Bharatiya Janata Party leaders including state general secretary Ashok Koul held a protest in Jammu and Kashmir against the security concerns of political activists in the state whose security has been withdrawn.&nbsp;

Koul along with several party leaders and activists raised slogans with plea cards reading “provide security to BJP workers in Kashmir.”&nbsp;

The state general secretary has also written a letter to the ADGP security, law and order asking him to withdraw his security with immediate effect in protest against the removal of security to several BJP activists.&nbsp;

He says the security of Gul Mohammad Mir, the BJP vice president in Anantnag district of south Kashmir, was withdrawn which resulted in his killing.

“Security of Gul was withdrawn by the administration following which he became a target and after his killing some cops were sent to his home to guard who? I’ve asked DG police to send these cops to the grave of Gul now,” angry Kaul said.&nbsp;

However, on being asked about the role of the central government in giving directions for the withdrawal, he said the list was prepared by the administration in the state and needs to be revisited.

BJP leaders say that they are now under threat from terrorists. Koul also left his bulletproof Scorpio car provided by the administration at the city centre and hired an auto to move back.&nbsp;

Security of several separatists and political activities was withdrawn following directions from the centre after Pulwama suicide attack. The list included people from BJP, National Conference, PDP and other parties. All the parties had warned the administration of killings of their activists earlier.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party leaders including state general secretary Ashok Koul held a protest in Jammu and Kashmir against the security concerns of political activists in the state whose security has been withdrawn.

Bharatiya Janata Party leaders including state general secretary Ashok Koul held a protest in Jammu and Kashmir against the security concerns of political activists in the state whose security has been withdrawn. Koul along with several party leaders and activists raised slogans with plea cards reading “provide security to BJP workers in Kashmir.” The state general secretary has also written a letter to the ADGP security, law and order asking him to withdraw his security with immediate effect in protest against the removal of security to several BJP activists. He says the security of Gul Mohammad Mir, the BJP vice president in Anantnag district of south Kashmir, was withdrawn which resulted in his killing. “Security of Gul was withdrawn by the administration following which he became a target and after his killing some cops were sent to his home to guard who? I’ve asked DG police to send these cops to the grave of Gul now,” angry Kaul said. However, on being asked about the role of the central government in giving directions for the withdrawal, he said the list was prepared by the administration in the state and needs to be revisited. BJP leaders say that they are now under threat from terrorists. Koul also left his bulletproof Scorpio car provided by the administration at the city centre and hired an auto to move back. Security of several separatists and political activities was withdrawn following directions from the centre after Pulwama suicide attack. The list included people from BJP, National Conference, PDP and other parties. All the parties had warned the administration of killings of their activists earlier.

J&K: BJP leaders protest against killing of activist, ask administration to revisit security withdrawal list

Terrorists Monday lobbed a grenade towards a polling station in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-elections-polling-underway-in-seven-states-in-fifth-phase-216212">polling is underway</a> for the Anantnag constituency in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections, police said.

A grenade was lobbed towards Rohmoo polling station in Pulwama but there were no reports of any casualties in the blast, a police official said.

He said security forces have cordoned off the area.

This was the first terrorist attack on a polling station in this Lok Sabha election in Jammu and Kashmir.

Polling is being held in Pulwama and Shopian districts of Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency which also includes Anantnag and Kulgam districts as well.

The Lok Sabha polls to this constituency are being held in three phases due to security reasons.

Anantnag district went to polls on 23 April, while voting in Kulgam district took place on 29 April.

There are 18 candidates in the fray for Anantnag constituency including PDP president and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti.&nbsp;

Terrorists Monday lobbed a grenade towards a polling station in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir where polling is underway for the Anantnag constituency in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections, police said.

Terrorists Monday lobbed a grenade towards a polling station in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir where polling is underway for the Anantnag constituency in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections, police said. A grenade was lobbed towards Rohmoo polling station in Pulwama but there were no reports of any casualties in the blast, a police official said. He said security forces have cordoned off the area. This was the first terrorist attack on a polling station in this Lok Sabha election in Jammu and Kashmir. Polling is being held in Pulwama and Shopian districts of Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency which also includes Anantnag and Kulgam districts as well. The Lok Sabha polls to this constituency are being held in three phases due to security reasons. Anantnag district went to polls on 23 April, while voting in Kulgam district took place on 29 April. There are 18 candidates in the fray for Anantnag constituency including PDP president and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti.

Lok Sabha polls phase 5: Grenade attack on polling station in Pulwama

A civilian was injured in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Degwar village of Poonch district in Jammu and Kashmir.

The civilian received bullet injury on his head during ceasefire violation that took place on Sunday at around 8:30 pm.

Tehsildar Haveli Poonch, Naresh Kumar told ANI, "He was injured in ceasefire violation by Pakistan around 8:30 pm today. He suffered a bullet injury in the head. The treatment is underway".

Yesterday, Pakistan resorted to mortar shelling and firing of small arms in Poonch and Rajouri districts.

Keeping in view the safety of students, all government and private schools up to 10+2 level within 0-5 Km distance from LoC in Keri sector (Education Zone Doongi) of Rajouri will remain closed on May 6.

"As a precautionary measure and keeping in view safety of the students, all Govt &amp; Pvt. schools up to 10+2 level within 0-5 Km distance from LoC in Keri sector (Education Zone Doongi) of Rajouri shall remain closed tomorrow, May 6," Rajouri Deputy Commissioner, Mohammad Aijaz Asad said.&nbsp;

A civilian was injured in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Degwar village of Poonch district in Jammu and Kashmir. The civilian received bullet injury on his head during ceasefire violation that took place on Sunday at around 8:30 pm.

A civilian was injured in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Degwar village of Poonch district in Jammu and Kashmir. The civilian received bullet injury on his head during ceasefire violation that took place on Sunday at around 8:30 pm. Tehsildar Haveli Poonch, Naresh Kumar told ANI, "He was injured in ceasefire violation by Pakistan around 8:30 pm today. He suffered a bullet injury in the head. The treatment is underway". Yesterday, Pakistan resorted to mortar shelling and firing of small arms in Poonch and Rajouri districts. Keeping in view the safety of students, all government and private schools up to 10+2 level within 0-5 Km distance from LoC in Keri sector (Education Zone Doongi) of Rajouri will remain closed on May 6. "As a precautionary measure and keeping in view safety of the students, all Govt & Pvt. schools up to 10+2 level within 0-5 Km distance from LoC in Keri sector (Education Zone Doongi) of Rajouri shall remain closed tomorrow, May 6," Rajouri Deputy Commissioner, Mohammad Aijaz Asad said.

Jammu and Kashmir: Civilian injured in ceasefire violation by Pakistan

A BJP worker was shot dead by suspected militants in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir Saturday, police said.

Unknown terrorists fired at a member of the BJP, Gul Muhammad Mir, at Nowgam Verinag, a police official said.

The official said Mir was rushed to a hospital in a critical condition where he succumbed to injuries.

The area has been cordoned off to nab the suspects, the official said.

A BJP worker was shot dead by suspected militants in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir Saturday, police said. Unknown terrorists fired at a member of the BJP, Gul Muhammad Mir, at Nowgam Verinag, a police official said.

A BJP worker was shot dead by suspected militants in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir Saturday, police said. Unknown terrorists fired at a member of the BJP, Gul Muhammad Mir, at Nowgam Verinag, a police official said. The official said Mir was rushed to a hospital in a critical condition where he succumbed to injuries. The area has been cordoned off to nab the suspects, the official said.

BJP worker shot dead by suspected militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-worker-shot-dead-by-suspected-militants-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-anantnag-215988">killing of BJP's district vice-president Gul Mohammed Mir by militants</a>.

In his message, the prime minister remembered Mir as a leader who "contributed towards strengthening the party in the state".&nbsp;&nbsp;

"There is no place for such violence in our country," the PM added.&nbsp;

"Strongly condemn the killing of J&amp;K BJP leader Ghulam Mohammed Mir. His contribution towards strengthening the party in J&amp;K will always be remembered. There is no place for such violence in our country. Condolences to his family and well-wishers," his message read.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the BJP, in a statement, expressed deepest condolences to Mir's family and demanded strict action against "ill elements who are spoiling peace in the valley and killing innocent people".

NC vice-president Omar Abdullah and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also condemned Mir's killing.

"I condemn this dastardly act of violence and pray for the soul of the departed, Allah Jannat naseeb karey (May God grant him a place in heaven)... Gul Mohd Mir was the district vice president of the BJP state unit. May his family and loved ones find strength at this difficult time," Abdullah tweeted.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti posted on Twitter, "I strongly condemn the killing of @BJP4India leader Gul Muhammad Mir in Verinag, South Kashmir. My condolences to the bereaved family and prayers for the departed soul."

Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president G A Mir also condemned Mir's killing and described the incident as "mindless, cowardice and shameful act". He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family, a party spokesman said.

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PM Narendra Modi: Strongly condemn the killing of J&amp;K BJP leader Ghulam Mohammed Mir. His contribution towards strengthening the party in J&amp;K will always be remembered. There is no place for such violence in our country. Condolences to his family and well-wishers. (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/56w35GLkoL">pic.twitter.com/56w35GLkoL</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1124877101755129856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mir was killed at his residence on late Saturday evening by militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district on Saturday night, the police said.

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I strongly condemn the killing of <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> leader Gul Muhammad Mir 
in Verinag, South Kashmir. 
My condolences to the bereaved family and prayers for the departed soul.
— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) <a href="https://twitter.com/MehboobaMufti/status/1124734632908353536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Giving details, the police said three militants came to his house in Nowgam Verinag area and asked for the keys for his car. While driving the vehicle away, they pumped bullets into Mir, who was popular in the area as 'Atal', they said.

A police official said Mir was rushed to a hospital in a critical condition where he succumbed to injuries.

The area has been cordoned off to nab the suspects, the official said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned the killing of BJP's district vice-president Gul Mohammed Mir by militants. In his message, the prime minister remembered Mir as a leader who "contributed towards strengthening the party in the state".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned the killing of BJP's district vice-president Gul Mohammed Mir by militants. In his message, the prime minister remembered Mir as a leader who "contributed towards strengthening the party in the state". "There is no place for such violence in our country," the PM added. "Strongly condemn the killing of J&K BJP leader Ghulam Mohammed Mir. His contribution towards strengthening the party in J&K will always be remembered. There is no place for such violence in our country. Condolences to his family and well-wishers," his message read. The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the BJP, in a statement, expressed deepest condolences to Mir's family and demanded strict action against "ill elements who are spoiling peace in the valley and killing innocent people". NC vice-president Omar Abdullah and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also condemned Mir's killing. "I condemn this dastardly act of violence and pray for the soul of the departed, Allah Jannat naseeb karey (May God grant him a place in heaven)... Gul Mohd Mir was the district vice president of the BJP state unit. May his family and loved ones find strength at this difficult time," Abdullah tweeted. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti posted on Twitter, "I strongly condemn the killing of @BJP4India leader Gul Muhammad Mir in Verinag, South Kashmir. My condolences to the bereaved family and prayers for the departed soul." Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president G A Mir also condemned Mir's killing and described the incident as "mindless, cowardice and shameful act". He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family, a party spokesman said. PM Narendra Modi: Strongly condemn the killing of J&K BJP leader Ghulam Mohammed Mir. His contribution towards strengthening the party in J&K will always be remembered. There is no place for such violence in our country. Condolences to his family and well-wishers. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/56w35GLkoL — ANI (@ANI) May 5, 2019 × Mir was killed at his residence on late Saturday evening by militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district on Saturday night, the police said. I strongly condemn the killing of @BJP4India leader Gul Muhammad Mir in Verinag, South Kashmir. My condolences to the bereaved family and prayers for the departed soul. — Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) May 4, 2019 × Giving details, the police said three militants came to his house in Nowgam Verinag area and asked for the keys for his car. While driving the vehicle away, they pumped bullets into Mir, who was popular in the area as 'Atal', they said. A police official said Mir was rushed to a hospital in a critical condition where he succumbed to injuries. The area has been cordoned off to nab the suspects, the official said.

No place for such violence in our country: PM Modi condemns BJP Anantnag vice-president's killing

In 1995, the National Human Rights Commission of India (NHRC) in its historical full commission judgment, headed by former chief justice of India MN Venkatachaliah, held the systematic ethnic cleansing of Kashmiri Pandits by terrorists as an act of genocide.&nbsp;

Recently, on the recommendations of the state administration, the ministry of home affairs (MHA), while banning separatist outfits, described ethnic cleansing and the purge of Kashmiri Pandits as the principal reason for banning separatists and terror outfits operating in Kashmir.

The admission by the state government and MHA through the Union home secretary in public domain makes it obligatory for the state government to accede to the repeated demand for a thorough investigation by the Pandits. The exiled Kashmiri Pandits have called upon the government to appoint a high-level commission of inquiry.

There are very strong grounds to set up a commission of inquiry headed by a retired Supreme Court judge to be assisted by DGP, Director IB, Director CBI and DG NIA, to probe into murders, loot, rapes, forcible land and property grabbing of Kashmiri Pandits and other Hindu religious endowments across the Valley.

In Jammu and Kashmir, there are layer upon layers of distortions of history, self-serving myths and competing political interests. Peeling off these layers by revisiting history, without any prejudice, can only help in our search for a brighter tomorrow for Jammu and Kashmir.

The J&amp;K policy needs to combine between what the country pursues as domestic policy on one hand and the treatment of Indo-Pakistan relations as foreign policy, on the other.&nbsp;

The return of the exiled Pandits back to the Kashmir Valley with pride, is a matter of enforcing India’s Constitution in Kashmir, both nationally and at the global stage. It is important to restore and protect multiculturalism, plural ethos and the secular identity of India and the Jammu and Kashmir state.&nbsp;

Return, restitution and retention of exiled Pandits as a religious Hindu community, shall be the real test of the will of the central government and the governor’s administration.

No solution to Kashmir will make any headway unless the Pandits are rehabilitated, return to the Valley and are made part of the dialogue process as an important stakeholder.

It is the constitutional and political duty of the government of India and the Jammu and Kashmir government to repatriate the entire exiled Pandit community back to their homeland. &nbsp;It is also their duty to probe the reasons and circumstances of ethnic cleansing, fixing the responsibility for the killing of innocent citizens.&nbsp;

Governor Rule gives all statutory powers to the state government to do justice to this illustrious community, who are now living as refugees in their own country for the last 30 years.

It is hoped that the central government shall revisit its J&amp;K policy by demonstrating political will and large-heartedness in dealing with the Kashmir situation and liberally fund the return, rehabilitation and security of Kashmiri Pandits back in their homeland, which is the Kashmir Valley.

To quote what former Prime Minister IK Gujral once said, “For the illustrious Kashmiri Pandit community, which has contributed a great deal in shaping the nation building a democratic, progressive and secular India, if the coffers of the country are to be emptied for them, it would still be a small price to pay.”

It is important for the state governor to rise above civil service jargon while designing a package for the return of Kashmiri Pandits. It is also imperative to hold consultations with representatives of Kashmiri Pandits, so that all aspects are taken into account and the entire gamut of present and future problems analysed threadbare and in complete detail.

Kashmiri Pandits are a religious minority, which calls for due statutory recognition. The constitution of a state minority commission shall be a good step in this direction.

The MHA being the nodal ministry, shall start a structured dialogue with Pandits, for designing a comprehensive, time-bound package for return and rehabilitation. It shall not take more than two to three years for its implementation.

Pandits believe that if the exiled community is not repatriated back to their homeland with dignity and pride now, then it will never happen again.

 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-time-for-kashmiri-pandits-to-come-back-home-with-dignity-2745347">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

In 1995, the National Human Rights Commission of India (NHRC) in its historical full commission judgment, headed by former chief justice of India MN Venkatachaliah, held the systematic ethnic cleansing of Kashmiri Pandits by terrorists as an act of genocide.

In 1995, the National Human Rights Commission of India (NHRC) in its historical full commission judgment, headed by former chief justice of India MN Venkatachaliah, held the systematic ethnic cleansing of Kashmiri Pandits by terrorists as an act of genocide. Recently, on the recommendations of the state administration, the ministry of home affairs (MHA), while banning separatist outfits, described ethnic cleansing and the purge of Kashmiri Pandits as the principal reason for banning separatists and terror outfits operating in Kashmir. The admission by the state government and MHA through the Union home secretary in public domain makes it obligatory for the state government to accede to the repeated demand for a thorough investigation by the Pandits. The exiled Kashmiri Pandits have called upon the government to appoint a high-level commission of inquiry. There are very strong grounds to set up a commission of inquiry headed by a retired Supreme Court judge to be assisted by DGP, Director IB, Director CBI and DG NIA, to probe into murders, loot, rapes, forcible land and property grabbing of Kashmiri Pandits and other Hindu religious endowments across the Valley. In Jammu and Kashmir, there are layer upon layers of distortions of history, self-serving myths and competing political interests. Peeling off these layers by revisiting history, without any prejudice, can only help in our search for a brighter tomorrow for Jammu and Kashmir. The J&K policy needs to combine between what the country pursues as domestic policy on one hand and the treatment of Indo-Pakistan relations as foreign policy, on the other. The return of the exiled Pandits back to the Kashmir Valley with pride, is a matter of enforcing India’s Constitution in Kashmir, both nationally and at the global stage. It is important to restore and protect multiculturalism, plural ethos and the secular identity of India and the Jammu and Kashmir state. Return, restitution and retention of exiled Pandits as a religious Hindu community, shall be the real test of the will of the central government and the governor’s administration. No solution to Kashmir will make any headway unless the Pandits are rehabilitated, return to the Valley and are made part of the dialogue process as an important stakeholder. It is the constitutional and political duty of the government of India and the Jammu and Kashmir government to repatriate the entire exiled Pandit community back to their homeland. It is also their duty to probe the reasons and circumstances of ethnic cleansing, fixing the responsibility for the killing of innocent citizens. Governor Rule gives all statutory powers to the state government to do justice to this illustrious community, who are now living as refugees in their own country for the last 30 years. It is hoped that the central government shall revisit its J&K policy by demonstrating political will and large-heartedness in dealing with the Kashmir situation and liberally fund the return, rehabilitation and security of Kashmiri Pandits back in their homeland, which is the Kashmir Valley. To quote what former Prime Minister IK Gujral once said, “For the illustrious Kashmiri Pandit community, which has contributed a great deal in shaping the nation building a democratic, progressive and secular India, if the coffers of the country are to be emptied for them, it would still be a small price to pay.” It is important for the state governor to rise above civil service jargon while designing a package for the return of Kashmiri Pandits. It is also imperative to hold consultations with representatives of Kashmiri Pandits, so that all aspects are taken into account and the entire gamut of present and future problems analysed threadbare and in complete detail. Kashmiri Pandits are a religious minority, which calls for due statutory recognition. The constitution of a state minority commission shall be a good step in this direction. The MHA being the nodal ministry, shall start a structured dialogue with Pandits, for designing a comprehensive, time-bound package for return and rehabilitation. It shall not take more than two to three years for its implementation. Pandits believe that if the exiled community is not repatriated back to their homeland with dignity and pride now, then it will never happen again. (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.)

Time for Kashmiri Pandits to come back home with dignity

A police constable was shot and injured by suspected terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's capital Srinagar on Wednesday evening. Sources said head constable Mohammad Ilyas was at home on leave when suspected terrorists barged into his house in Khanyar and shot him.

Officials said Ilyas was shifted to SMHS hospital for treatment.

Following the attack, security forces cordoned off the area are searching for the attackers.

Ilyas was posted with the special branch of the district police in Handwara of north Kashmir.

A senior police officer earlier said Ilyas had died.

However, a police spokesman later clarified he was critically injured and has been admitted to the hospital where his condition is critical.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

A police constable was shot and injured by suspected terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's capital Srinagar on Wednesday evening. Sources said head constable Mohammad Ilyas was at home on leave when suspected terrorists barged into his house in Khanyar and shot him.

A police constable was shot and injured by suspected terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's capital Srinagar on Wednesday evening. Sources said head constable Mohammad Ilyas was at home on leave when suspected terrorists barged into his house in Khanyar and shot him. Officials said Ilyas was shifted to SMHS hospital for treatment. Following the attack, security forces cordoned off the area are searching for the attackers. Ilyas was posted with the special branch of the district police in Handwara of north Kashmir. A senior police officer earlier said Ilyas had died. However, a police spokesman later clarified he was critically injured and has been admitted to the hospital where his condition is critical. (With inputs from agencies)

J&K cop on leave shot by suspected terrorists in Srinagar

“Sir I want to be with the boys,” said a 24-year- old officer, declining to go home on sick leave at the Base Hospital at Srinagar. I was Corps Commander in Kashmir and had gone to meet some of our soldiers and officers wounded in operations there. 
 
This young officer, Capt Pawan Kumar, had his jaw smashed by a stone pelting crowd, as he was returning with his team after a successful encounter with terrorists. Bemused, I looked at this 24-year-old, who wanted to return to his ‘boys’, each of whom were trained Special Forces soldiers, all older than him and more experienced. This is the indomitable spirit of the young officers of the Indian Army, who always lead from the front.&nbsp;

Within a week, I saluted his mortal remains in a casket. It was overwhelming! In the biggest hostage situation during my tenure as Corps Commander in Kashmir, terrorists had occupied the Skill Development Centre, a six-storeyed building in Pampore, on the outskirts of Srinagar.&nbsp;

These brave hearts rescued over 60 hostages safely, all Kashmiri men and women. But they paid a heavy price for it, with their own lives. Captain Pawan Kumar, Capt Tushar Mahajan &amp; L/Nk Om Prakash, all commandos, were martyred.&nbsp;

During the operation, it did not matter that some of the locals they were rescuing were those who hate the Army, with many pelting stones at them. They just did their duty, saved the lives of Kashmiri hostages at the expense of their own. The only thing that mattered was the honour of the country and the duty at hand.&nbsp;

Capt Pawan Kumar is not the only one. I’ve met several other victims of this intifada style of ‘unarmed’ protest, stone pelting. Some of these fighters have narrowly missed losing an eye, some have had their jaws smashed, and suffered many injuries. So unarmed that these stone-pelters are, they are certainly not non-violent. In fact, they are viciously violent.&nbsp;

Off late, there is another trend. We have had soldiers belonging to Kashmir who have been kidnapped and killed by terrorists. Lt Ummer Fayaz, who went home in Shopian to attend a wedding in the family, a JAK-LI jawan Mukhtiyar, who went to attend his son’s funeral, or Md Yasin Itoo, who simply went home on leave, were all killed by terrorists.&nbsp;

Besides, hundreds of soldiers have lost their lives while fighting terrorists in these areas over the last three decades. Ever so often, soldiers and officers have been wounded, maimed or crippled.&nbsp;

While there is a raging debate on whether AFSPA is being too harsh and draconian, there is scarcely any concern about the human rights of soldiers.

While NGOs and several organisations like the NHRC vie to fight for the human right of terrorists, there’s no such institutional support for the army man, who goes to fight in the line of duty. &nbsp;

Just because he voluntarily signs up for an unlimited liability contract, doesn’t the soldier enjoy some legal rights as well?&nbsp;

Last month, two young women, barely out of their teens, Preeti Kedar Gokhale and Kajal Mishra, petitioned the Supreme Court to safeguard basic human rights of their soldier fathers.&nbsp;

The petitioners said they are “greatly disturbed by the incidents of unruly and disruptive mobs” pelting stones at soldiers and army convoys in Jammu and Kashmir and sought formulation of a policy to curb human rights violations of security force personnel who come under attack by mobs while performing their duty. &nbsp;

In August last year, over 300 army personnel approached the Supreme Court challenging registration of FIRs against them for operations in disturbed areas such as Manipur and Jammu and Kashmir, where the Armed Forces Special Powers Act is in force.&nbsp;

The apex court admitted their plea on the grounds that army personnel are being “persecuted” and proceeded against for performing duties in disturbed areas.&nbsp; 
 
This problem needs to be nipped in the bud. The army personnel, in their petition, claimed that they “are now facing confusion and countering questions from the soldiers under their command, as to whether they are supposed to continue to engage the proxy war and insurgency with their military training, principles, standard operating procedures, operational realities, valour and courage or act and operate as per the yardsticks of peacetime operations, law and order issues and CrPC.”

It is a very pertinent question to ask. Should officers and soldiers have to knock the gates of justice individually to do what are their bonafide duties? Since the army, obviously, cannot take recourse to legal action, should the courts take suo moto notice of the issue or can the legal fraternity help?

The soldier risks his life for the nation and for the people. It is grossly unfair if some of them have to defend themselves in courts even after retirement, for some action that he may have allegedly committed while performing his duties, which needless to say, involved grave risk to his life and limb. In return, the least a soldier deserves is the support of the country that required of him to make sacrifices, and the countrymen he risked his life for. That is not asking for too much, is it?

 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-soldiers-and-civil-liberties-2745050">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

“Sir I want to be with the boys,” said a 24-year- old officer, declining to go home on sick leave at the Base Hospital at Srinagar. I was Corps Commander in Kashmir and had gone to meet some of our soldiers and officers wounded in operations there.

“Sir I want to be with the boys,” said a 24-year- old officer, declining to go home on sick leave at the Base Hospital at Srinagar. I was Corps Commander in Kashmir and had gone to meet some of our soldiers and officers wounded in operations there. This young officer, Capt Pawan Kumar, had his jaw smashed by a stone pelting crowd, as he was returning with his team after a successful encounter with terrorists. Bemused, I looked at this 24-year-old, who wanted to return to his ‘boys’, each of whom were trained Special Forces soldiers, all older than him and more experienced. This is the indomitable spirit of the young officers of the Indian Army, who always lead from the front. Within a week, I saluted his mortal remains in a casket. It was overwhelming! In the biggest hostage situation during my tenure as Corps Commander in Kashmir, terrorists had occupied the Skill Development Centre, a six-storeyed building in Pampore, on the outskirts of Srinagar. These brave hearts rescued over 60 hostages safely, all Kashmiri men and women. But they paid a heavy price for it, with their own lives. Captain Pawan Kumar, Capt Tushar Mahajan & L/Nk Om Prakash, all commandos, were martyred. During the operation, it did not matter that some of the locals they were rescuing were those who hate the Army, with many pelting stones at them. They just did their duty, saved the lives of Kashmiri hostages at the expense of their own. The only thing that mattered was the honour of the country and the duty at hand. Capt Pawan Kumar is not the only one. I’ve met several other victims of this intifada style of ‘unarmed’ protest, stone pelting. Some of these fighters have narrowly missed losing an eye, some have had their jaws smashed, and suffered many injuries. So unarmed that these stone-pelters are, they are certainly not non-violent. In fact, they are viciously violent. Off late, there is another trend. We have had soldiers belonging to Kashmir who have been kidnapped and killed by terrorists. Lt Ummer Fayaz, who went home in Shopian to attend a wedding in the family, a JAK-LI jawan Mukhtiyar, who went to attend his son’s funeral, or Md Yasin Itoo, who simply went home on leave, were all killed by terrorists. Besides, hundreds of soldiers have lost their lives while fighting terrorists in these areas over the last three decades. Ever so often, soldiers and officers have been wounded, maimed or crippled. While there is a raging debate on whether AFSPA is being too harsh and draconian, there is scarcely any concern about the human rights of soldiers. While NGOs and several organisations like the NHRC vie to fight for the human right of terrorists, there’s no such institutional support for the army man, who goes to fight in the line of duty. Just because he voluntarily signs up for an unlimited liability contract, doesn’t the soldier enjoy some legal rights as well? Last month, two young women, barely out of their teens, Preeti Kedar Gokhale and Kajal Mishra, petitioned the Supreme Court to safeguard basic human rights of their soldier fathers. The petitioners said they are “greatly disturbed by the incidents of unruly and disruptive mobs” pelting stones at soldiers and army convoys in Jammu and Kashmir and sought formulation of a policy to curb human rights violations of security force personnel who come under attack by mobs while performing their duty. In August last year, over 300 army personnel approached the Supreme Court challenging registration of FIRs against them for operations in disturbed areas such as Manipur and Jammu and Kashmir, where the Armed Forces Special Powers Act is in force. The apex court admitted their plea on the grounds that army personnel are being “persecuted” and proceeded against for performing duties in disturbed areas. This problem needs to be nipped in the bud. The army personnel, in their petition, claimed that they “are now facing confusion and countering questions from the soldiers under their command, as to whether they are supposed to continue to engage the proxy war and insurgency with their military training, principles, standard operating procedures, operational realities, valour and courage or act and operate as per the yardsticks of peacetime operations, law and order issues and CrPC.” It is a very pertinent question to ask. Should officers and soldiers have to knock the gates of justice individually to do what are their bonafide duties? Since the army, obviously, cannot take recourse to legal action, should the courts take suo moto notice of the issue or can the legal fraternity help? The soldier risks his life for the nation and for the people. It is grossly unfair if some of them have to defend themselves in courts even after retirement, for some action that he may have allegedly committed while performing his duties, which needless to say, involved grave risk to his life and limb. In return, the least a soldier deserves is the support of the country that required of him to make sacrifices, and the countrymen he risked his life for. That is not asking for too much, is it? (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.)

Soldiers and civil liberties: Terrorists have more human rights defenders in this country

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has decided to lift the ban on civilian movement on the National Highway number 44 on the Srinagar-Baramulla stretch from Thursday. The restrictions will, however, continue between Srinagar and Udhampur, the state administration said in a statement.

The administration further said that the restriction between Srinagar and Udhampur will be reviewed periodically and relaxation would be made as the need for restriction reduces.

The restriction on civilian movement on NH-44, connecting Jammu to Srinagar, was imposed in the wake of February 14 terror attack in Pulwama in which 40 soldiers of India's paramilitary force, the CRPF, were killed.

"These restrictions became necessary following the large movement of security forces on an unprecedented scale after the Pulwama terror attack. These forces were required both for anti-militancy operations and for conducting general elections peacefully," an official from the administration had said while announcing the imposition of ban in first week of April.

In order to facilitate unhindered and secure movement of the convoys of security forces, the administration had imposed a prohibition on civilian traffic on NH-44 from Baramulla to Udhampur twice a week - Sunday and Wednesday - from 4.00am to 5.00pm.

In the latest statement on Wednesday, the Jammu and Kashmir administration said that it once again reviewed the requirement of security forces. "Following the successful conduct of elections in Anantnag and Kulgam districts and as the requirement of security forces is now reducing as they are de-inducted, the government has decided to further relax the restrictions on traffic imposed," the statement said.

A complete review of restrictions on the highway would be done subsequently, the administration further said in the statement appealing to the people to extend full cooperation in the smooth regulation of traffic.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has decided to lift the ban on civilian movement on the National Highway number 44 on the Srinagar-Baramulla stretch from Thursday.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has decided to lift the ban on civilian movement on the National Highway number 44 on the Srinagar-Baramulla stretch from Thursday. The restrictions will, however, continue between Srinagar and Udhampur, the state administration said in a statement. The administration further said that the restriction between Srinagar and Udhampur will be reviewed periodically and relaxation would be made as the need for restriction reduces. The restriction on civilian movement on NH-44, connecting Jammu to Srinagar, was imposed in the wake of February 14 terror attack in Pulwama in which 40 soldiers of India's paramilitary force, the CRPF, were killed. "These restrictions became necessary following the large movement of security forces on an unprecedented scale after the Pulwama terror attack. These forces were required both for anti-militancy operations and for conducting general elections peacefully," an official from the administration had said while announcing the imposition of ban in first week of April. In order to facilitate unhindered and secure movement of the convoys of security forces, the administration had imposed a prohibition on civilian traffic on NH-44 from Baramulla to Udhampur twice a week - Sunday and Wednesday - from 4.00am to 5.00pm. In the latest statement on Wednesday, the Jammu and Kashmir administration said that it once again reviewed the requirement of security forces. "Following the successful conduct of elections in Anantnag and Kulgam districts and as the requirement of security forces is now reducing as they are de-inducted, the government has decided to further relax the restrictions on traffic imposed," the statement said. A complete review of restrictions on the highway would be done subsequently, the administration further said in the statement appealing to the people to extend full cooperation in the smooth regulation of traffic.

J&K highway ban: Traffic restriction on civilian movement between Srinagar & Baramulla removed

Incident-free voting marked the second leg of three-phased polling for south Kashmir’s Anantnag parliamentary constituency of Kulgam district with a total voter turnout of 10.32 per cent, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Jammu and Kashmir, Shailendra Kumar said.

Addressing a press conference at Banquet Hall in Srinagar, the CEO informed that the overall percentage recorded in the district today was 10.3 per cent with the highest in Noorabad segment at 20.58 per cent.

He said that for the smooth polling across the district, 433 polling stations were set up out of which 20 were model polling stations. Four all-women polling stations were also set up across the district.

Divulging the details of the voter turnout in the district, the CEO informed that the total number of votes polled was 3,5524 with the highest turnout of 20.58 per cent recorded in Noorabad segment of the district. With the completion of today’s phase, the overall poll percentage of Anantnag constituency has touched 12.35 per cent.

He further elaborated that the total percentage of voting till date in various parliamentary constituencies in the state including Baramulla, Jammu, Srinagar, Udhampur and Anantnag was recorded at 47.06 per cent with total votes polled at around 33,64104 out of 71,49047 total electorates.

The CEO complimented voters, political parties, contesting candidates, media, polling staff and security forces for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the polling in the state.

Over 3.45 lakh electors were scheduled to exercise their franchise in Kulgam district of south Kashmir region in the second leg of three-phased schedule for Anantnag Parliamentary Constituency today, including 28,761 first-time voters and 2,870 migrant voters. As many as 72 constituencies across 9 states went to polls in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-fourth-phase-polling-underway-in-nine-states-214251">fourth phase of the Lok Sabha polls</a> today.&nbsp;

Regarding the health of e-rolls, the CEO said that 43 polling stations were set up for webcasting.

The CEO said that two general observers, one expenditure observer, one police observer, 68 micro observers besides 1,732 polling staff ensured the smooth conduct of the voting in today's phase.

Incident-free voting marked the second leg of three-phased polling for south Kashmir’s Anantnag parliamentary constituency of Kulgam district with a total voter turnout of 10.

Incident-free voting marked the second leg of three-phased polling for south Kashmir’s Anantnag parliamentary constituency of Kulgam district with a total voter turnout of 10.32 per cent, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Jammu and Kashmir, Shailendra Kumar said. Addressing a press conference at Banquet Hall in Srinagar, the CEO informed that the overall percentage recorded in the district today was 10.3 per cent with the highest in Noorabad segment at 20.58 per cent. He said that for the smooth polling across the district, 433 polling stations were set up out of which 20 were model polling stations. Four all-women polling stations were also set up across the district. Divulging the details of the voter turnout in the district, the CEO informed that the total number of votes polled was 3,5524 with the highest turnout of 20.58 per cent recorded in Noorabad segment of the district. With the completion of today’s phase, the overall poll percentage of Anantnag constituency has touched 12.35 per cent. He further elaborated that the total percentage of voting till date in various parliamentary constituencies in the state including Baramulla, Jammu, Srinagar, Udhampur and Anantnag was recorded at 47.06 per cent with total votes polled at around 33,64104 out of 71,49047 total electorates. The CEO complimented voters, political parties, contesting candidates, media, polling staff and security forces for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the polling in the state. Over 3.45 lakh electors were scheduled to exercise their franchise in Kulgam district of south Kashmir region in the second leg of three-phased schedule for Anantnag Parliamentary Constituency today, including 28,761 first-time voters and 2,870 migrant voters. As many as 72 constituencies across 9 states went to polls in the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha polls today. Regarding the health of e-rolls, the CEO said that 43 polling stations were set up for webcasting. The CEO said that two general observers, one expenditure observer, one police observer, 68 micro observers besides 1,732 polling staff ensured the smooth conduct of the voting in today's phase.

Jammu and Kashmir: Kulgam records 10.32% voter turnout in fourth phase of Lok Sabha polls

Polling began in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir -- part of the Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency -- on Monday amid stringent security arrangements as the voting in the second leg of the three-phased schedule for the Lok Sabha seat would decide the fate of 18 candidates, including former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti.

Polling began at 7 am in the district and would end at 4 pm, officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-fourth-phase-polling-underway-in-nine-states-214251">Catch live updates of&nbsp;Lok Sabha polls&nbsp;in fourth phase.</a>

They said all arrangements were in place to ensure smooth conduct of the second leg of the three-phased parliamentary polls in the Anantnag constituency in the restive south Kashmir.

Stringent and elaborate security arrangements have been put in place in the district in the restive south Kashmir to ensure smooth conduct of polling, the officials said.

They said a multi-layered security set-up was put in place as part of an elaborate security plan for protection of polling booths, handling of law and order problems and thwarting the designs of anti-national elements to disrupt the polls and also to instil a sense of confidence among voters for ensuring free, fair, transparent and smooth conduct of elections in the&nbsp; 
district.

The officials said all of the 433 polling stations have been designated either as hypersensitive or sensitive and a massive security layer has been thrown around the polling stations, many of which have been clubbed.

The Kulgam district, which comprises four assembly segments of Kulgam, Devsar, Noorabad and Hom Shalibugh, has 3,45,489 electors, including 1,79,607 males, 1,64,604 females, 1265 service electors and 13 transgender voters.

Out of these, the Kulgam Assembly segment has the highest number of 98,298 voters (51,051 males, 46,818 females, 455 service voters and 4 transgender voters), while as Noorabad has the lowest 77,171 electors, including 40,093 males, 36,886 females, 188 service voters and 4 transgender voters.

The Assembly segment of Devsar has 91,288 voters (47,467 males, 43,324 females, 492 service voters and five transgender voters), and the Hom Shalibugh segment has 78,669 voters (40,996 males, 37,576 females and 127 service voters).

The Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency is spread over four districts of Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian and Pulwama with 16 assembly segments.

The Lok Sabha polls to this constituency are being held in three phases due to security reasons.

Anantnag district went to polls on 23 April, while voting in Pulwama and Shopian districts will take place on 6 May.

The Election Commission has curtailed the polling duration for the Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency by two hours following a request from the state police to this effect. The revised polling timing is from 7 am to 4 pm.

There are 18 candidates in the fray for the Anantnag constituency,&nbsp;including PDP president and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir&nbsp;Mehbooba Mufti.

The Congress has fielded its state president Ghulam Ahmad Mir, while former High Court judge Hasnain Masoodi is contesting on the National Conference ticket.

The other candidates in the fray include former MLC Sofi Yousuf (BJP), Nisar Ahmad Wani (National Panthers Party), Zaffar Ali (People's Conference), Sanjay Kumar Dhar (Manav Adhikar Party) and Surinder Singh (Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party).

Imtiyaz Ahmad Rather, Ridwana Sanam, Riyaz Ahmad Bhat, Zubair Masoodi, Shamas Khwaja, Ali Mohammad Wani, Gh Mohammad Wani, Kyasir Ahmed Shiekh, Manzoor Ahmed Khan and Mirza Sajad Hussain Beigh are all independents.

Polling began in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir -- part of the Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency -- on Monday amid stringent security arrangements as the voting in the second leg of the three-phased schedule for the Lok Sabha seat would decide the fate of 18 candidates, including former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti.

Polling began in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir -- part of the Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency -- on Monday amid stringent security arrangements as the voting in the second leg of the three-phased schedule for the Lok Sabha seat would decide the fate of 18 candidates, including former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti. Polling began at 7 am in the district and would end at 4 pm, officials said. Catch live updates of Lok Sabha polls in fourth phase. They said all arrangements were in place to ensure smooth conduct of the second leg of the three-phased parliamentary polls in the Anantnag constituency in the restive south Kashmir. Stringent and elaborate security arrangements have been put in place in the district in the restive south Kashmir to ensure smooth conduct of polling, the officials said. They said a multi-layered security set-up was put in place as part of an elaborate security plan for protection of polling booths, handling of law and order problems and thwarting the designs of anti-national elements to disrupt the polls and also to instil a sense of confidence among voters for ensuring free, fair, transparent and smooth conduct of elections in the district. The officials said all of the 433 polling stations have been designated either as hypersensitive or sensitive and a massive security layer has been thrown around the polling stations, many of which have been clubbed. The Kulgam district, which comprises four assembly segments of Kulgam, Devsar, Noorabad and Hom Shalibugh, has 3,45,489 electors, including 1,79,607 males, 1,64,604 females, 1265 service electors and 13 transgender voters. Out of these, the Kulgam Assembly segment has the highest number of 98,298 voters (51,051 males, 46,818 females, 455 service voters and 4 transgender voters), while as Noorabad has the lowest 77,171 electors, including 40,093 males, 36,886 females, 188 service voters and 4 transgender voters. The Assembly segment of Devsar has 91,288 voters (47,467 males, 43,324 females, 492 service voters and five transgender voters), and the Hom Shalibugh segment has 78,669 voters (40,996 males, 37,576 females and 127 service voters). The Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency is spread over four districts of Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian and Pulwama with 16 assembly segments. The Lok Sabha polls to this constituency are being held in three phases due to security reasons. Anantnag district went to polls on 23 April, while voting in Pulwama and Shopian districts will take place on 6 May. The Election Commission has curtailed the polling duration for the Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency by two hours following a request from the state police to this effect. The revised polling timing is from 7 am to 4 pm. There are 18 candidates in the fray for the Anantnag constituency, including PDP president and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti. The Congress has fielded its state president Ghulam Ahmad Mir, while former High Court judge Hasnain Masoodi is contesting on the National Conference ticket. The other candidates in the fray include former MLC Sofi Yousuf (BJP), Nisar Ahmad Wani (National Panthers Party), Zaffar Ali (People's Conference), Sanjay Kumar Dhar (Manav Adhikar Party) and Surinder Singh (Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party). Imtiyaz Ahmad Rather, Ridwana Sanam, Riyaz Ahmad Bhat, Zubair Masoodi, Shamas Khwaja, Ali Mohammad Wani, Gh Mohammad Wani, Kyasir Ahmed Shiekh, Manzoor Ahmed Khan and Mirza Sajad Hussain Beigh are all independents.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Polling begins in Kulgam district of Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir police on Sunday arrested two terrorists that carried out an attack on a police post in Srinagar's Chanpora on April 26.

The terrorists were arrested in Budgam's Wathora.

In the incident, a policeman was critically injured and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for the treatment.

Security forces had launched searches in the area to nab the terrorists.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir police on Sunday arrested two terrorists that carried out an attack on a police post in Srinagar's Chanpora on April 26. The terrorists were arrested in Budgam's Wathora.

Jammu and Kashmir police on Sunday arrested two terrorists that carried out an attack on a police post in Srinagar's Chanpora on April 26. The terrorists were arrested in Budgam's Wathora. In the incident, a policeman was critically injured and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for the treatment. Security forces had launched searches in the area to nab the terrorists.

Jammu and Kashmir: Police arrest two terrorists for attacking police post in Srinagar

Speaking to the media in Srinagar, the Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-terrorist-arrested-was-operating-in-srinagar-for-over-a-year-to-revive-militancy-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-baramulla-ssp-213238">arrested Pak terrorist</a> is a living proof to Pakistan for their involvement in terrorism in Kashmir valley.&nbsp;

"Pakistan always wishes for live evidence, now we have held a resident of Pakistan who is associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba," he said before presenting him.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday presented a Pakistani terrorist in front of media after he was held by security forces in Pattan area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Monday.&nbsp;

Speaking to media briefly, the detained terrorist identified himself as Mohammad Waqas, a resident of Mohalla Miana, Mianwali of Punjab province in Pakistan. "I am from Pakistan and associated with Lashkar. I'm 27 years old and came to Kashmir in 2017. I took training in Muzaffarabad," he said. &nbsp;

Waqas&nbsp;told media that he was told that people in Kashmir aren't even allowed to pray inside the mosques.

Sources told WION said that he was trained at Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi’s house and had met him on two occasions. The police said that they will be able to share more details after more questioning is done in the coming days. &nbsp;

The top cop was flanked by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC Chinar Corps and Zulfikar Hassan, Inspector General Operations CRPF. &nbsp;They told the media that there has been a considerable dip in the number of militants joining terror outfits.&nbsp;

"Large scale modules which were working on behalf of several outfits were arrested. Stone pelting, law and order came down to a very big extent. The youth didn’t indulge in stone pelting much," Dilbag said.

The Army Commander said that a total of 69 terrorists have been killed so far in different operations.

"A total of 69 militants have been killed, 12 have been apprehended, 49 have been killed since Pulwama blast. Among them, were category A plus. We have targeted Jaish-e-Mohammed leadership." he added.&nbsp;

On IED threats, Dilbag Singh told WION that "we have and are spending sleepless nights to avert such things. We are taking every input seriously."

Speaking to the media in Srinagar, the Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police said that the arrested Pak terrorist is a living proof to Pakistan for their involvement in terrorism in Kashmir valley.

Speaking to the media in Srinagar, the Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police said that the arrested Pak terrorist is a living proof to Pakistan for their involvement in terrorism in Kashmir valley. "Pakistan always wishes for live evidence, now we have held a resident of Pakistan who is associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba," he said before presenting him. The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday presented a Pakistani terrorist in front of media after he was held by security forces in Pattan area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Monday. Speaking to media briefly, the detained terrorist identified himself as Mohammad Waqas, a resident of Mohalla Miana, Mianwali of Punjab province in Pakistan. "I am from Pakistan and associated with Lashkar. I'm 27 years old and came to Kashmir in 2017. I took training in Muzaffarabad," he said. Waqas told media that he was told that people in Kashmir aren't even allowed to pray inside the mosques. Sources told WION said that he was trained at Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi’s house and had met him on two occasions. The police said that they will be able to share more details after more questioning is done in the coming days. The top cop was flanked by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC Chinar Corps and Zulfikar Hassan, Inspector General Operations CRPF. They told the media that there has been a considerable dip in the number of militants joining terror outfits. "Large scale modules which were working on behalf of several outfits were arrested. Stone pelting, law and order came down to a very big extent. The youth didn’t indulge in stone pelting much," Dilbag said. The Army Commander said that a total of 69 terrorists have been killed so far in different operations. "A total of 69 militants have been killed, 12 have been apprehended, 49 have been killed since Pulwama blast. Among them, were category A plus. We have targeted Jaish-e-Mohammed leadership." he added. On IED threats, Dilbag Singh told WION that "we have and are spending sleepless nights to avert such things. We are taking every input seriously."

'I'm from Pakistan and associated with Lashkar; took training in Muzaffarabad,' says terrorist arrested in J&K's Baramulla

SSP Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir Abdul Qayoom on Wednesday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arrested-terrorist-is-a-living-proof-provided-to-pakistan-jammu-and-kashmir-police-213247">Mohammad Waqas, a Pak national has been arrested</a>.&nbsp;Waqas&nbsp;was held by security forces in Pattan area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Monday.&nbsp;

A resident of Mohalla Miana, Mianwali in Punjab, Pakistan, Waqas&nbsp;came to India in July 2017 by crossing the border and was operating in Srinagar for over a year.&nbsp;

"His plan was to resurrect militancy in Baramulla," the official added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Lt Gen Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Srinagar-based 15 Corps, earlier in the day, briefed the media and stated that the Indian forces have "targeted Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) leadership".&nbsp;

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SSP Baramulla, Abdul Qayoom: His name is Mohammad Waqar, a resident of Mohalla Miana, Mianwali, Punjab, Pakistan. He came here in July 2017 by crossing the border, he was operating in Srinagar for over a year. His plan was to resurrect militancy in Baramulla. <a href="https://t.co/BWUEkdQj50">pic.twitter.com/BWUEkdQj50</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1121012801156407296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The situation now is that no one is coming forward to take over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/post-pulwama-terror-attack-top-jem-commanders-eliminated-in-targeted-action-by-india-212590">leadership of JeM</a> in the valley. Even after Pakistan's best efforts, we will continue to suppress JeM, especially after Pulwama," he said.

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KJS Dhillon, GOC 15 Corps: Total 69 terrorists have been killed and 12 have been apprehended this year. Post Pulwama 41 terrorists have been killed and out of them 25 belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed, 13 of them were Pakistanis. <a href="https://t.co/IYkBLXs1TR">pic.twitter.com/IYkBLXs1TR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1121006237188001793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Dhillon informed that as many as 69 terrorists have been killed and 12 have been apprehended this year. "Post Pulwama 41 terrorists have been killed and out of them 25 belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed, 13 of them were Pakistanis," he added.&nbsp;

"Operations against the terrorists will continue with full vigour and we will not let terrorism rise up," the top official said.&nbsp;

On February 14 this year, over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in a JeM-orchestrated terror attack in South Kashmir's Pulwama district.

The incident took place when a CRPF convoy, consisting of around 2,500 personnel, was attacked by a suicide bomber who rammed a car laden with explosives into one of the buses on the Jammu-Srinagar highway.&nbsp;

SSP Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir Abdul Qayoom on Wednesday said that Mohammad Waqas, a Pak national has been arrested. Waqas was held by security forces in Pattan area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Monday.

SSP Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir Abdul Qayoom on Wednesday said that Mohammad Waqas, a Pak national has been arrested. Waqas was held by security forces in Pattan area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Monday. A resident of Mohalla Miana, Mianwali in Punjab, Pakistan, Waqas came to India in July 2017 by crossing the border and was operating in Srinagar for over a year. "His plan was to resurrect militancy in Baramulla," the official added. Meanwhile, Lt Gen Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Srinagar-based 15 Corps, earlier in the day, briefed the media and stated that the Indian forces have "targeted Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) leadership". SSP Baramulla, Abdul Qayoom: His name is Mohammad Waqar, a resident of Mohalla Miana, Mianwali, Punjab, Pakistan. He came here in July 2017 by crossing the border, he was operating in Srinagar for over a year. His plan was to resurrect militancy in Baramulla. pic.twitter.com/BWUEkdQj50 — ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2019 × "The situation now is that no one is coming forward to take over the leadership of JeM in the valley. Even after Pakistan's best efforts, we will continue to suppress JeM, especially after Pulwama," he said. KJS Dhillon, GOC 15 Corps: Total 69 terrorists have been killed and 12 have been apprehended this year. Post Pulwama 41 terrorists have been killed and out of them 25 belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed, 13 of them were Pakistanis. pic.twitter.com/IYkBLXs1TR — ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2019 × Dhillon informed that as many as 69 terrorists have been killed and 12 have been apprehended this year. "Post Pulwama 41 terrorists have been killed and out of them 25 belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed, 13 of them were Pakistanis," he added. "Operations against the terrorists will continue with full vigour and we will not let terrorism rise up," the top official said. On February 14 this year, over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in a JeM-orchestrated terror attack in South Kashmir's Pulwama district. The incident took place when a CRPF convoy, consisting of around 2,500 personnel, was attacked by a suicide bomber who rammed a car laden with explosives into one of the buses on the Jammu-Srinagar highway.

Pak terrorist arrested, was operating in Srinagar to revive militancy in Baramulla: SSP

The voter turnout in south Kashmir's Anantnag Lok Sabha seat, where elections are being held in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/6466-voter-turnout-in-phase-3-of-lok-sabha-polls-election-commission-213009">three phases, Tuesday</a> recorded a massive dip as compared to the 2014 general election.

The six assembly segments which went to poll in phase one on Tuesday recorded a turnout of 12.86 per cent. It was 39.37 per cent in 2014 in the corresponding segments, senior Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha told reporters here.

While polling concluded in Anantnag district, voting in Kulgam district will be held on April 29. Pulwama and Shopian districts will go to polls on May 6.

The Election Commission has curtailed the polling duration for the Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency by two hours following a request from the state police to this effect.&nbsp;

The voting will be held in south Kashmir areas from 7 am to 4 pm.&nbsp;

The Anantnag district has 5,29,256 electors, including 2,69,603 males, 2,57,540 females, 2,102 service electors and 11 transgender voters.&nbsp;

The EC has established 1,842 polling stations to facilitate smooth polling, the official said.&nbsp;

The Anantnag constituency has 13,97,272 registered voters, including 7,20,337 males, 6,72,879 females and 35 transgender persons.&nbsp;

There are 18 candidates in the fray for the seat including PDP president and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti.&nbsp;

The voter turnout in south Kashmir's Anantnag Lok Sabha seat, where elections are being held in three phases, Tuesday recorded a massive dip as compared to the 2014 general election.

The voter turnout in south Kashmir's Anantnag Lok Sabha seat, where elections are being held in three phases, Tuesday recorded a massive dip as compared to the 2014 general election. The six assembly segments which went to poll in phase one on Tuesday recorded a turnout of 12.86 per cent. It was 39.37 per cent in 2014 in the corresponding segments, senior Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha told reporters here. While polling concluded in Anantnag district, voting in Kulgam district will be held on April 29. Pulwama and Shopian districts will go to polls on May 6. The Election Commission has curtailed the polling duration for the Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency by two hours following a request from the state police to this effect. The voting will be held in south Kashmir areas from 7 am to 4 pm. The Anantnag district has 5,29,256 electors, including 2,69,603 males, 2,57,540 females, 2,102 service electors and 11 transgender voters. The EC has established 1,842 polling stations to facilitate smooth polling, the official said. The Anantnag constituency has 13,97,272 registered voters, including 7,20,337 males, 6,72,879 females and 35 transgender persons. There are 18 candidates in the fray for the seat including PDP president and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti.

Major dip in voter turnout in J&K's Anantnag seat as compared to 2014 Lok Sabha polls

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) commanders have been eliminated in targeted action by India post the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/post-pulwama-attack-government-grants-emergency-powers-to-armed-forces-to-buy-weapon-systems-210971">Pulwama terror attack</a>, sources said on Monday.

Of the 66 terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir this year, 27 belong to the Pakistan-based terror outfit out of which 19 were eliminated after the February 14 Pulwama attack, sources added.

Within 45 days of the Pulwama attack, the entire JeM team involved in the attack was "neutralised"&nbsp;through a combination of technical and human intelligence-based operations.

This also includes arrest and deportation of Jaish cadre who were involved in the operation, sources mentioned.

After the Pulwama attack, sources said, four Jaish terrorists involved directly in the attack were killed while four others were arrested in different operations.

Sources said inputs were gathered after the interrogation of around 40 Jaish overground supporters in the Kashmir valley.

Top Indian security brass feels Pakistan trying to obfuscate its role in terrorist activities by projecting Jammu and Kashmir as part of a larger global jihadi narrative and next battleground after Afghanistan, sources added.

The terrorists killed include Kamran, Mushashir Ahmed Khan and Sajjad Bhat, sources said.

Two terrorists, including Nisar Ahmed Tantray and Sajjad, are in NIA custody for their role in the terror attack, it added.

Sources revealed that Tantray helped the suicide bomber Aadil Ahmed Dar by getting a vehicle-based improvised explosive device (IED) from Yasir, a Pakistan-based JeM terrorist.

On February 14 this year, over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in a JeM-orchestrated terror attack in South Kashmir's Pulwama district.

The incident took place when a CRPF convoy, consisting of around 2,500 personnel, was attacked by a suicide bomber who rammed a car laden with explosives into one of the buses on the Jammu-Srinagar highway.&nbsp;

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) commanders have been eliminated in targeted action by India post the Pulwama terror attack, sources said on Monday. Of the 66 terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir this year, 27 belong to the Pakistan-based terror outfit out of which 19 were eliminated after the February 14 Pulwama attack, sources added.

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) commanders have been eliminated in targeted action by India post the Pulwama terror attack, sources said on Monday. Of the 66 terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir this year, 27 belong to the Pakistan-based terror outfit out of which 19 were eliminated after the February 14 Pulwama attack, sources added. Within 45 days of the Pulwama attack, the entire JeM team involved in the attack was "neutralised" through a combination of technical and human intelligence-based operations. This also includes arrest and deportation of Jaish cadre who were involved in the operation, sources mentioned. After the Pulwama attack, sources said, four Jaish terrorists involved directly in the attack were killed while four others were arrested in different operations. Sources said inputs were gathered after the interrogation of around 40 Jaish overground supporters in the Kashmir valley. Top Indian security brass feels Pakistan trying to obfuscate its role in terrorist activities by projecting Jammu and Kashmir as part of a larger global jihadi narrative and next battleground after Afghanistan, sources added. The terrorists killed include Kamran, Mushashir Ahmed Khan and Sajjad Bhat, sources said. Two terrorists, including Nisar Ahmed Tantray and Sajjad, are in NIA custody for their role in the terror attack, it added. Sources revealed that Tantray helped the suicide bomber Aadil Ahmed Dar by getting a vehicle-based improvised explosive device (IED) from Yasir, a Pakistan-based JeM terrorist. On February 14 this year, over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in a JeM-orchestrated terror attack in South Kashmir's Pulwama district. The incident took place when a CRPF convoy, consisting of around 2,500 personnel, was attacked by a suicide bomber who rammed a car laden with explosives into one of the buses on the Jammu-Srinagar highway.

Post Pulwama terror attack, top JeM commanders eliminated in targeted action by India

The MHA on Thursday ordered suspension of cross-LoC trade between India and Pakistan via Jammu and Kashmir following reports of alleged misuse of the trade routes by Pakistan-based elements for illegal inflow of weapons, narcotics and currency, officials said.

India suspends cross-LoC trade with Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir

Several PDP leaders, including party's district president Leh Tashi Gyalson, have joined the BJP, a spokesperson of the party said in Jammu on Wednesday.

Almost the entire Leh unit of the PDP led by Gyalson joined the BJP at the party headquarters on Tuesday evening, he said.

Chairman and chief executive councillor of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) and BJP's candidate for the Ladakh parliamentary constituency Jamyang Tsering Namgyal welcomed the new entrants into the party fold.

Besides Gyalson, others who have joined the BJP include women wing president and nominated councillor Rinchen Lhamo, vice president Tsewang Dorjay Onpo, zonal president Nubra Capt Phunstog, general secretary Sangay Dorjay and executive members Tundup and Phuntsog, the spokesman said.

Gyalson, who joined the PDP in 2008, said they were highly impressed by the BJP slogan 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas' and decided to join the party.

The spokesman said their joining will strengthen the party at the grassroots level in the region which is going to polls in the final phase of the Lok Sabha polls on May 6.

Veteran leader Thupstan Chhewang had won the seat for the BJP for the first time in 2014 by a slight margin of 36 votes, but he resigned from the primary membership of the party in November last year, saying that all promises made by the BJP sounded like an "empty rhetoric".

Several PDP leaders, including party's district president Leh Tashi Gyalson, have joined the BJP, a spokesperson of the party said in Jammu on Wednesday. Almost the entire Leh unit of the PDP led by Gyalson joined the BJP at the party headquarters on Tuesday evening, he said.

Several PDP leaders, including party's district president Leh Tashi Gyalson, have joined the BJP, a spokesperson of the party said in Jammu on Wednesday. Almost the entire Leh unit of the PDP led by Gyalson joined the BJP at the party headquarters on Tuesday evening, he said. Chairman and chief executive councillor of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) and BJP's candidate for the Ladakh parliamentary constituency Jamyang Tsering Namgyal welcomed the new entrants into the party fold. Besides Gyalson, others who have joined the BJP include women wing president and nominated councillor Rinchen Lhamo, vice president Tsewang Dorjay Onpo, zonal president Nubra Capt Phunstog, general secretary Sangay Dorjay and executive members Tundup and Phuntsog, the spokesman said. Gyalson, who joined the PDP in 2008, said they were highly impressed by the BJP slogan 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas' and decided to join the party. The spokesman said their joining will strengthen the party at the grassroots level in the region which is going to polls in the final phase of the Lok Sabha polls on May 6. Veteran leader Thupstan Chhewang had won the seat for the BJP for the first time in 2014 by a slight margin of 36 votes, but he resigned from the primary membership of the party in November last year, saying that all promises made by the BJP sounded like an "empty rhetoric".

Several PDP leaders join BJP in Ladakh

The 'Madadgaar' helpline set-up by the Central reserve police force in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is helping the common people every day. &nbsp;

From resolving the local grievance to assisting Kashmiris students outside the state, they have been at the forefront of it all.&nbsp;

Located on the outskirts of Srinagar, this helpline number receives hundreds of calls every day, not only from the local residents but also Kashmiris living outside the state.&nbsp;

Since the Pulwama terror attack, they have attended distress call by Kashmiris living outside and deputed officials for the assistance.&nbsp;

Started in 2017, with an aim to assist students studying all over the country who face security issues, the helpline has evolved itself and gown over the years.&nbsp;

Led by a young Commandant Gul Junaid Khan, a Kashmiri from north Kashmir, this force has taken a pledge to help the common man.

Junaid hails from a volatile area in Baramulla district where terrorists often attack men in uniform. He was rare to be retained in Srinagar, seeing his commitment and dedication to work by his officers.&nbsp;

"The basic idea of Madadgar is to help Kashmiris in distress who are in the state or outside. We provide several kinds of assistance to people. We have received 3.59 lakh calls till now for various kind of assistance," says Junaid while monitoring his team at work.&nbsp;

On average, this helpline receives 400 to 500 calls each day regarding a wide range of issues from road status to employment.&nbsp;

CRPF says on every day they get 15 to 20 service calls are related to medical issues. These men in uniform have also been donating blood and helping financially poor people on just a phone call.&nbsp;

"We are very happy in helping the people. We also get calls for blood donation and when we help them, they give us blessings," says Sub-Inspector, Sanjay Kumar.&nbsp;

The 'Madadgaar' helpline set-up by the Central reserve police force in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is helping the common people every day. From resolving the local grievance to assisting Kashmiris students outside the state, they have been at the forefront of it all.

The 'Madadgaar' helpline set-up by the Central reserve police force in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is helping the common people every day. From resolving the local grievance to assisting Kashmiris students outside the state, they have been at the forefront of it all. Located on the outskirts of Srinagar, this helpline number receives hundreds of calls every day, not only from the local residents but also Kashmiris living outside the state. Since the Pulwama terror attack, they have attended distress call by Kashmiris living outside and deputed officials for the assistance. Started in 2017, with an aim to assist students studying all over the country who face security issues, the helpline has evolved itself and gown over the years. Led by a young Commandant Gul Junaid Khan, a Kashmiri from north Kashmir, this force has taken a pledge to help the common man. Junaid hails from a volatile area in Baramulla district where terrorists often attack men in uniform. He was rare to be retained in Srinagar, seeing his commitment and dedication to work by his officers. "The basic idea of Madadgar is to help Kashmiris in distress who are in the state or outside. We provide several kinds of assistance to people. We have received 3.59 lakh calls till now for various kind of assistance," says Junaid while monitoring his team at work. On average, this helpline receives 400 to 500 calls each day regarding a wide range of issues from road status to employment. CRPF says on every day they get 15 to 20 service calls are related to medical issues. These men in uniform have also been donating blood and helping financially poor people on just a phone call. "We are very happy in helping the people. We also get calls for blood donation and when we help them, they give us blessings," says Sub-Inspector, Sanjay Kumar.

'Madadgaar': A CRPF helpline dedicated to common man in Jammu and Kashmir

A lot has been spoken and written about highway control in J&amp;K post both the first and second attempts at use of car bombs by Pakistan sponsored terror groups this year. Everyone is familiar with the first one at Pulwama which tragically caused forty fatalities of CRPF personnel and commenced a spiral of escalation with Pakistan, almost leading to war. The second one at Banihal, less than a month ago, is less known to the public although the media has highlighted it but without too much emphasis on the implications. It was a failed attempt by a lone wolf operative probably backed by a full network of terror. The vehicle along with explosives packed in it caught fire and was burnt down once the detonation mechanism apparently failed; the local terrorist was caught next day attempting to sneak back to the Valley from the south of Pir Panjal. It was enough to send the establishment into a tizzy with the possibility of more such attempts.

Just after the Pulwama incident, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) attempted different measures to reduce the footprint of vehicular movement so as to offer lesser opportunity to terrorists to target security forces’ vehicles. This included a high profile announcement of a move to authorise CRPF personnel commercial air travel between Srinagar and Jammu at government expense. A proactive decision no doubt which was much appreciated but reflected little knowledge of the reality of dynamics of security forces deployment, their logistics and movement pattern in Kashmir. After Banihal comes another announcement in aid of securing the movement of personnel in vehicles. This time the National Highway from Udhampur to Baramulla, has reportedly been reserved for movement of only army and police vehicles on Sundays and Wednesdays. No civilian vehicle is being permitted to ply from 4 AM in the morning till 7 PM in the evening on the notified days. It is being hoped that this will completely neutralise the feasibility of car bombs being rammed into a vehicle of the convoy.

As per most media analyses, if the earlier decision after Pulwama was a travesty of understanding of threats in J&amp;K the one reserving days for the army and police movement makes it even worse by its complete lack of sensitiveness. How right is this thinking and are such arrangements justified? A writ petition in J&amp;K High Court against the government direction on the restricted movement of civilian traffic is already under examination with the court asking the government to examine more options for secure convoy movement without disturbing civilian traffic.&nbsp;

There are a couple of facts which need highlighting. The first is that with the MHA decision on air travel it appeared that the CRPF, which functions under the MHA, is the only threatened entity in J&amp;K. Little is it realised that the Army mans the entire LoC and major parts of J&amp;K’s rural countryside; it’s controlling ministry the MoD did not think it fit to offer even a token gesture of permitting its personnel movement by commercial air.&nbsp; &nbsp;How can personnel under the Government of India, involved in near similar tasks and facing common threats be given different treatment? A practical look at the situation and method of movement will reveal the impossibility of securing personnel through such a gesture. Logistics is far more complicated than mere movement of troops in vehicles. The Army's system of supplies, catering to warlike situations, stretches all the way back to the hinterland and caters for stocking up to variable periods till 210 days, thus entailing a massive movement of convoys for at least six months in summer. The Ladakh region is stocked for the entire winter by using routes for large convoys running through the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

The recent chain of events and the media reporting has led to a mistaken belief that the Jammu-Srinagar convoy of the CRPF is the only major security movement in J&amp;K. Within the Valley, almost ten army convoys move every day and each one has personnel, supplies and stores with protection vehicles against possible ambush. The BSF has a few too. Thus both measures by the MHA, air travel by CRPF personnel and earmarking of convoy days with no civilian vehicular move, can only partially ameliorate the threat because there are thousands of other security personnel on the move and many more convoys than just those between Udhampur and Baramulla.

One cannot be entirely critical of the government's decision on earmarked days for convoy movement without any civilian movement. Challenging situations sometimes do demand very uncomfortable decisions. Obviously, the Banihal failed car bomb raised hackles of concern on how soon after Pulwama a second attempt was made with impunity. One can imagine the implications if like Pulwama there were once again a large number of fatal casualties. The spiral of escalation with Pakistan may have gone through the roof. However, the question is whether the current security measures have been adequately thought through. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah tweeted his observation when he found the movement of military convoys on the Srinagar - Uri road on days not earmarked for them. The reality is that military movement in and to the Valley cannot remain restricted. Contingencies being such; terrorist threats, climatic conditions and civilian street turbulence all combine to prevent any rigidity such as fixed days for convoys and other military movement. The two days on which movement of civilian traffic is banned are therefore essentially days on which convoys will possibly be dedicated to maximum personnel movement while on other days balance of logistics, not involving groups of personnel in large numbers, will move. This is the only explicable rationale of the decisions recently taken. However, they have caused much bitterness in Kashmir. The problem with our system remains our inability to take the public into confidence or have even a modicum of consultation with it. Some public articulation was necessary to tell the public in no uncertain terms that trends in terrorism result in discomfort to the common people and that full rights of the people cannot be guaranteed under the prevailing extraordinary circumstances. A similar warning through media could also be repeatedly given against stone-throwing being done by ISI sponsored mobs to prevent the conduct of anti-terrorist operations. The problem in Kashmir is that while alienated people support terrorists they also demand full rights for themselves, little realising that people in proxy conflict zones can rarely enjoy the same rights as people in peaceful areas.&nbsp;

The above is no justification for the recent decision but a more plausible explanation. With approaching summer, movement of convoys will increase causing more stringent measures leading to enhanced levels of alienation, exactly what the adversary wishes. Can better measures be thought through? Ban on movement of vehicles with less than three passengers is a possible way as suicide mode of execution can ill afford more than a lone wolf. In 2011 on public request, the Army moved its convoys from Srinagar outside timings of normal public movement. That measure can, however, decongest the road only near Srinagar. It’s a complex security issue we face and much more deliberation with some flexibility may meet the requirement, at least for some time.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-jk-s-turbulent-highway-2739017">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

A lot has been spoken and written about highway control in J&K post both the first and second attempts at use of car bombs by Pakistan sponsored terror groups this year.

A lot has been spoken and written about highway control in J&K post both the first and second attempts at use of car bombs by Pakistan sponsored terror groups this year. Everyone is familiar with the first one at Pulwama which tragically caused forty fatalities of CRPF personnel and commenced a spiral of escalation with Pakistan, almost leading to war. The second one at Banihal, less than a month ago, is less known to the public although the media has highlighted it but without too much emphasis on the implications. It was a failed attempt by a lone wolf operative probably backed by a full network of terror. The vehicle along with explosives packed in it caught fire and was burnt down once the detonation mechanism apparently failed; the local terrorist was caught next day attempting to sneak back to the Valley from the south of Pir Panjal. It was enough to send the establishment into a tizzy with the possibility of more such attempts. Just after the Pulwama incident, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) attempted different measures to reduce the footprint of vehicular movement so as to offer lesser opportunity to terrorists to target security forces’ vehicles. This included a high profile announcement of a move to authorise CRPF personnel commercial air travel between Srinagar and Jammu at government expense. A proactive decision no doubt which was much appreciated but reflected little knowledge of the reality of dynamics of security forces deployment, their logistics and movement pattern in Kashmir. After Banihal comes another announcement in aid of securing the movement of personnel in vehicles. This time the National Highway from Udhampur to Baramulla, has reportedly been reserved for movement of only army and police vehicles on Sundays and Wednesdays. No civilian vehicle is being permitted to ply from 4 AM in the morning till 7 PM in the evening on the notified days. It is being hoped that this will completely neutralise the feasibility of car bombs being rammed into a vehicle of the convoy. As per most media analyses, if the earlier decision after Pulwama was a travesty of understanding of threats in J&K the one reserving days for the army and police movement makes it even worse by its complete lack of sensitiveness. How right is this thinking and are such arrangements justified? A writ petition in J&K High Court against the government direction on the restricted movement of civilian traffic is already under examination with the court asking the government to examine more options for secure convoy movement without disturbing civilian traffic. There are a couple of facts which need highlighting. The first is that with the MHA decision on air travel it appeared that the CRPF, which functions under the MHA, is the only threatened entity in J&K. Little is it realised that the Army mans the entire LoC and major parts of J&K’s rural countryside; it’s controlling ministry the MoD did not think it fit to offer even a token gesture of permitting its personnel movement by commercial air. How can personnel under the Government of India, involved in near similar tasks and facing common threats be given different treatment? A practical look at the situation and method of movement will reveal the impossibility of securing personnel through such a gesture. Logistics is far more complicated than mere movement of troops in vehicles. The Army's system of supplies, catering to warlike situations, stretches all the way back to the hinterland and caters for stocking up to variable periods till 210 days, thus entailing a massive movement of convoys for at least six months in summer. The Ladakh region is stocked for the entire winter by using routes for large convoys running through the Kashmir Valley. The recent chain of events and the media reporting has led to a mistaken belief that the Jammu-Srinagar convoy of the CRPF is the only major security movement in J&K. Within the Valley, almost ten army convoys move every day and each one has personnel, supplies and stores with protection vehicles against possible ambush. The BSF has a few too. Thus both measures by the MHA, air travel by CRPF personnel and earmarking of convoy days with no civilian vehicular move, can only partially ameliorate the threat because there are thousands of other security personnel on the move and many more convoys than just those between Udhampur and Baramulla. One cannot be entirely critical of the government's decision on earmarked days for convoy movement without any civilian movement. Challenging situations sometimes do demand very uncomfortable decisions. Obviously, the Banihal failed car bomb raised hackles of concern on how soon after Pulwama a second attempt was made with impunity. One can imagine the implications if like Pulwama there were once again a large number of fatal casualties. The spiral of escalation with Pakistan may have gone through the roof. However, the question is whether the current security measures have been adequately thought through. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah tweeted his observation when he found the movement of military convoys on the Srinagar - Uri road on days not earmarked for them. The reality is that military movement in and to the Valley cannot remain restricted. Contingencies being such; terrorist threats, climatic conditions and civilian street turbulence all combine to prevent any rigidity such as fixed days for convoys and other military movement. The two days on which movement of civilian traffic is banned are therefore essentially days on which convoys will possibly be dedicated to maximum personnel movement while on other days balance of logistics, not involving groups of personnel in large numbers, will move. This is the only explicable rationale of the decisions recently taken. However, they have caused much bitterness in Kashmir. The problem with our system remains our inability to take the public into confidence or have even a modicum of consultation with it. Some public articulation was necessary to tell the public in no uncertain terms that trends in terrorism result in discomfort to the common people and that full rights of the people cannot be guaranteed under the prevailing extraordinary circumstances. A similar warning through media could also be repeatedly given against stone-throwing being done by ISI sponsored mobs to prevent the conduct of anti-terrorist operations. The problem in Kashmir is that while alienated people support terrorists they also demand full rights for themselves, little realising that people in proxy conflict zones can rarely enjoy the same rights as people in peaceful areas. The above is no justification for the recent decision but a more plausible explanation. With approaching summer, movement of convoys will increase causing more stringent measures leading to enhanced levels of alienation, exactly what the adversary wishes. Can better measures be thought through? Ban on movement of vehicles with less than three passengers is a possible way as suicide mode of execution can ill afford more than a lone wolf. In 2011 on public request, the Army moved its convoys from Srinagar outside timings of normal public movement. That measure can, however, decongest the road only near Srinagar. It’s a complex security issue we face and much more deliberation with some flexibility may meet the requirement, at least for some time. (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.)

In J&K, government faces the challenge of safe movement of soldiers

An encounter is currently underway between terrorists and security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported quoting police sources.

According to a report by IANS, two terrorists have been killed in the encounter.&nbsp;Their exact identities and affiliations are being ascertained.

Based on specific information about the presence of terrorists in Gahand area of Shopian in south Kashmir, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in&nbsp;the&nbsp;morning, a police officer&nbsp;said.

According to him, forces were conducting searches when terrorists fired upon them.

The forces retaliated, resulting in an encounter, the officer said, adding the exchange of firing was going on and further details are awaited.&nbsp;

An encounter is currently underway between terrorists and security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported quoting police sources.

An encounter is currently underway between terrorists and security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported quoting police sources. According to a report by IANS, two terrorists have been killed in the encounter. Their exact identities and affiliations are being ascertained. Based on specific information about the presence of terrorists in Gahand area of Shopian in south Kashmir, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the morning, a police officer said. According to him, forces were conducting searches when terrorists fired upon them. The forces retaliated, resulting in an encounter, the officer said, adding the exchange of firing was going on and further details are awaited.

J&K: Encounter underway between security forces and terrorists in Shopian; 2 terrorists killed

Three civilians, including two women, were injured Friday when Pakistani troops targeted forward posts and civilians areas with mortars and small arms firing along the Line of Control (LoC) in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-bsf-officer-5-year-old-girl-killed-in-ceasefire-violation-by-pakistan-army-in-poonch-207208">Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district</a>, drawing strong retaliation from the Indian Army.

With Pakistan using heavy weaponry and 120 mm mortar bombs targeting civilian areas, people have been advised to stay indoors, officials said.

"At about 0830 hours, Pakistani Army initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by shelling with mortars and firing with small arms along the LoC in Swajian sector of Poonch," PRO defence said.&nbsp;

The Indian Army is effectively retaliating, he said.

Three persons, including two women, identified as Tasveer Akhtar, 19, and Shabina Akhtar, 18, of Chapprian village, were injured in the Pakistani shelling and they have been hospitalised, officials said.

A house of one Gani Mir suffered damages in Chapprian-Sawjian forward belt, they said.

As the Pakistani army often targets civilian areas, people of the Chapprian-Sawjian area are demanding the construction of bunkers for their safety.

We are living along the zero line near the border fencing but have no protective enclosures like bunkers, said Abdul Rashid of Chapprian village.&nbsp;

Two persons were injured when Pakistani troops resorted to firing and shelling along the LoC in the forward area in Digwar sector of Poonch last Friday.

Three civilians, including two women, were injured Friday when Pakistani troops targeted forward posts and civilians areas with mortars and small arms firing along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, drawing strong retaliation from the Indian Army.

Three civilians, including two women, were injured Friday when Pakistani troops targeted forward posts and civilians areas with mortars and small arms firing along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, drawing strong retaliation from the Indian Army. With Pakistan using heavy weaponry and 120 mm mortar bombs targeting civilian areas, people have been advised to stay indoors, officials said. "At about 0830 hours, Pakistani Army initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by shelling with mortars and firing with small arms along the LoC in Swajian sector of Poonch," PRO defence said. The Indian Army is effectively retaliating, he said. Three persons, including two women, identified as Tasveer Akhtar, 19, and Shabina Akhtar, 18, of Chapprian village, were injured in the Pakistani shelling and they have been hospitalised, officials said. A house of one Gani Mir suffered damages in Chapprian-Sawjian forward belt, they said. As the Pakistani army often targets civilian areas, people of the Chapprian-Sawjian area are demanding the construction of bunkers for their safety. We are living along the zero line near the border fencing but have no protective enclosures like bunkers, said Abdul Rashid of Chapprian village. Two persons were injured when Pakistani troops resorted to firing and shelling along the LoC in the forward area in Digwar sector of Poonch last Friday.

Jammu and Kashmir: Three civilians injured in Pakistan shelling along LoC in Pooch district

Two days after Mehbooba Mufti and Gautam Gambhir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mehbooba-mufti-and-gautam-gambhir-get-into-a-twitter-fight-over-article-370-209020">engaged in a war on Twitte</a>r, the former Indian cricketer said on Thursday that Mehbooba Mufti will drown if she does not "flow&nbsp;with the wave in the country".

Responding to reporters, he said, "She(Mehbooba Mufti) can block me, but till when will she keep blocking 130 crore people of the nation? There is a wave in this country and if she doesn’t flow with it, she'll drown. In 2014 there was a wave, in 2019 there is tsunami and there is development".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Gautam Gambhir says, "she(Mehbooba Mufti) can block me, but till when will she keep blocking 130 cr people of the nation? There is a wave in this country &amp; if she doesn’t flow with it, she'll drown. In 2014 there was a wave, in 2019 there is tsunami &amp; there is development" <a href="https://t.co/HR3jZHeyUT">pic.twitter.com/HR3jZHeyUT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1116295284160638976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The issue of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abrogating-article-370-will-pave-way-for-freedom-for-people-of-jk-farooq-abdullah-208854">Article 370</a> had triggered a war of words between the J&amp;K's former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and former cricketer and BJP leader Gautam Gambhir earlier this week.

On April 8, PDP chief took a jibe at BJP, in response to a news article over a PIL seeking a ban on Farooq Abdullah, his son and Mehbooba Mufti from contesting Lok Sabha polls, as their "statements are against the Indian constitution".

Reacting to this tweet, Gautam Gambhir wrote, "Yeh Bharat hai. Koi aap jaisa dhabba nahi jo mit jayega" (This is India. Not a stain like you &nbsp;(Mehbooba Mufti) that it would be erased”.)

Mufti reacted by saying that, “Hope your political innings in BJP isn’t as abysmal as your cricket career!”.&nbsp;

She later apparently blocked Gambhir and then again unblocked him, resulting in this reply from the latter.

Mufti though seems to have blocked Gambhir for good who then expressed happiness over this decision and questioned how she would block all the other Indians who are against her views.

Gambhir had earlier taken on Omar Abdullah over the latter’s demand for a separate President and Prime Minister in Jammu and Kashmir.

Two days after Mehbooba Mufti and Gautam Gambhir engaged in a war on Twitter, the former Indian cricketer said on Thursday that Mehbooba Mufti will drown if she does not "flow with the wave in the country".

Two days after Mehbooba Mufti and Gautam Gambhir engaged in a war on Twitter, the former Indian cricketer said on Thursday that Mehbooba Mufti will drown if she does not "flow with the wave in the country". Responding to reporters, he said, "She(Mehbooba Mufti) can block me, but till when will she keep blocking 130 crore people of the nation? There is a wave in this country and if she doesn’t flow with it, she'll drown. In 2014 there was a wave, in 2019 there is tsunami and there is development". #WATCH Gautam Gambhir says, "she(Mehbooba Mufti) can block me, but till when will she keep blocking 130 cr people of the nation? There is a wave in this country & if she doesn’t flow with it, she'll drown. In 2014 there was a wave, in 2019 there is tsunami & there is development" pic.twitter.com/HR3jZHeyUT — ANI (@ANI) April 11, 2019 × The issue of Article 370 had triggered a war of words between the J&K's former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and former cricketer and BJP leader Gautam Gambhir earlier this week. On April 8, PDP chief took a jibe at BJP, in response to a news article over a PIL seeking a ban on Farooq Abdullah, his son and Mehbooba Mufti from contesting Lok Sabha polls, as their "statements are against the Indian constitution". Reacting to this tweet, Gautam Gambhir wrote, "Yeh Bharat hai. Koi aap jaisa dhabba nahi jo mit jayega" (This is India. Not a stain like you (Mehbooba Mufti) that it would be erased”.) Mufti reacted by saying that, “Hope your political innings in BJP isn’t as abysmal as your cricket career!”. She later apparently blocked Gambhir and then again unblocked him, resulting in this reply from the latter. Mufti though seems to have blocked Gambhir for good who then expressed happiness over this decision and questioned how she would block all the other Indians who are against her views. Gambhir had earlier taken on Omar Abdullah over the latter’s demand for a separate President and Prime Minister in Jammu and Kashmir.

There is a wave in this country, if she doesn’t flow with it, she'll drown: Gambhir to Mehbooba Mufti

Medical Assistant Chandrakant Sharma who was attacked by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar on Tuesday morning succumbed to his injuries, BJP spokesperson Sunil Sethi said.

Sharma, who used to work at a district hospital in Kishtwar was associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS).

He had suffered injuries during the attack by terrorists this morning while his Personal Security Officer (PSO) was shot dead.

Soon after receiving the report of the incident, a police team rushed to the spot.

Security forces have launched a search operation to nab the perpetrators and a curfew has been imposed in the area.

Sharma was close to BJP state secretary Anil Parihar.

Last year, Anil Parihar and his brother were shot dead by terrorists in Kishtwar district.

Medical Assistant Chandrakant Sharma who was attacked by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar on Tuesday morning succumbed to his injuries, BJP spokesperson Sunil Sethi said.

Medical Assistant Chandrakant Sharma who was attacked by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar on Tuesday morning succumbed to his injuries, BJP spokesperson Sunil Sethi said. Sharma, who used to work at a district hospital in Kishtwar was associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS). He had suffered injuries during the attack by terrorists this morning while his Personal Security Officer (PSO) was shot dead. Soon after receiving the report of the incident, a police team rushed to the spot. Security forces have launched a search operation to nab the perpetrators and a curfew has been imposed in the area. Sharma was close to BJP state secretary Anil Parihar. Last year, Anil Parihar and his brother were shot dead by terrorists in Kishtwar district.

RSS worker Chandrakant Sharma, PSO killed by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, curfew imposed

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