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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Intelligence agencies were trying to ascertain reports on social media about <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/jem-chief-masood-azhar-suspected-to-be-afflicted-with-renal-failure-undergoes-regular-dialysis-200758">the death of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group chief Masood Azhar in Pakistan,</a>&nbsp;officials said on Sunday.

The officials said they had no information other than that Azhar was undergoing treatment at an army hospital after suffering renal failure.

A resident of Bahawalpur in Pakistan's Punjab province, Azhar formed the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2000.

The 50-year-old Azhar, who was released by the NDA government in 1999 in exchange of hostages of the hijacked Indian Airlines plane IC-814, has been accused of being the mastermind of the 2001 Parliament attack, suicide attack on Jammu and Kashmir state assembly, attack on Pathankot IAF base and the latest Pulwama terror strike.

The social media was filled with reports that Azhar had died, but there was no confirmation as of now, the officials said.&nbsp;

Jaish terror group's Balakot camp, where training was imparted to recruits to carry out suicide attacks, was targeted by the IAF in an air strike last week, following the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

The government has claimed that it achieved spectacular success by destroying the facility.

In an interview to CNN, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi earlier admitted that the JeM chief is in Pakistan and is "very unwell", but said the government can act against him only if India presents "solid" and "inalienable" evidence that can stand in a court of law.

"He is in Pakistan, according to my information. He is unwell to the extent that he can't leave his house, because he's really unwell," Qureshi said.&nbsp;

Intelligence agencies were trying to ascertain reports on social media about the death of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group chief Masood Azhar in Pakistan, officials said on Sunday.

Intelligence agencies were trying to ascertain reports on social media about the death of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group chief Masood Azhar in Pakistan, officials said on Sunday. The officials said they had no information other than that Azhar was undergoing treatment at an army hospital after suffering renal failure. A resident of Bahawalpur in Pakistan's Punjab province, Azhar formed the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2000. The 50-year-old Azhar, who was released by the NDA government in 1999 in exchange of hostages of the hijacked Indian Airlines plane IC-814, has been accused of being the mastermind of the 2001 Parliament attack, suicide attack on Jammu and Kashmir state assembly, attack on Pathankot IAF base and the latest Pulwama terror strike. The social media was filled with reports that Azhar had died, but there was no confirmation as of now, the officials said. Jaish terror group's Balakot camp, where training was imparted to recruits to carry out suicide attacks, was targeted by the IAF in an air strike last week, following the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. The government has claimed that it achieved spectacular success by destroying the facility. In an interview to CNN, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi earlier admitted that the JeM chief is in Pakistan and is "very unwell", but said the government can act against him only if India presents "solid" and "inalienable" evidence that can stand in a court of law. "He is in Pakistan, according to my information. He is unwell to the extent that he can't leave his house, because he's really unwell," Qureshi said.

Is JeM chief Masood Azhar dead? Intelligence agencies verifying reports, say officials

J&K: Encounter in Kupwara, Bodies of 2 terrorists recovered

Five people died after a bus, on its way from Surinsar towards Srinagar, rolled into a deep gorge at Majalta in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district on Friday night.

All five people died on spot. The rescue operation is currently underway.

This comes days after a bus rammed into an auto rickshaw and two cars after the driver became unconscious in Telangana's Ranga Reddy area on Wednesday.

Before that, a truck driver died and at least 15 people were injured after a collision between a truck and a Delhi Transport Corporation bus near ITO in the national capital in the early hours of Tuesday.&nbsp;

Five people died after a bus, on its way from Surinsar towards Srinagar, rolled into a deep gorge at Majalta in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district on Friday night.

Five people died after a bus, on its way from Surinsar towards Srinagar, rolled into a deep gorge at Majalta in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district on Friday night. All five people died on spot. The rescue operation is currently underway. This comes days after a bus rammed into an auto rickshaw and two cars after the driver became unconscious in Telangana's Ranga Reddy area on Wednesday. Before that, a truck driver died and at least 15 people were injured after a collision between a truck and a Delhi Transport Corporation bus near ITO in the national capital in the early hours of Tuesday.

J&K: 5 dead after bus falls into deep gorge in Udhampur

Four security personnel, including two policemen and two CRPF jawans, succumbed to their injuries during an encounter with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Handwara town of Kupwara district on Friday.

A civilian was also killed in the encounter, officials said.

Based on credible input about the presence of terrorists in Babagund area of Kralgund in Handwara, a cordon and search operation was launched on Friday jointly by police and security forces in the area, the police said.

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Kupwara encounter: Firing stopped, search operation underway. Four security personnel and one civilian lost their lives in the encounter that broke out yesterday. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>
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The encounter broke out after the terrorists fired indiscriminately on the search party.

The two police personnel who lost their lives have been identified as Sg Ct Naseer Ahmad Kholi and Sg Ct Ghulam Mustafa Barah, while the two CRPF personnel have been identified as Inspector Pintu and Ct Vinod.

The civilian has been identified as Waseem Ahmad Mir.

"Citizens are requested not to venture inside the encounter zone since such an area can prove dangerous due to stray explosive materials. People are requested to cooperate with police till the area is completely sanitised and cleared of all the explosive materials if any," the police said in a statement. 
&nbsp;

Four security personnel, including two policemen and two CRPF jawans, succumbed to their injuries during an encounter with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Handwara town of Kupwara district on Friday.

Four security personnel, including two policemen and two CRPF jawans, succumbed to their injuries during an encounter with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Handwara town of Kupwara district on Friday. A civilian was also killed in the encounter, officials said. Based on credible input about the presence of terrorists in Babagund area of Kralgund in Handwara, a cordon and search operation was launched on Friday jointly by police and security forces in the area, the police said. Kupwara encounter: Firing stopped, search operation underway. Four security personnel and one civilian lost their lives in the encounter that broke out yesterday. #JammuAndKashmir — ANI (@ANI) March 2, 2019 × The encounter broke out after the terrorists fired indiscriminately on the search party. The two police personnel who lost their lives have been identified as Sg Ct Naseer Ahmad Kholi and Sg Ct Ghulam Mustafa Barah, while the two CRPF personnel have been identified as Inspector Pintu and Ct Vinod. The civilian has been identified as Waseem Ahmad Mir. "Citizens are requested not to venture inside the encounter zone since such an area can prove dangerous due to stray explosive materials. People are requested to cooperate with police till the area is completely sanitised and cleared of all the explosive materials if any," the police said in a statement.

J&K: 4 security personnel, 1 civillian killed in Kupwara encounter

Last week saw major developments in terms of India's counter-terror strategy. From strikes on JeM terror camps in Pak territory to getting Indian defence personnel <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/welcome-wishes-pour-in-for-iaf-pilot-abhinandan-varthaman-after-his-return-200646">Abhinandan Varthaman</a> back from Pakistan's captivity, New Delhi was able to set new benchmarks this week and reinstated its stand as a strong nation. Here is a timeline of what happened from the first tweet to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-now-meaning-of-abhinandan-will-change-pm-modi-200645">Wing Commander Abhinandan's return</a> on Friday.

Tuesday, February 26

- In the wee hours, around 2.45 am, of Thursday India launches strikes on JeM terror camps in Balakot.

- Pakistan. DG ISPR tweets about the attack, India officially confirms the strike at 11.30am.&nbsp;

- An all-party meeting is called for at 5 pm

- External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj briefs about the situation, speaks to foreign ministers of five nations -- US, China, Singapore, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

Wednesday, February 27

- Pakistan planes launch an attack on Indian military installations. Pakistan Air Force (PAF) jets enter Indian airspace in Nowshera in Jammu and Kashmir.

- At 11:49, Inter-Services Public Relations confirms the attack on Twitter, informs about the arrest of one Indian pilot.

- Later in the day, external affairs ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar holds a press briefing, confirms Indian forces shot down one aircraft belonging to the Pakistan Air Force. He also informs that India lost one MiG-21 aircraft today and the pilot is missing in action.

- Following Pakistan's retaliation, India summons Pakistan's deputy high commissioner.

- India also closes its northwest airspace meanwhile, Pakistan closes its entire airspace.

- Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan addresses the nation saying both countries can't afford any miscalculation and dialogue is the only option to address their issues.

&nbsp;"During Pakistan's retaliation, two Indian MiGs crossed the border. We shot them down. The pilots are with us," Khan noted.&nbsp;

- The pilot was identified as Wing Commander Abhinandan.

- Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan was summoned Wednesday afternoon by MEA to lodge a strong protest at the unprovoked act of aggression by Pakistan against India

- Later in the evening, India hands over a dossier to Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan with specific details of JeM complicity in Pulwama terror attack and the presence of JeM terror camps and its leadership in Pakistan.

- The United States, Britain and France proposed that the United Nations Security Council blacklist the head of Jaish-e-Mohammed Masood Azhar.

Thursday, February 28

- Pakistan authorities suspend Samjhauta Express train service between Pakistan and India until further notice. Indian railways also decide to suspend the operations of the Indo-Pak Samjhauta Express.

- In the afternoon at 1:00pm, US President Donald Trump, in a news conference in Vietnam, said he had some "reasonably decent" news from India and Pakistan. He did not elaborate further.

- Pakistan Parliament begins its joint session at 3:30 pm.

- Later in the day, Pakistan PM Imran Khan announces Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman's released on Friday as "peace gesture".

- At around 7:00 pm, Indian Air Force presents visuals as evidence of cover of AMRAAM missile fired from Pakistani F-16 fighter aircraft which was found in the east of Rajouri after Pakistan Air Force (PAF) jets entered into Indian airspace on Wednesday morning.

Friday, March 1

- Pak foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi boycotts OIC meet; announces Abhinandan will be released in the afternoon.&nbsp;

- External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj addresses Organisation of Islamic Cooperation conclave in Abu Dhabi; slams Pak for its support to terror.

- India cancels beating the retreat at Attari since Pak wanted to turn a solemn occasion to its propaganda

- Beating the retreat on Pak side gets over around 5.45pm. Captain Abhinandan's release is anticipated.

- Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman reaches Wagah at 8.45pm.&nbsp;

- Wing Commander Abhinandan crosses over to India at 9.21pm.&nbsp;

- France becomes the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/france-welcomes-the-release-of-iaf-pilot-abhinandan-varthaman-200581">first country to welcome</a> his release.

 
&nbsp;

Last week saw major developments in terms of India's counter-terror strategy. From strikes on JeM terror camps in Pak territory to getting Indian defence personnel Abhinandan Varthaman back from Pakistan's captivity, New Delhi was able to set new benchmarks this week and reinstated its stand as a strong nation.

Last week saw major developments in terms of India's counter-terror strategy. From strikes on JeM terror camps in Pak territory to getting Indian defence personnel Abhinandan Varthaman back from Pakistan's captivity, New Delhi was able to set new benchmarks this week and reinstated its stand as a strong nation. Here is a timeline of what happened from the first tweet to Wing Commander Abhinandan's return on Friday. Tuesday, February 26 - In the wee hours, around 2.45 am, of Thursday India launches strikes on JeM terror camps in Balakot. - Pakistan. DG ISPR tweets about the attack, India officially confirms the strike at 11.30am. - An all-party meeting is called for at 5 pm - External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj briefs about the situation, speaks to foreign ministers of five nations -- US, China, Singapore, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Wednesday, February 27 - Pakistan planes launch an attack on Indian military installations. Pakistan Air Force (PAF) jets enter Indian airspace in Nowshera in Jammu and Kashmir. - At 11:49, Inter-Services Public Relations confirms the attack on Twitter, informs about the arrest of one Indian pilot. - Later in the day, external affairs ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar holds a press briefing, confirms Indian forces shot down one aircraft belonging to the Pakistan Air Force. He also informs that India lost one MiG-21 aircraft today and the pilot is missing in action. - Following Pakistan's retaliation, India summons Pakistan's deputy high commissioner. - India also closes its northwest airspace meanwhile, Pakistan closes its entire airspace. - Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan addresses the nation saying both countries can't afford any miscalculation and dialogue is the only option to address their issues. "During Pakistan's retaliation, two Indian MiGs crossed the border. We shot them down. The pilots are with us," Khan noted. - The pilot was identified as Wing Commander Abhinandan. - Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan was summoned Wednesday afternoon by MEA to lodge a strong protest at the unprovoked act of aggression by Pakistan against India - Later in the evening, India hands over a dossier to Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan with specific details of JeM complicity in Pulwama terror attack and the presence of JeM terror camps and its leadership in Pakistan. - The United States, Britain and France proposed that the United Nations Security Council blacklist the head of Jaish-e-Mohammed Masood Azhar. Thursday, February 28 - Pakistan authorities suspend Samjhauta Express train service between Pakistan and India until further notice. Indian railways also decide to suspend the operations of the Indo-Pak Samjhauta Express. - In the afternoon at 1:00pm, US President Donald Trump, in a news conference in Vietnam, said he had some "reasonably decent" news from India and Pakistan. He did not elaborate further. - Pakistan Parliament begins its joint session at 3:30 pm. - Later in the day, Pakistan PM Imran Khan announces Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman's released on Friday as "peace gesture". - At around 7:00 pm, Indian Air Force presents visuals as evidence of cover of AMRAAM missile fired from Pakistani F-16 fighter aircraft which was found in the east of Rajouri after Pakistan Air Force (PAF) jets entered into Indian airspace on Wednesday morning. Friday, March 1 - Pak foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi boycotts OIC meet; announces Abhinandan will be released in the afternoon. - External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj addresses Organisation of Islamic Cooperation conclave in Abu Dhabi; slams Pak for its support to terror. - India cancels beating the retreat at Attari since Pak wanted to turn a solemn occasion to its propaganda - Beating the retreat on Pak side gets over around 5.45pm. Captain Abhinandan's release is anticipated. - Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman reaches Wagah at 8.45pm. - Wing Commander Abhinandan crosses over to India at 9.21pm. - France becomes the first country to welcome his release.

The week that was: Timeline of India-Pak powerplay leading to IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman's release

One civilian injured in IED blast in Jammu and Kashmir's Tral

Pakistan MI, ISI planning to mix poison in ration of forces, J&K CID issues warning

A note issued by the criminal investigation department of the Jammu and Kashmir government has alerted security agencies against a possible threat to security forces deployed in Kashmir.

The intel note has cautioned security agencies against Pak Military Intelligence and Inter-Services Intelligence agents' plan of poisoning the ration of security forces deployed in Kashmir.&nbsp;

The letter accessed by WION reads, “chatter floating by a Pakistani number claims that Pakistan MI (military intelligence) and ISI agents operation in Kashmir are planning to mix poison in ration stocks of security forces deployed in the region”. This has got forces worried and on alert.&nbsp;

The note comes over a fortnight after the deadly Pulwama attack which was carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed.&nbsp;

Authorities have now asked forces to ensure the security of ration depots of all camps. They have also suggested checking the ration being moved to Kashmir to ensure the safety for forces operation in Jammu and Kashmir. 
&nbsp;

A note issued by the criminal investigation department of the Jammu and Kashmir government has alerted security agencies against a possible threat to security forces deployed in Kashmir.

A note issued by the criminal investigation department of the Jammu and Kashmir government has alerted security agencies against a possible threat to security forces deployed in Kashmir. The intel note has cautioned security agencies against Pak Military Intelligence and Inter-Services Intelligence agents' plan of poisoning the ration of security forces deployed in Kashmir. The letter accessed by WION reads, “chatter floating by a Pakistani number claims that Pakistan MI (military intelligence) and ISI agents operation in Kashmir are planning to mix poison in ration stocks of security forces deployed in the region”. This has got forces worried and on alert. The note comes over a fortnight after the deadly Pulwama attack which was carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed. Authorities have now asked forces to ensure the security of ration depots of all camps. They have also suggested checking the ration being moved to Kashmir to ensure the safety for forces operation in Jammu and Kashmir.

J&K: Intel note reveals ISI planning to poison security forces through ration

Two terrorists were killed during an overnight encounter at Babagund village in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Friday.&nbsp;

Security forces had laid a cordon around the village after receiving inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area. After searches, forces were able to track the terrorists in hiding.&nbsp;

Early on Friday, firing in the area stopped and bodies of two terrorists were recovered from the spot.&nbsp;

Despite ceasefire violations on the Line of Control, forces have conducted several operations in the valley after Pulwama attack which killed over 40 CRPF jawans.

In wake of the Pulwama attack, the central government has declared <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-imposes-ban-on-jamaat-e-islami-jammu-and-kashmir-200364">Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir as an ‘unlawful association’</a>. Hundreds of its activists have already been arrested by the security forces in the valley.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Pakistan violated ceasefire in Kamalkote area of Uri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Friday. Civilian identified as Riyaz Ahmad was injured in the shelling carried out by Pakistan.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Two terrorists were killed during an overnight encounter at Babagund village in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Friday. Security forces had laid a cordon around the village after receiving inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area.

Two terrorists were killed during an overnight encounter at Babagund village in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Friday. Security forces had laid a cordon around the village after receiving inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area. After searches, forces were able to track the terrorists in hiding. Early on Friday, firing in the area stopped and bodies of two terrorists were recovered from the spot. Despite ceasefire violations on the Line of Control, forces have conducted several operations in the valley after Pulwama attack which killed over 40 CRPF jawans. In wake of the Pulwama attack, the central government has declared Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir as an ‘unlawful association’. Hundreds of its activists have already been arrested by the security forces in the valley. Meanwhile, Pakistan violated ceasefire in Kamalkote area of Uri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Friday. Civilian identified as Riyaz Ahmad was injured in the shelling carried out by Pakistan.

J&K: Security forces gun down 2 militants in Kupwara encounter

One CRPF personnel was killed and three others injured in an encounter with terrorists in Handwara in Jammu and Kashmir's(J&amp;K) Kupwara district on Friday.

The security forces gunned down two terrorists&nbsp;during the overnight encounter at Babagund village of Langate in&nbsp;north Kashmir’s Kupwara district.

Security forces had laid a cordon around the village after receiving inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area. After searching the area, the security forces were able to track the terrorists.&nbsp;

Early in morning on Friday, firing in the area stopped and bodies of two terrorists were recovered from the spot.&nbsp;

In wake of the Pulwama attack, Centre had declared Jama’at-e-Islami J&amp;K as ‘unlawful association’. Hundreds of its activities have already been arrested by the security forces in the valley.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, &nbsp;Pakistan violated ceasefire in Kamalkote area of Uri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district. Civilian identified as Riyaz Ahmad was injured in the Pakistan shelling.&nbsp;

One CRPF personnel was killed and three others injured in an encounter with terrorists in Handwara in Jammu and Kashmir's(J&K) Kupwara district on Friday. The security forces gunned down two terrorists during the overnight encounter at Babagund village of Langate in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district.

One CRPF personnel was killed and three others injured in an encounter with terrorists in Handwara in Jammu and Kashmir's(J&K) Kupwara district on Friday. The security forces gunned down two terrorists during the overnight encounter at Babagund village of Langate in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district. Security forces had laid a cordon around the village after receiving inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area. After searching the area, the security forces were able to track the terrorists. Early in morning on Friday, firing in the area stopped and bodies of two terrorists were recovered from the spot. In wake of the Pulwama attack, Centre had declared Jama’at-e-Islami J&K as ‘unlawful association’. Hundreds of its activities have already been arrested by the security forces in the valley. Meanwhile, Pakistan violated ceasefire in Kamalkote area of Uri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district. Civilian identified as Riyaz Ahmad was injured in the Pakistan shelling.

J&K: One CRPF personnel killed in encounter with terrorists in Kupwara district

Pakistan violated the ceasefire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir for the eighth consecutive day on Friday.

At 1800 hours, Pakistan violated ceasefire along LoC in Mendhar and Krishna Ghati sectors of Rajouri and Poonch’ Balakote.

Another violation took place in Rajouri district's Nowshera sector at 16:15 hours&nbsp;where the Indian Army retaliated in counter-firing.

Earlier today the Pak army had violated the ceasefire along the LoC in J&amp;K's Poonch district, leaving a woman injured. The&nbsp;woman was identified as Naseem Akhtar.

On Thursday, a woman was killed and a jawan was injured when Pakistani Army heavily shelled civilian areas and forward posts in six sectors along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts, drawing retaliation from the Indian Army.

The firing and mortar shelling continued night long in several sectors of Poonch and Rajouri districts, an official said.

The Pakistan Army has violated the ceasefire for over 60 times during the last one week by targeting over 70 civilian and forward areas along the LoC in Poonch, Rajouri, Jammu and Baramulla districts of Jammu and Kashmir, in which one woman was killed and 9 people were injured.

2018 had witnessed the highest number of ceasefire violation, numbering 2,936 by Pakistani troops, in the last 15 years along the Indo-Pak border. Pakistan continues to violate the 2003 ceasefire agreement with India despite repeated calls for restraint and adherence to the pact during flag meetings between the two sides.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Pakistan violated the ceasefire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir for the eighth consecutive day on Friday. At 1800 hours, Pakistan violated ceasefire along LoC in Mendhar and Krishna Ghati sectors of Rajouri and Poonch’ Balakote.

Pakistan violated the ceasefire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir for the eighth consecutive day on Friday. At 1800 hours, Pakistan violated ceasefire along LoC in Mendhar and Krishna Ghati sectors of Rajouri and Poonch’ Balakote. Another violation took place in Rajouri district's Nowshera sector at 16:15 hours where the Indian Army retaliated in counter-firing. Earlier today the Pak army had violated the ceasefire along the LoC in J&K's Poonch district, leaving a woman injured. The woman was identified as Naseem Akhtar. On Thursday, a woman was killed and a jawan was injured when Pakistani Army heavily shelled civilian areas and forward posts in six sectors along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts, drawing retaliation from the Indian Army. The firing and mortar shelling continued night long in several sectors of Poonch and Rajouri districts, an official said. The Pakistan Army has violated the ceasefire for over 60 times during the last one week by targeting over 70 civilian and forward areas along the LoC in Poonch, Rajouri, Jammu and Baramulla districts of Jammu and Kashmir, in which one woman was killed and 9 people were injured. 2018 had witnessed the highest number of ceasefire violation, numbering 2,936 by Pakistani troops, in the last 15 years along the Indo-Pak border. Pakistan continues to violate the 2003 ceasefire agreement with India despite repeated calls for restraint and adherence to the pact during flag meetings between the two sides. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu & Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire for eighth consecutive day

J&K: 4 security personnel martyred in clash with terrorists in Kupwara, encounter underway

Pakistan violates ceasefire in Poonch sector, India retaliates

Separatist group Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir were banned Thursday under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for alleged anti-national and subversive activities, officials said.

A notification on the ban was issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) after a high-level meeting on security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The separatist group is alleged to be involved in anti-national and subversive activities in the country and is in close touch with militant outfits.

Security forces launched a crackdown on separatist forces and arrested many leaders and cadres of the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir after the February 14 terrorist attack in Pulwama, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

Separatist group Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir were banned Thursday under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for alleged anti-national and subversive activities, officials said.

Separatist group Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir were banned Thursday under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for alleged anti-national and subversive activities, officials said. A notification on the ban was issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) after a high-level meeting on security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The separatist group is alleged to be involved in anti-national and subversive activities in the country and is in close touch with militant outfits. Security forces launched a crackdown on separatist forces and arrested many leaders and cadres of the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir after the February 14 terrorist attack in Pulwama, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

Government imposes ban on Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir

The pre-dawn air strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed’s largest terrorist camp in Balakot, 80 km deep into Pakistani territory in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan’s backyard, has transformed the 71-year-old paradigm around India’s strategy on combating Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.&nbsp;

Crossing the Line of Control (LoC) had been studiously avoided in previous conflicts with Pakistan. Even in the 1999 Kargil war, Indian air strikes had been conducted from India’s side of the LoC. Tuesday morning’s air strikes will have two broad consequences: military and electoral. &nbsp;

Though Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale has termed the strikes “non-military and pre-emptive”, they were non-military only in the sense that they did not target Pakistan’s military installations. However, since terror groups like the JeM, LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen are arms of the Pakistani military, the reported killing of hundreds of Jaish terrorists will send the strongest message the Pakistani army has received in decades.&nbsp;

The cost of terrorism has just gone up manifold. No longer can the Pakistani army’s sponsored, funded and armed terror groups attack Indian targets at will without paying a heavy price. The precise damage done to terror camps in Pakistan will soon emerge with greater clarity. But there is no doubt that the days of Pakistan-based terror groups enjoying relative immunity from strong Indian retaliation are over.&nbsp;

The second consequence is obviously electoral. With less than six weeks to go before the first phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha election, the conclusion is inescapable: this alters the chemistry and mathematics of the election. Much now depends on how Pakistan reacts to the successful Indian strikes. If it downplays their impact, it can avoid escalation of the conflict. India has been quick to brief the envoys of all major powers about the pre-emptive nature of the strikes against a legitimate new terror threat from the Jaish. Pakistan says it will approach the United Nations. That move will go nowhere since four permanent members of the UNSC — the United States, Britain, France and Russia — have firmly backed India.&nbsp;

In the coming days, as attention shifts to electoral campaigning, opposition criticism of the government’s action, currently muted, will emerge. Unity over tackling Pakistan-sponsored terrorism has always been tenuous. It is unlikely to hold for long now.&nbsp;

After the 9/11 terror attack on the United States in 2001, the country rallied behind President George W Bush. Democrats and Republicans spoke in one voice. The retaliatory “shock and awe” US air attack on terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan was supported across the American political and media spectrum.&nbsp;

Unless a nation presents a united front, terrorism will not be defeated. In the US there hasn’t been a single major terror strike on the mainland by Al-Qaeda or the morphed Islamic State (IS) since 2001. &nbsp;In India, after every terror attack by jihadi groups based, trained and funded by Pakistan, recriminations start. Opposition parties feign support but within days visceral politicking begins.&nbsp;

The air strikes come at an unexpected time for the opposition. Congress President Rahul Gandhi had acquired a spring in his step. The introduction of Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra into formal politics had created euphoria among Congress workers, especially in Uttar Pradesh. The Pulwama strike took place four hours before Priyanka was scheduled to address a press conference. Wisely, she cancelled it, speaking for just two minutes to condemn the attack, details of which were just filtering in.&nbsp;

The Congress party leadership now fears that Tuesday’s air strikes have fundamentally altered the arithmetic of the 2019 Lok Sabha election in favour of the BJP. The fear is two-fold. First, that public outrage is so strong that national security has now become a key electoral issue, overshadowing the Congress’ attack on jobs and rural distress.&nbsp;

Second, with less than 45 days to go before the first phase of a multi-phase Lok Sabha poll begins (in 2014, the first of seven phases was held on April 7), the impact of the air strikes on public sentiment will last well into the elections.&nbsp;

There was always an inevitability of the Modi government taking strong military action against terror assets inside Pakistani territory. The United States has unrivalled access to global intelligence inputs. When asked about India’s likely response to the Pulwama terror attack last Friday, President Donald Trump told reporters enigmatically that India was “looking at something very strong”.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi meanwhile said little specifically except underlining that it was time for action and the time for talks was over. He added that he had given the armed forces a free hand to act. It is now known that the go-ahead for action against the JeM terror camp was given by the Prime Minister just days after the Pulwama terror attack on the CRPF convoy.&nbsp;

In an interview to a newspaper eight days before the Pulwama terror attack, Rahul had displayed his new combative role with gusto: “Mr Modi’s credibility is gone. Do me a favour, when you go out of here, when you stop at a red light, look at someone who is not really rich, and say ‘chowkidar’, and see if he answers ‘chor hai.’ When I am riding around Delhi, I hear them saying, ‘chowkidar chor hai.”&nbsp;

That is an epithet unlikely to resonate well in public discourse today.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-electoral-impact-of-air-strikes-2724785">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The pre-dawn air strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed’s largest terrorist camp in Balakot, 80 km deep into Pakistani territory in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan’s backyard, has transformed the 71-year-old paradigm around India’s strategy on combating Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.

The pre-dawn air strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed’s largest terrorist camp in Balakot, 80 km deep into Pakistani territory in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan’s backyard, has transformed the 71-year-old paradigm around India’s strategy on combating Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Crossing the Line of Control (LoC) had been studiously avoided in previous conflicts with Pakistan. Even in the 1999 Kargil war, Indian air strikes had been conducted from India’s side of the LoC. Tuesday morning’s air strikes will have two broad consequences: military and electoral. Though Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale has termed the strikes “non-military and pre-emptive”, they were non-military only in the sense that they did not target Pakistan’s military installations. However, since terror groups like the JeM, LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen are arms of the Pakistani military, the reported killing of hundreds of Jaish terrorists will send the strongest message the Pakistani army has received in decades. The cost of terrorism has just gone up manifold. No longer can the Pakistani army’s sponsored, funded and armed terror groups attack Indian targets at will without paying a heavy price. The precise damage done to terror camps in Pakistan will soon emerge with greater clarity. But there is no doubt that the days of Pakistan-based terror groups enjoying relative immunity from strong Indian retaliation are over. The second consequence is obviously electoral. With less than six weeks to go before the first phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha election, the conclusion is inescapable: this alters the chemistry and mathematics of the election. Much now depends on how Pakistan reacts to the successful Indian strikes. If it downplays their impact, it can avoid escalation of the conflict. India has been quick to brief the envoys of all major powers about the pre-emptive nature of the strikes against a legitimate new terror threat from the Jaish. Pakistan says it will approach the United Nations. That move will go nowhere since four permanent members of the UNSC — the United States, Britain, France and Russia — have firmly backed India. In the coming days, as attention shifts to electoral campaigning, opposition criticism of the government’s action, currently muted, will emerge. Unity over tackling Pakistan-sponsored terrorism has always been tenuous. It is unlikely to hold for long now. After the 9/11 terror attack on the United States in 2001, the country rallied behind President George W Bush. Democrats and Republicans spoke in one voice. The retaliatory “shock and awe” US air attack on terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan was supported across the American political and media spectrum. Unless a nation presents a united front, terrorism will not be defeated. In the US there hasn’t been a single major terror strike on the mainland by Al-Qaeda or the morphed Islamic State (IS) since 2001. In India, after every terror attack by jihadi groups based, trained and funded by Pakistan, recriminations start. Opposition parties feign support but within days visceral politicking begins. The air strikes come at an unexpected time for the opposition. Congress President Rahul Gandhi had acquired a spring in his step. The introduction of Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra into formal politics had created euphoria among Congress workers, especially in Uttar Pradesh. The Pulwama strike took place four hours before Priyanka was scheduled to address a press conference. Wisely, she cancelled it, speaking for just two minutes to condemn the attack, details of which were just filtering in. The Congress party leadership now fears that Tuesday’s air strikes have fundamentally altered the arithmetic of the 2019 Lok Sabha election in favour of the BJP. The fear is two-fold. First, that public outrage is so strong that national security has now become a key electoral issue, overshadowing the Congress’ attack on jobs and rural distress. Second, with less than 45 days to go before the first phase of a multi-phase Lok Sabha poll begins (in 2014, the first of seven phases was held on April 7), the impact of the air strikes on public sentiment will last well into the elections. There was always an inevitability of the Modi government taking strong military action against terror assets inside Pakistani territory. The United States has unrivalled access to global intelligence inputs. When asked about India’s likely response to the Pulwama terror attack last Friday, President Donald Trump told reporters enigmatically that India was “looking at something very strong”. Prime Minister Narendra Modi meanwhile said little specifically except underlining that it was time for action and the time for talks was over. He added that he had given the armed forces a free hand to act. It is now known that the go-ahead for action against the JeM terror camp was given by the Prime Minister just days after the Pulwama terror attack on the CRPF convoy. In an interview to a newspaper eight days before the Pulwama terror attack, Rahul had displayed his new combative role with gusto: “Mr Modi’s credibility is gone. Do me a favour, when you go out of here, when you stop at a red light, look at someone who is not really rich, and say ‘chowkidar’, and see if he answers ‘chor hai.’ When I am riding around Delhi, I hear them saying, ‘chowkidar chor hai.” That is an epithet unlikely to resonate well in public discourse today. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India-Pakistan tension: Unless nation presents united front, terrorism will not be defeated

India on Wednesday shot down a Pakistan Air Force's F-16 fighter jet in Jammu and Kashmir's Nowshera sector, news agency ANI reported. A parachute was seen as the F-16, which was shot down in Indian retaliatory fire 3 km within Pakistan territory in Lam valley, was going down, ANI further reported. The condition of the pilot is unknown, the agency said.

The fighter jet was one of the three planes which violated Indian airspace and reached Nowshera this morning. The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-should-take-meaningful-action-on-terror-groups-secretary-of-state-pompeo-199960">Pakistani planes</a> were pushed back by Indian fighter jets which were patrolling the area, a top official said.

The Pakistani jets dropped bombs while returning, officials said, but added that there were no immediate reports of any casualties or damage.

"The jets entered into Indian air space over Nowshera sector this morning," the official said.

They were immediately pushed back by Indian jets on air patrol.

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J&amp;K: Pictures of craters formed from Pakistani bombs dropped near Indian Army post in Rajouri sector. Pic courtesy: Army sources) <a href="https://t.co/bAqG1YW3AO">pic.twitter.com/bAqG1YW3AO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1100641086790426624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The authorities have closed airports in Leh, Jammu, Srinagar and Amritsar for civilian traffic; the Pathankot airport has been put on high alert. Pakistan too has stopped its domestic and international flight operations from Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, Sialkot and Islamabad airports.

The violation of airspace comes a day after the Indian Air Force pounded a terror camp run by Jaish-e-Mohammed in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-strike-heres-why-balakot-was-chosen-by-indian-air-force-199792">Pakistan's Balakot</a>. The air strike was carried out by a fleet of 12 Mirage fighter jets which were mobilised from Gwalior in India and finished the operation in about 21 minutes.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-reviews-security-situation-a-day-after-air-strike-on-terrorist-camp-in-pak-soil-200008">air strike</a> came 12 days after a convoy of India's paramilitary force, the CRPF, was attacked in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. Forty CRPF soldiers were killed in the attack which was carried out by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed.

India called the air strikes a "pre-emptive, non-military operation" meant to neutralise the JeM terror camp. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale held a press briefing after the air strike on Tuesday and said the operation was carried out after specific intelligence input that JeM was planning to send more terrorists into India.

India on Wednesday shot down a Pakistan Air Force's F-16 fighter jet in Jammu and Kashmir's Nowshera sector, news agency ANI reported. A parachute was seen as the F-16, which was shot down in Indian retaliatory fire 3 km within Pakistan territory in Lam valley, was going down, ANI further reported.

India on Wednesday shot down a Pakistan Air Force's F-16 fighter jet in Jammu and Kashmir's Nowshera sector, news agency ANI reported. A parachute was seen as the F-16, which was shot down in Indian retaliatory fire 3 km within Pakistan territory in Lam valley, was going down, ANI further reported. The condition of the pilot is unknown, the agency said. The fighter jet was one of the three planes which violated Indian airspace and reached Nowshera this morning. The Pakistani planes were pushed back by Indian fighter jets which were patrolling the area, a top official said. The Pakistani jets dropped bombs while returning, officials said, but added that there were no immediate reports of any casualties or damage. "The jets entered into Indian air space over Nowshera sector this morning," the official said. They were immediately pushed back by Indian jets on air patrol. J&K: Pictures of craters formed from Pakistani bombs dropped near Indian Army post in Rajouri sector. Pic courtesy: Army sources) pic.twitter.com/bAqG1YW3AO — ANI (@ANI) February 27, 2019 × The authorities have closed airports in Leh, Jammu, Srinagar and Amritsar for civilian traffic; the Pathankot airport has been put on high alert. Pakistan too has stopped its domestic and international flight operations from Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, Sialkot and Islamabad airports. The violation of airspace comes a day after the Indian Air Force pounded a terror camp run by Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pakistan's Balakot. The air strike was carried out by a fleet of 12 Mirage fighter jets which were mobilised from Gwalior in India and finished the operation in about 21 minutes. The air strike came 12 days after a convoy of India's paramilitary force, the CRPF, was attacked in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. Forty CRPF soldiers were killed in the attack which was carried out by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed. India called the air strikes a "pre-emptive, non-military operation" meant to neutralise the JeM terror camp. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale held a press briefing after the air strike on Tuesday and said the operation was carried out after specific intelligence input that JeM was planning to send more terrorists into India.

Pakistan fighter planes enter Indian airspace in J&K; one reportedly shot down, others drop bombs when pushed back

Tw&nbsp;pilots were killed when an Indian Air Force (IAF) chopper crashed in Budgam area of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday morning

The aircraft that crashed in Jammu &amp; Kashmir's Budgam was IAF's Mi-17 transport chopper, reported news agency ANI.

Bodies of two pilots have been recovered from the crash site, the report said quoting police sources.&nbsp;

Security forces are scanning the area.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpotVisuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpotVisuals</a>: Police on military aircraft crash in Jammu &amp; Kashmir's Budgam, say, "Two bodies have been found at the crash site." <a href="https://t.co/Tg2uFeJjdW">pic.twitter.com/Tg2uFeJjdW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1100635894124564480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Tw pilots were killed when an Indian Air Force (IAF) chopper crashed in Budgam area of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday morning The aircraft that crashed in Jammu & Kashmir's Budgam was IAF's Mi-17 transport chopper, reported news agency ANI.

Tw pilots were killed when an Indian Air Force (IAF) chopper crashed in Budgam area of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday morning The aircraft that crashed in Jammu & Kashmir's Budgam was IAF's Mi-17 transport chopper, reported news agency ANI. Bodies of two pilots have been recovered from the crash site, the report said quoting police sources. Security forces are scanning the area. #SpotVisuals: Police on military aircraft crash in Jammu & Kashmir's Budgam, say, "Two bodies have been found at the crash site." pic.twitter.com/Tg2uFeJjdW — ANI (@ANI) February 27, 2019 ×

2 pilots killed as IAF's Mi-17 transport chopper crashes in Jammu and Kashmir

The Supreme Court of India is expected to hear pleas challenging the constitutional validity of the Article 35A this week. According to reports, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-to-hear-pleas-challenging-constitutional-validity-of-article-35a-this-week-199582">the apex court will entertain the pleas between February 26 and 28</a>, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The petition was originally filed by a Delhi-based NGO 'We the citizen', stating that Jammu and Kashmir's autonomous status granted by Article 370 and Article 35A of the Constitution discriminates against fellow citizens from the rest of the country.

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday maintained that it is firm on its stand on the Article and seeks deferment of hearing.

Addressing a press conference, senior bureaucrat Rohit Kansal, who has been designated as the chief spokesperson of the governor's administration, said, "The stand of the state government on the request of deferment of hearing on Article 35A in the Supreme Court remains the same as requested by them on February 11."

Article 35A grants special privileges to Jammu &amp; Kashmir. Here's a quick look at what the Article stands for.&nbsp;

Understanding Article 35A

Article 35A is a provision in the Constitution that empowers the legislature of Jammu and Kashmir to define "permanent residents" of the state.

Permanent residents of the state are given special rights and privileges in public sector jobs, acquisition of property in the state, scholarships, and other public aid and welfare.

The provision mandates that no act of the legislature coming under it can be challenged for violating the Constitution or any other law of the land.

The J&amp;K legislature can alter the definition of "permanent resident" only through a law passed by a two-thirds majority.

The history

Article 35A was added through the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954, issued under Article 370.

It was incorporated into the Constitution by an order by then President Rajendra Prasad on the advice of the Jawaharlal Nehru Cabinet.

The petition&nbsp;

A Delhi-based NGO, We the Citizens, challenges the validity of both Article 35A and Article 370, arguing that four representatives from Kashmir were part of the Constituent Assembly involved in the drafting of the Constitution and that the state of Jammu and Kashmir was never accorded any special status under the Constitution.&nbsp;

It contends that Article 370 was only a "temporary provision" to help bring normalcy to Jammu and Kashmir and strengthen democracy in the state. And that the writers of the Constitution did not intend Article 370 to be a tool to bring about permanent amendments - like Article 35A - in the Constitution

The petition states that Article 35A is against the “very spirit of oneness of India” as it creates a “class within a class of Indian citizens”, and that stopping citizens of other states from finding employment or buying property in Jammu and Kashmir is a violation of fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Constitution.

The Supreme Court of India is expected to hear pleas challenging the constitutional validity of the Article 35A this week. According to reports, the apex court will entertain the pleas between February 26 and 28, news agency ANI reported.

The Supreme Court of India is expected to hear pleas challenging the constitutional validity of the Article 35A this week. According to reports, the apex court will entertain the pleas between February 26 and 28, news agency ANI reported. The petition was originally filed by a Delhi-based NGO 'We the citizen', stating that Jammu and Kashmir's autonomous status granted by Article 370 and Article 35A of the Constitution discriminates against fellow citizens from the rest of the country. Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday maintained that it is firm on its stand on the Article and seeks deferment of hearing. Addressing a press conference, senior bureaucrat Rohit Kansal, who has been designated as the chief spokesperson of the governor's administration, said, "The stand of the state government on the request of deferment of hearing on Article 35A in the Supreme Court remains the same as requested by them on February 11." Article 35A grants special privileges to Jammu & Kashmir. Here's a quick look at what the Article stands for. Understanding Article 35A Article 35A is a provision in the Constitution that empowers the legislature of Jammu and Kashmir to define "permanent residents" of the state. Permanent residents of the state are given special rights and privileges in public sector jobs, acquisition of property in the state, scholarships, and other public aid and welfare. The provision mandates that no act of the legislature coming under it can be challenged for violating the Constitution or any other law of the land. The J&K legislature can alter the definition of "permanent resident" only through a law passed by a two-thirds majority. The history Article 35A was added through the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954, issued under Article 370. It was incorporated into the Constitution by an order by then President Rajendra Prasad on the advice of the Jawaharlal Nehru Cabinet. The petition A Delhi-based NGO, We the Citizens, challenges the validity of both Article 35A and Article 370, arguing that four representatives from Kashmir were part of the Constituent Assembly involved in the drafting of the Constitution and that the state of Jammu and Kashmir was never accorded any special status under the Constitution. It contends that Article 370 was only a "temporary provision" to help bring normalcy to Jammu and Kashmir and strengthen democracy in the state. And that the writers of the Constitution did not intend Article 370 to be a tool to bring about permanent amendments - like Article 35A - in the Constitution The petition states that Article 35A is against the “very spirit of oneness of India” as it creates a “class within a class of Indian citizens”, and that stopping citizens of other states from finding employment or buying property in Jammu and Kashmir is a violation of fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Constitution.

Key facts about Article 35A and why Supreme Court will entertain pleas against it this week 

Article 35A is part of the constitution and making any amendment to it will not benefit anyone said Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar on Saturday.

"No one should even touch the subject of Article 35A. It is a part of the constitution and no one should make an attempt to scrap it. It will be in no one's favour," he asserted.

Aiyar also suggested that Hurriyat leaders should also be brought on board for discussion on Kashmir.

"I believe Hurriyat should be a part of the dialogue. During my last visit to Kashmir in May 2017, I invited Hurriyat. I will meet everyone who is ready to meet me. Before my current visit, I had contacted Yasin Malik through a friend but he refused to meet me in Srinagar and said to meet in Delhi instead".

Expressing delight over his return in the Congress party, the former minister said, "I haven't met Congress President Rahul Gandhi yet and hence can't comment on my future prospects. I think my interest in Kashmir has been consistent as a citizen of India".

Aiyar also took the occasion to draw comparison between Kashmir issue and south India's Dravidian movement and said, "I belong to Tamil Nadu and there was Dravid movement there between 1947-62, the main demand was that they don`t want to be a part of India.

The issue was solved amicably with dialogue and now Tamil Nadu remains an integral part of India".Reacting to a question of having a referendum in the valley, he said, "we conduct elections and everyone is free to contest in it.

There are some people who claim to be the voice of Kashmir but they don`t take part in the election process.

Saying that there are people demanding referendum hence we must conduct only referendum here is unjust".The Congress Party had revoked the suspension of Mani Shankar Aiyar from its primary membership on August 18, 2018. He was suspended from Congress in December 2017 after making a controversial remark on Prime Minister Modi.&nbsp;

'No one should even touch the subject of Article 35A. It is a part of the constitution and no one should make an attempt to scrap it. It will be in no one`s favour', he asserted.

Article 35A is part of the constitution and making any amendment to it will not benefit anyone said Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar on Saturday. "No one should even touch the subject of Article 35A. It is a part of the constitution and no one should make an attempt to scrap it. It will be in no one's favour," he asserted. Aiyar also suggested that Hurriyat leaders should also be brought on board for discussion on Kashmir. "I believe Hurriyat should be a part of the dialogue. During my last visit to Kashmir in May 2017, I invited Hurriyat. I will meet everyone who is ready to meet me. Before my current visit, I had contacted Yasin Malik through a friend but he refused to meet me in Srinagar and said to meet in Delhi instead". Expressing delight over his return in the Congress party, the former minister said, "I haven't met Congress President Rahul Gandhi yet and hence can't comment on my future prospects. I think my interest in Kashmir has been consistent as a citizen of India". Aiyar also took the occasion to draw comparison between Kashmir issue and south India's Dravidian movement and said, "I belong to Tamil Nadu and there was Dravid movement there between 1947-62, the main demand was that they don`t want to be a part of India. The issue was solved amicably with dialogue and now Tamil Nadu remains an integral part of India".Reacting to a question of having a referendum in the valley, he said, "we conduct elections and everyone is free to contest in it. There are some people who claim to be the voice of Kashmir but they don`t take part in the election process. Saying that there are people demanding referendum hence we must conduct only referendum here is unjust".The Congress Party had revoked the suspension of Mani Shankar Aiyar from its primary membership on August 18, 2018. He was suspended from Congress in December 2017 after making a controversial remark on Prime Minister Modi.

Scrapping Article 35A from J&K won't benefit anyone: Mani Shankar Aiyar

The Supreme Court of India is expected to hear pleas challenging the constitutional validity of the Article 35A this week from February 26 to 28, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Article 35A relates to the special rights and privileges enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday maintained that it is firm on its stand on the Article and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-change-in-stance-on-article-35a-jk-government-seeks-adjournment-of-hearing-in-supreme-court-199493">seeks deferment of hearing</a>.

Addressing a press conference, senior bureaucrat Rohit Kansal, who has been designated as the chief spokesperson of the governor's administration, said, "The stand of the state government on the request of deferment of hearing on Article 35A in the Supreme Court remains the same as requested by them on February 11."

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The pleas challenging the constitutional validity of the Article 35A (relating to the special rights and privileges enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir) in Supreme Court listed for hearing this week from Feb 26-28. <a href="https://t.co/CiGJoYFpj9">pic.twitter.com/CiGJoYFpj9</a>
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The Jammu and Kashmir government's counsel had sought permission from the Supreme Court for circulating a letter among the contesting parties for adjourning the upcoming hearing on the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of Article 35A, which provides special rights and privileges to the natives of the state, saying there was no "elected government" in the state.

Article 35A, which was incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, accords special rights and privileges to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir and bars people from outside the state from acquiring any immovable property in the state.

It denies property rights to a woman who marries a person from outside the state. The provision, which leads to such women from the state forfeiting their right over property, also applies to their heirs.

The bench is hearing several petitions including the one filed by NGO 'We the Citizens' through lawyer Barun Kumar Sinha.

The Supreme Court of India is expected to hear pleas challenging the constitutional validity of the Article 35A this week from February 26 to 28, news agency ANI reported.

The Supreme Court of India is expected to hear pleas challenging the constitutional validity of the Article 35A this week from February 26 to 28, news agency ANI reported. Article 35A relates to the special rights and privileges enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir. The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday maintained that it is firm on its stand on the Article and seeks deferment of hearing. Addressing a press conference, senior bureaucrat Rohit Kansal, who has been designated as the chief spokesperson of the governor's administration, said, "The stand of the state government on the request of deferment of hearing on Article 35A in the Supreme Court remains the same as requested by them on February 11." The pleas challenging the constitutional validity of the Article 35A (relating to the special rights and privileges enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir) in Supreme Court listed for hearing this week from Feb 26-28. pic.twitter.com/CiGJoYFpj9 — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2019 × The Jammu and Kashmir government's counsel had sought permission from the Supreme Court for circulating a letter among the contesting parties for adjourning the upcoming hearing on the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of Article 35A, which provides special rights and privileges to the natives of the state, saying there was no "elected government" in the state. Article 35A, which was incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, accords special rights and privileges to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir and bars people from outside the state from acquiring any immovable property in the state. It denies property rights to a woman who marries a person from outside the state. The provision, which leads to such women from the state forfeiting their right over property, also applies to their heirs. The bench is hearing several petitions including the one filed by NGO 'We the Citizens' through lawyer Barun Kumar Sinha.

Supreme Court to hear pleas challenging constitutional validity of Article 35A this week 

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