Jammu and Kashmir: Security forces corner terrorists in Shopian

An Army soldier was killed when Pakistan violated the ceasefire by heavily shelling forward areas and posts along the Line of Control with mortar bombs in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district Thursday, officials said.

Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire in Keri belt of Sunderbani sector this morning, they said.

One soldier was killed in Pakistani firing, they added.&nbsp;

Pakistani troops have violated the ceasefire over 110 times along the LoC since January.

An Army soldier was killed when Pakistan violated the ceasefire by heavily shelling forward areas and posts along the Line of Control with mortar bombs in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district Thursday, officials said.

An Army soldier was killed when Pakistan violated the ceasefire by heavily shelling forward areas and posts along the Line of Control with mortar bombs in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district Thursday, officials said. Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire in Keri belt of Sunderbani sector this morning, they said. One soldier was killed in Pakistani firing, they added. Pakistani troops have violated the ceasefire over 110 times along the LoC since January.

J&K: Soldier killed as Pakistan Army violates ceasefire along LoC in Rajouri

Three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-are-with-them-always-crpf-official-says-to-kashmiris-197846">CRPF</a> personnel were killed Wednesday after a colleague allegedly shot them after an altercation at their camp in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.&nbsp;

The alleged fratricide took place at around 10 pm when constable Ajit Kumar shot three of his colleagues with his service rifle at the 187th battalion camp in the Battal Ballian area of Udhampur, they said.&nbsp;

The officials said Kumar shot himself after killing his colleagues. They added that Kumar was critical.

Kumar hails from Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh and was rushed to a military hospital nearby, they said.

The deceased have been identified as head constables Pokarmal R of Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan, Yogendra Sharma of Delhi, and Umed Singh of Rewari in Haryana.

The shooting, the officials said, was triggered by an altercation.

Senior CRPF and police officials had rushed to the spot, they added.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

 
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Three CRPF personnel were killed Wednesday after a colleague allegedly shot them after an altercation at their camp in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. The alleged fratricide took place at around 10 pm when constable Ajit Kumar shot three of his colleagues with his service rifle at the 187th battalion camp in the Battal Ballian area of Udhampur, they said.

Three CRPF personnel were killed Wednesday after a colleague allegedly shot them after an altercation at their camp in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. The alleged fratricide took place at around 10 pm when constable Ajit Kumar shot three of his colleagues with his service rifle at the 187th battalion camp in the Battal Ballian area of Udhampur, they said. The officials said Kumar shot himself after killing his colleagues. They added that Kumar was critical. Kumar hails from Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh and was rushed to a military hospital nearby, they said. The deceased have been identified as head constables Pokarmal R of Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan, Yogendra Sharma of Delhi, and Umed Singh of Rewari in Haryana. The shooting, the officials said, was triggered by an altercation. Senior CRPF and police officials had rushed to the spot, they added.

J&K: CRPF jawan kills 3 colleagues, shoots himself

A 33-year-old man was killed and four others were injured Sunday when a landslide struck a remote village in&nbsp;Ramban&nbsp;district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said.

A group of labourers was on way to Banihal on foot when they came under the landslide at Khari-Mahoo road near Aarmarg in the morning, a&nbsp;police official&nbsp;said.

He said the locals pulled out the body of Mohammad Qasim Gujjar, a resident of Aarmarg, from the debris, while four others injured were shifted to hospital. 
&nbsp;

A 33-year-old man was killed and four others were injured Sunday when a landslide struck a remote village in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said. A group of labourers was on way to Banihal on foot when they came under the landslide at Khari-Mahoo road near Aarmarg in the morning, a police official said.

A 33-year-old man was killed and four others were injured Sunday when a landslide struck a remote village in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said. A group of labourers was on way to Banihal on foot when they came under the landslide at Khari-Mahoo road near Aarmarg in the morning, a police official said. He said the locals pulled out the body of Mohammad Qasim Gujjar, a resident of Aarmarg, from the debris, while four others injured were shifted to hospital.

One dead, four injured in landslide in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban

Nearly 900 stranded passengers, mostly residents of Ladakh, were Saturday airlifted from Jammu, Srinagar and Udhampur, an official said.

"A total of 881 stranded passengers were airlifted by Indian Air Force in separate sorties," State Coordinator, Kargil Courier Service, Aamir Ali said.

A total of 325 passengers were airlifted from Udhampur to Leh, 280 from Srinagar to Leh, 117 from Srinagar to Kargil, 59 from Kargil to Srinagar, 74 from Jammu to Kargil and 26 from Kargil to Jammu, he added.

The AN-32 Kargil courier service was introduced to provide an alternative to the residents of Ladakh which usually remains cut off from rest of the country due to the closure of 434-km Srinagar-Leh national highway during winter months owing to heavy snowfall.&nbsp;

Nearly 900 stranded passengers, mostly residents of Ladakh, were Saturday airlifted from Jammu, Srinagar and Udhampur, an official said. "A total of 881 stranded passengers were airlifted by Indian Air Force in separate sorties," State Coordinator, Kargil Courier Service, Aamir Ali said.

Nearly 900 stranded passengers, mostly residents of Ladakh, were Saturday airlifted from Jammu, Srinagar and Udhampur, an official said. "A total of 881 stranded passengers were airlifted by Indian Air Force in separate sorties," State Coordinator, Kargil Courier Service, Aamir Ali said. A total of 325 passengers were airlifted from Udhampur to Leh, 280 from Srinagar to Leh, 117 from Srinagar to Kargil, 59 from Kargil to Srinagar, 74 from Jammu to Kargil and 26 from Kargil to Jammu, he added. The AN-32 Kargil courier service was introduced to provide an alternative to the residents of Ladakh which usually remains cut off from rest of the country due to the closure of 434-km Srinagar-Leh national highway during winter months owing to heavy snowfall.

About 900 stranded passengers airlifted in Jammu and Kashmir

Suspected terrorists have shot dead a 25-year-old man in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-new-york-times-faces-backlash-for-missplelling-pm-modis-name-calling-pulwama-terror-attack-an-explosion-202885">Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama</a>.&nbsp;The man was identified as Ashiq Ahmad.&nbsp;

Ashiq was shot and critically wounded in Pulwama's Pingleena village. He was rushed to hospital where doctors declared him dead on arrival.&nbsp;

Initial reports had suggested Ashiq used to work as a gardener with the Indian Army but that he resigned his job a few months ago.&nbsp;

The army however said Ashiq had enrolled with them on January 15, 2018 but that he deserted eight months later.&nbsp;

The army said Ashiq had been sent to the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry regimental centre on March 21, 2018. He then went on three days of leave on September 14 and never returned.&nbsp;

Since he never took his oath as a solider, the army said, Ashiq is technically a civilian.&nbsp;

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Jammu and Kashmir: A 25-year old man has been shot dead by terrorists outside his house at Pingleena village in south Kashmir’s Pulwama. A joint team of Army and SOG has launched a cordon and search operation in the area to nab the assailants. <a href="https://t.co/b9JxFzgDHz">pic.twitter.com/b9JxFzgDHz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1105767457753427968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A joint team of the army and Jammu and Kashmir Police's Special Operations Group meanwhile has launched a cordon-and-search operation in the area to nab Ashiq's killers.&nbsp;

Suspected terrorists have shot dead a 25-year-old man in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. The man was identified as Ashiq Ahmad. Ashiq was shot and critically wounded in Pulwama's Pingleena village.

Suspected terrorists have shot dead a 25-year-old man in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. The man was identified as Ashiq Ahmad. Ashiq was shot and critically wounded in Pulwama's Pingleena village. He was rushed to hospital where doctors declared him dead on arrival. Initial reports had suggested Ashiq used to work as a gardener with the Indian Army but that he resigned his job a few months ago. The army however said Ashiq had enrolled with them on January 15, 2018 but that he deserted eight months later. The army said Ashiq had been sent to the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry regimental centre on March 21, 2018. He then went on three days of leave on September 14 and never returned. Since he never took his oath as a solider, the army said, Ashiq is technically a civilian. Jammu and Kashmir: A 25-year old man has been shot dead by terrorists outside his house at Pingleena village in south Kashmir’s Pulwama. A joint team of Army and SOG has launched a cordon and search operation in the area to nab the assailants. pic.twitter.com/b9JxFzgDHz — ANI (@ANI) March 13, 2019 × A joint team of the army and Jammu and Kashmir Police's Special Operations Group meanwhile has launched a cordon-and-search operation in the area to nab Ashiq's killers.

J&K: Suspected terrorists shoot dead man who had enrolled with the army

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/key-pulwama-conspirator-killed-in-tral-encounter-today-44-terrorists-eliminated-in-first-70-days-of-2019-army-jk-police-202613">14 JeM terrorists killed since Pulwama attack, including two key conspirators: Army</a>

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator in the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&amp;K Police.

"In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the army's Chinar Corps, said.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-in-jk-needs-to-be-tackled-militarily-first-talks-can-take-place-later-ram-madhav-202644">Terrorism in J&amp;K needs to be tackled militarily first. Talks can take place later: Ram Madhav</a>

Speaking exclusively to WION after the announcement of the general elections, Ram Madhav said that globally, insurgencies are first tackled militarily and once that is done, talks follow. The national general secretary of the BJP was speaking in the context of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Ram Madhav had been asked why the BJP had not initiated talks within the Valley. He answered that Home Minister Rajnath Singh had invited various sections of society to talk but that no one responded.

“The other side is not willing to talk. They want to persist with terrorism. Globally, governments deal with terror sternly. We have seen it in Afghanistan also. I would include Pakistan also,” Ram Madhav said.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/black-box-from-crashed-ethiopian-airlines-flight-recovered-report-202611">Ethiopian Airlines crash: Black box found, says state TV</a>

The black box from the Ethiopian Airlines flight that crashed on Sunday has been recovered by investigators at the crash site, Ethiopian state TV said on Monday.

The passenger jet bound for Nairobi crashed minutes after take-off, killing all 157 people on board and raising questions about the safety of the Boeing 737 MAX 8, a new model that also crashed in Indonesia in October.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-chief-sharad-pawar-says-he-will-not-contest-lok-sabha-polls-202608">NCP chief Sharad Pawar says he will not contest Lok Sabha polls</a>

NCP chief Sharad Pawar has said he will not contest the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

"I thought that already two members of my family are contesting polls this time and hence I felt this is right time to take decision to not contest since I already have contested 14 times in the past," Pawar said.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-chief-michel-barnier-says-brexit-talks-now-between-uk-government-and-mps-202630">Britain braces for make-or-break Brexit vote</a>

The European Union's chief negotiator on Monday shut down hopes of a Brexit compromise with Brussels, saying it was up to Britain's government and parliament to find a way forward with less than three weeks to go before the scheduled departure date.

On the eve of a crucial vote in the House of Commons on Prime Minister Theresa May's divorce deal, Michel Barnier told AFP the British leader must negotiate with MPs rather than the EU.

14 JeM terrorists killed since Pulwama attack, including two key conspirators: Army In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator in the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day.

14 JeM terrorists killed since Pulwama attack, including two key conspirators: Army In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator in the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day. The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&K Police. "In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the army's Chinar Corps, said. Terrorism in J&K needs to be tackled militarily first. Talks can take place later: Ram Madhav Speaking exclusively to WION after the announcement of the general elections, Ram Madhav said that globally, insurgencies are first tackled militarily and once that is done, talks follow. The national general secretary of the BJP was speaking in the context of Jammu and Kashmir. Ram Madhav had been asked why the BJP had not initiated talks within the Valley. He answered that Home Minister Rajnath Singh had invited various sections of society to talk but that no one responded. “The other side is not willing to talk. They want to persist with terrorism. Globally, governments deal with terror sternly. We have seen it in Afghanistan also. I would include Pakistan also,” Ram Madhav said. Ethiopian Airlines crash: Black box found, says state TV The black box from the Ethiopian Airlines flight that crashed on Sunday has been recovered by investigators at the crash site, Ethiopian state TV said on Monday. The passenger jet bound for Nairobi crashed minutes after take-off, killing all 157 people on board and raising questions about the safety of the Boeing 737 MAX 8, a new model that also crashed in Indonesia in October. NCP chief Sharad Pawar says he will not contest Lok Sabha polls NCP chief Sharad Pawar has said he will not contest the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. "I thought that already two members of my family are contesting polls this time and hence I felt this is right time to take decision to not contest since I already have contested 14 times in the past," Pawar said. Britain braces for make-or-break Brexit vote The European Union's chief negotiator on Monday shut down hopes of a Brexit compromise with Brussels, saying it was up to Britain's government and parliament to find a way forward with less than three weeks to go before the scheduled departure date. On the eve of a crucial vote in the House of Commons on Prime Minister Theresa May's divorce deal, Michel Barnier told AFP the British leader must negotiate with MPs rather than the EU.

News brief: Big stories of the day

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the&nbsp;Tral encounter earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&amp;K Police.

"In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said.&nbsp;Pakistani&nbsp;militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

"The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Pani said one of the militants killed has been identified as 'Code Khalid' and is believed to be from Pakistan.

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Indian Army Sources: In first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. 
Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC <a href="https://t.co/iqVrRhyZUE">pic.twitter.com/iqVrRhyZUE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1105053122362294272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The officials added that in the&nbsp;first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated.&nbsp;

Based on a credible input about the presence of <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489">terrorists in Pinglish area of </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489">Tral</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489"> Awantipora</a>, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area.&nbsp;

As the searches were going on, the search party was fired upon by the terrorists. The fire was retaliated leading to a gunfight. Army officials state that a search operation is still underway.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-mastermind-of-pulwama-attack-killed-in-encounter-4-soldiers-dead-too-198057">One of the key conspirators of the Pulwama attack, Kamran Hilaal, was killed</a> in an encounter in the Pinglan area of Pulwama on February 18.&nbsp;

A joint team of the Army's 55RR, CRPF and SOG Pulwama launched cordon and search operation in Pinglan area.

Two terrorists — Hilal Ahmad and Kamran Hilaal — were killed in the encounter. Authorities said Kamran Hilaal, who they say is a Pakistani official, was the mastermind of the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day.

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day. The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&K Police. "In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said. Pakistani militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter. "The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said. Pani said one of the militants killed has been identified as 'Code Khalid' and is believed to be from Pakistan. Indian Army Sources: In first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC pic.twitter.com/iqVrRhyZUE — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2019 × The officials added that in the first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated. Based on a credible input about the presence of terrorists in Pinglish area of Tral Awantipora, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area. As the searches were going on, the search party was fired upon by the terrorists. The fire was retaliated leading to a gunfight. Army officials state that a search operation is still underway. One of the key conspirators of the Pulwama attack, Kamran Hilaal, was killed in an encounter in the Pinglan area of Pulwama on February 18. A joint team of the Army's 55RR, CRPF and SOG Pulwama launched cordon and search operation in Pinglan area. Two terrorists — Hilal Ahmad and Kamran Hilaal — were killed in the encounter. Authorities said Kamran Hilaal, who they say is a Pakistani official, was the mastermind of the Pulwama attack.

14 Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists killed since Pulwama attack, including two key conspirators: Army

Speaking exclusively to WION after the announcement of the general elections, Ram Madhav said that globally, insurgencies are first tackled militarily and once that is done, talks follow. The national general secretary of the BJP was speaking in the context of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/key-pulwama-conspirator-killed-in-tral-encounter-today-44-terrorists-eliminated-in-first-70-days-of-2019-army-jk-police-202613">Jammu and Kashmir</a>.&nbsp;

Ram Madhav had been asked why the BJP had not initiated talks within the Valley. He answered that Home Minister Rajnath Singh had invited various sections of society to talk but that no one responded.

“The other side is not willing to talk. They want to persist with terrorism. Globally, governments deal with terror sternly. We have seen it in Afghanistan also. I would include Pakistan also,” Ram Madhav said.&nbsp;

Ram Madhav said that the root cause of the terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir lies elsewhere and that that needs to be dealt a serious blow. “If you hold a gun to my head and force me to talk, then I would say that it is not the way in which we believe.” &nbsp;

In a freewheeling interview with WION, Ram Madhav said Pakistan had been sent the stern message that India is not soft on terror.&nbsp;

He added that even internally, both the Congress and TDP have acted tough on Maoist terror, emphasising the point that terror will be tackled muscularly first and that only then will talks take place.

Speaking of the Lok Sabha elections, Ram Madhav said the BJP is all set to return to power.&nbsp;

He said the BJP has more alliance partners today than the Congress and that the Mahagathbandhan is yet to take shape.&nbsp;

The biggest achievement of the Narendra Modi administration, he added, has been to provide a corruption-free government.&nbsp;

On the other hand, he denied the narrative that the government is over-reliant on nationalism.&nbsp;

He did however admit that the Chhattisgarh assembly election result had been a rude surprise for the BJP with the party losing 10 per cent of its vote share in the state.&nbsp;

Attacking the Grand Alliance, he said, "There is no Grand Alliance in place. They have not been able to forge alliance in Delhi.” He said that the SP-BSP have come together because they cannot defeat the BJP in a one-to-one fight, but he added that the BJP does not take any adversary lightly.

On Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ram Madhav said her entry into politics is not going to change anything in Uttar Pradesh. “It is her re-entry. Priyanaka has always been around but we do not take our political opponents lightly."&nbsp;

Ram Madhav is the BJP's general secretary in-charge of both the Northeast and Jammu and Kashmir. It had been thought the Election Commission would announce simultaneous polls in J&amp;K (the state assembly was dissolved in November last year) but that did not turn out to be the case. 
&nbsp; 
Addressing the issue, Ram Madhav said the EC should be allowed to take an independent view of the matter.&nbsp;

Lastly, he said mediation has failed four times in Ayodhya and that it would only delay the matter further. “We respect the Supreme Court, but it has to be understood that millions of people believe in the place of birth of Lord Rama and the piece of land should be returned to them.”

Speaking exclusively to WION after the announcement of the general elections, Ram Madhav said that globally, insurgencies are first tackled militarily and once that is done, talks follow.

Speaking exclusively to WION after the announcement of the general elections, Ram Madhav said that globally, insurgencies are first tackled militarily and once that is done, talks follow. The national general secretary of the BJP was speaking in the context of Jammu and Kashmir. Ram Madhav had been asked why the BJP had not initiated talks within the Valley. He answered that Home Minister Rajnath Singh had invited various sections of society to talk but that no one responded. “The other side is not willing to talk. They want to persist with terrorism. Globally, governments deal with terror sternly. We have seen it in Afghanistan also. I would include Pakistan also,” Ram Madhav said. Ram Madhav said that the root cause of the terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir lies elsewhere and that that needs to be dealt a serious blow. “If you hold a gun to my head and force me to talk, then I would say that it is not the way in which we believe.” In a freewheeling interview with WION, Ram Madhav said Pakistan had been sent the stern message that India is not soft on terror. He added that even internally, both the Congress and TDP have acted tough on Maoist terror, emphasising the point that terror will be tackled muscularly first and that only then will talks take place. Speaking of the Lok Sabha elections, Ram Madhav said the BJP is all set to return to power. He said the BJP has more alliance partners today than the Congress and that the Mahagathbandhan is yet to take shape. The biggest achievement of the Narendra Modi administration, he added, has been to provide a corruption-free government. On the other hand, he denied the narrative that the government is over-reliant on nationalism. He did however admit that the Chhattisgarh assembly election result had been a rude surprise for the BJP with the party losing 10 per cent of its vote share in the state. Attacking the Grand Alliance, he said, "There is no Grand Alliance in place. They have not been able to forge alliance in Delhi.” He said that the SP-BSP have come together because they cannot defeat the BJP in a one-to-one fight, but he added that the BJP does not take any adversary lightly. On Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ram Madhav said her entry into politics is not going to change anything in Uttar Pradesh. “It is her re-entry. Priyanaka has always been around but we do not take our political opponents lightly." Ram Madhav is the BJP's general secretary in-charge of both the Northeast and Jammu and Kashmir. It had been thought the Election Commission would announce simultaneous polls in J&K (the state assembly was dissolved in November last year) but that did not turn out to be the case. Addressing the issue, Ram Madhav said the EC should be allowed to take an independent view of the matter. Lastly, he said mediation has failed four times in Ayodhya and that it would only delay the matter further. “We respect the Supreme Court, but it has to be understood that millions of people believe in the place of birth of Lord Rama and the piece of land should be returned to them.”

Terrorism in J&K needs to be tackled militarily first. Talks can take place later: Ram Madhav

India has suffered enough of proxy war in the last 30 years, which continues in Imran Khan’s ‘Naya Pakistan’ with same vigour as hitherto fore. &nbsp;

The surgical strikes launched in 2016&nbsp;after the terrorist attack in Uri, was the first signal that India has changed its strategy of being ‘Defensive’ as a responsible country, to adopting ‘Offensive Defense’ for protection of its citizens from Pakistan-sponsored Proxy war through the terrorist groups like JeM, LeT&nbsp;and others.&nbsp;

They continue infiltrating into India with the help of Pakistani Army and ISI, kill innocent people and lure the youth of Kashmir towards the misplaced version of Jihad, after a prolonged dose of radicalisation through Madrasas in the name of education. Some segments of the youth of Kashmir find a reason to be lured by money and privileges offered to them. The absence of any worthwhile industries due to lack of investors due to provisions like Article 370, deterring any sensible industrialist to invest in Kashmir is another reason for growing fundamentalism. &nbsp;

The recent terrorist attack on the CRPF convoy killed at least 40 personnel. The attack, claimed by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) which has the patronage of the Pakistan Army and ISI, proved that proxy war against India has become the state policy of Pakistan.

India had no other option but to give a befitting response.&nbsp;India is now convinced that surgical treatment of the terrorists is required by the complete application of ‘Comprehensive National Power’ (CNP) of India because Pakistan was unlikely to take any action against them. &nbsp;

The air strikes and aftermath&nbsp;

On February 26, 2019, a set of 12 Mirage 2000 aircraft carried out pinpoint precision strikes using SPICE-2000 guidance kit fitted on conventional bombs, making them highly accurate ‘smart bombs’ carrying out this daring raid/surgical airstrike to destroy the largest training camp of JeM. The strikes were non-military, pre-emptive action, specifically targeted at the JeM camp at Balakot in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province deep inside Pakistan territory. The target chosen was a training camp located in a thick forest on a hilltop far away from any civilian presence. India also indicated its desire of no further escalation, as the strike was directed against the terrorist group responsible for Pulwama attack and not against the state of Pakistan, its establishment or its people. &nbsp;

The air strikes had the desired effects as it is learnt that 80 per cent of bombs struck at the precise designated targets. It not only struck the heartland of terror by striking the designated targets, but it also exhibited the Pakistan Armed Forces in poor light as they failed to detect such strike, rendering all their air defence systems surprised. It also called their nuclear bluff, as Pakistan has been holding back India from military action into their territory by blackmailing that if India crosses the LoC/IB it will respond with a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;

This air strike proved that India reserves the right of self-defence and will strike terrorists wherever they are, even if amounts to getting into Pakistan territory, and would keep all options on the table, in case Pakistan decides to climb the escalation ladder in our response.&nbsp;

As expected, to salvage its pride Pakistan Air Force using three F-16 aircraft entered Indian air space with an intent to take on a military target was deterred by alert IAF combat patrol and they had to cross back to their territory. The dogfight between the F-16 and our MIG-21 resulted in both jets crashing down resulting in an unfortunate ejection of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman drifting to the Pakistani side of LoC. The Indian pilot got heroes welcome on coming back to India, whereas Pakistan refused to acknowledge the loss of F-16 aircraft and Wing Commander Shamsuddin, and preferred to hide the loss because the use of F-16 aircraft amounted to the violation of their ‘End User Agreement’ with the US. The recent flip flop by Pakistani establishment indicates its panic reaction&nbsp;after Jaish-e Mohammad (JeM) claimed the responsibility of Pulwama suicide attack.

Pakistan's DG ISPR denied the existence of JeM and its leader Maulana Masood Azhar on its soil. Later, Pakistan Foreign Minister accepted that he was in Pakistan. Subsequently, Pakistan arrested 44 JeM terrorists including Maulana Masood Azhar’s son and brother under tremendous international pressure.

Options for India post air strikes&nbsp;

In our national interest to prevent the proxy war by Pakistan, India has to use every element of CNP. It means India has to exercise a multipronged approach including - diplomatic, political, economic and military offensive against Pakistan. As the main player, the Pakistani Army will not like to compromise on promoting proxy war, because their influence and relevance in their country is due to their role of being the sole protector from “Indian threat” and keeping Kashmir issue alive. To deal with the rogue state India will have to consider some “out of box options”.&nbsp;

Diplomatic option&nbsp;

The global community is well aware of Pakistan being the epicentre of terrorism, as it continues to harbour, train, support and utilise terrorists in its surroundings to include India, Afghanistan and Iran, as its strategic assets. After Osama Bin Laden being found in Pakistan, the deniability tool of Pakistan has taken a beating. We have to keep the diplomatic offensive on so that the global community is convinced with our actions. The world opinion seems to be against Pakistan, with a fresh proposal to declare Maulana Masood Azhar a global terrorist and we need to push it through. While India may like to globally isolate Pakistan but it is practically not possible because some of the countries have a strategic interest in it. The US National Security Advisor (NSA) advocated India has the right of self-defense and the similar sentiment expressed by other states (except China) did convince the international community for our offensive-defense to prevent proxy war. The diplomatic offensive needs to continue for a long term effect because the global climate is prone to frequent changes. The US needs Pakistan to keep their interest alive in Afghanistan. Pakistan is priceless for China in terms of financial investments in CPEC. We, therefore, need smart diplomacy with China. &nbsp;

Economic offensive

Scrapping unilateral ‘Most Favoured Nation’ status and imposing 200 per cent tariffs is a symbolic gesture due to extremely low trade volume and that too skewed in our favour. We need to build a strong case with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to declare them ‘Black instead of Grey’ in the next meeting which will affect its formal economy.&nbsp;It, however, needs to be noted that the terror industry of Pakistan functions on parallel economy fuelled by narcotic trade, Pakistan Military and ISI funding. It is, therefore, imperative that we close the tap in Kashmir by the conviction of separatists involved in money laundering to the pangs of terror industry within Kashmir. Water flowing uninterrupted to Pakistan is the main source for their cultivation and power generation, more so in Punjab, which is home to the maximum ruling elite of Pakistan.&nbsp;We should start by utilising full quota of water authorised to India as per Indus water treaty, and also suspend the treaty to re-negotiate further, till Pakistan shuns proxy war against India. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Political offensive &nbsp; &nbsp;

India should move a step ahead from pure sympathy and moral support towards the barbaric treatment of Balochi nationals by the Pakistani military. India could consider giving asylum to their leaders and later may step up to allow them to form the ‘government in exile’ in India. India should start asserting its legal right over Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Military options

India has called the Pakistani bluff about the use of nuclear weapons and has all the options on the table to respond militarily to Pakistan proxy war. The space for the conventional war exists between the proxy and nuclear war. Pakistan is unlikely to adopt the nuclear option it has. Also, India should continue taking appropriate measures to bring all the separatists and facilitators of Pakistan's proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir to books. &nbsp; 
 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India has suffered enough of proxy war in the last 30 years, which continues in Imran Khan’s ‘Naya Pakistan’ with same vigour as hitherto fore. The surgical strikes launched in 2016 after the terrorist attack in Uri, was the first signal that India has changed its strategy of being ‘Defensive’ as a responsible country, to adopting ‘Offensive Defense’ for protection of its citizens from Pakistan-sponsored Proxy war through the terrorist groups like JeM, LeT and others.

India has suffered enough of proxy war in the last 30 years, which continues in Imran Khan’s ‘Naya Pakistan’ with same vigour as hitherto fore. The surgical strikes launched in 2016 after the terrorist attack in Uri, was the first signal that India has changed its strategy of being ‘Defensive’ as a responsible country, to adopting ‘Offensive Defense’ for protection of its citizens from Pakistan-sponsored Proxy war through the terrorist groups like JeM, LeT and others. They continue infiltrating into India with the help of Pakistani Army and ISI, kill innocent people and lure the youth of Kashmir towards the misplaced version of Jihad, after a prolonged dose of radicalisation through Madrasas in the name of education. Some segments of the youth of Kashmir find a reason to be lured by money and privileges offered to them. The absence of any worthwhile industries due to lack of investors due to provisions like Article 370, deterring any sensible industrialist to invest in Kashmir is another reason for growing fundamentalism. The recent terrorist attack on the CRPF convoy killed at least 40 personnel. The attack, claimed by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) which has the patronage of the Pakistan Army and ISI, proved that proxy war against India has become the state policy of Pakistan. India had no other option but to give a befitting response. India is now convinced that surgical treatment of the terrorists is required by the complete application of ‘Comprehensive National Power’ (CNP) of India because Pakistan was unlikely to take any action against them. The air strikes and aftermath On February 26, 2019, a set of 12 Mirage 2000 aircraft carried out pinpoint precision strikes using SPICE-2000 guidance kit fitted on conventional bombs, making them highly accurate ‘smart bombs’ carrying out this daring raid/surgical airstrike to destroy the largest training camp of JeM. The strikes were non-military, pre-emptive action, specifically targeted at the JeM camp at Balakot in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province deep inside Pakistan territory. The target chosen was a training camp located in a thick forest on a hilltop far away from any civilian presence. India also indicated its desire of no further escalation, as the strike was directed against the terrorist group responsible for Pulwama attack and not against the state of Pakistan, its establishment or its people. The air strikes had the desired effects as it is learnt that 80 per cent of bombs struck at the precise designated targets. It not only struck the heartland of terror by striking the designated targets, but it also exhibited the Pakistan Armed Forces in poor light as they failed to detect such strike, rendering all their air defence systems surprised. It also called their nuclear bluff, as Pakistan has been holding back India from military action into their territory by blackmailing that if India crosses the LoC/IB it will respond with a nuclear weapon. This air strike proved that India reserves the right of self-defence and will strike terrorists wherever they are, even if amounts to getting into Pakistan territory, and would keep all options on the table, in case Pakistan decides to climb the escalation ladder in our response. As expected, to salvage its pride Pakistan Air Force using three F-16 aircraft entered Indian air space with an intent to take on a military target was deterred by alert IAF combat patrol and they had to cross back to their territory. The dogfight between the F-16 and our MIG-21 resulted in both jets crashing down resulting in an unfortunate ejection of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman drifting to the Pakistani side of LoC. The Indian pilot got heroes welcome on coming back to India, whereas Pakistan refused to acknowledge the loss of F-16 aircraft and Wing Commander Shamsuddin, and preferred to hide the loss because the use of F-16 aircraft amounted to the violation of their ‘End User Agreement’ with the US. The recent flip flop by Pakistani establishment indicates its panic reaction after Jaish-e Mohammad (JeM) claimed the responsibility of Pulwama suicide attack. Pakistan's DG ISPR denied the existence of JeM and its leader Maulana Masood Azhar on its soil. Later, Pakistan Foreign Minister accepted that he was in Pakistan. Subsequently, Pakistan arrested 44 JeM terrorists including Maulana Masood Azhar’s son and brother under tremendous international pressure. Options for India post air strikes In our national interest to prevent the proxy war by Pakistan, India has to use every element of CNP. It means India has to exercise a multipronged approach including - diplomatic, political, economic and military offensive against Pakistan. As the main player, the Pakistani Army will not like to compromise on promoting proxy war, because their influence and relevance in their country is due to their role of being the sole protector from “Indian threat” and keeping Kashmir issue alive. To deal with the rogue state India will have to consider some “out of box options”. Diplomatic option The global community is well aware of Pakistan being the epicentre of terrorism, as it continues to harbour, train, support and utilise terrorists in its surroundings to include India, Afghanistan and Iran, as its strategic assets. After Osama Bin Laden being found in Pakistan, the deniability tool of Pakistan has taken a beating. We have to keep the diplomatic offensive on so that the global community is convinced with our actions. The world opinion seems to be against Pakistan, with a fresh proposal to declare Maulana Masood Azhar a global terrorist and we need to push it through. While India may like to globally isolate Pakistan but it is practically not possible because some of the countries have a strategic interest in it. The US National Security Advisor (NSA) advocated India has the right of self-defense and the similar sentiment expressed by other states (except China) did convince the international community for our offensive-defense to prevent proxy war. The diplomatic offensive needs to continue for a long term effect because the global climate is prone to frequent changes. The US needs Pakistan to keep their interest alive in Afghanistan. Pakistan is priceless for China in terms of financial investments in CPEC. We, therefore, need smart diplomacy with China. Economic offensive Scrapping unilateral ‘Most Favoured Nation’ status and imposing 200 per cent tariffs is a symbolic gesture due to extremely low trade volume and that too skewed in our favour. We need to build a strong case with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to declare them ‘Black instead of Grey’ in the next meeting which will affect its formal economy. It, however, needs to be noted that the terror industry of Pakistan functions on parallel economy fuelled by narcotic trade, Pakistan Military and ISI funding. It is, therefore, imperative that we close the tap in Kashmir by the conviction of separatists involved in money laundering to the pangs of terror industry within Kashmir. Water flowing uninterrupted to Pakistan is the main source for their cultivation and power generation, more so in Punjab, which is home to the maximum ruling elite of Pakistan. We should start by utilising full quota of water authorised to India as per Indus water treaty, and also suspend the treaty to re-negotiate further, till Pakistan shuns proxy war against India. Political offensive India should move a step ahead from pure sympathy and moral support towards the barbaric treatment of Balochi nationals by the Pakistani military. India could consider giving asylum to their leaders and later may step up to allow them to form the ‘government in exile’ in India. India should start asserting its legal right over Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Military options India has called the Pakistani bluff about the use of nuclear weapons and has all the options on the table to respond militarily to Pakistan proxy war. The space for the conventional war exists between the proxy and nuclear war. Pakistan is unlikely to adopt the nuclear option it has. Also, India should continue taking appropriate measures to bring all the separatists and facilitators of Pakistan's proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir to books. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India must opt for 'out-of-box' options to counter proxy war by Pakistan

Exclusive: Former J&K CM Farooq Abdullah questions Election Commission's decision

Four civilians, including a woman, were injured in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Sunday, officials said.

Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked firing towards Indian posts and villages in the Kamalkote area of Uri in north Kashmir, a police official said.&nbsp;

He said four civilians, including a woman, were injured in the firing.

The injured were admitted to a hospital, the official said.

An Army official confirmed the ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops, but said the Indian Army has responded to Pakistani firing in adequate measure.&nbsp;

Four civilians, including a woman, were injured in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Sunday, officials said.

Four civilians, including a woman, were injured in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Sunday, officials said. Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked firing towards Indian posts and villages in the Kamalkote area of Uri in north Kashmir, a police official said. He said four civilians, including a woman, were injured in the firing. The injured were admitted to a hospital, the official said. An Army official confirmed the ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops, but said the Indian Army has responded to Pakistani firing in adequate measure.

Four civilians injured in Pakistani firing along LoC in J-K's Baramulla

The Border Security Force has handover over a Pakistani national, who had crossed over the international border on Friday, to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-f-16-pilots-fired-4-5-amraams-at-indian-planes-from-40-50-km-sources-201455">Pakistan </a>Rangers.&nbsp;

The BSF said the Pakistani national was handed over as a "goodwill gesture" and to "maintain&nbsp;peace and&nbsp;tranquillity" along the International Border.&nbsp; 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-did-not-shoot-down-one-of-our-sukhois-india-201398">Pakistan</a> had earlier released the Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman as a "peace gesture".

The Indian Air Force&nbsp;had on February 26 conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. (The air strike had come 12 days after the suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama which had killed 40 personnel. The attack had been claimed by the JeM.)&nbsp;

Pakistan hit back a day later, dropping bombs on the Indian side of the Line of Control.&nbsp;

Pakistan said it did not cross the LoC. India said the Pakistani bombs had been aimed at Indian military installations but that they missed their targets.&nbsp;

India had scrambled jets to chase out the Pakistani planes.&nbsp;

One of those Indian planes — a MiG 21 Bison — had been flown by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wc-abhinandan-piloted-mig-21-bison-shot-down-pak-f-16-have-electronic-evidence-mea-202214">Abhinandan </a>who took down a Pakistani F-16 but was then shot down too.&nbsp;

He spent two nights in Pakistani custody before being released.&nbsp;&nbsp;

His release had very quickly de-escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Border Security Force has handover over a Pakistani national, who had crossed over the international border on Friday, to the Pakistan Rangers. The BSF said the Pakistani national was handed over as a "goodwill gesture" and to "maintain peace and tranquillity" along the International Border.

The Border Security Force has handover over a Pakistani national, who had crossed over the international border on Friday, to the Pakistan Rangers. The BSF said the Pakistani national was handed over as a "goodwill gesture" and to "maintain peace and tranquillity" along the International Border. Pakistan had earlier released the Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman as a "peace gesture". The Indian Air Force had on February 26 conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. (The air strike had come 12 days after the suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama which had killed 40 personnel. The attack had been claimed by the JeM.) Pakistan hit back a day later, dropping bombs on the Indian side of the Line of Control. Pakistan said it did not cross the LoC. India said the Pakistani bombs had been aimed at Indian military installations but that they missed their targets. India had scrambled jets to chase out the Pakistani planes. One of those Indian planes — a MiG 21 Bison — had been flown by Abhinandan who took down a Pakistani F-16 but was then shot down too. He spent two nights in Pakistani custody before being released. His release had very quickly de-escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.

India hands over Pakistani national as 'goodwill gesture'

Army Jawan Mohammad Yaseen Bhat who was kidnapped by terrorists on March 8, reached home safely today.

Bhat, a rifleman and on leave till the end of this month, was abducted by suspected terrorists from his home.

The family of Mohammad Yaseen, posted with Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Regiment, informed police that some people came to their house at Qazipora Chadura and took him away.

"Immediately after receiving the news, teams of police and Army rushed to the village. A massive search operation has been started to trace the missing soldier," a police source said.

In June last year, another rifleman—Aurangzeb—was abducted from Pulwama by terrorists and his bullet-ridden body was recovered later the same month. The deceased Army man was on way to his home for the festival of Eid when he was abducted in broad daylight from a vehicle.\

(With inputs from agencies)

Army Jawan Mohammad Yaseen Bhat who was kidnapped by terrorists on March 8, reached home safely today. Bhat, a rifleman and on leave till the end of this month, was abducted by suspected terrorists from his home.

Army Jawan Mohammad Yaseen Bhat who was kidnapped by terrorists on March 8, reached home safely today. Bhat, a rifleman and on leave till the end of this month, was abducted by suspected terrorists from his home. The family of Mohammad Yaseen, posted with Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Regiment, informed police that some people came to their house at Qazipora Chadura and took him away. "Immediately after receiving the news, teams of police and Army rushed to the village. A massive search operation has been started to trace the missing soldier," a police source said. In June last year, another rifleman—Aurangzeb—was abducted from Pulwama by terrorists and his bullet-ridden body was recovered later the same month. The deceased Army man was on way to his home for the festival of Eid when he was abducted in broad daylight from a vehicle.\ (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir: Abducted Army Jawan Mohammad Yaseen Bhat reaches home

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-imposes-ban-on-jamaat-e-islami-jammu-and-kashmir-200364">Jamaat-e-</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-imposes-ban-on-jamaat-e-islami-jammu-and-kashmir-200364">lslami</a> Jammu and Kashmir, which was banned by the government recently, has established strong links with Pakistan's ISI and has been maintaining regular contact with the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi for promoting secessionism in the state, officials said.

The most important member of the JeI (J&amp;K) in the Hurriyat Conference is Syed Ali Shah Geelani, who was at one point of time designated as the 'Amir-e-Jihad' (Head of Jehad) of Jammu and Kashmir by the proscribed organisation.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-police-crackdown-on-jamaat-e-islami-jammu-and-kashmir-top-leaders-detained-199109">JeI (J&amp;K) </a>has established strong links with Pakistan's ISI for ensuring logistics support for arming, training and supply of weapons to Kashmiri youths and its leaders continue to maintain regular contact with the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi for support, a senior government official said.

According to the intelligence inputs, the Jel (J&amp;K) has been using its network of schools to spread anti-India feelings among children in the Kashmir Valley and encouraging cadres of the Jel (J&amp;K) youth wing (Jamiat-ul-Tulba) to join 'Jihad' by getting recruited into terrorist outfits.

It is no surprise that the pattern of militancy in the Valley has a strong correlation with the spread of the hardline Jel (J&amp;K) activists in the area, the official said.

The Jel (J&amp;K) has been utilising the fear generated by Pakistan-based Hizbul Mujahideen and leveraging the financial clouts of its members and trusts under its control to mobilise funds both locally and from abroad and using these assets to consolidate its hold at the grassroot level.

This base is used to provide a fertile ground for the operation of militants outfits in the Kashmir Valley including motivation, new recruits, shelters and hideouts, couriers etc.

The hardliner elements in Jel have been at the forefront of secessionist activities and were the brain behind the formation of the All Party Hurriyat Conference (APHC) as well as Hizbul Mujahideen, another official said.

The JeI (J&amp;K) also has several trusts for running schools to disseminate orthodox Islamic education, has a youth wing and has numerous publications for spreading its fundamentalist ideology.

Behind this facade, hardliners within the JeI (J&amp;K) have been involved with militant groups, have actively participated in promotion of secessionist activities, have been questioning the finality of the Jammu and Kashmir's accession to India and have been "striving for merger of the state with Pakistan", the official said.

The group has extensive foreign links through which it secures funding and promotes its objectives. It has close links with Jel-Pakistan, Jel-POK and Jel-Bangladesh, where several leaders have faced death penalty for anti-national activities.

It has also been promoting sectarian tensions in the Valley by mobilizing opinion against the Hanfi-Aithkadi sects.

Gilani, the JeI (J&amp;K) representative in the Hurriyat, has been continuously supporting militancy in Kashmir and even during the Kargil War, he had termed the intruders as "freedom fighters".

The JeI (J&amp;K) was formed in 1945 as a chapter of the Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and separated in 1953 due to differences over political ideology with the parent body.

It is opposed to participating in the electoral process and has been pursuing the agenda of setting up an independent theocratic Islamic State by destabilising the government established by law.

The outfit was banned twice in the past due to its activities. The first time in 1975 for two years by the Jammu and Kashmir government and the second time in April 1990 for three years by the Centre, when Mufti Mohammad Sayeed was the Union home minister. The ban continued till December, 1993.

The JeI (J&amp;K) was banned again by the central government on February 28.

The Jamaat-e-lslami Jammu and Kashmir, which was banned by the government recently, has established strong links with Pakistan's ISI and has been maintaining regular contact with the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi for promoting secessionism in the state, officials said.

The Jamaat-e-lslami Jammu and Kashmir, which was banned by the government recently, has established strong links with Pakistan's ISI and has been maintaining regular contact with the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi for promoting secessionism in the state, officials said. The most important member of the JeI (J&K) in the Hurriyat Conference is Syed Ali Shah Geelani, who was at one point of time designated as the 'Amir-e-Jihad' (Head of Jehad) of Jammu and Kashmir by the proscribed organisation. The JeI (J&K) has established strong links with Pakistan's ISI for ensuring logistics support for arming, training and supply of weapons to Kashmiri youths and its leaders continue to maintain regular contact with the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi for support, a senior government official said. According to the intelligence inputs, the Jel (J&K) has been using its network of schools to spread anti-India feelings among children in the Kashmir Valley and encouraging cadres of the Jel (J&K) youth wing (Jamiat-ul-Tulba) to join 'Jihad' by getting recruited into terrorist outfits. It is no surprise that the pattern of militancy in the Valley has a strong correlation with the spread of the hardline Jel (J&K) activists in the area, the official said. The Jel (J&K) has been utilising the fear generated by Pakistan-based Hizbul Mujahideen and leveraging the financial clouts of its members and trusts under its control to mobilise funds both locally and from abroad and using these assets to consolidate its hold at the grassroot level. This base is used to provide a fertile ground for the operation of militants outfits in the Kashmir Valley including motivation, new recruits, shelters and hideouts, couriers etc. The hardliner elements in Jel have been at the forefront of secessionist activities and were the brain behind the formation of the All Party Hurriyat Conference (APHC) as well as Hizbul Mujahideen, another official said. The JeI (J&K) also has several trusts for running schools to disseminate orthodox Islamic education, has a youth wing and has numerous publications for spreading its fundamentalist ideology. Behind this facade, hardliners within the JeI (J&K) have been involved with militant groups, have actively participated in promotion of secessionist activities, have been questioning the finality of the Jammu and Kashmir's accession to India and have been "striving for merger of the state with Pakistan", the official said. The group has extensive foreign links through which it secures funding and promotes its objectives. It has close links with Jel-Pakistan, Jel-POK and Jel-Bangladesh, where several leaders have faced death penalty for anti-national activities. It has also been promoting sectarian tensions in the Valley by mobilizing opinion against the Hanfi-Aithkadi sects. Gilani, the JeI (J&K) representative in the Hurriyat, has been continuously supporting militancy in Kashmir and even during the Kargil War, he had termed the intruders as "freedom fighters". The JeI (J&K) was formed in 1945 as a chapter of the Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and separated in 1953 due to differences over political ideology with the parent body. It is opposed to participating in the electoral process and has been pursuing the agenda of setting up an independent theocratic Islamic State by destabilising the government established by law. The outfit was banned twice in the past due to its activities. The first time in 1975 for two years by the Jammu and Kashmir government and the second time in April 1990 for three years by the Centre, when Mufti Mohammad Sayeed was the Union home minister. The ban continued till December, 1993. The JeI (J&K) was banned again by the central government on February 28.

Jamaat-e-lslami established strong links with ISI: Officials

A special police officer (SPO) was seriously injured as Pakistani troops <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/j-k-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-along-loc-in-rajouri-poonch-201517">violated ceasefire</a> along the Line of Control on Friday by targeting forward posts and villages in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, breaking a two-day lull in the border skirmishes, officials said.&nbsp;

SPO Sayeed Hussain Shah was seriously injured when a Pakistani shell exploded near him at village Gondria in Shahpur sector, a police official said.

He said Shah was attended at a local hospital and later referred to Government Medical College hospital Jammu for specialised treatment.&nbsp;

A defence spokesman said the shelling from across the border in Shahpur and Kerni sectors started around 6 pm, prompting strong and effective retaliation by the Indian Army.&nbsp;

Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by heavy shelling with artillery and firing of small arms, he said adding the cross-border shelling between the two sides was still on when last reports were received.&nbsp;

There has been a spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan after India's preemptive air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Balakot on February 26 following the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.&nbsp;

Four civilians, including three members of a family, were killed and several others injured as Pakistan targeted over 80 villages in over 100 incidents of ceasefire violations along the LoC in the state since then.&nbsp;

The shelling from across the border stopped on Wednesday afternoon and the lull was broken by latest incident of firing Friday evening, the spokesperson said.

A special police officer (SPO) was seriously injured as Pakistani troops violated ceasefire along the Line of Control on Friday by targeting forward posts and villages in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, breaking a two-day lull in the border skirmishes, officials said.

A special police officer (SPO) was seriously injured as Pakistani troops violated ceasefire along the Line of Control on Friday by targeting forward posts and villages in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, breaking a two-day lull in the border skirmishes, officials said. SPO Sayeed Hussain Shah was seriously injured when a Pakistani shell exploded near him at village Gondria in Shahpur sector, a police official said. He said Shah was attended at a local hospital and later referred to Government Medical College hospital Jammu for specialised treatment. A defence spokesman said the shelling from across the border in Shahpur and Kerni sectors started around 6 pm, prompting strong and effective retaliation by the Indian Army. Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by heavy shelling with artillery and firing of small arms, he said adding the cross-border shelling between the two sides was still on when last reports were received. There has been a spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan after India's preemptive air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Balakot on February 26 following the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. Four civilians, including three members of a family, were killed and several others injured as Pakistan targeted over 80 villages in over 100 incidents of ceasefire violations along the LoC in the state since then. The shelling from across the border stopped on Wednesday afternoon and the lull was broken by latest incident of firing Friday evening, the spokesperson said.

SPO injured as Pakistan violates ceasefire in Jammu And Kashmir's Poonch

IGP Jammu Manish K Sinha on Thursday briefed media on the identity of the perpetrator of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-police-arrest-suspect-in-bus-stand-grenade-attack-201771">grenade blast at a bus stand that took place in Jammu</a>&nbsp;earlier in the day.

Sinha informed that the perpetrator, named Yasir Bhatt, was tasked to throw the grenade "by District Commander of Hizbul Mujahideen in Kulgam, Farooq Ahmed Bhatt alias Omar".

Sinha stated that Bhatt has confessed to the crime.&nbsp;

"Teams were constituted to work on leads, CCTV camera footage examined, based on oral testimony of witnesses we were able to identify a suspect. He was detained, his name is Yasir Bhatt, he has confessed to the crime," Sinha added.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik, on Thursday, announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of the deceased and Rs 20,000 each to those injured in the attack. At least 30 people have been reported injured in the grenade attack that took place on Thursday noon.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, IGP Jammu Zone on Thursday tweeted out informing of a casualty in the blast.&nbsp;The person killed was identified as 17-year-old Md Sharik.&nbsp;

"Sad to inform that Md Sharik (in pic) s/o Intijar R/o Toda, Kalyanpur, Ahatmal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, age 17 years succumbed to the injuries that he suffered in the grenade blast at Jammu Bus Stand on 7.3.19," the tweet read.&nbsp;

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IGP Jammu, Manish K Sinha on explosion at Jammu bus-stand: Yasir Bhatt was tasked to throw this grenade by District Commander of Hizbul Mujahideen in Kulgam, Farooq Ahmed Bhatt alias Omar. <a href="https://t.co/wcBsug29Kp">https://t.co/wcBsug29Kp</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1103636119701336069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion."

"Seems like the grenade has been launched from outside. It possibly had rolled beneath a bus injuring many people", Sinha told media.

The injured have been admitted to the nearest hospital with at least 3 people in critical condition.

"So far 28 persons were brought with splinter injuries. Three are critical, of whom two are being operated," Principal, Government Medical College (GMC) hospital, Sunanda Raina told news agency PTI.

The blast, which came just three weeks after the ghastly terror attack on CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district, is being described as the third grenade attack in the bus stand area of the city since May last year.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

IGP Jammu Manish K Sinha on Thursday briefed media on the identity of the perpetrator of the grenade blast at a bus stand that took place in Jammu earlier in the day.

IGP Jammu Manish K Sinha on Thursday briefed media on the identity of the perpetrator of the grenade blast at a bus stand that took place in Jammu earlier in the day. Sinha informed that the perpetrator, named Yasir Bhatt, was tasked to throw the grenade "by District Commander of Hizbul Mujahideen in Kulgam, Farooq Ahmed Bhatt alias Omar". Sinha stated that Bhatt has confessed to the crime. "Teams were constituted to work on leads, CCTV camera footage examined, based on oral testimony of witnesses we were able to identify a suspect. He was detained, his name is Yasir Bhatt, he has confessed to the crime," Sinha added. Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik, on Thursday, announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of the deceased and Rs 20,000 each to those injured in the attack. At least 30 people have been reported injured in the grenade attack that took place on Thursday noon. Meanwhile, IGP Jammu Zone on Thursday tweeted out informing of a casualty in the blast. The person killed was identified as 17-year-old Md Sharik. "Sad to inform that Md Sharik (in pic) s/o Intijar R/o Toda, Kalyanpur, Ahatmal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, age 17 years succumbed to the injuries that he suffered in the grenade blast at Jammu Bus Stand on 7.3.19," the tweet read. IGP Jammu, Manish K Sinha on explosion at Jammu bus-stand: Yasir Bhatt was tasked to throw this grenade by District Commander of Hizbul Mujahideen in Kulgam, Farooq Ahmed Bhatt alias Omar. https://t.co/wcBsug29Kp — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2019 × MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion." "Seems like the grenade has been launched from outside. It possibly had rolled beneath a bus injuring many people", Sinha told media. The injured have been admitted to the nearest hospital with at least 3 people in critical condition. "So far 28 persons were brought with splinter injuries. Three are critical, of whom two are being operated," Principal, Government Medical College (GMC) hospital, Sunanda Raina told news agency PTI. The blast, which came just three weeks after the ghastly terror attack on CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district, is being described as the third grenade attack in the bus stand area of the city since May last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu bus stand grenade attack: Police identify suspect, trace Hizbul link

A Pakistani intruder was on Friday arrested along the international border (IB) in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Border Security Force (BSF) said.

The intruder was apprehended by BSF troops in Ramgarh sector, an official of the border guarding force said.&nbsp;

He said alert BSF personnel noticed the person and caught him soon after he sneaked into this side from Pakistan.&nbsp;

He was arrested and is being interrogated, the official said without giving further details.&nbsp;

A Pakistani intruder was on Friday arrested along the international border (IB) in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Border Security Force (BSF) said. The intruder was apprehended by BSF troops in Ramgarh sector, an official of the border guarding force said.

A Pakistani intruder was on Friday arrested along the international border (IB) in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Border Security Force (BSF) said. The intruder was apprehended by BSF troops in Ramgarh sector, an official of the border guarding force said. He said alert BSF personnel noticed the person and caught him soon after he sneaked into this side from Pakistan. He was arrested and is being interrogated, the official said without giving further details.

Pak intruder held in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba

India warns Pakistan of targeting civilian areas in ceasefire violation

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-rejects-hafiz-saeeds-plea-for-removal-from-list-of-banned-terrorists-govt-sources-201780">UN rejects Hafiz Saeed's plea for removal from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-rejects-hafiz-saeeds-plea-for-removal-from-list-of-banned-terrorists-govt-sources-201780">list</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-rejects-hafiz-saeeds-plea-for-removal-from-list-of-banned-terrorists-govt-sources-201780"> of banned terrorists</a>

In a significant development, the United Nations has rejected an appeal of Jammat--ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed, the 2008 Mumbai terror attack mastermind, to remove his name from its list of banned terrorists, government sources said on Thursday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-police-arrest-suspect-in-bus-stand-grenade-attack-201771">Jammu and Kashmir: Police arrest suspect in bus stand grenade attack</a>

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said the suspected perpetrator of the grenade blast at a bus stand has been arrested. DGP Dilbagh Singh shared the information with news agency ANI.

According to reports, the suspect hails from Kulgam; more details are awaited.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-did-he-disclose-about-pulwama-and-balakot-strikes-ravi-shankar-prasad-asks-rahul-gandhi-to-clarify-on-meeting-with-g20-envoys-201803">'What did he disclose on Pulwama, Balakot strikes?' BJP asks Rahul to clarify on meeting with G20 envoys</a>

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday stepped-up its attack on the opposition and asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clarify on the meeting he had with the G20 envoys on Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-backed-force-in-syria-hopes-to-complete-evacuation-of-islamic-state-enclave-on-thursday-201764">US-backed force in Syria hopes to complete evacuation of Islamic State enclave today</a>

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) hopes the evacuation of people wishing to leave Islamic State's last enclave in eastern Syria will be completed on Thursday, an SDF commander said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-says-in-high-state-of-preparedness-to-tackle-any-threat-to-countrys-security-201798">IAF says in 'high state of preparedness' to tackle any threat to national security</a>

The Indian Air Force on Thursday released a statement maintaining the force's "high state of preparedness" to tackle any threat posed to nation's security.&nbsp;

In the statement, the IAF noted that it is ready to "proactively engage any perceived threat in the present security scenario".&nbsp;

UN rejects Hafiz Saeed's plea for removal from list of banned terrorists In a significant development, the United Nations has rejected an appeal of Jammat--ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed, the 2008 Mumbai terror attack mastermind, to remove his name from its list of banned terrorists, government sources said on Thursday.

UN rejects Hafiz Saeed's plea for removal from list of banned terrorists In a significant development, the United Nations has rejected an appeal of Jammat--ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed, the 2008 Mumbai terror attack mastermind, to remove his name from its list of banned terrorists, government sources said on Thursday. Jammu and Kashmir: Police arrest suspect in bus stand grenade attack Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said the suspected perpetrator of the grenade blast at a bus stand has been arrested. DGP Dilbagh Singh shared the information with news agency ANI. According to reports, the suspect hails from Kulgam; more details are awaited. 'What did he disclose on Pulwama, Balakot strikes?' BJP asks Rahul to clarify on meeting with G20 envoys The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday stepped-up its attack on the opposition and asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clarify on the meeting he had with the G20 envoys on Wednesday. US-backed force in Syria hopes to complete evacuation of Islamic State enclave today The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) hopes the evacuation of people wishing to leave Islamic State's last enclave in eastern Syria will be completed on Thursday, an SDF commander said. IAF says in 'high state of preparedness' to tackle any threat to national security The Indian Air Force on Thursday released a statement maintaining the force's "high state of preparedness" to tackle any threat posed to nation's security. In the statement, the IAF noted that it is ready to "proactively engage any perceived threat in the present security scenario".

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said the suspected perpetrator of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-grenade-blast-at-bus-stand-injures-at-least-28-one-succumbs-to-injuries-201752">grenade blast at a bus stand</a> has been arrested. DGP Dilbagh Singh shared the information with news agency ANI.

According to reports, the suspect hails from Kulgam; more details are awaited.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, IGP Jammu Zone on Thursday tweeted out informing of a casualty in the grenade blast that took place at Jammu bus stand earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The person killed has been identified as 17-year-old Md Sharik.&nbsp;

"Sad to inform that Md Sharik (in pic) s/o Intijar R/o Toda, Kalyanpur, Ahatmal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, age 17 years succumbed to the injuries that he suffered in the grenade blast at Jammu Bus Stand on 7.3.19," the tweet read.&nbsp;

The blast took place at a bus stand in Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) earlier today.

MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion."

"Seems like the grenade has been launched from outside. It possibly had rolled beneath a bus injuring many people", Sinha told media.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> DGP Dilbagh Singh: The person who threw the grenade at the Jammu bus stand earlier today, has been arrested. <a href="https://t.co/UtoN9uVfLW">pic.twitter.com/UtoN9uVfLW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1103619301116829696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As many as 28 people have been reported injured in the blast that is being described as the third grenade attack in the bus stand area of the city since May last year.

The injured have been admitted to the nearest hospital with at least 3 people in critical condition.

"So far 28 persons were brought with splinter injuries. Three are critical, of whom two are being operated," Principal, Government Medical College (GMC) hospital, Sunanda Raina told news agency PTI.

MoS Defence Subhash Bhamre said that, "a local investigation has been initiated into the incident. The government has already given complete liberty to the forces to take all necessary steps".

The blast site, along the BC road, was sealed off by the police while a search operation to nab the perpetrator has been sounded. No one has claimed the responsibility of the attack yet, more details are awaited.&nbsp;

On December 28-29 last year, suspected terrorists carried out a grenade attack on the bus stand with the intention to target the local police station building, an attack which took place seven months after another grenade attack along the BC Road left two policemen and a civilian injured on May 24, 2018.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said the suspected perpetrator of the grenade blast at a bus stand has been arrested. DGP Dilbagh Singh shared the information with news agency ANI.

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said the suspected perpetrator of the grenade blast at a bus stand has been arrested. DGP Dilbagh Singh shared the information with news agency ANI. According to reports, the suspect hails from Kulgam; more details are awaited. Meanwhile, IGP Jammu Zone on Thursday tweeted out informing of a casualty in the grenade blast that took place at Jammu bus stand earlier in the day. The person killed has been identified as 17-year-old Md Sharik. "Sad to inform that Md Sharik (in pic) s/o Intijar R/o Toda, Kalyanpur, Ahatmal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, age 17 years succumbed to the injuries that he suffered in the grenade blast at Jammu Bus Stand on 7.3.19," the tweet read. The blast took place at a bus stand in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) earlier today. MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion." "Seems like the grenade has been launched from outside. It possibly had rolled beneath a bus injuring many people", Sinha told media. #JammuAndKashmir DGP Dilbagh Singh: The person who threw the grenade at the Jammu bus stand earlier today, has been arrested. pic.twitter.com/UtoN9uVfLW — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2019 × As many as 28 people have been reported injured in the blast that is being described as the third grenade attack in the bus stand area of the city since May last year. The injured have been admitted to the nearest hospital with at least 3 people in critical condition. "So far 28 persons were brought with splinter injuries. Three are critical, of whom two are being operated," Principal, Government Medical College (GMC) hospital, Sunanda Raina told news agency PTI. MoS Defence Subhash Bhamre said that, "a local investigation has been initiated into the incident. The government has already given complete liberty to the forces to take all necessary steps". The blast site, along the BC road, was sealed off by the police while a search operation to nab the perpetrator has been sounded. No one has claimed the responsibility of the attack yet, more details are awaited. On December 28-29 last year, suspected terrorists carried out a grenade attack on the bus stand with the intention to target the local police station building, an attack which took place seven months after another grenade attack along the BC Road left two policemen and a civilian injured on May 24, 2018. (With inputs from PTI)

Jammu and Kashmir: Police arrest suspect in bus stand grenade attack

IGP Jammu Zone on Thursday tweeted out informing of a casualty in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/explosion-in-jammu-and-kashmir-bus-stand-2-injured-201699">the grenade blast</a> that took place at Jammu bus stand earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The person killed has been identified as 17-year-old Md Sharik.&nbsp;

"Sad to inform that Md Sharik (in pic) s/o Intijar R/o Toda, Kalyanpur, Ahatmal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, age 17 years succumbed to the injuries that he suffered in the grenade blast at Jammu Bus Stand on 7.3.19," the tweet read.&nbsp;

The blast took place at a bus stand in Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) earlier today.

MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion."

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Sad to inform that Md Sharik (in pic) s/o Intijar R/o Toda, Kalyanpur, Ahatmal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, age 17 y succumbed to the injuries that he suffered in the grenade blast at Jammu Bus Stand on 7.3.19. <a href="https://t.co/AM7CNWyYUr">pic.twitter.com/AM7CNWyYUr</a>
— IGP Jammu (@igpjmu) <a href="https://twitter.com/igpjmu/status/1103586194527604736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As many as 28 people have been reported injured in the blast that is being described as the third grenade attack in the bus stand area of the city since May last year.

The injured have been admitted to the nearest hospital with at least 3 people in critical condition.

"So far 28 persons were brought with splinter injuries. Three are critical, of whom two are being operated," Principal, Government Medical College (GMC) hospital, Sunanda Raina told news agency PTI.

MoS Defence Subhash Bhamre said that, "a local investigation has been initiated into the incident. The government has already given complete liberty to the forces to take all necessary steps".

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MoS Defence Subhash Bhamre on grenade explosion at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jammu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jammu</a> bus stand: Local investigation has been initiated into the incident. The government has already given complete liberty to the forces to take all necessary steps. <a href="https://t.co/GJofPAyfoc">pic.twitter.com/GJofPAyfoc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1103576611469836288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The blast site, along the BC road, was sealed off by the police while a search operation to nab the perpetrator has been sounded. No one has claimed the responsibility of the attack yet, more details are awaited.&nbsp;

On December 28-29 last year, suspected terrorists carried out a grenade attack on the bus stand with the intention to target the local police station building, an attack which took place seven months after another grenade attack along the BC Road left two policemen and a civilian injured on May 24, 2018.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

IGP Jammu Zone on Thursday tweeted out informing of a casualty in the grenade blast that took place at Jammu bus stand earlier in the day. The person killed has been identified as 17-year-old Md Sharik.

IGP Jammu Zone on Thursday tweeted out informing of a casualty in the grenade blast that took place at Jammu bus stand earlier in the day. The person killed has been identified as 17-year-old Md Sharik. "Sad to inform that Md Sharik (in pic) s/o Intijar R/o Toda, Kalyanpur, Ahatmal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, age 17 years succumbed to the injuries that he suffered in the grenade blast at Jammu Bus Stand on 7.3.19," the tweet read. The blast took place at a bus stand in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) earlier today. MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion." Sad to inform that Md Sharik (in pic) s/o Intijar R/o Toda, Kalyanpur, Ahatmal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, age 17 y succumbed to the injuries that he suffered in the grenade blast at Jammu Bus Stand on 7.3.19. pic.twitter.com/AM7CNWyYUr — IGP Jammu (@igpjmu) March 7, 2019 × As many as 28 people have been reported injured in the blast that is being described as the third grenade attack in the bus stand area of the city since May last year. The injured have been admitted to the nearest hospital with at least 3 people in critical condition. "So far 28 persons were brought with splinter injuries. Three are critical, of whom two are being operated," Principal, Government Medical College (GMC) hospital, Sunanda Raina told news agency PTI. MoS Defence Subhash Bhamre said that, "a local investigation has been initiated into the incident. The government has already given complete liberty to the forces to take all necessary steps". MoS Defence Subhash Bhamre on grenade explosion at #Jammu bus stand: Local investigation has been initiated into the incident. The government has already given complete liberty to the forces to take all necessary steps. pic.twitter.com/GJofPAyfoc — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2019 × The blast site, along the BC road, was sealed off by the police while a search operation to nab the perpetrator has been sounded. No one has claimed the responsibility of the attack yet, more details are awaited. On December 28-29 last year, suspected terrorists carried out a grenade attack on the bus stand with the intention to target the local police station building, an attack which took place seven months after another grenade attack along the BC Road left two policemen and a civilian injured on May 24, 2018. (With inputs from PTI)

J&K: Grenade blast at bus stand injures at least 28, one succumbs to injuries

Brave CRPF women of Jammu and Kashmir who witnessed Pulwama attack

Jammu & Kashmir bus stand blast: 19 people injured, 5 critical

Security forces busted a suspected militant hideout in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district on Wednesday, police said.

In a joint operation by the police and the Army's 44 Rashtriya Rifles, the hideout was busted in Kungnoo village of south Kashmir, a police official said.

The official said a huge quantity of "incriminating" material had been recovered.

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Visuals: A terrorist hideout busted in Shopian district's Kungnoo village, in a joint operation by Shopian Police and 44 RR. Substantial recoveries of incriminating material and other items recovered. Investigation is going on. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/2IULHAkfMA">pic.twitter.com/2IULHAkfMA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1103225838986620928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A case has been registered and the police are investigating the matter, the official said, adding further details were awaited.&nbsp;

Security forces busted a suspected militant hideout in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district on Wednesday, police said. In a joint operation by the police and the Army's 44 Rashtriya Rifles, the hideout was busted in Kungnoo village of south Kashmir, a police official said.

Security forces busted a suspected militant hideout in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district on Wednesday, police said. In a joint operation by the police and the Army's 44 Rashtriya Rifles, the hideout was busted in Kungnoo village of south Kashmir, a police official said. The official said a huge quantity of "incriminating" material had been recovered. Visuals: A terrorist hideout busted in Shopian district's Kungnoo village, in a joint operation by Shopian Police and 44 RR. Substantial recoveries of incriminating material and other items recovered. Investigation is going on. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/2IULHAkfMA — ANI (@ANI) March 6, 2019 × A case has been registered and the police are investigating the matter, the official said, adding further details were awaited.

J&K: Security forces bust militant hideout in Shopian

The Pakistan army Wednesday targeted dozens of forward posts and villages with artillery guns along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri and Poonch districts, officials said.

The intense shelling and firing from across the border continued throughout the night in Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district, while it started in Krishna Ghati sector of Poonch in the early hours of Wednesday, they said.

Officials said the Indian Army retaliated strongly and effectively, and the exchange of heavy fire caused panic among the border residents. However, there was no report of any casualty on the Indian side, they said.

Pakistan had resorted to cross-border firing at Nowshera and Sunderbani in Rajouri and Krishna Ghati in Poonch on Tuesday as well. While the cross-border skirmishes lasted for over three hours in Nowshera sector which left a soldier injured, the firing in Krishna Ghati took place from 6 pm to 8:15 pm.

Firing in Sunderbani sector started at 8:30 pm Tuesday and ended around 4:30 am on Wednesday, the officials said. Minutes later, they said the guns once again roared in Krishna Ghati sector and firing was underway between the two sides when last reports were received. There has been a spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan after India’s preemptive air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Balakot on February 26 following the February 14 suicide bombing in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

Four civilians, including three members of a family, were killed and several others injured in over 60 incidents of ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch last week.&nbsp;

The Pakistan army Wednesday targeted dozens of forward posts and villages with artillery guns along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri and Poonch districts, officials said.

The Pakistan army Wednesday targeted dozens of forward posts and villages with artillery guns along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri and Poonch districts, officials said. The intense shelling and firing from across the border continued throughout the night in Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district, while it started in Krishna Ghati sector of Poonch in the early hours of Wednesday, they said. Officials said the Indian Army retaliated strongly and effectively, and the exchange of heavy fire caused panic among the border residents. However, there was no report of any casualty on the Indian side, they said. Pakistan had resorted to cross-border firing at Nowshera and Sunderbani in Rajouri and Krishna Ghati in Poonch on Tuesday as well. While the cross-border skirmishes lasted for over three hours in Nowshera sector which left a soldier injured, the firing in Krishna Ghati took place from 6 pm to 8:15 pm. Firing in Sunderbani sector started at 8:30 pm Tuesday and ended around 4:30 am on Wednesday, the officials said. Minutes later, they said the guns once again roared in Krishna Ghati sector and firing was underway between the two sides when last reports were received. There has been a spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan after India’s preemptive air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Balakot on February 26 following the February 14 suicide bombing in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. Four civilians, including three members of a family, were killed and several others injured in over 60 incidents of ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch last week.

J&K: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Rajouri, Poonch

J&K Tral encounter: Two Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists killed by security forces

Two terrorists were killed on Tuesday by security forces in an encounter which ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in Tral area of south Kashmir district of Pulwama, official sources said.

A civilian was also injured in the shootout.

Following specific information about the presence of militants, a joint team of Special Operations Group (SOG) of state police, Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and CRPF launched a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) at Mir Mohalla and Reshi Mohalla, Tral on Monday evening.

The search operation is on in Reshi mohalla Tral, Pulwama.&nbsp;

The target house has been razed to the ground. Mobile internet services have been suspended in the town.

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Two terrorists killed in the ongoing encounter between security forces and terrorists in Tral. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/WiGLtiLWBg">pic.twitter.com/WiGLtiLWBg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1102782189261926401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On Sunday, two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Handwara, while five security personnel and a civilian have lost their lives in the gunfight. Based on credible input about the presence of terrorists in Baba Gund area of Kralgund in Handwara, a cordon and search operation was launched jointly by police and the security forces in the area on Friday.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, the Chief of Army Staff General Bipin Rawat reviewed the security situation along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) in Jammu region. According to a defence statement, Gen. Rawat, accompanied by Northern Command chief, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, visited the Nagrota-based White Knight Corps to review the operational preparedness.

Two terrorists were killed on Tuesday by security forces in an encounter which ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in Tral area of south Kashmir district of Pulwama, official sources said.

Two terrorists were killed on Tuesday by security forces in an encounter which ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in Tral area of south Kashmir district of Pulwama, official sources said. A civilian was also injured in the shootout. Following specific information about the presence of militants, a joint team of Special Operations Group (SOG) of state police, Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and CRPF launched a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) at Mir Mohalla and Reshi Mohalla, Tral on Monday evening. The search operation is on in Reshi mohalla Tral, Pulwama. The target house has been razed to the ground. Mobile internet services have been suspended in the town. Jammu & Kashmir: Two terrorists killed in the ongoing encounter between security forces and terrorists in Tral. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/WiGLtiLWBg — ANI (@ANI) March 5, 2019 × On Sunday, two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Handwara, while five security personnel and a civilian have lost their lives in the gunfight. Based on credible input about the presence of terrorists in Baba Gund area of Kralgund in Handwara, a cordon and search operation was launched jointly by police and the security forces in the area on Friday. Meanwhile, on Saturday, the Chief of Army Staff General Bipin Rawat reviewed the security situation along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) in Jammu region. According to a defence statement, Gen. Rawat, accompanied by Northern Command chief, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, visited the Nagrota-based White Knight Corps to review the operational preparedness.

Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists killed, one civilian injured in Tral encounter; combing operations underway

Seventeen kilometres from the site of the terrorist attack on the Central Reserve Police Force convoy in south Kashmir’s Pulwama in which <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">at least 40 personnel died</a>, Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits have come together to restore an 80-year-old temple and thereby send out a message of communal harmony.&nbsp;

Restoration of the temple at Achan village has begun full speed with members of both communities contributing towards it.&nbsp;

The temple is located only a few kilometres from the house of Adil Ahmad Dar, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist who carried out the attack</a>.

“We Muslims here consider this temple important and remember the old times when people used to come here to pray,” a local man — a Kashmiri Muslim — told WION.&nbsp;

“We are living here in communal harmony and the local Muslim community have also helped us in this move. We are here together for this and will continue to live like that,” a Kashmiri Pandit told WION.&nbsp;

To give the temple a facelift, an old spring and waterway will be reconstructed. That will take a few weeks, and will be followed by a religious ceremony.

The opening of the temple is expected to send out a strong message of peace and brotherhood amid the hatemongering that has followed the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

Seventeen kilometres from the site of the terrorist attack on the Central Reserve Police Force convoy in south Kashmir’s Pulwama in which at least 40 personnel died, Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits have come together to restore an 80-year-old temple and thereby send out a message of communal harmony.

Seventeen kilometres from the site of the terrorist attack on the Central Reserve Police Force convoy in south Kashmir’s Pulwama in which at least 40 personnel died, Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits have come together to restore an 80-year-old temple and thereby send out a message of communal harmony. Restoration of the temple at Achan village has begun full speed with members of both communities contributing towards it. The temple is located only a few kilometres from the house of Adil Ahmad Dar, the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist who carried out the attack. “We Muslims here consider this temple important and remember the old times when people used to come here to pray,” a local man — a Kashmiri Muslim — told WION. “We are living here in communal harmony and the local Muslim community have also helped us in this move. We are here together for this and will continue to live like that,” a Kashmiri Pandit told WION. To give the temple a facelift, an old spring and waterway will be reconstructed. That will take a few weeks, and will be followed by a religious ceremony. The opening of the temple is expected to send out a strong message of peace and brotherhood amid the hatemongering that has followed the Pulwama attack.

Watch: A few kms from Pulwama site, Kashmiri Muslims & Pandits send out message of communal harmony

A three-member team of Election Commission of India (ECI) lead by Deputy Election Commissioner Sandeep Sharma landed in Srinagar on a two-day visit to access the situation for the conduct of Lok Sabha and local assembly elections.

Members from several mainstream political parties both national and regional met the team in Srinagar just some metres away from the famous Dal lake. The political delegations have given their inputs to the team on the upcoming elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

All the parties after meeting the team said that they had asked ECI to hold Lok Sabha and state assembly elections simultaneously, given the security situation.

The first delegation to meet the ECI was Congress, which was led by its senior leader and former minister Taj Mohiuddin. Taj told the media that their party wants simultaneous elections. “Security situation has been same, be it 1996, 2008 or 2014, elections were held,” he said.

His comment has come amid speculations that the local assembly elections may not be held with Lok Sabha elections. The state is currently under President's rule after the fall of PDP-BJP collation government.&nbsp;

Interestingly, PDP also chose to favour elections in the state. Earlier their party chief and former chief minister, Mehbooba Mufti had told media that she wasn’t for elections given the circumstances.

“The Governor rule is temporary. Free and fair elections should be held in the state as people want a civilian government so that their issues are resolved. There is no alternative to an elected government. We have given our point of view to the ECI that elections should be held,” Senior PDP leader Abdur Rehman Veeri told outside the venue of the meeting.

While the oldest regional party, National conference also echoed the same tune. Party General Secretary Ali Mohammad Sagar said that the credibility of Election Commission of India was at stake and voice of people should be heard.

The team also met top officials of the J&amp;K police, district authorities and other top security officials to get a perspective on the prevailing situation.

The team will leave for Jammu and meet the stakeholders there and take their feedback. The ECI is expected to brief the media on Tuesday.&nbsp;

A three-member team of Election Commission of India (ECI) lead by Deputy Election Commissioner Sandeep Sharma landed in Srinagar on a two-day visit to access the situation for the conduct of Lok Sabha and local assembly elections.

A three-member team of Election Commission of India (ECI) lead by Deputy Election Commissioner Sandeep Sharma landed in Srinagar on a two-day visit to access the situation for the conduct of Lok Sabha and local assembly elections. Members from several mainstream political parties both national and regional met the team in Srinagar just some metres away from the famous Dal lake. The political delegations have given their inputs to the team on the upcoming elections in Jammu and Kashmir. All the parties after meeting the team said that they had asked ECI to hold Lok Sabha and state assembly elections simultaneously, given the security situation. The first delegation to meet the ECI was Congress, which was led by its senior leader and former minister Taj Mohiuddin. Taj told the media that their party wants simultaneous elections. “Security situation has been same, be it 1996, 2008 or 2014, elections were held,” he said. His comment has come amid speculations that the local assembly elections may not be held with Lok Sabha elections. The state is currently under President's rule after the fall of PDP-BJP collation government. Interestingly, PDP also chose to favour elections in the state. Earlier their party chief and former chief minister, Mehbooba Mufti had told media that she wasn’t for elections given the circumstances. “The Governor rule is temporary. Free and fair elections should be held in the state as people want a civilian government so that their issues are resolved. There is no alternative to an elected government. We have given our point of view to the ECI that elections should be held,” Senior PDP leader Abdur Rehman Veeri told outside the venue of the meeting. While the oldest regional party, National conference also echoed the same tune. Party General Secretary Ali Mohammad Sagar said that the credibility of Election Commission of India was at stake and voice of people should be heard. The team also met top officials of the J&K police, district authorities and other top security officials to get a perspective on the prevailing situation. The team will leave for Jammu and meet the stakeholders there and take their feedback. The ECI is expected to brief the media on Tuesday.

Mainstream parties in Jammu and Kashmir ask Election Commission to hold simultaneous elections

Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and the issue is strictly internal to the country, New Delhi asserted Saturday, in reaction to a resolution on the matter by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-is-a-diplomatic-victory-for-india-rajnath-singh-on-indias-invite-to-oic-meet-200709">two-day foreign ministers' conclave in Abu Dhabi</a>.

"As regards the resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir, our stand is consistent and well known. We reaffirm that Jammu &amp; Kashmir is an integral part of India and is a matter strictly internal to India," Spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Raveesh Kumar said.

Earlier, the Pakistan Foreign Office said that the 46th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of OIC concluded with a resolution that "supported" Pakistan on the Kashmir issue.

"In a resolution, the OIC member states reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir remains the core dispute between Pakistan and India and its resolution is indispensable for the dream for peace in South Asia," it claimed.

The resolution also "expressed deep concern" over the alleged human rights violations in Kashmir, the Pakistan Foreign Office claimed, adding that the resolution also reminded the international community of its obligation to ensure implementation of UN Security Council resolutions on the Kashmir dispute.

The OIC is a grouping of 57 countries, majority of which are Muslim-dominated. It has usually been supportive of Pakistan and, often sided with Islamabad on the Kashmir issue.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj attended the inaugural plenary of the 46th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of OIC on Friday. She was the first Indian minister to address the OIC meeting.

India's participation came despite strong demand by Pakistan to rescind the invitation to Swaraj to address the grouping which was turned down by the host UAE, resulting in Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi boycotting the plenary.

Swaraj attended the meeting in Abu Dhabi on March 1 as the guest of honour at the invitation extended by the Foreign Minister of the United Arab Emirates.

"We deeply appreciate this historic gesture on the 50th anniversary of their first meeting," the MEA spokesperson said.

The OIC also called for "restraint and de-escalation" in South Asia as well as the need to resolve outstanding issues through peaceful means, the Pakistan Foreign Office said.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and the issue is strictly internal to the country, New Delhi asserted Saturday, in reaction to a resolution on the matter by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in its two-day foreign ministers' conclave in Abu Dhabi.

Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and the issue is strictly internal to the country, New Delhi asserted Saturday, in reaction to a resolution on the matter by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in its two-day foreign ministers' conclave in Abu Dhabi. "As regards the resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir, our stand is consistent and well known. We reaffirm that Jammu & Kashmir is an integral part of India and is a matter strictly internal to India," Spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Raveesh Kumar said. Earlier, the Pakistan Foreign Office said that the 46th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of OIC concluded with a resolution that "supported" Pakistan on the Kashmir issue. "In a resolution, the OIC member states reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir remains the core dispute between Pakistan and India and its resolution is indispensable for the dream for peace in South Asia," it claimed. The resolution also "expressed deep concern" over the alleged human rights violations in Kashmir, the Pakistan Foreign Office claimed, adding that the resolution also reminded the international community of its obligation to ensure implementation of UN Security Council resolutions on the Kashmir dispute. The OIC is a grouping of 57 countries, majority of which are Muslim-dominated. It has usually been supportive of Pakistan and, often sided with Islamabad on the Kashmir issue. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj attended the inaugural plenary of the 46th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of OIC on Friday. She was the first Indian minister to address the OIC meeting. India's participation came despite strong demand by Pakistan to rescind the invitation to Swaraj to address the grouping which was turned down by the host UAE, resulting in Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi boycotting the plenary. Swaraj attended the meeting in Abu Dhabi on March 1 as the guest of honour at the invitation extended by the Foreign Minister of the United Arab Emirates. "We deeply appreciate this historic gesture on the 50th anniversary of their first meeting," the MEA spokesperson said. The OIC also called for "restraint and de-escalation" in South Asia as well as the need to resolve outstanding issues through peaceful means, the Pakistan Foreign Office said.

Jammu and Kashmir integral to us: India in reaction to OIC resolution

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