A day after Pakistan announced to sever trade ties with India, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said no country should get "such a neighbour".&nbsp;

He reiterated former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee`s remark to state that no country has the privilege to change its neighbouring nation.

"Our main concern is our neighbour. The problem is you can change our friends but it is not in your hands to change your neighbour. I pray that no one gets a neighbour like we have," he said during his address to Army veterans at an event in New Delhi.

On Wednesday, Pakistan announced to cut trade and downgrade diplomatic relation with India after New Delhi abrogated special status to Jammu and Kashmir granted under Article 370 of the Constitution.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Parliament approved modification in Article 370 of the Constitution which provides subjects of the state with the special right on land, government jobs, scholarship among others.&nbsp;

Pakistan has also announced to approach the United Nation against scrapping of the special provisions.&nbsp;

A day after Pakistan announced to sever trade ties with India, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said no country should get "such a neighbour". He reiterated former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee`s remark to state that no country has the privilege to change its neighbouring nation.

A day after Pakistan announced to sever trade ties with India, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said no country should get "such a neighbour". He reiterated former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee`s remark to state that no country has the privilege to change its neighbouring nation. "Our main concern is our neighbour. The problem is you can change our friends but it is not in your hands to change your neighbour. I pray that no one gets a neighbour like we have," he said during his address to Army veterans at an event in New Delhi. On Wednesday, Pakistan announced to cut trade and downgrade diplomatic relation with India after New Delhi abrogated special status to Jammu and Kashmir granted under Article 370 of the Constitution. On Tuesday, Parliament approved modification in Article 370 of the Constitution which provides subjects of the state with the special right on land, government jobs, scholarship among others. Pakistan has also announced to approach the United Nation against scrapping of the special provisions.

Hope no one gets a neighbour like ours: Rajnath Singh jabs Pakistan

Army chief General Bipin Rawat on Thursday briefed defence minister Rajnath Singh on the present situation in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/several-positive-points-in-centres-move-on-jammu-and-kashmir-says-veteran-congress-leader-karan-singh-241503">Jammu and Kashmir</a>.

The Army chief told the defence minister that the overall situation is under control and the Armed forces are on high alert and closely monitoring the situation, reported news agency ANI.

On Wednesday, National Security Advisor (NSA) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-national-security-advisor-ajit-doval-takes-stock-of-internal-security-situation-meets-security-personnel-241373">Ajit Doval</a> and Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik reviewed the security situation in the valley.

They asked the authorities to ensure the safety of the general public and take stock of their requirements and address them swiftly,

Parliament on Tuesday approved a resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-point-by-point-rebuttal-amit-shah-takes-on-congress-in-fiery-speech-after-abrogation-of-article-370-241181">Article 370 </a>of the Constitution and a bill for splitting the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladhak.

The repeal of Article 370 has also led to abrogation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-article-35a-heres-all-you-need-to-know-240752">Article 35A</a> related to "permanent residents".

Jammu&nbsp;and Kashmir has been on lockdown since Sunday and security forces are on maximum alert to "pre-empt" and "prevent" any breach of security. 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

 
&nbsp;

Army chief General Bipin Rawat on Thursday briefed defence minister Rajnath Singh on the present situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The Army chief told the defence minister that the overall situation is under control and the Armed forces are on high alert and closely monitoring the situation, reported news agency ANI.

Army chief General Bipin Rawat on Thursday briefed defence minister Rajnath Singh on the present situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The Army chief told the defence minister that the overall situation is under control and the Armed forces are on high alert and closely monitoring the situation, reported news agency ANI. On Wednesday, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik reviewed the security situation in the valley. They asked the authorities to ensure the safety of the general public and take stock of their requirements and address them swiftly, Parliament on Tuesday approved a resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Constitution and a bill for splitting the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladhak. The repeal of Article 370 has also led to abrogation of Article 35A related to "permanent residents". Jammu and Kashmir has been on lockdown since Sunday and security forces are on maximum alert to "pre-empt" and "prevent" any breach of security. (With inputs from ANI)

Overall situation in Jammu and Kashmir under control, says Army chief Bipin Rawat

Srinagar District Magistrate Shahid Choudhary&nbsp;on Thursday released two helpline numbers for the Jammu and Kashmir residents and students across the country to contact their family members in the valley, reported news agency ANI.

The two helpline numbers are : 9419028242 and&nbsp; 9419028251

"DC Office #Srinagar has established two helplines 9419028242, 9419028251. Residents/Students outside state can contact. Families back home are also using these lines to reach out," news agency ANI quoted him. 
 
On Wednesday,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-national-security-advisor-ajit-doval-takes-stock-of-internal-security-situation-meets-security-personnel-241373"> National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval</a> and Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik reviewed the security situation in the valley.

They asked the authorities to ensure safety of the general public and take stock of their requirements&nbsp;and address them swiftly,

Parliament on Tuesday approved a resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-point-by-point-rebuttal-amit-shah-takes-on-congress-in-fiery-speech-after-abrogation-of-article-370-241181">under Article 370 </a>of the Constitution and a bill for splitting the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladhak.

The repeal of Article 370 has also led to abrogation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-article-35a-heres-all-you-need-to-know-240752">Article 35A </a>related to "permanent residents".

Meanwhile, Centre has asked states and Union Territories to keep security forces on "maximum alert" following decisions related to Jammu and Kashmir to "pre-empt" and "prevent any breach of security", a communique issued by Home Ministry said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Srinagar District Magistrate Shahid Choudhary on Thursday released two helpline numbers for the Jammu and Kashmir residents and students across the country to contact their family members in the valley, reported news agency ANI.

Srinagar District Magistrate Shahid Choudhary on Thursday released two helpline numbers for the Jammu and Kashmir residents and students across the country to contact their family members in the valley, reported news agency ANI. The two helpline numbers are : 9419028242 and 9419028251 "DC Office #Srinagar has established two helplines 9419028242, 9419028251. Residents/Students outside state can contact. Families back home are also using these lines to reach out," news agency ANI quoted him. On Wednesday, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik reviewed the security situation in the valley. They asked the authorities to ensure safety of the general public and take stock of their requirements and address them swiftly, Parliament on Tuesday approved a resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Constitution and a bill for splitting the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladhak. The repeal of Article 370 has also led to abrogation of Article 35A related to "permanent residents". Meanwhile, Centre has asked states and Union Territories to keep security forces on "maximum alert" following decisions related to Jammu and Kashmir to "pre-empt" and "prevent any breach of security", a communique issued by Home Ministry said. (With inputs from agencies)

Helpline numbers released for students, residents of Jammu and Kashmir

Veteran Congress leader and last prince of Jammu and Kashmir Karan Singh&nbsp;on Thursday said that he is not in favour of the blanket condemnation of government's decision on the state, saying there are several positive points.

He also welcomed the reorganisation of the region and the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/do-these-people-even-know-what-ladakh-is-bjp-lawmakers-passionate-speech-wins-hearts-241193"> Union Territory status for Ladakh</a>.&nbsp;

"Ladakh's emergence as a Union Territory is to be welcomed. In fact, "I had suggested this as far back as 1965 when I was still Sadar-i-Riyasat of Jammu and Kashmir when I had publicly proposed reorganisation of the state", he said in a statement.

He also supported the scrapping of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-article-35a-heres-all-you-need-to-know-240752">provisions of Article 35A</a> as the issue of gender-discrimination needed to be addressed. According to Article 35A, Kashmiri women who married a non-permanent resident were stripped off their "state subject" status.

However, he condemned the government's decision to sideline the two main political parties of Jammu and Kashmir - the Peoples Democratic Party and National Conference - before deciding to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-point-by-point-rebuttal-amit-shah-takes-on-congress-in-fiery-speech-after-abrogation-of-article-370-241181">scrap Article 370</a>.

He said that leaders of both parties have made many sacrifices for the cause of India.

"I would, therefore, urge that leaders of legitimate political parties in Kashmir should be released as soon as possible and a broad-based political dialogue initiated with them and with civil society in view of the drastically changed situation," he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Veteran Congress leader and last prince of Jammu and Kashmir Karan Singh on Thursday said that he is not in favour of the blanket condemnation of government's decision on the state, saying there are several positive points.

Veteran Congress leader and last prince of Jammu and Kashmir Karan Singh on Thursday said that he is not in favour of the blanket condemnation of government's decision on the state, saying there are several positive points. He also welcomed the reorganisation of the region and the Union Territory status for Ladakh. "Ladakh's emergence as a Union Territory is to be welcomed. In fact, "I had suggested this as far back as 1965 when I was still Sadar-i-Riyasat of Jammu and Kashmir when I had publicly proposed reorganisation of the state", he said in a statement. He also supported the scrapping of provisions of Article 35A as the issue of gender-discrimination needed to be addressed. According to Article 35A, Kashmiri women who married a non-permanent resident were stripped off their "state subject" status. However, he condemned the government's decision to sideline the two main political parties of Jammu and Kashmir - the Peoples Democratic Party and National Conference - before deciding to scrap Article 370. He said that leaders of both parties have made many sacrifices for the cause of India. "I would, therefore, urge that leaders of legitimate political parties in Kashmir should be released as soon as possible and a broad-based political dialogue initiated with them and with civil society in view of the drastically changed situation," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Several positive points in Centre's move on Jammu and Kashmir, says veteran Congress leader Karan Singh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing the nation on Centre's move to abrogate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/article-370-scrapped-special-privileges-and-autonomy-never-touched-lives-of-common-people-of-jammu-and-kashmir-241451">Article 370</a> on Thursday evening, 8 pm.&nbsp;

The prime minister is likely to explain the government's move as well as Centre's decision to split Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The government on Monday had announced the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. While Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Union Territory sans legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi.

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Prime Minister Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> will be addressing the nation at 8 PM today.
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"Together we are, together we shall rise and together we will fulfil the dreams of 130 crore Indians! A momentous occasion in our Parliamentary democracy, where landmark bills pertaining to Jammu and Kashmir have been passed with overwhelming support!," PM Modi had tweeted.

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The Bills pertaining to Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh will ensure integration and empowerment. These steps will bring the youth into the mainstream and give them innumerable opportunities to showcase their skills and talents. Local infrastructure will significantly improve.
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"The Bills pertaining to Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh will ensure integration and empowerment. These steps will bring the youth into the mainstream and give them innumerable opportunities to showcase their skills and talents. Local infrastructure will significantly improve," he added.&nbsp;

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Special congratulations to the people of Ladakh! It is a matter of great joy that their long-standing demand of being declared a Union Territory has been fulfilled. This decision will give impetus to the overall prosperity of the region and ensure better developmental facilities.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1158748143736909827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-responsible-for-corruption-poverty-underdevelopment-in-jammu-and-kashmir-amit-shah-240865">Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday</a> in Rajya Sabha said that the reason for corruption, poverty, underdevelopment and lack of investments in Jammu and Kashmir was Article 370.&nbsp;

"I want to tell the people of J&amp;K what damage 370 &amp; 35A did to the state. It's because of these sections that democracy was never fully implemented, corruption increased in the state, that no development could take place," Shah stated.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in retaliation to India's move Pakistan on Wednesday announced that it will be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abrogation-of-article-370-pakistan-downgrades-ties-with-india-looks-towards-china-for-support-241399">downgrading diplomatic ties with New Delhi</a>, expel Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria and new Pakistan&nbsp;high commissioner to India Moin-ul-Haq won't be sent to Delhi by Islamabad.&nbsp;

In a statement, Pakistani foreign ministry said, "Pursuant to the decision of the National Security Committee today, the Government of India has been told to withdraw its High Commissioner to Pakistan." 
Adding, "The Indian Government has also been informed that Pakistan will not be sending its High Commissioner-designate to India."

Countries like UAE, Sri Lanka and the Maldives have backed India's move to scrap Article 370, Article 35A and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs).

The US Department of State on Wednesday said that it continues to "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-support-direct-dialogue-between-india-pak-on-kashmir-us-state-department-241415">support direct dialogue between India and Pakistan</a> on Kashmir and other issues of concern".

In a similar statement, representative Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Senator Bob Menendez, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee said that Pakistan must refrain from any retaliatory aggression - including support for infiltrations across the Line of Control in the wake of India scrapping Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing the nation on Centre's move to abrogate Article 370 on Thursday evening, 8 pm. The prime minister is likely to explain the government's move as well as Centre's decision to split Jammu and Kashmir.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing the nation on Centre's move to abrogate Article 370 on Thursday evening, 8 pm. The prime minister is likely to explain the government's move as well as Centre's decision to split Jammu and Kashmir. The government on Monday had announced the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. While Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Union Territory sans legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi. Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi will be addressing the nation at 8 PM today. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 8, 2019 × "Together we are, together we shall rise and together we will fulfil the dreams of 130 crore Indians! A momentous occasion in our Parliamentary democracy, where landmark bills pertaining to Jammu and Kashmir have been passed with overwhelming support!," PM Modi had tweeted. The Bills pertaining to Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh will ensure integration and empowerment. These steps will bring the youth into the mainstream and give them innumerable opportunities to showcase their skills and talents. Local infrastructure will significantly improve. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 6, 2019 × "The Bills pertaining to Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh will ensure integration and empowerment. These steps will bring the youth into the mainstream and give them innumerable opportunities to showcase their skills and talents. Local infrastructure will significantly improve," he added. Special congratulations to the people of Ladakh! It is a matter of great joy that their long-standing demand of being declared a Union Territory has been fulfilled. This decision will give impetus to the overall prosperity of the region and ensure better developmental facilities. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 6, 2019 × Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday in Rajya Sabha said that the reason for corruption, poverty, underdevelopment and lack of investments in Jammu and Kashmir was Article 370. "I want to tell the people of J&K what damage 370 & 35A did to the state. It's because of these sections that democracy was never fully implemented, corruption increased in the state, that no development could take place," Shah stated. Meanwhile, in retaliation to India's move Pakistan on Wednesday announced that it will be downgrading diplomatic ties with New Delhi, expel Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria and new Pakistan high commissioner to India Moin-ul-Haq won't be sent to Delhi by Islamabad. In a statement, Pakistani foreign ministry said, "Pursuant to the decision of the National Security Committee today, the Government of India has been told to withdraw its High Commissioner to Pakistan." Adding, "The Indian Government has also been informed that Pakistan will not be sending its High Commissioner-designate to India." Countries like UAE, Sri Lanka and the Maldives have backed India's move to scrap Article 370, Article 35A and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs). The US Department of State on Wednesday said that it continues to "support direct dialogue between India and Pakistan on Kashmir and other issues of concern". In a similar statement, representative Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Senator Bob Menendez, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee said that Pakistan must refrain from any retaliatory aggression - including support for infiltrations across the Line of Control in the wake of India scrapping Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi to address nation at 8pm today after scrapping Article 370

After UAE and Sri Lanka, now the Maldives has backed India government's move to scrap Article 370, Article 35A and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs).

The Maldivian government released a statement on Tuesday backing Indian move that aims integrate Kashmir more closely with the rest of the country.

"The Maldives considers the decision taken by the Government of India regarding Article 370 of the Indian Constitution as an internal matter," an official statement by the Maldives government said.

"We believe that it is the right of every sovereign nation to amend their laws as required," it added.

On Tuesday, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe backed the creation of a new Union Territory of Ladakh, noting it would be the first Indian state with a Buddhist majority.

Wickremesinghe, in a tweet, also said that the creation of Ladakh and the restructuring of Jammu and Kashmir were India's internal matters.

The UAE Ambassador Ahmad Al Banna said his country has taken note of the Indian government`s decision to abrogate Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and added that it was India`s internal matter aimed at improving efficiency.

"We also took note of the introduction of Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill in the Indian Parliament aimed at replacing Article 370 with the creation of Ladakh region and the state of Jammu and Kashmir as India`s two new Union Territories," he said.

India abrogated Article 370 which accorded a special status to Jammu and Kashmir after a resolution regarding the same was passed in both houses of the Parliament.

The Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill 2019 was also passed. It strips Jammu and Kashmir's status of a state, converting it into two Union Territories — namely Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature). 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

After UAE and Sri Lanka, now the Maldives has backed India government's move to scrap Article 370, Article 35A and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs).

After UAE and Sri Lanka, now the Maldives has backed India government's move to scrap Article 370, Article 35A and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs). The Maldivian government released a statement on Tuesday backing Indian move that aims integrate Kashmir more closely with the rest of the country. "The Maldives considers the decision taken by the Government of India regarding Article 370 of the Indian Constitution as an internal matter," an official statement by the Maldives government said. "We believe that it is the right of every sovereign nation to amend their laws as required," it added. On Tuesday, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe backed the creation of a new Union Territory of Ladakh, noting it would be the first Indian state with a Buddhist majority. Wickremesinghe, in a tweet, also said that the creation of Ladakh and the restructuring of Jammu and Kashmir were India's internal matters. The UAE Ambassador Ahmad Al Banna said his country has taken note of the Indian government`s decision to abrogate Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and added that it was India`s internal matter aimed at improving efficiency. "We also took note of the introduction of Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill in the Indian Parliament aimed at replacing Article 370 with the creation of Ladakh region and the state of Jammu and Kashmir as India`s two new Union Territories," he said. India abrogated Article 370 which accorded a special status to Jammu and Kashmir after a resolution regarding the same was passed in both houses of the Parliament. The Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill 2019 was also passed. It strips Jammu and Kashmir's status of a state, converting it into two Union Territories — namely Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature). (With inputs from agencies)

Article 370: After UAE and Sri Lanka, now Maldives back  Indian government's move

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Wednesday took stock of Jammu and Kashmir's security situation and met police personnel,&nbsp;local Kashmiri people&nbsp;in Shopian.

Jammu and Kashmir DGP Dilbag Singh was also present at the moment.&nbsp;

'No violence has been reported in the Valley with the situation being largely peaceful," said DGP Dilbag Singh.

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Jammu and Kashmir: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval meets police personnel in Shopian. DGP Dilbag Singh also present. <a href="https://t.co/RmYdmdtcUH">pic.twitter.com/RmYdmdtcUH</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Jammu and Kashmir: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval interacts with locals in Shopian, has lunch with them. <a href="https://t.co/zPBNW1ZX9k">pic.twitter.com/zPBNW1ZX9k</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1159074596605300737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Security forces are on high alert to deal with any fallout of the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories and withdrawal of special status to the state.

Doval has been given a detailed briefing on the prevailing security situation in the state.

Meanwhile, the LoC witnessed heavy shelling in the past few days and the Indian Army also foiled a Border Action Team (BAT) raid on its posts, killing at least five Pakistan Army commandos.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The forces were expecting some retaliation and officials said they were prepared to meet any eventuality.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Wednesday took stock of Jammu and Kashmir's security situation and met police personnel, local Kashmiri people in Shopian.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Wednesday took stock of Jammu and Kashmir's security situation and met police personnel, local Kashmiri people in Shopian. Jammu and Kashmir DGP Dilbag Singh was also present at the moment. 'No violence has been reported in the Valley with the situation being largely peaceful," said DGP Dilbag Singh. Jammu and Kashmir: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval meets police personnel in Shopian. DGP Dilbag Singh also present. pic.twitter.com/RmYdmdtcUH — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2019 × #WATCH Jammu and Kashmir: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval interacts with locals in Shopian, has lunch with them. pic.twitter.com/zPBNW1ZX9k — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2019 × The Security forces are on high alert to deal with any fallout of the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories and withdrawal of special status to the state. Doval has been given a detailed briefing on the prevailing security situation in the state. Meanwhile, the LoC witnessed heavy shelling in the past few days and the Indian Army also foiled a Border Action Team (BAT) raid on its posts, killing at least five Pakistan Army commandos. The forces were expecting some retaliation and officials said they were prepared to meet any eventuality.

Jammu and Kashmir: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval takes stock of internal security situation, meets locals

There is an old saying in the Army. An event takes care of itself; it’s the fallout and the post-event dynamics, which always become the challenge.&nbsp;

While complimenting the central government for the courage displayed in taking a strategic decision of no mean proportion, the resulting elation is good for a short time.&nbsp;

Now starts the process of reaping the benefits of the decision, its implementation in letter and spirit and management of its impact in different domains.&nbsp;

A few things have happened in the pre-event run-up and the short post-event follow up. The LoC has been alive and will probably not return to peace and quiet for some time. Pakistan will spare no effort to ratchet up the counters to the Indian decision and take the issue around the world. &nbsp;India will be painted the villain, if our information management is not up to the mark. There will be efforts to re-energise terror in the hinterland and provoke street turbulence.&nbsp;

A lot will depend on how we manage our security domain. The public in Jammu and Kashmir will be negatively influenced to enhance its alienation unless we can find ways to regain its confidence. Many of our countrymen have no idea about the steps needed to enhance the positive impact of the decisions.

For starters, we need to energise our diplomatic missions. We must have knowledgeable scholars speaking at every discussion initiated by important think tanks at relevant capital cities around the world.&nbsp;

The missions must be proficient in their projection of the level of tolerance displayed by India in the face of grave provocations that India is facing in the changing geopolitics of South Asia.&nbsp;

The US, China, Russia, UAE, Saudi Arabia and a host of other countries need to hear the Indian perception. A selection of outstanding commentaries from the Indian print media must be in sustained circulation in the next 24 hours. Let selected personalities access international media and institutions and be in social media conversation. This must form a part of the information reach out.&nbsp;

The Army is quite capable of securing the LoC, but it may need selective reinforcement. Its hands must not be tied by mundane budgeting issues as it happened during Doklam, when the transportation budget dried up.&nbsp;

However, the biggest challenge comes from the Kashmir’s hinterland, where rabble-rousing will be attempted under instigation from Pakistan. Mercifully, the separatist leadership is reasonably marginalised and financial networks under dismantling, but the rump elements still exist as an invisible leadership.

We cannot afford a repeat of either 2010 or 2016. In the latter case, India became the target of international criticism due to the blindings by pellet guns. The police forces will need officer-level leadership to prevent being sucked into the vortex. The Jammu &amp; Kashmir Police would need to be protected from deep-set propaganda. I can perceive its personnel coming under intense pressure. The effectiveness and role modelling of the police is a crucial factor.

Any security specialist will identify the people of Kashmir as the centre of gravity of the proxy war. The people are in anguish, confused and leaderless, thus contributing to more alienation.&nbsp;

We as a nation cannot be in celebratory mode if part of our people are in this state. Instead of targeting the Kashmiris, this is the time for us to display Indian large-heartedness.&nbsp;

I strongly recommend to the political community to form all-party committees for outreach and engagement with the people. Models for this are well known to the army, who can be consulted on this.&nbsp;

Intra-state engagement between Jammu and Kashmir segments is equally important as there are common stakes that exist. The people of Jammu and of Kashmir are embarking on a fresh journey. Let this not be in different directions. I wish to compliment the Centre for its outstanding decision not to trifurcate the state and divide Jammu from Kashmir.&nbsp;

The political community of Kashmir must regain confidence and events of the last few days must be put behind them. Their positive leadership will make a major difference. Let them all work towards returning Kashmir to normalcy faster than ever before.

It’s governance, which the government must focus on. A demonstration of quality governance must emerge in the next few days to prove just how beneficial the decision for central oversight in governance will be for the people.&nbsp;

Feedback from the ground indicates that a certain enthusiasm about this exists. The mindset of the Kashmiris that they have perforce to adjust themselves to live with corruption has to be changed. There is a bigger, better India which is waiting to absorb the Kashmiris; that is the message required to be conveyed.

The states of the Union of India where Kashmiri youth study in large numbers, cannot afford to have them running back and forth to their homes due to persistent threats to their security. The entire rationale and purpose of the government’s brave decisions would be defeated if these threats persist and a tit for tat philosophy is adopted.&nbsp;

The recommendations above by no means exclude the Kashmiri Pandit community, which has suffered much with lip service paid to its interests at most times.&nbsp;

Let the Kashmiri Muslims demonstrate their willingness and happiness to absorb them as equals in society in Kashmir. All mundane objections must be put an end to. Composite culture must re-emerge to destroy the hold that radicalism has come to establish in the region.&nbsp;

It will be contingent upon how the immediate aftermath is handled. A government which has the courage to take difficult decisions will surely be adept at recognising the impact of those decisions. That is where the hope lies.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-now-managing-the-fallout-2779537">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

There is an old saying in the Army. An event takes care of itself; it’s the fallout and the post-event dynamics, which always become the challenge. While complimenting the central government for the courage displayed in taking a strategic decision of no mean proportion, the resulting elation is good for a short time.

There is an old saying in the Army. An event takes care of itself; it’s the fallout and the post-event dynamics, which always become the challenge. While complimenting the central government for the courage displayed in taking a strategic decision of no mean proportion, the resulting elation is good for a short time. Now starts the process of reaping the benefits of the decision, its implementation in letter and spirit and management of its impact in different domains. A few things have happened in the pre-event run-up and the short post-event follow up. The LoC has been alive and will probably not return to peace and quiet for some time. Pakistan will spare no effort to ratchet up the counters to the Indian decision and take the issue around the world. India will be painted the villain, if our information management is not up to the mark. There will be efforts to re-energise terror in the hinterland and provoke street turbulence. A lot will depend on how we manage our security domain. The public in Jammu and Kashmir will be negatively influenced to enhance its alienation unless we can find ways to regain its confidence. Many of our countrymen have no idea about the steps needed to enhance the positive impact of the decisions. For starters, we need to energise our diplomatic missions. We must have knowledgeable scholars speaking at every discussion initiated by important think tanks at relevant capital cities around the world. The missions must be proficient in their projection of the level of tolerance displayed by India in the face of grave provocations that India is facing in the changing geopolitics of South Asia. The US, China, Russia, UAE, Saudi Arabia and a host of other countries need to hear the Indian perception. A selection of outstanding commentaries from the Indian print media must be in sustained circulation in the next 24 hours. Let selected personalities access international media and institutions and be in social media conversation. This must form a part of the information reach out. The Army is quite capable of securing the LoC, but it may need selective reinforcement. Its hands must not be tied by mundane budgeting issues as it happened during Doklam, when the transportation budget dried up. However, the biggest challenge comes from the Kashmir’s hinterland, where rabble-rousing will be attempted under instigation from Pakistan. Mercifully, the separatist leadership is reasonably marginalised and financial networks under dismantling, but the rump elements still exist as an invisible leadership. We cannot afford a repeat of either 2010 or 2016. In the latter case, India became the target of international criticism due to the blindings by pellet guns. The police forces will need officer-level leadership to prevent being sucked into the vortex. The Jammu & Kashmir Police would need to be protected from deep-set propaganda. I can perceive its personnel coming under intense pressure. The effectiveness and role modelling of the police is a crucial factor. Any security specialist will identify the people of Kashmir as the centre of gravity of the proxy war. The people are in anguish, confused and leaderless, thus contributing to more alienation. We as a nation cannot be in celebratory mode if part of our people are in this state. Instead of targeting the Kashmiris, this is the time for us to display Indian large-heartedness. I strongly recommend to the political community to form all-party committees for outreach and engagement with the people. Models for this are well known to the army, who can be consulted on this. Intra-state engagement between Jammu and Kashmir segments is equally important as there are common stakes that exist. The people of Jammu and of Kashmir are embarking on a fresh journey. Let this not be in different directions. I wish to compliment the Centre for its outstanding decision not to trifurcate the state and divide Jammu from Kashmir. The political community of Kashmir must regain confidence and events of the last few days must be put behind them. Their positive leadership will make a major difference. Let them all work towards returning Kashmir to normalcy faster than ever before. It’s governance, which the government must focus on. A demonstration of quality governance must emerge in the next few days to prove just how beneficial the decision for central oversight in governance will be for the people. Feedback from the ground indicates that a certain enthusiasm about this exists. The mindset of the Kashmiris that they have perforce to adjust themselves to live with corruption has to be changed. There is a bigger, better India which is waiting to absorb the Kashmiris; that is the message required to be conveyed. The states of the Union of India where Kashmiri youth study in large numbers, cannot afford to have them running back and forth to their homes due to persistent threats to their security. The entire rationale and purpose of the government’s brave decisions would be defeated if these threats persist and a tit for tat philosophy is adopted. The recommendations above by no means exclude the Kashmiri Pandit community, which has suffered much with lip service paid to its interests at most times. Let the Kashmiri Muslims demonstrate their willingness and happiness to absorb them as equals in society in Kashmir. All mundane objections must be put an end to. Composite culture must re-emerge to destroy the hold that radicalism has come to establish in the region. It will be contingent upon how the immediate aftermath is handled. A government which has the courage to take difficult decisions will surely be adept at recognising the impact of those decisions. That is where the hope lies. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India’s diplomatic and security apparatus must immediately swing into action on Kashmir issue

Just hours before her death, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-to-be-cremated-with-full-state-honours-on-wednesday-afternoon-bjp-241240">former external affairs minister&nbsp;Sushma Swaraj</a> in her final tweet&nbsp;congratulated and thanked PM Modi for the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

The veteran BJP leader, who passed at AIIMS in Delhi on Tuesday night following a heart attack had tweeted in both in English and Hindi saying she had been long waiting to "see this day".

"Pradhan Mantri ji -&nbsp;aapka hardik abhinandan, main aapne jeevan mein is din ko dekhne ki prateeksha kar rahi thi"&nbsp;

"Thank you Prime Minister. Thank you very much. I was waiting to see this day in my lifetime," she posted on Tuesday evening

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प्रधान मंत्री जी - आपका हार्दिक अभिनन्दन. मैं अपने जीवन में इस दिन को देखने की प्रतीक्षा कर रही थी. <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji - Thank you Prime Minister. Thank you very much. I was waiting to see this day in my lifetime.
— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/1158737840752037889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A day before, on August 5, Swaraj had congratulated Amit Shah for the passage of the&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill, 2019 which was&nbsp;passed in&nbsp;the Upper House of the Parliament on Monday.&nbsp;

Her tweet said, "I&nbsp;congratulate the Home Minister Shri @AmitShah ji for his outstanding performance in Rajya Sabha."

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गृह मंत्री श्री अमित शाह जी को उत्कृष्ट भाषण के लिए बहुत बहुत बधाई. 
 
I congratulate the Home Minister Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> ji for his outstanding performance in Rajya Sabha.
— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/1158371889703579648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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राज्य सभा के उन सभी सांसदों का बहुत बहुत अभिनन्दन जिन्होनें आज धारा 370 को समाप्त करने वाले संकल्प को पारित करवा कर डॉक्टर श्यामा प्रसाद मुखर्जी के बलिदान को सच्ची श्रद्धांजलि दी और उनके एक भारत के सपने को साकार किया.
— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/1158370261638320129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The former external affairs minister&nbsp;had said that the abrogation of the special provision is a true tribute to BJP ideologue Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, who died fighting for "one nation, one flag".

"Many greetings to all the MPs of Rajya Sabha who helped pass the resolution ending Article 370 today and paid a true tribute to the sacrifice of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee and fulfilled his dream of a united India," Swaraj had tweeted.

Sushma Swaraj was rushed to All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS) late on Tuesday evening after her health deteriorated.&nbsp;A team of doctors tried to revive her for 70 to 80 minutes but failed in their attempt. Swaraj was declared dead at 10:50 pm on Tuesday.

Just hours before her death, former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in her final tweet congratulated and thanked PM Modi for the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

Just hours before her death, former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in her final tweet congratulated and thanked PM Modi for the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. The veteran BJP leader, who passed at AIIMS in Delhi on Tuesday night following a heart attack had tweeted in both in English and Hindi saying she had been long waiting to "see this day". "Pradhan Mantri ji - aapka hardik abhinandan, main aapne jeevan mein is din ko dekhne ki prateeksha kar rahi thi" "Thank you Prime Minister. Thank you very much. I was waiting to see this day in my lifetime," she posted on Tuesday evening प्रधान मंत्री जी - आपका हार्दिक अभिनन्दन. मैं अपने जीवन में इस दिन को देखने की प्रतीक्षा कर रही थी. @narendramodi ji - Thank you Prime Minister. Thank you very much. I was waiting to see this day in my lifetime. — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) August 6, 2019 × A day before, on August 5, Swaraj had congratulated Amit Shah for the passage of the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill, 2019 which was passed in the Upper House of the Parliament on Monday. Her tweet said, "I congratulate the Home Minister Shri @AmitShah ji for his outstanding performance in Rajya Sabha." गृह मंत्री श्री अमित शाह जी को उत्कृष्ट भाषण के लिए बहुत बहुत बधाई. I congratulate the Home Minister Shri @AmitShah ji for his outstanding performance in Rajya Sabha. — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) August 5, 2019 × राज्य सभा के उन सभी सांसदों का बहुत बहुत अभिनन्दन जिन्होनें आज धारा 370 को समाप्त करने वाले संकल्प को पारित करवा कर डॉक्टर श्यामा प्रसाद मुखर्जी के बलिदान को सच्ची श्रद्धांजलि दी और उनके एक भारत के सपने को साकार किया. — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) August 5, 2019 × The former external affairs minister had said that the abrogation of the special provision is a true tribute to BJP ideologue Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, who died fighting for "one nation, one flag". "Many greetings to all the MPs of Rajya Sabha who helped pass the resolution ending Article 370 today and paid a true tribute to the sacrifice of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee and fulfilled his dream of a united India," Swaraj had tweeted. Sushma Swaraj was rushed to All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS) late on Tuesday evening after her health deteriorated. A team of doctors tried to revive her for 70 to 80 minutes but failed in their attempt. Swaraj was declared dead at 10:50 pm on Tuesday.

I was waiting to see this day in my lifetime, said Sushma Swaraj in final tweet

A petition has been filed against former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti, Omar Abdullah and other political leaders for allegedly opposing the abrogation of Article 370.

An advocated in Betia Court Murad Ali has filed the case under charges of sedition and criminal conspiracy for opposing the scrapping of the Article which has recently been scrapped through Presidential order.

"I have filed a case against former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti, Omar Abdullah and other political leaders who have opposed the abrogation of Article 370," Ali told ANI.

"I have filed the case under Section 124 A (sedition), 153 A (promoting enmity between different groups of religion, race, place of birth, residence and language), 153 B, 504 (Intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code," he said.

Ali said that the court heard his case and transferred the case to the court of Judicial Magistrate KK Shahi.

Next hearing in the case is on September 24. In the complaint, Ali has alleged that Mufti and Omar opposed the scrapping of the Article which has created a rage for the Indian Government through print, electronic and social media.

"They attempted to create enmity among the citizens of other states of India. They have hurt the integrity and unity of the nation. They have done the work of disturbing national integrity and peace," he said.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference deputy chief Omar Abdullah were taken under preventive arrest in Srinagar after the Centre scrapped Article 370 which gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A petition has been filed against former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti, Omar Abdullah and other political leaders for allegedly opposing the abrogation of Article 370.

A petition has been filed against former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti, Omar Abdullah and other political leaders for allegedly opposing the abrogation of Article 370. An advocated in Betia Court Murad Ali has filed the case under charges of sedition and criminal conspiracy for opposing the scrapping of the Article which has recently been scrapped through Presidential order. "I have filed a case against former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti, Omar Abdullah and other political leaders who have opposed the abrogation of Article 370," Ali told ANI. "I have filed the case under Section 124 A (sedition), 153 A (promoting enmity between different groups of religion, race, place of birth, residence and language), 153 B, 504 (Intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code," he said. Ali said that the court heard his case and transferred the case to the court of Judicial Magistrate KK Shahi. Next hearing in the case is on September 24. In the complaint, Ali has alleged that Mufti and Omar opposed the scrapping of the Article which has created a rage for the Indian Government through print, electronic and social media. "They attempted to create enmity among the citizens of other states of India. They have hurt the integrity and unity of the nation. They have done the work of disturbing national integrity and peace," he said. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference deputy chief Omar Abdullah were taken under preventive arrest in Srinagar after the Centre scrapped Article 370 which gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Petition filed in Bihar court against Mehbooba, Omar for opposing abrogation of Article 370

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday reviewed the law and order in the state following the scrapping of Article 370.

The Governor directed Deputy Commissioners of respective districts in the valley to depute their staff to visit different localities &amp; take stock of requirements of people and address them swiftly, reported news agency ANI.

Malik reiterated his concern for ensuring the safety of the general public. He also asked the authorities to extend all the help to tourists in the state.

Satya Pal Malik was informed that there was sufficient availability of essential supplies and emergency services were functioning in the hospitals. 
&nbsp;

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Parliament on Tuesday approved a resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Constitution and a bill for splitting the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladhak.

The repeal of Article 370 has also led to abrogation of Article 35 A related to "permanent residents". 
Meanwhile, Centre has asked states and Union Territories to keep security forces on "maximum alert" following decisions related to Jammu and Kashmir to "pre-empt" and "prevent any breach of security", a communique issued by Home Ministry said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday reviewed the law and order in the state following the scrapping of Article 370. The Governor directed Deputy Commissioners of respective districts in the valley to depute their staff to visit different localities & take stock of requirements of people and address them swiftly, reported news agency ANI.

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday reviewed the law and order in the state following the scrapping of Article 370. The Governor directed Deputy Commissioners of respective districts in the valley to depute their staff to visit different localities & take stock of requirements of people and address them swiftly, reported news agency ANI. Malik reiterated his concern for ensuring the safety of the general public. He also asked the authorities to extend all the help to tourists in the state. Satya Pal Malik was informed that there was sufficient availability of essential supplies and emergency services were functioning in the hospitals. × Parliament on Tuesday approved a resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Constitution and a bill for splitting the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladhak. The repeal of Article 370 has also led to abrogation of Article 35 A related to "permanent residents". Meanwhile, Centre has asked states and Union Territories to keep security forces on "maximum alert" following decisions related to Jammu and Kashmir to "pre-empt" and "prevent any breach of security", a communique issued by Home Ministry said. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik reviews law and order situation, asks authorities to ensure safety of locals

The Union Home Minister Amit Shah introduces 'Jammu and Kashmir reorganisation bill' in Lok Sabha amid opposition's ruckus. Watch video to know more.

Amit Shah introduces Jammu and Kashmir reorganistation bill in Lok Sabha

The United States on Tuesday said it was "closely following" the events in Jammu and Kashmir following the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-united-nations-urges-india-pakistan-to-exercise-restraint-240975">abrogation of Article 370</a> of the Indian Constitution that gave special status to the state.

However, it expressed concern over the reports of detentions of some politicians in the state.

"We are closely following the events in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. We take note of India's announcement revising the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir and India's plan to split the state into two union territories. We note that the Indian government has described these actions as strictly an internal matter," State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a statement, which was posted by Voice of America's White House Bureau Chief Steve Herman on his Twitter handle.

"We are concerned about reports of detentions and urge respect for individual rights and discussion with those in affected communities. We call on all parties to maintain peace and stability along the Line of Control," the statement said.

On Monday, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/top-bjp-leaders-hail-governments-decision-to-revoke-article-370-in-jk-240962">BJP-led central government scrapped Article 370</a>, along with Article 35 (A), and propose to convert Jammu and Kashmir into a Union Territory with a legislature, while hiving off Ladakh as a separate Union Territory without legislature.

Watch: US, UN keeping close watch on Jammu and Kashmir

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-un-keeping-close-watch-on-jammu-and-kashmir-240963/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Shortly after India's Home Minister Amit Shah tabled a resolution to this effect in Rajya Sabha or the Upper House of the Parliament, President Ram Nath Kovind came out with a notification -- The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019 that came into force immediately.

Ahead of the landmark announcement, Kashmir has been on the edge in the wake of a massive security build-up and the state government issued an advisory to Amarnath pilgrims and tourists urging them to curtail their visit.

Several leaders, including former chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, had claimed that they were put under house arrest amid the prevailing tense situation in the state.

The United States on Tuesday said it was "closely following" the events in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution that gave special status to the state.

The United States on Tuesday said it was "closely following" the events in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution that gave special status to the state. However, it expressed concern over the reports of detentions of some politicians in the state. "We are closely following the events in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. We take note of India's announcement revising the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir and India's plan to split the state into two union territories. We note that the Indian government has described these actions as strictly an internal matter," State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a statement, which was posted by Voice of America's White House Bureau Chief Steve Herman on his Twitter handle. "We are concerned about reports of detentions and urge respect for individual rights and discussion with those in affected communities. We call on all parties to maintain peace and stability along the Line of Control," the statement said. On Monday, the BJP-led central government scrapped Article 370, along with Article 35 (A), and propose to convert Jammu and Kashmir into a Union Territory with a legislature, while hiving off Ladakh as a separate Union Territory without legislature. Watch: US, UN keeping close watch on Jammu and Kashmir Shortly after India's Home Minister Amit Shah tabled a resolution to this effect in Rajya Sabha or the Upper House of the Parliament, President Ram Nath Kovind came out with a notification -- The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019 that came into force immediately. Ahead of the landmark announcement, Kashmir has been on the edge in the wake of a massive security build-up and the state government issued an advisory to Amarnath pilgrims and tourists urging them to curtail their visit. Several leaders, including former chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, had claimed that they were put under house arrest amid the prevailing tense situation in the state.

Article 370 revoked: 'Closely watching' events in Jammu and Kashmir, says US

The United Nations on Monday urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, saying it was concerned about the rising tensions between the two neighbours after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-shah-lauds-modi-for-unwavering-commitment-towards-ensuring-indias-unity-integrity-240935">New Delhi abrogated Article 370</a> in Jammu and Kashmir that granted special status to the state.

"We are following with concern the tense situation in the region...We urge all parties to exercise restraint," Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters.

"Over the past few days, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abrogation-of-article-370-india-briefs-unsc-envoys-tell-them-decision-aimed-at-improving-governance-240932">United Nations</a> Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) has observed and reported an increase in military activity along the Line of Control. We are very concerned about the rise of tensions," he said.

On Monday, the BJP-led central government scrapped Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, along with Article 35 (A) in the Rajya Sabha that gave a special status to Jammu and Kashmir and barred people from the rest of the country from buying property there.

The government also passed a separate bill in the Upper House proposing to divide the border state into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Rattled by India's decisions, Pakistan said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps.

Watch: US, UN keeping close watch on Jammu and Kashmir

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-un-keeping-close-watch-on-jammu-and-kashmir-240963/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ahead of the landmark announcement, Kashmir has been on the edge in the wake of a massive security build-up and the state government issued an advisory to Amarnath pilgrims and tourists urging them to curtail their visit.

The United Nations on Monday urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, saying it was concerned about the rising tensions between the two neighbours after New Delhi abrogated Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir that granted special status to the state.

The United Nations on Monday urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, saying it was concerned about the rising tensions between the two neighbours after New Delhi abrogated Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir that granted special status to the state. "We are following with concern the tense situation in the region...We urge all parties to exercise restraint," Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters. "Over the past few days, the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) has observed and reported an increase in military activity along the Line of Control. We are very concerned about the rise of tensions," he said. On Monday, the BJP-led central government scrapped Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, along with Article 35 (A) in the Rajya Sabha that gave a special status to Jammu and Kashmir and barred people from the rest of the country from buying property there. The government also passed a separate bill in the Upper House proposing to divide the border state into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Rattled by India's decisions, Pakistan said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps. Watch: US, UN keeping close watch on Jammu and Kashmir Ahead of the landmark announcement, Kashmir has been on the edge in the wake of a massive security build-up and the state government issued an advisory to Amarnath pilgrims and tourists urging them to curtail their visit.

Article 370 revoked: United Nations urges India, Pakistan to exercise restraint

Political Reactions To The Scrapping Of Jammu & Kashmir's Special Status

Gravitas: Abrogation of article 370: Here are the reactions

Gravitas: Tracing the History of Article 370

A Ready Reckoner On Government Decision To Scrap Article 370 & With It J&K's Special Status

Gravitas: Government's Kashmir Decision: All you need to know

Going By Track record, The Modi Government Has Been One Which Has Never Shied Away From Taking Big Decisions

Gravitas: Modi Government's landmark reforms & major decisions

What The Abrogation Of Article 370 Means For Jammu & Kashmir

Gravitas: Abrogation of Article 370: Key implications

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 6th, 2019

Former Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Tuesday said Congress would pay heavily for opposing measures to end special status to Jammu and Kashmir, saying the leadership of the party, which he referred to as "headless chicken", was determined to succeed in its race to the bottom.

Jaitley said the decision of the Congress, who suffered successive routs in elections, will further alienate the party from the countrymen.

"Headless chicken is further consolidating its alienation from the people of India. New India has changed. Only Congress does not realise this. The Congress leadership is determined to succeed in its race to the bottom," Jaitley wrote in a blog, calling the grand old party a "creator of Kashmir issue".

He also took a swipe at the Opposition for creating a ruckus over the scrapping of the special status of the state, saying that they made a "national integrity issue" into one on secularism.

Jaitley said Mehbooba Mufti's PDP and National Conference spoke the language of separatists in the Valley.

"Their statements in New Delhi at times are re-assuring. But in Srinagar, they speak a different language. Their stand is influenced by the separatist environment," he said.

He also said India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had erred in its experiment to hand over special powers to the state, maintaining that successive government's'&nbsp;&nbsp;attempts to resolve the Kashmir issue only worsened the situation.

"The historic blunders of special status had cost the country politically and financially. Today, when history is being re-written, it proves that Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee`s vision on Kashmir was the correct one and Panditji`s dream solution has proved to be a failure."

"In the last seven decades, attempts to resolve the issue proved a disaster, PM Modi decided to follow an alternative approach. The present decision makes it clear that just as the rule of law prevails in other parts of the country, it will equally prevail in the Kashmir valley," he wrote.

He also said that the special status only led to rising terrorism and deteriorating situation in the Valley, giving Pakistan chances to exploit the situations. "It created a separatist psyche," he said.

"By 1989-90, the situation of J and K had gone out of control and separatism with terrorism picked up. Kashmiri pundits, an essential part of Kashmiriat, suffered such atrocities which only the Nazis had inflicted in the past. The ethnic cleansing took place and they had to move out." he wrote.

lauded the Narendra Modi government for adopting an alternative, courageous path on the issue. "The decision to reverse the situation created by Panditji needed clarity, vision and determination. It also needed political courage. The Prime Minister has created history through his absolute clarity and determination," the former finance minister said.

Jaitley concluded that "total integration" of the state was the only way ahead to resolve the issue in the border state and said the move will pave way for the creation of lakhs of jobs and prosperity.

"The next logical step obviously is the total integration of the State. India`s most beautiful State has not had investments from even the hotel chains. Consequently, there are no new jobs, no revenue for the State. These constitutional provisions are not cast in stone. They had to be removed/ diluted through the due process of law that is done now," he said.

Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced to abrogate Article 35A which gave special rights to residents of Jammu and Kashmir over land and diluted Article 370. He also announced to convert the state into two union territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh

Former Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Tuesday said Congress would pay heavily for opposing measures to end special status to Jammu and Kashmir, saying the leadership of the party, which he referred to as "headless chicken", was determined to succeed in its race to the bottom.

Former Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Tuesday said Congress would pay heavily for opposing measures to end special status to Jammu and Kashmir, saying the leadership of the party, which he referred to as "headless chicken", was determined to succeed in its race to the bottom. Jaitley said the decision of the Congress, who suffered successive routs in elections, will further alienate the party from the countrymen. "Headless chicken is further consolidating its alienation from the people of India. New India has changed. Only Congress does not realise this. The Congress leadership is determined to succeed in its race to the bottom," Jaitley wrote in a blog, calling the grand old party a "creator of Kashmir issue". He also took a swipe at the Opposition for creating a ruckus over the scrapping of the special status of the state, saying that they made a "national integrity issue" into one on secularism. Jaitley said Mehbooba Mufti's PDP and National Conference spoke the language of separatists in the Valley. "Their statements in New Delhi at times are re-assuring. But in Srinagar, they speak a different language. Their stand is influenced by the separatist environment," he said. He also said India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had erred in its experiment to hand over special powers to the state, maintaining that successive government's' attempts to resolve the Kashmir issue only worsened the situation. "The historic blunders of special status had cost the country politically and financially. Today, when history is being re-written, it proves that Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee`s vision on Kashmir was the correct one and Panditji`s dream solution has proved to be a failure." "In the last seven decades, attempts to resolve the issue proved a disaster, PM Modi decided to follow an alternative approach. The present decision makes it clear that just as the rule of law prevails in other parts of the country, it will equally prevail in the Kashmir valley," he wrote. He also said that the special status only led to rising terrorism and deteriorating situation in the Valley, giving Pakistan chances to exploit the situations. "It created a separatist psyche," he said. "By 1989-90, the situation of J and K had gone out of control and separatism with terrorism picked up. Kashmiri pundits, an essential part of Kashmiriat, suffered such atrocities which only the Nazis had inflicted in the past. The ethnic cleansing took place and they had to move out." he wrote. lauded the Narendra Modi government for adopting an alternative, courageous path on the issue. "The decision to reverse the situation created by Panditji needed clarity, vision and determination. It also needed political courage. The Prime Minister has created history through his absolute clarity and determination," the former finance minister said. Jaitley concluded that "total integration" of the state was the only way ahead to resolve the issue in the border state and said the move will pave way for the creation of lakhs of jobs and prosperity. "The next logical step obviously is the total integration of the State. India`s most beautiful State has not had investments from even the hotel chains. Consequently, there are no new jobs, no revenue for the State. These constitutional provisions are not cast in stone. They had to be removed/ diluted through the due process of law that is done now," he said. Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced to abrogate Article 35A which gave special rights to residents of Jammu and Kashmir over land and diluted Article 370. He also announced to convert the state into two union territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh

'Headless chicken' consolidating alienation from people of India: Jaitley slams Cong on Art 370 stand

United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres is following with concern the tense situation between India and Pakistan.

US, UN keeping close watch on Jammu and Kashmir

Top BJP leaders, including the party's working President JP Nadda, on Monday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/true-development-and-integration-of-jammu-and-kashmir-will-happen-now-nirmala-sitharaman-240845">hailed the central government's decision</a> to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/history-of-kashmir-and-what-revoking-of-special-status-means-240878">revoke Article 370</a>, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

"This day will be marked in golden letters when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-omar-abdullah-mehbooba-mufti-detained-after-special-status-to-jammu-and-kashmir-is-revoked-240931">Articles 370 and 35A</a> of the Constitution was revoked to restore the unity and integrity of India and to connect Kashmir with the main development stream," Nadda tweeted.

Union Minister for Petroleum Dharmendra Pradhan congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for their "bold step" and termed the move as the correction of "a historic wrong."

"Compliments to PM Narendra Modiji and HM Amit Shahji for taking a bold step to correct a historic wrong!" Pradhan tweeted.

"Tough resolve, patience, courage and relentless pursuit of larger goals make a leader. The dream which started from Lal Chowk in 1992 led to an incredible journey of a leader who made history today by taking this step to fulfil aspirations of people in Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh," read another tweet.

Union Minister for Railways Piyush Goyal also congratulated the Modi-Shah duo.

"Congratulations to PM Narendra Modi and HM Amit Shah for moving to revoke Article 370 from Kashmir. This will increase the unity of the nation, lead to new avenues of development in Kashmir, and will enable the people to move ahead at par with the rest of the nation towards advancement" he tweeted.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat also hailed the decision by saying, "I congratulate Narendra Modiji and Amit Shahji for their step. Today our country has become one, on this day the widows and families of the soldiers who gave up their lives defending the nation and Kashmir should feel proud."

Minister of State (MoS) Jitendra Singh, while congratulating Modi and Shah, said the BJP was completing Congress' "unfinished agenda".

"I am amazed by the behaviour of Congress. We are completing the unfinished agenda of Congress. Even Jawaharlal Nehru himself had said it once that it will be removed someday, Modi and Shah made it possible. Those who understand the situation of the people of Jammu and Kashmir will support this," Singh told ANI.

Former Union Minister and BJP leader Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said Article 370 was a hindrance in the development of Jammu and Kashmir, adding that with it gone, the state will prosper and terrorism will stop.

Article 370 dissolves, Jammu &amp; Kashmir now a UT; Watch the top developments

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"Kashmir was separated from the country because of Article 370. Because of this article, Kashmir was not growing. I would like to congratulate Prime Minister Modi, Amit Shah and everyone for this step. Gujjars living in Kashmir will get reservations and terrorism will stop," Rathore said.

On Monday, the Centre scrapped Article 370 of the Constitution that&nbsp;gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Shortly after Shah tabled a resolution to this effect in Rajya Sabha, President Ram Nath Kovind came out with a notification -- The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019 that will come into force immediately.

The order will supersede the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954 as amended from time to time.

Top BJP leaders, including the party's working President JP Nadda, on Monday, hailed the central government's decision to revoke Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Top BJP leaders, including the party's working President JP Nadda, on Monday, hailed the central government's decision to revoke Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. "This day will be marked in golden letters when Articles 370 and 35A of the Constitution was revoked to restore the unity and integrity of India and to connect Kashmir with the main development stream," Nadda tweeted. Union Minister for Petroleum Dharmendra Pradhan congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for their "bold step" and termed the move as the correction of "a historic wrong." "Compliments to PM Narendra Modiji and HM Amit Shahji for taking a bold step to correct a historic wrong!" Pradhan tweeted. "Tough resolve, patience, courage and relentless pursuit of larger goals make a leader. The dream which started from Lal Chowk in 1992 led to an incredible journey of a leader who made history today by taking this step to fulfil aspirations of people in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh," read another tweet. Union Minister for Railways Piyush Goyal also congratulated the Modi-Shah duo. "Congratulations to PM Narendra Modi and HM Amit Shah for moving to revoke Article 370 from Kashmir. This will increase the unity of the nation, lead to new avenues of development in Kashmir, and will enable the people to move ahead at par with the rest of the nation towards advancement" he tweeted. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat also hailed the decision by saying, "I congratulate Narendra Modiji and Amit Shahji for their step. Today our country has become one, on this day the widows and families of the soldiers who gave up their lives defending the nation and Kashmir should feel proud." Minister of State (MoS) Jitendra Singh, while congratulating Modi and Shah, said the BJP was completing Congress' "unfinished agenda". "I am amazed by the behaviour of Congress. We are completing the unfinished agenda of Congress. Even Jawaharlal Nehru himself had said it once that it will be removed someday, Modi and Shah made it possible. Those who understand the situation of the people of Jammu and Kashmir will support this," Singh told ANI. Former Union Minister and BJP leader Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said Article 370 was a hindrance in the development of Jammu and Kashmir, adding that with it gone, the state will prosper and terrorism will stop. Article 370 dissolves, Jammu & Kashmir now a UT; Watch the top developments "Kashmir was separated from the country because of Article 370. Because of this article, Kashmir was not growing. I would like to congratulate Prime Minister Modi, Amit Shah and everyone for this step. Gujjars living in Kashmir will get reservations and terrorism will stop," Rathore said. On Monday, the Centre scrapped Article 370 of the Constitution that gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Shortly after Shah tabled a resolution to this effect in Rajya Sabha, President Ram Nath Kovind came out with a notification -- The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019 that will come into force immediately. The order will supersede the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954 as amended from time to time.

Top BJP leaders hail government's decision to revoke Article 370 in J&K

After a day of fiery debate in Lok Sabha over the abrogation of Article 370 to strip Jammu and Kashmir of special status, Home Minister Amit Shah responded to several criticism and allegations levelled by opposition party leaders against the government’s move.

Amit Shah responds to the concerns of the members of the Lok Sabha over Article 370

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