistan government's false call for help.

Pakistan on Thursday carried out night training launch of surface to surface ballistic missile Ghaznavi in Balochistan. The director-general of Pakistan military operations tweeted out a video of the missile test which was carried out at night.

Pakistan on Thursday carried out night training launch of surface to surface ballistic missile Ghaznavi in Balochistan. The director-general of Pakistan military operations tweeted out a video of the missile test which was carried out at night. The missile has a reported distance capability of 290 kilometres.It can deliver multiple types of warheads. Pakistan successfully carried out night training launch of surface to surface ballistic missile Ghaznavi, capable of delivering multiple types of warheads upto 290 KMs. CJCSC & Services Chiefs congrat team. President & PM conveyed appreciation to team & congrats to the nation. pic.twitter.com/hmoUKRPWev — DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) August 29, 2019 × These tests are a last-ditch effort by Pakistan to try and internationalise Jammu and Kashmir — something it has failed to do multiple times over the last few weeks. Pakistan has closed its airspace form August 28 to August 31, and now it seems clear as to why this decision was taken. The airspace closure was probably in light of the reported missile tests. Pakistan had issued a notice to airmen that the Sonmiani base in Balochistan has been activated and all ships were asked to steer clear due to an incoming missile. Reports indicate that Pakistan had informed India about the missile tests on August 26, keeping with the confidence-building measures adopted between the two countries in 2005. According to the agreement, both countries are supposed to inform each other about missile tests three days before the actual testing.But, the Indian government seems unperturbed by the possible missile tests. The tests have reportedly been attributed to the huge pressure on Imran Khan from anti-India elements within his country to take some sort of action.So the missile tests are nothing but a continuation of the Pakistan government's false call for help.

After failure at diplomatic front, Pakistan test-fires Ghaznavi missile

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-economic-crisis-countrys-debts-liabilities-exceed-the-size-of-its-gdp-245554">Imran Khan</a> is on a desperate mission to draw international attention to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-saudi-crown-prince-discuss-kashmir-issue-third-time-246030">Kashmir,</a> and to satisfy the jihadi elements within his own country.

After failed diplomatic efforts, threats of nuclear war Pakistan is reportedly going to test its Ghaznavi surface-to-surface missile from a flight test range in Balochistan.

The test will be tracked at the national development complex ground control station in Sindh.

These tests are a last-ditch effort from Pakistan to try and internationalise Kashmir — something it has failed to do multiple times over the last few weeks.

Now Pakistan had closed its airspace for the period from August twenty-eight to August thirty-first, and now it seems clear as to why this decision was taken.

The airspace closure was probably in light of the reported missile tests.

Pakistan had issued a notice to airmen that the Sonmiani base in Balochistan has been activated and all ships were asked to steer clear due to an incoming missile.

Reports also indicate that Pakistan had informed India about the missile tests on August twenty-sixth, keeping with the confidence-building measures adopted between the two countries in 2005.

According to the agreement, both countries are supposed to inform each other about missile tests, three days before the actual testing.

The Indian government, however, seems unperturbed by the possible missile tests.

The tests have reportedly been attributed to the huge pressure on Imran Khan from anti-India elements within his country to take some sort of action.

So the missile tests are nothing but a continuation of the Pakistan government's false call for help.

Imran Khan is on a desperate mission to draw international attention to Kashmir, and to satisfy the jihadi elements within his own country. After failed diplomatic efforts, threats of nuclear war Pakistan is reportedly going to test its Ghaznavi surface-to-surface missile from a flight test range in Balochistan.

Imran Khan is on a desperate mission to draw international attention to Kashmir, and to satisfy the jihadi elements within his own country. After failed diplomatic efforts, threats of nuclear war Pakistan is reportedly going to test its Ghaznavi surface-to-surface missile from a flight test range in Balochistan. The test will be tracked at the national development complex ground control station in Sindh. These tests are a last-ditch effort from Pakistan to try and internationalise Kashmir — something it has failed to do multiple times over the last few weeks. Now Pakistan had closed its airspace for the period from August twenty-eight to August thirty-first, and now it seems clear as to why this decision was taken. The airspace closure was probably in light of the reported missile tests. Pakistan had issued a notice to airmen that the Sonmiani base in Balochistan has been activated and all ships were asked to steer clear due to an incoming missile. Reports also indicate that Pakistan had informed India about the missile tests on August twenty-sixth, keeping with the confidence-building measures adopted between the two countries in 2005. According to the agreement, both countries are supposed to inform each other about missile tests, three days before the actual testing. The Indian government, however, seems unperturbed by the possible missile tests. The tests have reportedly been attributed to the huge pressure on Imran Khan from anti-India elements within his country to take some sort of action. So the missile tests are nothing but a continuation of the Pakistan government's false call for help.

After failed diplomatic efforts and nuke threats Pakistan to test ballistic missile

Following days of restrictions, mobile phone services have been resumed in five districts of Jammu region.

Starting Wednesday night, the services were restored in Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri and Poonch districts. The services were suspended across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, given security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370.

Defending restrictions on the use of mobile phones and internet, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik had said that the curb has been imposed as these facilities were abused as "a weapon" against the country and mostly exploited by terrorists to mobilise the people.

"There is much hullabaloo over the absence of telephone facilities. I want to say that people should wait for 10 more days. For us every life is important. Please try to understand the reasons behind these restrictions. Who uses phone and internet? It is of little use for us but is mostly exploited by terrorists and Pakistanis," Malik said.&nbsp;

Following days of restrictions, mobile phone services have been resumed in five districts of Jammu region. Starting Wednesday night, the services were restored in Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri and Poonch districts.

Following days of restrictions, mobile phone services have been resumed in five districts of Jammu region. Starting Wednesday night, the services were restored in Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri and Poonch districts. The services were suspended across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, given security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370. Defending restrictions on the use of mobile phones and internet, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik had said that the curb has been imposed as these facilities were abused as "a weapon" against the country and mostly exploited by terrorists to mobilise the people. "There is much hullabaloo over the absence of telephone facilities. I want to say that people should wait for 10 more days. For us every life is important. Please try to understand the reasons behind these restrictions. Who uses phone and internet? It is of little use for us but is mostly exploited by terrorists and Pakistanis," Malik said.

Mobile phone services restored in five districts of Jammu

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

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

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

Pakistan trying hard to spread false narratives on Jammu and Kashmir

The challenges following the historic revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status straddle two broad categories. First, maintaining peace in the Valley in the immediate aftermath of the Parliament approving the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. That phase is now over.&nbsp;

The second, more difficult task, is to sustain peace in the Valley in the long term. There is a powerful confluence of vested interests arrayed against allowing peace to settle in the Valley.&nbsp;

Pakistan has used Kashmir to prosecute its 30-year-long proxy war with India. The end of J&amp;K’s special status has dealt Islamabad an existentialist blow.&nbsp;

At the meeting this week between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump at the G7 Summit in France, the bogey of US “mediation” in J&amp;K was buried.&nbsp;

By unleashing jihad in Kashmir three decades ago, the renegade Pakistani Army sought not only to make India bleed by a thousand cuts, but to stamp its centrality within Pakistan. Globally, it projected Pakistan as a victim of Indian aggression in a disputed territory. That narrative is now thoroughly discredited.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared publicly that the only topic of discussion henceforth with Pakistan — once it ceases sponsoring terrorism against India — will be Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). His statement that India’s no-first-use nuclear doctrine is no longer cast in stone has further unnerved Islamabad. By responding with nuclear jingoism, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has exposed Islamabad’s paranoia.&nbsp;

Low-intensity jihad is a lucrative business. It has helped boost Pakistan’s defence budget to nearly 4 per cent&nbsp;of GDP, among the highest ratios in the world. The Pakistani Army skims the cream off defence contracts into the foreign accounts of Rawalpindi’s Generals. The last 30 years have built the personal wealth of Pakistan’s senior military officers. Unlike armed forces officers in democracies, they suffer no oversight from the civilian government. That business model could be disrupted by India’s new policy on Pakistan and J&amp;K.&nbsp;

Hurriyat separatists are the other big losers in J&amp;K’s new status, liberated from the suffocating grip of Article 370. The Hurriyat reports to Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Pakistan’s notorious spy agency, through the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi. The separatists act as a conduit for the ISI’s terror funding. They also provide ready cash to stone pelters to hinder counter-terror operations by Indian security forces. That business model, too, is now broken.&nbsp;

What about mainstream political leaders “locked up” in palace hotels and guest houses? This week, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti declined the government’s offer of conditional release. Some argue that India has alienated these legitimate representatives of the Valley. That is debatable. The Valley’s feudal dynasts, who won rigged elections in the past and spoke with forked tongues in support of separatists, are part of J&amp;K’s discredited political ecosystem. &nbsp;Within this ecosystem flourishes corruption, nepotism and misgovernance. Elections in the new delimited J&amp;K Assembly will separate the wheat from the chaff.&nbsp;

Another key to returning Kashmir to normalcy will be the success of the global investors conference to be held in J&amp;K in October. Co-hosted by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), the conference is expected to attract companies ranging from Reliance Industries and Kotak-Mahindra Bank to multi-nationals in infrastructure, healthcare, hospitality and information technology.&nbsp;

For the first time in 70 years, non-Kashmiri employees of these companies will be able to enrol their children in government schools in J&amp;K.&nbsp;

Not everyone in India is happy with the liberation of Kashmir from the chains Article 370 bound it in for 70 years. In a democracy, dissent is both welcome and necessary. A plurality of voices helps provide nuance to every issue. Let’s examine two such voices.&nbsp;

The first is Pratap Bhanu Mehta, vice-chancellor of Ashoka University. Mehta wrote recently in a leading daily criticising the Supreme Court’s anodyne reaction to several petitions filed with it against the abrogation of Article 370:

“Our legal abdication on liberties is a sign that we are not ready to treat Kashmiris as ordinary Indians and that we are willing to debase ourselves in the face of an executive that is acting more colonially than a colonial power.” Mehta is wrong. Parliament reflects the collective will of the people, a point the Supreme Court, too, made during the brief hearing it gave the petitioners. To portray an empowering legislation on Article 370, approved by both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, as worse than the action of a colonial power, as Mehta does, exhibits prejudice, not reason.&nbsp;

The second example is equally telling. Ashok Varshney, a professor at Brown University, wrote in the same daily: “Only in one democratic sense — democracy as a system of electoral power — can the decision to change Kashmir’s status be called potentially legitimate. In all other democratic senses, we have witnessed severely anti-democratic conduct. It was electorally-enabled brute majoritarianism.”&nbsp;

The speciousness of this argument is obvious. Democracy is not a malleable concept. If majoritarianism is bad in the rest of India — and it is — it is bad in J&amp;K as well. Varshney can’t have it both ways: good in J&amp;K, bad in the rest of India.&nbsp;

The next few weeks will reveal how Kashmiris react to their new status — and how Pakistan-sponsored terrorists and the corrupt local political ecosystem come to terms with their own diminished status.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-kashmir-winning-the-peace-2785720">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The challenges following the historic revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status straddle two broad categories. First, maintaining peace in the Valley in the immediate aftermath of the Parliament approving the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution.

The challenges following the historic revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status straddle two broad categories. First, maintaining peace in the Valley in the immediate aftermath of the Parliament approving the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. That phase is now over. The second, more difficult task, is to sustain peace in the Valley in the long term. There is a powerful confluence of vested interests arrayed against allowing peace to settle in the Valley. Pakistan has used Kashmir to prosecute its 30-year-long proxy war with India. The end of J&K’s special status has dealt Islamabad an existentialist blow. At the meeting this week between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump at the G7 Summit in France, the bogey of US “mediation” in J&K was buried. By unleashing jihad in Kashmir three decades ago, the renegade Pakistani Army sought not only to make India bleed by a thousand cuts, but to stamp its centrality within Pakistan. Globally, it projected Pakistan as a victim of Indian aggression in a disputed territory. That narrative is now thoroughly discredited. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared publicly that the only topic of discussion henceforth with Pakistan — once it ceases sponsoring terrorism against India — will be Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). His statement that India’s no-first-use nuclear doctrine is no longer cast in stone has further unnerved Islamabad. By responding with nuclear jingoism, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has exposed Islamabad’s paranoia. Low-intensity jihad is a lucrative business. It has helped boost Pakistan’s defence budget to nearly 4 per cent of GDP, among the highest ratios in the world. The Pakistani Army skims the cream off defence contracts into the foreign accounts of Rawalpindi’s Generals. The last 30 years have built the personal wealth of Pakistan’s senior military officers. Unlike armed forces officers in democracies, they suffer no oversight from the civilian government. That business model could be disrupted by India’s new policy on Pakistan and J&K. Hurriyat separatists are the other big losers in J&K’s new status, liberated from the suffocating grip of Article 370. The Hurriyat reports to Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Pakistan’s notorious spy agency, through the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi. The separatists act as a conduit for the ISI’s terror funding. They also provide ready cash to stone pelters to hinder counter-terror operations by Indian security forces. That business model, too, is now broken. What about mainstream political leaders “locked up” in palace hotels and guest houses? This week, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti declined the government’s offer of conditional release. Some argue that India has alienated these legitimate representatives of the Valley. That is debatable. The Valley’s feudal dynasts, who won rigged elections in the past and spoke with forked tongues in support of separatists, are part of J&K’s discredited political ecosystem. Within this ecosystem flourishes corruption, nepotism and misgovernance. Elections in the new delimited J&K Assembly will separate the wheat from the chaff. Another key to returning Kashmir to normalcy will be the success of the global investors conference to be held in J&K in October. Co-hosted by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), the conference is expected to attract companies ranging from Reliance Industries and Kotak-Mahindra Bank to multi-nationals in infrastructure, healthcare, hospitality and information technology. For the first time in 70 years, non-Kashmiri employees of these companies will be able to enrol their children in government schools in J&K. Not everyone in India is happy with the liberation of Kashmir from the chains Article 370 bound it in for 70 years. In a democracy, dissent is both welcome and necessary. A plurality of voices helps provide nuance to every issue. Let’s examine two such voices. The first is Pratap Bhanu Mehta, vice-chancellor of Ashoka University. Mehta wrote recently in a leading daily criticising the Supreme Court’s anodyne reaction to several petitions filed with it against the abrogation of Article 370: “Our legal abdication on liberties is a sign that we are not ready to treat Kashmiris as ordinary Indians and that we are willing to debase ourselves in the face of an executive that is acting more colonially than a colonial power.” Mehta is wrong. Parliament reflects the collective will of the people, a point the Supreme Court, too, made during the brief hearing it gave the petitioners. To portray an empowering legislation on Article 370, approved by both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, as worse than the action of a colonial power, as Mehta does, exhibits prejudice, not reason. The second example is equally telling. Ashok Varshney, a professor at Brown University, wrote in the same daily: “Only in one democratic sense — democracy as a system of electoral power — can the decision to change Kashmir’s status be called potentially legitimate. In all other democratic senses, we have witnessed severely anti-democratic conduct. It was electorally-enabled brute majoritarianism.” The speciousness of this argument is obvious. Democracy is not a malleable concept. If majoritarianism is bad in the rest of India — and it is — it is bad in J&K as well. Varshney can’t have it both ways: good in J&K, bad in the rest of India. The next few weeks will reveal how Kashmiris react to their new status — and how Pakistan-sponsored terrorists and the corrupt local political ecosystem come to terms with their own diminished status. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

With many shibboleths shattered, big challenge for India now is to maintain peace in Jammu and Kashmir

Ever since the Union government decided to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution and to divide the state into two Union territories – Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh, all efforts have been made to restore full normalcy in Kashmir.&nbsp;

In turn, no major incident of mass protest or loss of life and property has so far been reported in the Valley. However, China and Pakistan have unsuccessfully tried to internationalise the issue.

True, Kashmir has been a major bone of contention between India and Pakistan since the Partition. But it is also a fact that the erstwhile state, including Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), has been an undisputed part of India since 1947 when Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession, following the attack by Pakistan-sponsored tribesman.&nbsp;

Subsequently, the purpose of inserting temporary Articles 370 and 35 (A) was to expedite the process of integration of the state with the rest of India.&nbsp;

Sadly, over the last 70 years, these provisions, coupled with vested interests of regional political parties and separatist groups, the era of coalition politics and the Congress party’s half-hearted approach to address the Kashmir problem, have chocked developmental activities in Jammu &amp; Kashmir.&nbsp;

While the Modi government’s decision has received overwhelming support in Parliament and outside, Pakistan is trying hard to project an alarming picture of Kashmir before the international community.&nbsp;

In doing so, the Imran Khan government has downgraded diplomatic ties with India by expelling Ajay Bisaria, India’s High Commissioner to Pakistan. Islamabad has also stopped bilateral trade and the Samjhauta Express, among other unilateral steps. &nbsp;

However, the fact remains that the international community’s reaction to the recent changes concerning Jammu &amp; Kashmir has largely been in India’s favour.&nbsp;

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, refused to intervene in the Kashmir matter, invoking the Shimla Agreement of 1972 that does not allow third-party mediation in this issue.&nbsp;

Russia has also endorsed the Modi government’s move, saying the abrogation of Article 370 is an internal affair of India. The US has said that both India and Pakistan should maintain restraint and hold direct talks to resolve the Kashmir issue while South Asian countries, including Bangladesh and Maldives, have backed India.&nbsp;

In a surprise development, the Taliban strongly criticised Pakistan for linking the increased tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi with the situation in Afghanistan. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahed said, “The issue of Afghanistan is not related to Kashmir,” and urged India and Pakistan not to turn Afghanistan into the “theatre of competition between other countries.”&nbsp;

The Taliban’s statement is very important for India: First, it shows the outfit’s desire to hold talks with New Delhi and second, the Taliban does not want to be seen as a puppet of Pakistan.&nbsp;

This, in turn, will help India protect its interests in Afghanistan, given the fact that over the years, New Delhi has invested over $3 billion in development activities in this country.&nbsp;

China is the only major country that has criticised India’s recent decision concerning Jammu &amp; Kashmir. The reason for China’s criticism emerges from the fact that it enjoys a close relationship with Pakistan. Additionally, the Union territory of Ladakh also includes Aksai Chin, which is currently under China’s control.&nbsp;

In turn, India has re-emphasised its claim over this area. New Delhi would also be in a better position to effectively deal with any Pakistani and Chinese design, especially since the CPEC passes through this region.&nbsp;

With the Security Council refusing to interfere in the Kashmir issue, efforts towards accelerating development activities and strengthening democratic institutions should be a major priority for the government.

It will ensure that the people of Kashmir do not again fall into the trap of separatist groups and other vested interests in the Valley.&nbsp; 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-time-to-open-line-with-taliban-to-safeguard-afghan-interests-2785722">original article</a>) 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Ever since the Union government decided to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution and to divide the state into two Union territories – Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, all efforts have been made to restore full normalcy in Kashmir.

Ever since the Union government decided to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution and to divide the state into two Union territories – Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, all efforts have been made to restore full normalcy in Kashmir. In turn, no major incident of mass protest or loss of life and property has so far been reported in the Valley. However, China and Pakistan have unsuccessfully tried to internationalise the issue. True, Kashmir has been a major bone of contention between India and Pakistan since the Partition. But it is also a fact that the erstwhile state, including Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), has been an undisputed part of India since 1947 when Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession, following the attack by Pakistan-sponsored tribesman. Subsequently, the purpose of inserting temporary Articles 370 and 35 (A) was to expedite the process of integration of the state with the rest of India. Sadly, over the last 70 years, these provisions, coupled with vested interests of regional political parties and separatist groups, the era of coalition politics and the Congress party’s half-hearted approach to address the Kashmir problem, have chocked developmental activities in Jammu & Kashmir. While the Modi government’s decision has received overwhelming support in Parliament and outside, Pakistan is trying hard to project an alarming picture of Kashmir before the international community. In doing so, the Imran Khan government has downgraded diplomatic ties with India by expelling Ajay Bisaria, India’s High Commissioner to Pakistan. Islamabad has also stopped bilateral trade and the Samjhauta Express, among other unilateral steps. However, the fact remains that the international community’s reaction to the recent changes concerning Jammu & Kashmir has largely been in India’s favour. The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, refused to intervene in the Kashmir matter, invoking the Shimla Agreement of 1972 that does not allow third-party mediation in this issue. Russia has also endorsed the Modi government’s move, saying the abrogation of Article 370 is an internal affair of India. The US has said that both India and Pakistan should maintain restraint and hold direct talks to resolve the Kashmir issue while South Asian countries, including Bangladesh and Maldives, have backed India. In a surprise development, the Taliban strongly criticised Pakistan for linking the increased tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi with the situation in Afghanistan. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahed said, “The issue of Afghanistan is not related to Kashmir,” and urged India and Pakistan not to turn Afghanistan into the “theatre of competition between other countries.” The Taliban’s statement is very important for India: First, it shows the outfit’s desire to hold talks with New Delhi and second, the Taliban does not want to be seen as a puppet of Pakistan. This, in turn, will help India protect its interests in Afghanistan, given the fact that over the years, New Delhi has invested over $3 billion in development activities in this country. China is the only major country that has criticised India’s recent decision concerning Jammu & Kashmir. The reason for China’s criticism emerges from the fact that it enjoys a close relationship with Pakistan. Additionally, the Union territory of Ladakh also includes Aksai Chin, which is currently under China’s control. In turn, India has re-emphasised its claim over this area. New Delhi would also be in a better position to effectively deal with any Pakistani and Chinese design, especially since the CPEC passes through this region. With the Security Council refusing to interfere in the Kashmir issue, efforts towards accelerating development activities and strengthening democratic institutions should be a major priority for the government. It will ensure that the people of Kashmir do not again fall into the trap of separatist groups and other vested interests in the Valley. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Taliban’s statement on Jammu and Kashmir is very important for India

Russia on Wednesday supported India on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-abrogation-supreme-court-review-petitions-in-october-notice-sent-to-centre-246156">abrogation of Article 370</a> in Jammu and Kashmir and called it a sovereign and internal matter.&nbsp;

Russian Ambassador Nikolay Kudashev stated that the abrogation is a sovereign decision of the Indian Government.&nbsp;

"All matters between India and Pakistan can be resolved through the Simla agreement. It is an internal matter of India," he said.&nbsp;

Deputy Ambassador Roman Bushkin said, "it is the concern of the international community of growing importance of disarmament".

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Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev, speaking to reporters in Delhi, today reiterated Moscow's stance on Kashmir &amp; said abrogation of article 370 is India's internal matter
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Calling India a "responsible player," Bushkin said any escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan is a concern.&nbsp;

"We would prefer more dialogue between the two nations. India has no first use doctrine. Dialogue must be streamlined as per the mutually accepted condition," Bushkin added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Wednesday heard petitions challenging Central government’s decision to&nbsp;abrogate Article 370&nbsp;and referred the matter to a 5-judge constitution bench. The matter has now been posted for review in October.&nbsp;

The top court has also issued notices to the Centre and state seeking their response on the issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Over 10 petitions were filed in the top court related to the recent developments in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

Russia on Wednesday supported India on the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and called it a sovereign and internal matter. Russian Ambassador Nikolay Kudashev stated that the abrogation is a sovereign decision of the Indian Government.

Russia on Wednesday supported India on the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and called it a sovereign and internal matter. Russian Ambassador Nikolay Kudashev stated that the abrogation is a sovereign decision of the Indian Government. "All matters between India and Pakistan can be resolved through the Simla agreement. It is an internal matter of India," he said. Deputy Ambassador Roman Bushkin said, "it is the concern of the international community of growing importance of disarmament". Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev, speaking to reporters in Delhi, today reiterated Moscow's stance on Kashmir & said abrogation of article 370 is India's internal matter — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 28, 2019 × Calling India a "responsible player," Bushkin said any escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan is a concern. "We would prefer more dialogue between the two nations. India has no first use doctrine. Dialogue must be streamlined as per the mutually accepted condition," Bushkin added. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Wednesday heard petitions challenging Central government’s decision to abrogate Article 370 and referred the matter to a 5-judge constitution bench. The matter has now been posted for review in October. The top court has also issued notices to the Centre and state seeking their response on the issue. Over 10 petitions were filed in the top court related to the recent developments in the Kashmir Valley.

Article 370 abrogation: Russia supports India, says 'matter should be resolved through Simla accord'

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