A massive fire fuelled by high-intensity winds gutted over 250 shanties of labourers in the city's Trikutanagar area early Monday, officials said.

No casualties were reported in the blaze, they said.

The fire broke out in the Maratha cluster near Trikutnagar Railway Station area around 0100 hours and rapidly spread to the entire area due to high-intensity winds, according to locals.

The Army distributed food and relief material to over 150 civilians, an official said.

The Maratha cluster mainly housed migrant labourers from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, besides some Rohingyas.

"Suddenly flames started erupting from the Bengali shanties at around 1 am. They spread fast due to winds and turned into a massive fire", Raju, a labourer hailing from Bihar said.

Sarojni Devi of West Bengal, who lost all her possessions in the blaze, said there are over 400-500 shanties in the area.

The fire was doused after over three hours, the officials said.&nbsp;

A massive fire fuelled by high-intensity winds gutted over 250 shanties of labourers in the city's Trikutanagar area early Monday, officials said. No casualties were reported in the blaze, they said.

A massive fire fuelled by high-intensity winds gutted over 250 shanties of labourers in the city's Trikutanagar area early Monday, officials said. No casualties were reported in the blaze, they said. The fire broke out in the Maratha cluster near Trikutnagar Railway Station area around 0100 hours and rapidly spread to the entire area due to high-intensity winds, according to locals. The Army distributed food and relief material to over 150 civilians, an official said. The Maratha cluster mainly housed migrant labourers from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, besides some Rohingyas. "Suddenly flames started erupting from the Bengali shanties at around 1 am. They spread fast due to winds and turned into a massive fire", Raju, a labourer hailing from Bihar said. Sarojni Devi of West Bengal, who lost all her possessions in the blaze, said there are over 400-500 shanties in the area. The fire was doused after over three hours, the officials said.

Over 250 shanties gutted in massive fire in Jammu

Former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti will be the PDP candidate from Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency but the party has decided not to field any candidates for Jammu and Udhampur seats in a bid to prevent division of "secular votes".

Announcing the party candidates, PDP chief Mehbooba said Aga Mohsin will be the party candidate for Srinagar seat.

"I will contest from Anantnag seat, " she told reporters.

The party has already named former employees' union leader Abdul Qayoom Wani for the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat.

Mehbooba said the parliamentary board of the party, which met earlier on Saturday, decided not to field any candidates from the two Lok Sabha seats in Jammu region.

"The opposition front is not functioning as it should have but we have taken a unilateral decision to not field candidates from these seats so that the secular vote does not get divided," she said.

Mehbooba said her party had taken around 1.75 lakh votes in 2014 Lok Sabha elections in Jammu seat and over 30,000 in Udhampur seat.

She said the party has not taken a decision yet on the Ladakh parliamentary seat.&nbsp;

Former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti will be the PDP candidate from Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency but the party has decided not to field any candidates for Jammu and Udhampur seats in a bid to prevent division of "secular votes".

Former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti will be the PDP candidate from Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency but the party has decided not to field any candidates for Jammu and Udhampur seats in a bid to prevent division of "secular votes". Announcing the party candidates, PDP chief Mehbooba said Aga Mohsin will be the party candidate for Srinagar seat. "I will contest from Anantnag seat, " she told reporters. The party has already named former employees' union leader Abdul Qayoom Wani for the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat. Mehbooba said the parliamentary board of the party, which met earlier on Saturday, decided not to field any candidates from the two Lok Sabha seats in Jammu region. "The opposition front is not functioning as it should have but we have taken a unilateral decision to not field candidates from these seats so that the secular vote does not get divided," she said. Mehbooba said her party had taken around 1.75 lakh votes in 2014 Lok Sabha elections in Jammu seat and over 30,000 in Udhampur seat. She said the party has not taken a decision yet on the Ladakh parliamentary seat.

Mehbooba to contest from Anantnag; PDP not to field candidates from Udhampur, Jammu

Police said three youths were arrested Saturday for allegedly firing gunshots in the air outside Hari Niwas Palace here creating panic among people.

The search for their another accomplice is underway, a police spokesman said.

He said four youths, who were on their way out from the bar at Hari Niwas, fired gunshots in the air outside the hotel late Friday night. Later they fled from the spot in an SUV and a motorcycle.

A case was registered under various sections of the Ranbir Penal Code, including 366 (endangering life or personal safety of others), 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 34 ( acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) and under the Arms Act and, the spokesman said.

He said a police party worked on different leads, tracked and arrested three of the accused, who have been identified as Ishant Raina, Vivek Singh and Manik Nayat.

Police said three youths were arrested Saturday for allegedly firing gunshots in the air outside Hari Niwas Palace here creating panic among people. The search for their another accomplice is underway, a police spokesman said.

Police said three youths were arrested Saturday for allegedly firing gunshots in the air outside Hari Niwas Palace here creating panic among people. The search for their another accomplice is underway, a police spokesman said. He said four youths, who were on their way out from the bar at Hari Niwas, fired gunshots in the air outside the hotel late Friday night. Later they fled from the spot in an SUV and a motorcycle. A case was registered under various sections of the Ranbir Penal Code, including 366 (endangering life or personal safety of others), 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 34 ( acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) and under the Arms Act and, the spokesman said. He said a police party worked on different leads, tracked and arrested three of the accused, who have been identified as Ishant Raina, Vivek Singh and Manik Nayat.

Three arrested for firing gunshots in air in Jammu

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

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

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

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

As the tension between India and Pakistan continues to simmer, it is the villagers caught between the two neighbours who suffer.&nbsp;

Since <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-to-50-killed-in-indian-air-strike-on-pakistans-balakot-italian-journalist-quoting-eyewitness-200787">the Indian Air Force's air strike on Balakot</a>, 35-year-old Madan Lal has been worried about the safety of his two children. His eyes and ears have been transfixed on the television ever since the strike, as have those of the other villagers.&nbsp;

Together they keep a constant vigil, on the TV and the skies above their heads.&nbsp;

Their village of Suchet Garh, the last before the border with Pakistan in Jammu's RS Pura sector, is on high alert. And with good reason, for every time there is disquiet on the border, they are the ones who pay the price.&nbsp;

The last time, in May 2018, they were asked to leave their homes and move to a safer location. (Villages on the Pakistani side of the border have already been evacuated by the Pakistani Army.)

“We are living a life of nomads with unpredictable shelling in the village on continuous occasions, we flee to nearby villages or the Jammu city when we are warned to cross firing or shelling. Pakistanis won’t spare us even on the festivals such as Holi and Diwali. Many have fled on the Pakistani side of the border. We don’t hear the daily sound of azaan coming from their mosques after the tensions have risen between the countries,” said Madan Lal.&nbsp;

In his late eighties, Haveli Lal Lambardar sounds a word of caution. Looking back at history, he says, Pakistan has always attacked India first. Haveli Lal lost his daughter to cross-border shelling over a decade ago.&nbsp;

But that doesn't mean he's leaving.&nbsp;

“This violence is never going to end. The governments and forces of both sides are undertaking their roles, but we are the ones who are trapped in between. There are many who have lost their families in the crossfire, but we are not going to leave our village,” he says.

Suchet Garh is surrounded by Pakistan on three sides. And as the tension between India and Pakistan continues to simmer, the villagers' fear and anxiety also rise. That fear is exacerbated in this age of nuclear weapons.&nbsp;

Everybody in the village then desires a solution without war.

As the tension between India and Pakistan continues to simmer, it is the villagers caught between the two neighbours who suffer. Since the Indian Air Force's air strike on Balakot, 35-year-old Madan Lal has been worried about the safety of his two children.

As the tension between India and Pakistan continues to simmer, it is the villagers caught between the two neighbours who suffer. Since the Indian Air Force's air strike on Balakot, 35-year-old Madan Lal has been worried about the safety of his two children. His eyes and ears have been transfixed on the television ever since the strike, as have those of the other villagers. Together they keep a constant vigil, on the TV and the skies above their heads. Their village of Suchet Garh, the last before the border with Pakistan in Jammu's RS Pura sector, is on high alert. And with good reason, for every time there is disquiet on the border, they are the ones who pay the price. The last time, in May 2018, they were asked to leave their homes and move to a safer location. (Villages on the Pakistani side of the border have already been evacuated by the Pakistani Army.) “We are living a life of nomads with unpredictable shelling in the village on continuous occasions, we flee to nearby villages or the Jammu city when we are warned to cross firing or shelling. Pakistanis won’t spare us even on the festivals such as Holi and Diwali. Many have fled on the Pakistani side of the border. We don’t hear the daily sound of azaan coming from their mosques after the tensions have risen between the countries,” said Madan Lal. In his late eighties, Haveli Lal Lambardar sounds a word of caution. Looking back at history, he says, Pakistan has always attacked India first. Haveli Lal lost his daughter to cross-border shelling over a decade ago. But that doesn't mean he's leaving. “This violence is never going to end. The governments and forces of both sides are undertaking their roles, but we are the ones who are trapped in between. There are many who have lost their families in the crossfire, but we are not going to leave our village,” he says. Suchet Garh is surrounded by Pakistan on three sides. And as the tension between India and Pakistan continues to simmer, the villagers' fear and anxiety also rise. That fear is exacerbated in this age of nuclear weapons. Everybody in the village then desires a solution without war.

As India & Pakistan fight, fear and anxiety rise in last village before border

The Ministry of Home Affairs said Thursday that all central paramilitary personnel are to fly into Srinagar. There will no longer travel by road into the Kashmiri capital.&nbsp;

The announcement comes in the wake of the Pulwama attack in which at least 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel lost their lives.&nbsp;

Thursday's announcement by the MHA is applicable to 780,000 personnel of the Central Armed Paramilitary Forces.&nbsp;

"The decision will immediately benefit approximately 780,000 personnel of CAPFs in the ranks of Constable, Head Constable &amp; ASI who were otherwise not eligible earlier. This includes journey on duty and journey on leave, i.e; while going on leave from J&amp;K to home and return," the home ministry said.&nbsp;

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MHA: This facility is in addition to the existing air courier services for CAPFs that have been steadily extended in all sectors by the MHA to help the jawans cut down on travel time during their journey to and fro from home on leave. <a href="https://t.co/iYyd1qOv4T">https://t.co/iYyd1qOv4T</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1098501383467266049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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MHA: In J&amp;K Sector, it may be recalled that Air Courier Service for CAPFs jawans was approved for the Jammu-Srinagar-Jammu sector. 
Subsequently, the Service was extended to cover 1) Delhi-Jammu, 2) Jammu-Srinagar, 3) Srinagar-Jammu and 3) Jammu-Delhi sector in Dec 2017.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1098501731670024192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The home ministry added that air support will be further provided from the Indian Air Force "as and when required".&nbsp;

On February 14, a local youth, Adil Ahmad Dar, rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus carrying Central Reserve Police Force personnel. The bus had been part of a convoy of 78 vehicles transporting 2,500 CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Home Affairs said Thursday that all central paramilitary personnel are to fly into Srinagar. There will no longer travel by road into the Kashmiri capital.

The Ministry of Home Affairs said Thursday that all central paramilitary personnel are to fly into Srinagar. There will no longer travel by road into the Kashmiri capital. The announcement comes in the wake of the Pulwama attack in which at least 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel lost their lives. Thursday's announcement by the MHA is applicable to 780,000 personnel of the Central Armed Paramilitary Forces. "The decision will immediately benefit approximately 780,000 personnel of CAPFs in the ranks of Constable, Head Constable & ASI who were otherwise not eligible earlier. This includes journey on duty and journey on leave, i.e; while going on leave from J&K to home and return," the home ministry said. MHA: This facility is in addition to the existing air courier services for CAPFs that have been steadily extended in all sectors by the MHA to help the jawans cut down on travel time during their journey to and fro from home on leave. https://t.co/iYyd1qOv4T — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2019 × MHA: In J&K Sector, it may be recalled that Air Courier Service for CAPFs jawans was approved for the Jammu-Srinagar-Jammu sector. Subsequently, the Service was extended to cover 1) Delhi-Jammu, 2) Jammu-Srinagar, 3) Srinagar-Jammu and 3) Jammu-Delhi sector in Dec 2017. — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2019 × The home ministry added that air support will be further provided from the Indian Air Force "as and when required". On February 14, a local youth, Adil Ahmad Dar, rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus carrying Central Reserve Police Force personnel. The bus had been part of a convoy of 78 vehicles transporting 2,500 CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.

Pulwama attack fallout: All central armed paramilitary personnel to fly to Srinagar, no more travel by road

Authorities Thursday lifted day curfew in Jammu, facilitating resumption of normal activities in the city that saw massive protests following the Pulwama terror attack.

Markets reopened and public transport was back on the roads. Schools also reopened after week-long closure due to curfew and restrictions.

Jammu District Magistrate Ramesh Kumar issued two orders announcing relaxation of curfew in all areas of Jammu district from 7 AM to 6 PM for 11 hours.

The district magistrate initially ordered relaxation in the curfew in the entire city from 7 AM to 2 PM and later extended the relaxation period till 6 PM, as per the order.

However, prohibitory orders remained in force to maintain law and order, officials said.

Policemen were seen making rounds of the city early this morning to announce relaxation of the curfew and asked people to resume their normal activities. 2G mobile Internet services have been restored in the district.

However, all colleges and universities in the district are closed.

"All examinations have been cancelled in Jammu University. There will be no teaching", JU PRO Vinay Thusoo said.

However, officials said examination of 8th and 9th classes would be held as per schedule Thursday in all districts of Jammu province.

In case of restrictions in any area, the admit cards of students and identity cards of teachers will be treated as curfew passes, the officials said.

Shops and business establishments reopened across the city, while public transport also resumed in most of the routes as people came out of their homes to buy essential commodities.

People in some areas complained of shortage of vegetables, milk and ration and demanded that ATMs be made operational immediately as they are running out of cash.

They also complained about the non-availability of public transport in some routes.&nbsp;All wine shops and bars will also remain closed.

Authorities Thursday lifted day curfew in Jammu, facilitating resumption of normal activities in the city that saw massive protests following the Pulwama terror attack.

Authorities Thursday lifted day curfew in Jammu, facilitating resumption of normal activities in the city that saw massive protests following the Pulwama terror attack. Markets reopened and public transport was back on the roads. Schools also reopened after week-long closure due to curfew and restrictions. Jammu District Magistrate Ramesh Kumar issued two orders announcing relaxation of curfew in all areas of Jammu district from 7 AM to 6 PM for 11 hours. The district magistrate initially ordered relaxation in the curfew in the entire city from 7 AM to 2 PM and later extended the relaxation period till 6 PM, as per the order. However, prohibitory orders remained in force to maintain law and order, officials said. Policemen were seen making rounds of the city early this morning to announce relaxation of the curfew and asked people to resume their normal activities. 2G mobile Internet services have been restored in the district. However, all colleges and universities in the district are closed. "All examinations have been cancelled in Jammu University. There will be no teaching", JU PRO Vinay Thusoo said. However, officials said examination of 8th and 9th classes would be held as per schedule Thursday in all districts of Jammu province. In case of restrictions in any area, the admit cards of students and identity cards of teachers will be treated as curfew passes, the officials said. Shops and business establishments reopened across the city, while public transport also resumed in most of the routes as people came out of their homes to buy essential commodities. People in some areas complained of shortage of vegetables, milk and ration and demanded that ATMs be made operational immediately as they are running out of cash. They also complained about the non-availability of public transport in some routes. All wine shops and bars will also remain closed.

Normal life resumes in Jammu after authorities lift curfew

The Army has deployed nine security columns with air support in Jammu following massive protests over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-rajnath-singh-helped-carry-coffin-of-crpf-jawan-who-lost-life-in-pulwama-attack-197599">terror attack in Pulwama</a> in the Valley in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, officials said.

Earlier, curfew was imposed in the city after stray incidents of violence and torching of vehicles.

"The Army has reacted promptly. Nine Internal Security Columns (ISCs) of the Army from Tiger division were deployed in Gujjar Nagar, Janipur, Shahidi Chowk, Talab Khatika and other areas of Jammu city. They have been provided air support from the White Knight Corps," a senior army officer said.

Flag marches were conducted by the security columns, he said.

"The proactive approach of the state police, divisional commissioner, collector's office and the Army has ensured that the situation remains in control," he said.

The officer said helicopters and utility armoured vehicles of the Army were also deployed to monitor the situation.

Earlier in the day, incidents of stone pelting and clashes between different factions were reported. The police resorted to cane charge and teargas shelling to disperse crowds. Nine persons were injured in the clashes, officials said.

The Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) had called for a complete shut down of Jammu city on Friday, protesting the death of CRPF men.

The bandh was marked by processions by various political parties, he said.

The Army has deployed nine security columns with air support in Jammu following massive protests over the terror attack in Pulwama in the Valley in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, officials said.

The Army has deployed nine security columns with air support in Jammu following massive protests over the terror attack in Pulwama in the Valley in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, officials said. Earlier, curfew was imposed in the city after stray incidents of violence and torching of vehicles. "The Army has reacted promptly. Nine Internal Security Columns (ISCs) of the Army from Tiger division were deployed in Gujjar Nagar, Janipur, Shahidi Chowk, Talab Khatika and other areas of Jammu city. They have been provided air support from the White Knight Corps," a senior army officer said. Flag marches were conducted by the security columns, he said. "The proactive approach of the state police, divisional commissioner, collector's office and the Army has ensured that the situation remains in control," he said. The officer said helicopters and utility armoured vehicles of the Army were also deployed to monitor the situation. Earlier in the day, incidents of stone pelting and clashes between different factions were reported. The police resorted to cane charge and teargas shelling to disperse crowds. Nine persons were injured in the clashes, officials said. The Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) had called for a complete shut down of Jammu city on Friday, protesting the death of CRPF men. The bandh was marked by processions by various political parties, he said.

Army deploys 9 security columns in Jammu following massive protests over Pulwama terror attack

The strategic Jammu-Srinagar national highway, the only all weather road linking Kashmir with rest of the country, remained closed for the fifth consecutive day on Sunday as fresh landslides at different places hit the restoration work, officials said.

However, they said efforts are on and a decision to allow traffic on the highway would be taken later in the day after reviewing the progress of the ongoing debris clearance operation.

The highway was closed for traffic on Wednesday following heavy snowfall and incessant rains which triggered avalanches and landslides at various places especially between Qazigund-Banihal-Ramban stretch including Jawahar Tunnel - the gateway to Kashmir valley.

"Over a dozen landslides were cleared despite frosty conditions and intermittent shooting of stones from the hillocks on Saturday but fresh landslides had occurred at Kela Morh, Battery cheshma, Digdole, Panthiyal and Khuni Nallah overnight leaving the road once again blocked," Ramban Deputy Superintendent of police, Traffic, Suresh Sharma told PTI.

He said the continuous shooting of stones at Panthiyal and frosty condition of the road in the snow-bound areas are posing a major challenge to the agencies involved in the clearance operation.

"The men and machinery are on the job and if the hills get stabilised and there will be no fresh landslide, the road stretch from Ramban to Banihal will be cleared for the traffic by late afternoon," he said.

Sharma, who inspected some of the landslide hit areas, said the snow clearance operation is almost complete including at Jawahar Tunnel where an avalanche had also struck on Thursday, blocking one of the tunnels on Qazigund side besides killing eight persons including six police and fire and emergency services personnel.

In view of the closure of the highway, the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched special sorties of C17 Globemaster, airlifting 538 persons including 319 GATE aspirants between Jammu and Srinagar on Friday and Saturday.

"A total of 319 students appearing in Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) on February 10 onwards were airlifted from Srinagar airport to Jammu airport on Friday and Saturday," a defence spokesman said.

He said while 179 students were airlifted from Srinagar to Jammu, 180 civilians struck in Jammu were airlifted to Srinagar on Friday.

Similarly, he said 179 persons comprising of 140 students and 39 locals and tourists were airlifted to Srinagar to Jammu on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the minimum temperature across the Jammu division marked an appreciable increase due to overcast conditions, though some snow-bound parts of the region continue to reel under sub-zero temperature.

The night temperature in Jammu city marked an increase of over three notches to settle at 7.1 degrees Celsius, three notches below normal, against the previous night's 4.0 degrees Celsius, a spokesman of the MeT department said.

The highway town of Banihal and Batote recorded a low of minus 1.0 and minus 0.6 degrees Celsius, respectively, while Bhaderwah town in Doda district was reeling under minus 1.8 degrees Celsius.

Katra town, the base camp for the pilgrims visiting the famous Vaishno Devi Shrine in Reasi district, recorded a minimum of 6.5 degrees Celsius, the spokesman said.

The strategic Jammu-Srinagar national highway, the only all weather road linking Kashmir with rest of the country, remained closed for the fifth consecutive day on Sunday as fresh landslides at different places hit the restoration work, officials said.

The strategic Jammu-Srinagar national highway, the only all weather road linking Kashmir with rest of the country, remained closed for the fifth consecutive day on Sunday as fresh landslides at different places hit the restoration work, officials said. However, they said efforts are on and a decision to allow traffic on the highway would be taken later in the day after reviewing the progress of the ongoing debris clearance operation. The highway was closed for traffic on Wednesday following heavy snowfall and incessant rains which triggered avalanches and landslides at various places especially between Qazigund-Banihal-Ramban stretch including Jawahar Tunnel - the gateway to Kashmir valley. "Over a dozen landslides were cleared despite frosty conditions and intermittent shooting of stones from the hillocks on Saturday but fresh landslides had occurred at Kela Morh, Battery cheshma, Digdole, Panthiyal and Khuni Nallah overnight leaving the road once again blocked," Ramban Deputy Superintendent of police, Traffic, Suresh Sharma told PTI. He said the continuous shooting of stones at Panthiyal and frosty condition of the road in the snow-bound areas are posing a major challenge to the agencies involved in the clearance operation. "The men and machinery are on the job and if the hills get stabilised and there will be no fresh landslide, the road stretch from Ramban to Banihal will be cleared for the traffic by late afternoon," he said. Sharma, who inspected some of the landslide hit areas, said the snow clearance operation is almost complete including at Jawahar Tunnel where an avalanche had also struck on Thursday, blocking one of the tunnels on Qazigund side besides killing eight persons including six police and fire and emergency services personnel. In view of the closure of the highway, the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched special sorties of C17 Globemaster, airlifting 538 persons including 319 GATE aspirants between Jammu and Srinagar on Friday and Saturday. "A total of 319 students appearing in Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) on February 10 onwards were airlifted from Srinagar airport to Jammu airport on Friday and Saturday," a defence spokesman said. He said while 179 students were airlifted from Srinagar to Jammu, 180 civilians struck in Jammu were airlifted to Srinagar on Friday. Similarly, he said 179 persons comprising of 140 students and 39 locals and tourists were airlifted to Srinagar to Jammu on Saturday. Meanwhile, the minimum temperature across the Jammu division marked an appreciable increase due to overcast conditions, though some snow-bound parts of the region continue to reel under sub-zero temperature. The night temperature in Jammu city marked an increase of over three notches to settle at 7.1 degrees Celsius, three notches below normal, against the previous night's 4.0 degrees Celsius, a spokesman of the MeT department said. The highway town of Banihal and Batote recorded a low of minus 1.0 and minus 0.6 degrees Celsius, respectively, while Bhaderwah town in Doda district was reeling under minus 1.8 degrees Celsius. Katra town, the base camp for the pilgrims visiting the famous Vaishno Devi Shrine in Reasi district, recorded a minimum of 6.5 degrees Celsius, the spokesman said.

Fresh landslides hamper efforts to reopen Jammu-Srinagar highway

Taking time out from its busy schedule of safeguarding borders and continuous anti-insurgency operations, the Army has conducted over 900 civic action programmes across <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-ready-to-hold-assembly-polls-in-jammu-kashmir-rajnath-singh-186991">Jammu region this year</a> with the focus on youth and the poor population living in far-flung areas.

The Army is reaching out to the civilian population under operation 'Sadhbavana' (goodwill) and it had helped the force to build a strong bond with the residents of remote pockets who are facing a lot of hardships due to lack of basic facilities, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/counting-of-votes-for-52-civic-bodies-to-be-held-across-jammu-and-kashmir-today-172430">Jammu-based</a> Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand told PTI.

He said the youth-oriented programmes has touched the hearts and minds of the people as the Army is organizing free coaching classes to help them in their studies, skill development courses, pre-recruitment training and counselling camps and also engaging them in sports activities.

"We have organised over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region comprising 10 districts this year, benefiting thousands of people."

"The major thrust is on poor population living in the hilly districts especially the youth besides the ex-servicemen who are being educated about the latest schemes being announced from time to time for their welfare and address their problems," the army officer said.

He said this was in addition to the rescue missions undertaken by the force to help accidents victims and those stranded in inaccessible areas during snowfall."Hundreds of people were rescued and some of them evacuated by choppers to save their lives in the recent past".

He said the Army has organised 104 medical and veterinary aid camps this year, providing free service to the needy at their doorsteps.

Thousands of villagers, mostly nomadic shepherds who live in hilly areas, were provided with solar lanterns, which brought smiles on their faces, the officer said.

He said the Army has organised dozens of tuition classes for both boys and girls to help them in their studies besides 123 lecture classes and 78 awareness drives were held for the benefit of the youth who were also engaged in sports activities like cricket, football, volleyball and chess competitions.

Last week, Lt Col Anand said Army started tuition classes for children of rural areas in mountainous Ramban district with a twin objective to help poor students and generate employment for the educated youth.

The three-month long tuition classes were started at different locations including Lower Gund, Cheril, Halemaidan, Batu, Karalchihal, Ukhral and Rajgarh areas, he said.

"The aim of these classes is to impart quality education to children from rural areas who cannot afford private coaching. These classes are being conducted during winter vacations to ensure maximum attendance," he said.

He said more than 250 students would be accruing the benefits of quality coaching through this project which also generated employment for educated youths who have been hired as teachers for these coaching classes.

The PRO said the Army gifted gymnasiums and other sports items and also constructed toilets at various educational institutions.

Experts were engaged to deliver lectures on various important issues like women empowerment, health and hygiene, ill effects of drugs, water conservation, road safety, global warming, first aid and the need to maintain communal harmony, he said.

He said various short-term courses in nursing, stitching and awareness drives on career opportunities for girls in armed forces were regularly held for the women.

Over two dozen motivational drives were also undertaken to attract youth to take Army as a profession while 37 communal harmony meetings were conducted to bring together various communities and maintain peace in the region, he added.

Taking time out from its busy schedule of safeguarding borders and continuous anti-insurgency operations, the Army has conducted over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region this year with the focus on youth and the poor population living in far-flung areas.

Taking time out from its busy schedule of safeguarding borders and continuous anti-insurgency operations, the Army has conducted over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region this year with the focus on youth and the poor population living in far-flung areas. The Army is reaching out to the civilian population under operation 'Sadhbavana' (goodwill) and it had helped the force to build a strong bond with the residents of remote pockets who are facing a lot of hardships due to lack of basic facilities, Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand told PTI. He said the youth-oriented programmes has touched the hearts and minds of the people as the Army is organizing free coaching classes to help them in their studies, skill development courses, pre-recruitment training and counselling camps and also engaging them in sports activities. "We have organised over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region comprising 10 districts this year, benefiting thousands of people." "The major thrust is on poor population living in the hilly districts especially the youth besides the ex-servicemen who are being educated about the latest schemes being announced from time to time for their welfare and address their problems," the army officer said. He said this was in addition to the rescue missions undertaken by the force to help accidents victims and those stranded in inaccessible areas during snowfall."Hundreds of people were rescued and some of them evacuated by choppers to save their lives in the recent past". He said the Army has organised 104 medical and veterinary aid camps this year, providing free service to the needy at their doorsteps. Thousands of villagers, mostly nomadic shepherds who live in hilly areas, were provided with solar lanterns, which brought smiles on their faces, the officer said. He said the Army has organised dozens of tuition classes for both boys and girls to help them in their studies besides 123 lecture classes and 78 awareness drives were held for the benefit of the youth who were also engaged in sports activities like cricket, football, volleyball and chess competitions. Last week, Lt Col Anand said Army started tuition classes for children of rural areas in mountainous Ramban district with a twin objective to help poor students and generate employment for the educated youth. The three-month long tuition classes were started at different locations including Lower Gund, Cheril, Halemaidan, Batu, Karalchihal, Ukhral and Rajgarh areas, he said. "The aim of these classes is to impart quality education to children from rural areas who cannot afford private coaching. These classes are being conducted during winter vacations to ensure maximum attendance," he said. He said more than 250 students would be accruing the benefits of quality coaching through this project which also generated employment for educated youths who have been hired as teachers for these coaching classes. The PRO said the Army gifted gymnasiums and other sports items and also constructed toilets at various educational institutions. Experts were engaged to deliver lectures on various important issues like women empowerment, health and hygiene, ill effects of drugs, water conservation, road safety, global warming, first aid and the need to maintain communal harmony, he said. He said various short-term courses in nursing, stitching and awareness drives on career opportunities for girls in armed forces were regularly held for the women. Over two dozen motivational drives were also undertaken to attract youth to take Army as a profession while 37 communal harmony meetings were conducted to bring together various communities and maintain peace in the region, he added.

Over 900 civic action programmes conducted to benefit local population in Jammu: Army

Amid tight security, polling for the sixth phase of Panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be held today at 3,174 polling stations including 410 in Kashmir division and 2764 in Jammu division.

The timing for polling is from 8 am to 2 pm. According to the state's Chief Electoral Officer, Shaleen Kabra, 771 polling stations have been categorised as hypersensitive including 410 in Kashmir division and 361 in Jammu division.

He said 7,156 candidates in the fray for the 406 Sarpanch seats and 2277 Panch seats in phase-VI while 111 Sarpanchs and 1048 Panchs have been elected unopposed in this phase.

Kabra said in the areas going to polls in phase-VI, an electorate of 59,7396 electors will be voting for Sarpanch constituencies and 45,7581 for Panch constituencies. "Photo Voter Slips have been distributed among the voters to inform them of their polling station," he said.

Kabra said the state witnessed 71.1 per cent polling in phase-V on November 29. In Poonch district, he said, re-polling for Sarpanch seat in Sanai Panch Halqa of block Surankote witnessed a turnout of 79.78 per cent and deferred polling in Panchayat Halqa Nonabandi witnessed a turnout of 92.23 per cent.

Kabra added that senior government officers have been appointed as General Observers to oversee the smooth, fair and orderly conduct of Panchayat Elections.

Also, Expenditure Observers are keeping a watch on the expenditure by the candidates.

In addition, for the poll day, Micro Observers have been placed in polling stations, particularly those considered hypersensitive.

Zonal and Sector Magistrates too have been deployed. He said Control Rooms have been established in all the districts across the State to respond promptly to any complaints of violation of the Model Code of Conduct as also to disseminate information to the public.

Security arrangements have been made including the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).

Kabra said holiday has been declared on the day of polls in the Panchayat areas going for voting to enable the voters to cast their votes.

He said special casual leave shall also be granted to the employees who have to go to other areas to exercise their right to franchise.

As per standing guidelines, the central government offices shall not be closed but the employees who are electors of the poll-going wards and desire to exercise their franchise shall be offered reasonable facility to do so.

Amid tight security, polling for the sixth phase of Panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be held today at 3,174 polling stations including 410 in Kashmir division and 2764 in Jammu division.

Amid tight security, polling for the sixth phase of Panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be held today at 3,174 polling stations including 410 in Kashmir division and 2764 in Jammu division. The timing for polling is from 8 am to 2 pm. According to the state's Chief Electoral Officer, Shaleen Kabra, 771 polling stations have been categorised as hypersensitive including 410 in Kashmir division and 361 in Jammu division. He said 7,156 candidates in the fray for the 406 Sarpanch seats and 2277 Panch seats in phase-VI while 111 Sarpanchs and 1048 Panchs have been elected unopposed in this phase. Kabra said in the areas going to polls in phase-VI, an electorate of 59,7396 electors will be voting for Sarpanch constituencies and 45,7581 for Panch constituencies. "Photo Voter Slips have been distributed among the voters to inform them of their polling station," he said. Kabra said the state witnessed 71.1 per cent polling in phase-V on November 29. In Poonch district, he said, re-polling for Sarpanch seat in Sanai Panch Halqa of block Surankote witnessed a turnout of 79.78 per cent and deferred polling in Panchayat Halqa Nonabandi witnessed a turnout of 92.23 per cent. Kabra added that senior government officers have been appointed as General Observers to oversee the smooth, fair and orderly conduct of Panchayat Elections. Also, Expenditure Observers are keeping a watch on the expenditure by the candidates. In addition, for the poll day, Micro Observers have been placed in polling stations, particularly those considered hypersensitive. Zonal and Sector Magistrates too have been deployed. He said Control Rooms have been established in all the districts across the State to respond promptly to any complaints of violation of the Model Code of Conduct as also to disseminate information to the public. Security arrangements have been made including the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). Kabra said holiday has been declared on the day of polls in the Panchayat areas going for voting to enable the voters to cast their votes. He said special casual leave shall also be granted to the employees who have to go to other areas to exercise their right to franchise. As per standing guidelines, the central government offices shall not be closed but the employees who are electors of the poll-going wards and desire to exercise their franchise shall be offered reasonable facility to do so.

J&K panchayat polls: Voting to take place at 3,174 polling booths in phase-VI

An estimated 57 per cent of over 1.28 lakh electorate Wednesday cast their votes in the first six hours of polling in the second phase of the four-phased urban local bodies elections in the region, officials said.

The voting covering six districts of Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua recorded a turnout of 57 per cent till 12 am, the officials said, quoting information from district elections offices.

"Brisk polling is going on and there was no report of any untoward incidents reported from anywhere," the officials said.

Ramban district is leading the voter turnout chart with 62.9 per cent, out of 5533 electorate, exercising their franchise followed by Reasi (60.8 per cent of 10204 voters), Kathua (59.4 per cent of 54,622 voters), Doda (57.8 per cent of 13396 voters), Kishtwar (55.9 per cent of 8830 voters) and Udhampur (59.4 per cent of 35,519 voters), they said.

The polling will seal the fate of 881 candidates for 214 wards, while four candidates have been elected unopposed in this phase in Jammu region.

Long queues were witnessed outside the polling stations across all the districts since this morning to select their local representatives.

The first phase of the polling was held on October 8 after a gap of 13 years and registered a voter turnout of 56.6 per cent.&nbsp;

The third phase of the polling is scheduled for October 13 followed by fourth and final phase on October 16. The counting of votes will be held on October 20.

An estimated 57 per cent of over 1.28 lakh electorate Wednesday cast their votes in the first six hours of polling in the second phase of the four-phased urban local bodies elections in the region, officials said.

An estimated 57 per cent of over 1.28 lakh electorate Wednesday cast their votes in the first six hours of polling in the second phase of the four-phased urban local bodies elections in the region, officials said. The voting covering six districts of Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua recorded a turnout of 57 per cent till 12 am, the officials said, quoting information from district elections offices. "Brisk polling is going on and there was no report of any untoward incidents reported from anywhere," the officials said. Ramban district is leading the voter turnout chart with 62.9 per cent, out of 5533 electorate, exercising their franchise followed by Reasi (60.8 per cent of 10204 voters), Kathua (59.4 per cent of 54,622 voters), Doda (57.8 per cent of 13396 voters), Kishtwar (55.9 per cent of 8830 voters) and Udhampur (59.4 per cent of 35,519 voters), they said. The polling will seal the fate of 881 candidates for 214 wards, while four candidates have been elected unopposed in this phase in Jammu region. Long queues were witnessed outside the polling stations across all the districts since this morning to select their local representatives. The first phase of the polling was held on October 8 after a gap of 13 years and registered a voter turnout of 56.6 per cent. The third phase of the polling is scheduled for October 13 followed by fourth and final phase on October 16. The counting of votes will be held on October 20.

J&K local polls: Jammu records 57% voting till 12am

Two militants were killed on Thursday in a gunfight between the security forces and the militants in north Kashmir Bandipora district, according to reports.

"Two militants have been killed in the encounter. One militant`s body has been recovered while the other is still at the encounter site", a report said quoting police.

Troops of counter insurgency Rashtriya Rifles, Special Operations Group (SOG) of state police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) had started a cordon and search operation in Sumlar village of Bandipora after specific information about the presence of militants.

"As the cordon was tightened, hiding militants fired triggering an encounter", police said.

Although firing exchanges have stopped, searches are still going on, police added.

Two militants were killed on Thursday in a gunfight between the security forces and the militants in north Kashmir Bandipora district, according to reports. "Two militants have been killed in the encounter.

Two militants were killed on Thursday in a gunfight between the security forces and the militants in north Kashmir Bandipora district, according to reports. "Two militants have been killed in the encounter. One militant`s body has been recovered while the other is still at the encounter site", a report said quoting police. Troops of counter insurgency Rashtriya Rifles, Special Operations Group (SOG) of state police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) had started a cordon and search operation in Sumlar village of Bandipora after specific information about the presence of militants. "As the cordon was tightened, hiding militants fired triggering an encounter", police said. Although firing exchanges have stopped, searches are still going on, police added.

J&K: Two militants killed in Bandipora gunfight

A 70-year-old woman was among seven persons injured as Pakistani Rangers opened fire and lobbed mortars along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir early on Tuesday, triggering panic among border residents and forcing many to take shelter in government-run camps.

“The cross-border firing and shelling continued unabated and has spread to all sectors from Akhnoor to Samba along the IB,” a senior BSF official told PTI. &nbsp;He said BSF troops guarding the border retaliated effectively and exchanges between the two sides were continuing when reports last came in.

Inspector General of Police, Jammu, S D Singh Jamwal said one person was injured in the fresh firing in the worst-hit Arnia sector of Jammu district.

Madan Lal Bhagat, a resident of Pindi Charkan village of Arnia, was hit by splinters in the abdomen and foot after a mortar shell hit his house in the early hours today, the officials said adding he has been admitted to the Government Medical College.

Police said a 70-year-old woman identified as Kaushalya Devi was also injured in the firing.

Jamwal said police parties have been deployed and are helping people shift to safer places from affected areas.

Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Hemant Kumar Sharma said relief camps have been activated at safer places all along the IB especially in R S Pura and Arnia sectors which witnessed heavy mortar shelling by Pakistan over the past two days.

Hundreds of people have reported at these camps set up in educational institutions and other government buildings, Sharma said.

He said adequate facilities have been made available at these camps so that the displaced people do not face any problem.

He said all schools vulnerable to Pakistani shelling have been closed along the IB as a precautionary measure.

The latest round of cross-border shelling started on May 15 when BSF foiled two infiltration attempts by Pakistan-backed infiltrators in Samba sector of Jammu.

So far seven persons including two BSF jawans and an infant have been killed and 18 others injured in the latest ceasefire violation by Pakistan.

The state has witnessed a spurt in Pakistani shelling and firing along the IB and the LoC this year. Over 700 such incidents have been reported this year, which have left a total of 39 people, including 18 security personnel, dead and scores injured.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the security forces have a free hand to respond as they deem fit if the neighbouring country continued the offensive. 
 
Speaking at the Border Security Force`s (BSF) 16th investiture ceremony function here, Singh said "We have a neighbour that does not want to correct itself. 
 
"Yet, we must not fire the first bullet at our neighbour. But if it opens fire, you (security forces) have to decide what action to take. Then no one will ask why you did so."

(With inputs from PTI)

Inspector General of Police, Jammu, S D Singh Jamwal said one person was injured in the fresh firing in the worst-hit Arnia sector of Jammu district.

A 70-year-old woman was among seven persons injured as Pakistani Rangers opened fire and lobbed mortars along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir early on Tuesday, triggering panic among border residents and forcing many to take shelter in government-run camps. “The cross-border firing and shelling continued unabated and has spread to all sectors from Akhnoor to Samba along the IB,” a senior BSF official told PTI. He said BSF troops guarding the border retaliated effectively and exchanges between the two sides were continuing when reports last came in. Inspector General of Police, Jammu, S D Singh Jamwal said one person was injured in the fresh firing in the worst-hit Arnia sector of Jammu district. Madan Lal Bhagat, a resident of Pindi Charkan village of Arnia, was hit by splinters in the abdomen and foot after a mortar shell hit his house in the early hours today, the officials said adding he has been admitted to the Government Medical College. Police said a 70-year-old woman identified as Kaushalya Devi was also injured in the firing. Jamwal said police parties have been deployed and are helping people shift to safer places from affected areas. Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Hemant Kumar Sharma said relief camps have been activated at safer places all along the IB especially in R S Pura and Arnia sectors which witnessed heavy mortar shelling by Pakistan over the past two days. Hundreds of people have reported at these camps set up in educational institutions and other government buildings, Sharma said. He said adequate facilities have been made available at these camps so that the displaced people do not face any problem. He said all schools vulnerable to Pakistani shelling have been closed along the IB as a precautionary measure. The latest round of cross-border shelling started on May 15 when BSF foiled two infiltration attempts by Pakistan-backed infiltrators in Samba sector of Jammu. So far seven persons including two BSF jawans and an infant have been killed and 18 others injured in the latest ceasefire violation by Pakistan. The state has witnessed a spurt in Pakistani shelling and firing along the IB and the LoC this year. Over 700 such incidents have been reported this year, which have left a total of 39 people, including 18 security personnel, dead and scores injured. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the security forces have a free hand to respond as they deem fit if the neighbouring country continued the offensive. Speaking at the Border Security Force`s (BSF) 16th investiture ceremony function here, Singh said "We have a neighbour that does not want to correct itself. "Yet, we must not fire the first bullet at our neighbour. But if it opens fire, you (security forces) have to decide what action to take. Then no one will ask why you did so." (With inputs from PTI)

Seven injured in heavy shelling by Pakistan along International Border

A high alert was sounded in the Jammu region after movement of suspected militants was detected along the International Border (I-B) in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, a senior police officer said today.

The development comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the state on May 19.

"We have sounded a high alert in the area since 12 am after the detection of suspected movement of a group of people near the I-B in Kathua district," the officer said.&nbsp

Security installations along highways in Kathua, Samba, Jammu districts and security establishments have been put on alert, he said.&nbsp

Movement of suspected militants was detected in Kathua district's Tarnah Allah area, which is close to the I-B, the officer said.&nbsp

Three to four suspected militants are believed to be part of the group that has infiltrated from Pakistan into this side in Tarnah Allah in the Londi-Bobbiyan area, according to reports.

Police and security forces have set up check posts and launched search operations in the area.&nbsp

Movement of suspected militants was detected in Kathua district's Tarnah Allah area, which is close to the I-B, the officer said.

A high alert was sounded in the Jammu region after movement of suspected militants was detected along the International Border (I-B) in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, a senior police officer said today. The development comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the state on May 19. "We have sounded a high alert in the area since 12 am after the detection of suspected movement of a group of people near the I-B in Kathua district," the officer said. Security installations along highways in Kathua, Samba, Jammu districts and security establishments have been put on alert, he said. Movement of suspected militants was detected in Kathua district's Tarnah Allah area, which is close to the I-B, the officer said. Three to four suspected militants are believed to be part of the group that has infiltrated from Pakistan into this side in Tarnah Allah in the Londi-Bobbiyan area, according to reports. Police and security forces have set up check posts and launched search operations in the area.

Suspected movement along IB, high alert sounded in Jammu

The Supreme Court has transferred the Kathua case to Pathankot, Punjab.&nbsp;

The Kathua gang rape and murder had shocked the nation.&nbsp;

An eight-year-old Bakarwal girl had been abducted, kept in captivity in a temple, sedated, gang-raped, and finally murdered.&nbsp;

The police have arrested eight people including a juvenile.&nbsp;

The police chargesheet said the accused carried out their premeditated crime to scare the girl's minority community — they're nomads — out of Jammu.&nbsp;

The victim's father had asked the Supreme Court for the case to be transferred out of Jammu. He had told the court that he feared for his family's safety.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir government had earlier on Monday told the court that it did not want the case transferred out of the state, and that a fair trial would be conducted.&nbsp;

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Security is the main concern, we have adequate security in Pathankot: Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on transfer of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kathua?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kathua</a> case to Pathankot Court <a href="https://t.co/z6bzcd9vVk">pic.twitter.com/z6bzcd9vVk</a>
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The Supreme Court meanwhile has ordered daily in-camera (the public will not be allowed into the courtroom) hearings in the case.&nbsp;

The court also refused to hand the probe over to the CBI saying there was no need for it since the investigation had been conducted and the charge sheet filed.

The victim's father's plea had been heard by a bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra.&nbsp;

The victim's father had asked the Supreme Court for the case to be transferred out of Jammu. He had told the court that he feared for his family's safety

The Supreme Court has transferred the Kathua case to Pathankot, Punjab. The Kathua gang rape and murder had shocked the nation. An eight-year-old Bakarwal girl had been abducted, kept in captivity in a temple, sedated, gang-raped, and finally murdered. The police have arrested eight people including a juvenile. The police chargesheet said the accused carried out their premeditated crime to scare the girl's minority community — they're nomads — out of Jammu. The victim's father had asked the Supreme Court for the case to be transferred out of Jammu. He had told the court that he feared for his family's safety. The Jammu and Kashmir government had earlier on Monday told the court that it did not want the case transferred out of the state, and that a fair trial would be conducted. Security is the main concern, we have adequate security in Pathankot: Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on transfer of #Kathua case to Pathankot Court pic.twitter.com/z6bzcd9vVk — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2018 × The Supreme Court meanwhile has ordered daily in-camera (the public will not be allowed into the courtroom) hearings in the case. The court also refused to hand the probe over to the CBI saying there was no need for it since the investigation had been conducted and the charge sheet filed. The victim's father's plea had been heard by a bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra.

Supreme Court transfers Kathua case to Pathankot, Punjab

Restrictions were imposed in parts of Srinagar, Pulwama and Kulgam of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday in view of a strike call by separatists to protest the killing of a civilian near the site of an encounter with security forces.&nbsp

A police official said the curbs have been imposed in police station areas of Nowhatta, Khanyar, Rainawari, Safakadal, Maisuma, Kralkhud and Maharajgunj.

The restrictions have been imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order, he said.

Two militants, including top Hizbul Mujahideen ultra Sameer Ahmad alias Tiger, were killed in an encounter with security forces in Drabgam area of Pulwama District on Monday.&nbsp

Meanwhile, a civilian was killed in the security forces' action against protestors near the scene of gun battle.&nbsp

Separatists, under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL), had called for a strike to protest the killings.

The strike affected normal life in the Valley as most of the shops and other business establishments were shut, while public transport was off the roads, officials said.

Schools and colleges remained closed while universities postponed the examinations scheduled to be held Tuesday. 
&nbsp

Restrictions were imposed in parts of Srinagar, Pulwama and Kulgam of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday in view of a strike call by separatists to protest the killing of a civilian near the site of an encounter with security forces

Restrictions were imposed in parts of Srinagar, Pulwama and Kulgam of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday in view of a strike call by separatists to protest the killing of a civilian near the site of an encounter with security forces. A police official said the curbs have been imposed in police station areas of Nowhatta, Khanyar, Rainawari, Safakadal, Maisuma, Kralkhud and Maharajgunj. The restrictions have been imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order, he said. Two militants, including top Hizbul Mujahideen ultra Sameer Ahmad alias Tiger, were killed in an encounter with security forces in Drabgam area of Pulwama District on Monday. Meanwhile, a civilian was killed in the security forces' action against protestors near the scene of gun battle. Separatists, under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL), had called for a strike to protest the killings. The strike affected normal life in the Valley as most of the shops and other business establishments were shut, while public transport was off the roads, officials said. Schools and colleges remained closed while universities postponed the examinations scheduled to be held Tuesday.

Restrictions imposed in J&K as separatists protest civilian's death in encounter

The trial in the gruesome Kathua rape and murder case begins today against eight accused who allegedly held an eight-year-old girl in captivity in a small village temple in Kathua district for a week in January this year during which she was kept sedated and sexually assaulted before being bludgeoned to death.

The accused include a juvenile against whom a separate charge sheet was filed.

The chief judicial magistrate of Kathua will be committing one of the charge sheets, in which seven people have been named, to the sessions court for trial as mandated under the law. The chief judicial magistrate will, however, hold the trial for the juvenile as it is the designated court under the juvenile act, according to officials.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has appointed two special public prosecutors, both Sikhs, for the trial in the sensitive case, a move being seen as made to ensure "neutrality" in view of Hindu-Muslim polarisation over the case.

The trial is expected to go smoothly after the Jammu Bar association as well as the Kathua Bar received a rap on the kuckles by the Supreme Court on April 13 as the apex court took a strong note of some lawyers obstructing the judicial process in the case.

The Supreme Court initiated a case on its own record saying such impediment "affects the dispensation of justice and would amount to obstruction of access to justice".

A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud was also critical of the Jammu High Court Bar Association, which had passed a resolution not to attend the courts saying "it is the duty of the bar association as a collective body and they cannot obstruct the process of law".

According to the charge sheets filed by the crime branch, the abduction, rape and killing of the Bakerwal girl was part of a carefully planned strategy to remove the minority nomadic community from the area.

It lists the caretaker of 'Devisthan', a small temple, in a village in Kathua, about 90 km from here, as the main conspirator behind the crime.

Sanji Ram was allegedly joined by special police officers Deepak Khajuria and Surender Verma, friend Parvesh Kumar alias Mannu, Ram's nephew, a juvenile, and his son Vishal Jangotra alias "Shamma".

The charge sheet also names investigating officers head constable Tilak Raj and Sub-Inspector Anand Dutta, who allegedly took Rs 4 lakh from Ram and destroyed crucial evidence.

All eight are under arrest.

The crime branch will also be handing over the notices issued to the Jammu Bar Council as well as Kathua Bar Council for appearing before the Supreme Court on April 19.

The Bar Association of Kathua has already retracted from its earlier statement of providing legal assistance free of cost to the accused and said ?after going through the charge sheet presented by the crime branch (against the accused in the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate on April 9) it is revealed that the allegations against the accused persons are very grave and as such this case is to be dealt with in a professional way.

"As such, we have withdrawn our offer to contest the case free of cost. Accused are free to engage any individual advocate and exercise their respective rights of defence in the court. It is for any individual advocate to accept the brief and the bar association will not come in the way of defence nor the bar association will hamper the prosecution," President of BAK Kirty Bhushan Mahajan had said in a seven page statement yesterday.

Members of the same association had blocked the way of crime branch personnel from submitting the charge sheet before the chief judicial magistrate for six hours forcing the police to present it at the house of the magistrate.

Police have already registered a case against lawyers for obstructing public servants from performing their duty.

The Jammu Bar association, which was left red-faced after the Supreme Court's observation, attempted to put a brave face saying they had full faith in the apex court and said their main demand was for shifting of illegally settled Rohingyas.

It denounced the attempts made by certain quarters for making wrongful attempts to project the association as "pro-rapist" or "anti-national".

The association today fielded a senior woman advocate Surinder Kour who said "we are now satisfied that the case has reached the Supreme Court and we are satisfied that justice will be delivered to the minor girl."

JHCBA is on strike since April 4 and sponsored a general strike on April 11 in Jammu to press for its demands including for according district status to Nowshera sub division in Rajouri district.

"We included the demand for CBI probe into the Kathua rape and murder at the request of civil society," Kour said and accused the state government of forcing them into agitation by "giving no response to our concerns despite repeated memorandums and statements."&nbsp;

There are eight accused, including one juvenile

The trial in the gruesome Kathua rape and murder case begins today against eight accused who allegedly held an eight-year-old girl in captivity in a small village temple in Kathua district for a week in January this year during which she was kept sedated and sexually assaulted before being bludgeoned to death. The accused include a juvenile against whom a separate charge sheet was filed. The chief judicial magistrate of Kathua will be committing one of the charge sheets, in which seven people have been named, to the sessions court for trial as mandated under the law. The chief judicial magistrate will, however, hold the trial for the juvenile as it is the designated court under the juvenile act, according to officials. The Jammu and Kashmir government has appointed two special public prosecutors, both Sikhs, for the trial in the sensitive case, a move being seen as made to ensure "neutrality" in view of Hindu-Muslim polarisation over the case. The trial is expected to go smoothly after the Jammu Bar association as well as the Kathua Bar received a rap on the kuckles by the Supreme Court on April 13 as the apex court took a strong note of some lawyers obstructing the judicial process in the case. The Supreme Court initiated a case on its own record saying such impediment "affects the dispensation of justice and would amount to obstruction of access to justice". A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud was also critical of the Jammu High Court Bar Association, which had passed a resolution not to attend the courts saying "it is the duty of the bar association as a collective body and they cannot obstruct the process of law". According to the charge sheets filed by the crime branch, the abduction, rape and killing of the Bakerwal girl was part of a carefully planned strategy to remove the minority nomadic community from the area. It lists the caretaker of 'Devisthan', a small temple, in a village in Kathua, about 90 km from here, as the main conspirator behind the crime. Sanji Ram was allegedly joined by special police officers Deepak Khajuria and Surender Verma, friend Parvesh Kumar alias Mannu, Ram's nephew, a juvenile, and his son Vishal Jangotra alias "Shamma". The charge sheet also names investigating officers head constable Tilak Raj and Sub-Inspector Anand Dutta, who allegedly took Rs 4 lakh from Ram and destroyed crucial evidence. All eight are under arrest. The crime branch will also be handing over the notices issued to the Jammu Bar Council as well as Kathua Bar Council for appearing before the Supreme Court on April 19. The Bar Association of Kathua has already retracted from its earlier statement of providing legal assistance free of cost to the accused and said ?after going through the charge sheet presented by the crime branch (against the accused in the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate on April 9) it is revealed that the allegations against the accused persons are very grave and as such this case is to be dealt with in a professional way. "As such, we have withdrawn our offer to contest the case free of cost. Accused are free to engage any individual advocate and exercise their respective rights of defence in the court. It is for any individual advocate to accept the brief and the bar association will not come in the way of defence nor the bar association will hamper the prosecution," President of BAK Kirty Bhushan Mahajan had said in a seven page statement yesterday. Members of the same association had blocked the way of crime branch personnel from submitting the charge sheet before the chief judicial magistrate for six hours forcing the police to present it at the house of the magistrate. Police have already registered a case against lawyers for obstructing public servants from performing their duty. The Jammu Bar association, which was left red-faced after the Supreme Court's observation, attempted to put a brave face saying they had full faith in the apex court and said their main demand was for shifting of illegally settled Rohingyas. It denounced the attempts made by certain quarters for making wrongful attempts to project the association as "pro-rapist" or "anti-national". The association today fielded a senior woman advocate Surinder Kour who said "we are now satisfied that the case has reached the Supreme Court and we are satisfied that justice will be delivered to the minor girl." JHCBA is on strike since April 4 and sponsored a general strike on April 11 in Jammu to press for its demands including for according district status to Nowshera sub division in Rajouri district. "We included the demand for CBI probe into the Kathua rape and murder at the request of civil society," Kour said and accused the state government of forcing them into agitation by "giving no response to our concerns despite repeated memorandums and statements."

Kathua gang rape and murder trial to begin today

It's a season of kitschy symbolism in Bollywood with celebrities after celebrities posting pictures with placards that say "I am ashamed", and demanding justice for an eight-year-old girl who was gangraped and murdered in Kathua. The wordings, style, tonality and content of the placards being the same through all the celebrities.

The trend is not limited to the Bollywood alone most of the celebrities from different walks of life have been pronouncing the arrested people as 'rapists' and the temple as the 'scene of crime'. Adding the prefix "alleged" or using the word "suspect" has gone out of fashion in the new secular consciousness.

The purpose of the above act of the Bollywood celebrities is noble and the symbolism isn't lost on anyone. Yet, the choice of words and the absence of sensibilities are appalling. It betrays not only a lack of research on the subject but also a fanatic avidity to pass judgement on blinkered notions. This is bigotry of another kind where a hearsay verdict is to be hurriedly delivered on the basis of one-sided accounts. No counter view is to be honoured even for the sake of balance, let alone for the sake of justice.

It's important to find out who's behind this orchestrated campaign that passes judgement on a place of worship even without a trial, and defames it without any consideration of the basic principles of natural justice.

Let's try to understand the complex social-demographic reality of Kathua, which goes to explain the contextuality of the episode and its fallout.

Kathua - or for that matter, whole of Jammu, Udhampur, Samba etc - has become an unfortunate battleground of a desperate social and demographic strife where constant grabbing (and also, purchasing) of forest lands by the Gujjar-Bakherwal settlers and the state government's alleged support to it, has created a deep suspicion in the minds of the locals who believe that the government is trying to change the demographic character of the region.

This, together with illegal presence of thousands of Rohingyas in Jammu region, is a thorn in the flesh of the psyche of the local people. And the fact that these Rohingyas have Aadhaar and ration cards raises questions on the role of local government.

Further, the Rohingyas are believed to have close ties with ISI. But no one knows how many of these settlers are having direct linkages with the ISI. It's a well-known fact that ISI is constantly evolving ideas to create disturbances in the Jammu region. Investigating agencies probing the recent attack on an Army camp in Sunjuwan are looking at the local support angle and the presence of Rohingya camps nearby might come under the scanner.

In the given scenario, the apprehension that ISI may be playing on this communal tension in the region by hatching a plot to get the girl killed and planting it on a temple, needs to be ruled out. It is apprehended by many local residents that the Rohingya may come as a handy tool to be used for such acts. Various reports have appeared in the media that have confirmed the presence of Rohingyas in the village where the girl was killed. Hence, it's important to allay the fears of the local people by getting to the bottom of the controversy through a fair inquiry.

Further, the circumstantial evidences of the murder create suspicion in the J&K government's chargesheet, which has been prepared by a SIT drawing police officials with dubious records. Using a temple for such a heinous act, and that too by an old man in mid-sixties, and that again for seven days - all create ample suspicions. The locals say that the 'Devisthaan' is a prayer hall with no locking facility and hence it is pretty impossible to keep somebody locked and sedated for seven days in the temple, which was regularly being visited by the devotees all throughout the period due to the festival of Makar Sankranti at the time of the alleged incident.

None of us, including the Bollywood celebrities, know what's the reality. Then what's the hurry to jump the gun and to declare somebody a culprit and drag a temple in the act even without a trial? Hasn't the Bollywood erred in pronouncing the Devisthaan to be a scene of crime even without an investigation? Wouldn't it be a good idea to be patient in passing a verdict until the matter was investigated in a free, fair and impartial manner?

Even more atrocious is the attempt to portray the local Kathua demonstrators as rape apologists. They're not. They're equally horrified by the crime. They're saying the same thing that the celebrities are saying - hold a fair investigation, a fair trial and give harshest possible punishment to the culprits, and for that, a CBI enquiry is needed to find out who the culprits really are. This is indeed required because the J&K Police, like the state police elsewhere, is known for its pliability, inefficiency and corruption.

Chances maybe that the persons arrested are the real culprits. But isn't it wise to give them a fair chance before hanging?

We know how state police conducts investigations and invent 'criminals' - remember Ryan International case of Gurgaon, how the bus driver was declared accused and how people were baying for his blood. However, a CBI inquiry proved him innocent. Thus, baying for the blood of the accused ones on the basis of the local police chargesheet, is nothing but a blunder in view of various counter evidences being floated.

The SIT made indiscriminate arrests of locals and subjected them to various forms of torture. People of the village in Kathua have never had such a harrowing experience ever in the past and are terrified. Many have left their village fearing even more trouble. These people are peaceful communities that hold their temples very precious. But, already their sense of pride is under attack.

Thus, asking for a CBI investigation by the Kathua demonstrators is nowhere an atrocious demand. It's rather the most appropriate act in the given circumstance. Maybe, for the first time ever, I have seen anyone asking for a CBI inquiry and being castigated for it. If Unnao rape case can be handed over to the CBI, why can't the Kathua case go to the same agency, especially when so many doubts have been raised on the composition and intention of the SIT?

Hence, for the Bollywood celebrities, the symbolism wouldn't have lost if they hadn't passed judgment on the 'Devisthaan' that demeaned it and, instead, had asked for a CBI inquiry to clear the air once for all.

I'm an Indian and I want justice for the girl through a CBI enquiry. What about you?

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Kathua - or for that matter, whole of Jammu, Udhampur, Samba etc - has become an unfortunate battleground of a desperate social and demographic strife.

It's a season of kitschy symbolism in Bollywood with celebrities after celebrities posting pictures with placards that say "I am ashamed", and demanding justice for an eight-year-old girl who was gangraped and murdered in Kathua. The wordings, style, tonality and content of the placards being the same through all the celebrities. The trend is not limited to the Bollywood alone most of the celebrities from different walks of life have been pronouncing the arrested people as 'rapists' and the temple as the 'scene of crime'. Adding the prefix "alleged" or using the word "suspect" has gone out of fashion in the new secular consciousness. The purpose of the above act of the Bollywood celebrities is noble and the symbolism isn't lost on anyone. Yet, the choice of words and the absence of sensibilities are appalling. It betrays not only a lack of research on the subject but also a fanatic avidity to pass judgement on blinkered notions. This is bigotry of another kind where a hearsay verdict is to be hurriedly delivered on the basis of one-sided accounts. No counter view is to be honoured even for the sake of balance, let alone for the sake of justice. It's important to find out who's behind this orchestrated campaign that passes judgement on a place of worship even without a trial, and defames it without any consideration of the basic principles of natural justice. Let's try to understand the complex social-demographic reality of Kathua, which goes to explain the contextuality of the episode and its fallout. Kathua - or for that matter, whole of Jammu, Udhampur, Samba etc - has become an unfortunate battleground of a desperate social and demographic strife where constant grabbing (and also, purchasing) of forest lands by the Gujjar-Bakherwal settlers and the state government's alleged support to it, has created a deep suspicion in the minds of the locals who believe that the government is trying to change the demographic character of the region. This, together with illegal presence of thousands of Rohingyas in Jammu region, is a thorn in the flesh of the psyche of the local people. And the fact that these Rohingyas have Aadhaar and ration cards raises questions on the role of local government. Further, the Rohingyas are believed to have close ties with ISI. But no one knows how many of these settlers are having direct linkages with the ISI. It's a well-known fact that ISI is constantly evolving ideas to create disturbances in the Jammu region. Investigating agencies probing the recent attack on an Army camp in Sunjuwan are looking at the local support angle and the presence of Rohingya camps nearby might come under the scanner. In the given scenario, the apprehension that ISI may be playing on this communal tension in the region by hatching a plot to get the girl killed and planting it on a temple, needs to be ruled out. It is apprehended by many local residents that the Rohingya may come as a handy tool to be used for such acts. Various reports have appeared in the media that have confirmed the presence of Rohingyas in the village where the girl was killed. Hence, it's important to allay the fears of the local people by getting to the bottom of the controversy through a fair inquiry. Further, the circumstantial evidences of the murder create suspicion in the J&K government's chargesheet, which has been prepared by a SIT drawing police officials with dubious records. Using a temple for such a heinous act, and that too by an old man in mid-sixties, and that again for seven days - all create ample suspicions. The locals say that the 'Devisthaan' is a prayer hall with no locking facility and hence it is pretty impossible to keep somebody locked and sedated for seven days in the temple, which was regularly being visited by the devotees all throughout the period due to the festival of Makar Sankranti at the time of the alleged incident. None of us, including the Bollywood celebrities, know what's the reality. Then what's the hurry to jump the gun and to declare somebody a culprit and drag a temple in the act even without a trial? Hasn't the Bollywood erred in pronouncing the Devisthaan to be a scene of crime even without an investigation? Wouldn't it be a good idea to be patient in passing a verdict until the matter was investigated in a free, fair and impartial manner? Even more atrocious is the attempt to portray the local Kathua demonstrators as rape apologists. They're not. They're equally horrified by the crime. They're saying the same thing that the celebrities are saying - hold a fair investigation, a fair trial and give harshest possible punishment to the culprits, and for that, a CBI enquiry is needed to find out who the culprits really are. This is indeed required because the J&K Police, like the state police elsewhere, is known for its pliability, inefficiency and corruption. Chances maybe that the persons arrested are the real culprits. But isn't it wise to give them a fair chance before hanging? We know how state police conducts investigations and invent 'criminals' - remember Ryan International case of Gurgaon, how the bus driver was declared accused and how people were baying for his blood. However, a CBI inquiry proved him innocent. Thus, baying for the blood of the accused ones on the basis of the local police chargesheet, is nothing but a blunder in view of various counter evidences being floated. The SIT made indiscriminate arrests of locals and subjected them to various forms of torture. People of the village in Kathua have never had such a harrowing experience ever in the past and are terrified. Many have left their village fearing even more trouble. These people are peaceful communities that hold their temples very precious. But, already their sense of pride is under attack. Thus, asking for a CBI investigation by the Kathua demonstrators is nowhere an atrocious demand. It's rather the most appropriate act in the given circumstance. Maybe, for the first time ever, I have seen anyone asking for a CBI inquiry and being castigated for it. If Unnao rape case can be handed over to the CBI, why can't the Kathua case go to the same agency, especially when so many doubts have been raised on the composition and intention of the SIT? Hence, for the Bollywood celebrities, the symbolism wouldn't have lost if they hadn't passed judgment on the 'Devisthaan' that demeaned it and, instead, had asked for a CBI inquiry to clear the air once for all. I'm an Indian and I want justice for the girl through a CBI enquiry. What about you? (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: The Kathua case and Bollywood's pernicious symbolism

Ahead of the annual migration of nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwal families this month, authorities in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir today said over two dozen schools would move with them to ensure proper educational facilities to students.

A total of 25 schools having an enrolment of 801 students - 410 boys and 391 girls - will move with the migratory population.

"These schools have been provided 45 teachers for running the schools in higher reaches during the annual migration to higher reaches in Kashmir, an official spokesman said.

He said district development commissioner, Rajouri, Shahid Iqbal Choudhary finalised the plan at a meeting of senior officers from various departments and heads of migratory schools along with staff.

The annual migration of nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwal families is beginning later this month.

The spokesman said another 41 schools for tribal population would remain stationary which will cater to 1,451 students including 802 boy students and 651 girl students where 95 teachers have been posted.

Mr Choudhary directed that books and uniform be provided to the students before migration.&nbsp

It was decided in the meeting that apart from educational aids, the department will also provide sports equipment and first aid kits for each migratory school.&nbsp

A comprehensive plan for self-defence training was also discussed and finalised. The students are also being provided scholarship by the Tribal Affairs Department, the spokesman said.

He said the Chief Education Officer was directed to regularly monitor attendance in migratory schools during the period and the heads of schools were instructed to hold mandatory parent-teacher meetings twice a month during the period of migration.&nbsp

A special squad would check the attendance. Record and pictures of such meetings and classes will have to be shared online, the spokesman said.

He said Mr Choudhary directed that all girl students would be provided with special education kits this year and scholarship to meritorious students. He asked the departments to lay special focus on skill development and to organise courses for these students which would be monitored by his office.

The schools migrating to Drass, Kargil, Ganderbal, Anantnag, Gurez, Budgam, Kangan, Dachigham and Sukhnai would be provided with gadgets, stationery, tents, ration and other requirements, the spokesman said.&nbsp

He said other issues related to ration, training, examination, awards to best performers and ICDS support were also discussed in the meeting.

A total of 25 schools having an enrolment of 801 students - 410 boys and 391 girls - will move with the migratory population.

Ahead of the annual migration of nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwal families this month, authorities in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir today said over two dozen schools would move with them to ensure proper educational facilities to students. A total of 25 schools having an enrolment of 801 students - 410 boys and 391 girls - will move with the migratory population. "These schools have been provided 45 teachers for running the schools in higher reaches during the annual migration to higher reaches in Kashmir, an official spokesman said. He said district development commissioner, Rajouri, Shahid Iqbal Choudhary finalised the plan at a meeting of senior officers from various departments and heads of migratory schools along with staff. The annual migration of nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwal families is beginning later this month. The spokesman said another 41 schools for tribal population would remain stationary which will cater to 1,451 students including 802 boy students and 651 girl students where 95 teachers have been posted. Mr Choudhary directed that books and uniform be provided to the students before migration. It was decided in the meeting that apart from educational aids, the department will also provide sports equipment and first aid kits for each migratory school. A comprehensive plan for self-defence training was also discussed and finalised. The students are also being provided scholarship by the Tribal Affairs Department, the spokesman said. He said the Chief Education Officer was directed to regularly monitor attendance in migratory schools during the period and the heads of schools were instructed to hold mandatory parent-teacher meetings twice a month during the period of migration. A special squad would check the attendance. Record and pictures of such meetings and classes will have to be shared online, the spokesman said. He said Mr Choudhary directed that all girl students would be provided with special education kits this year and scholarship to meritorious students. He asked the departments to lay special focus on skill development and to organise courses for these students which would be monitored by his office. The schools migrating to Drass, Kargil, Ganderbal, Anantnag, Gurez, Budgam, Kangan, Dachigham and Sukhnai would be provided with gadgets, stationery, tents, ration and other requirements, the spokesman said. He said other issues related to ration, training, examination, awards to best performers and ICDS support were also discussed in the meeting.

25 mobile schools to migrate with nomads in Jammu and Kashmir

Third Indigo aircraft has been grounded in the last 24 hours after a fuel leak was reported from the engine at Jammu airport on Sunday.&nbsp;

Earlier yesterday, two Indigo aircraft were grounded yesterday after pilots reported about glitches. The aircraft belonged to Airbus` A320 Neo series, which have been in the news for its glitches-prone engines. In the first incident, the aircraft that operated on the Bangalore-Delhi route was grounded for maintenance check at Delhi airport as the pilot reported about the malfunctioning engine.

During the maintenance check, metal chips were observed on an engine bearing a chip detector which is known to be a matter of concern with the Neo engines, according to a statement released by the airline yesterday.&nbsp;

Later in the day, another Indigo Neo aircraft in Srinagar was grounded due to hydraulic leak from one of its two engines.&nbsp;

Later, the aircraft was declared fit to fly after rectification of the problem.&nbsp;

On March 13, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) grounded 11 Airbus 320 Neo aircraft owned by Indigo Airlines and Go Air following multiple instances of engine-related problems.&nbsp;

Metal chips were observed on an engine bearing a chip detector which is known to be a matter of concern with the Neo engines

Third Indigo aircraft has been grounded in the last 24 hours after a fuel leak was reported from the engine at Jammu airport on Sunday. Earlier yesterday, two Indigo aircraft were grounded yesterday after pilots reported about glitches. The aircraft belonged to Airbus` A320 Neo series, which have been in the news for its glitches-prone engines. In the first incident, the aircraft that operated on the Bangalore-Delhi route was grounded for maintenance check at Delhi airport as the pilot reported about the malfunctioning engine. During the maintenance check, metal chips were observed on an engine bearing a chip detector which is known to be a matter of concern with the Neo engines, according to a statement released by the airline yesterday. Later in the day, another Indigo Neo aircraft in Srinagar was grounded due to hydraulic leak from one of its two engines. Later, the aircraft was declared fit to fly after rectification of the problem. On March 13, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) grounded 11 Airbus 320 Neo aircraft owned by Indigo Airlines and Go Air following multiple instances of engine-related problems.

Third Indigo aircraft grounded in last 24 hours

Pakistani troops resorted to heavy shelling from across the border, targeting forward posts and villages along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday morning, the police said.

Heavy shelling from across the border in Mankote sector started around 7.40 am, prompting strong retaliation from the Indian Army.&nbsp;

According to the police officer, the shelling from both the sides was going on when last reports were received, however, there was no immediate report of any casualty in Pakistani shelling.

There has been a spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the LoC and the International Border this year, resulting in the death of 21 people&nbsp;including 12 security personnel.

Pakistan troops also indiscriminate firing in Poonch sector on Friday. &ldquo;The troops at 09:30 am&nbsp;resorted to firing of small arms, automatics and mortars,&rdquo; Public Relation Officer, Jammu had said. The Indian Army retaliated strongly and effectively.

Heavy shelling from across the border in Mankote sector started around 7.40 am, prompting strong retaliation from the Indian Army, a police official said

Pakistani troops resorted to heavy shelling from across the border, targeting forward posts and villages along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday morning, the police said. Heavy shelling from across the border in Mankote sector started around 7.40 am, prompting strong retaliation from the Indian Army. According to the police officer, the shelling from both the sides was going on when last reports were received, however, there was no immediate report of any casualty in Pakistani shelling. There has been a spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the LoC and the International Border this year, resulting in the death of 21 people including 12 security personnel. Pakistan troops also indiscriminate firing in Poonch sector on Friday. “The troops at 09:30 am resorted to firing of small arms, automatics and mortars,” Public Relation Officer, Jammu had said. The Indian Army retaliated strongly and effectively.

Pakistan troops shell forward posts, villages in J&K 's Poonch, India retaliates

The north Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is world famous for its intricately hand-woven silk carpets, which is in huge international demand. The carpet industry of Kashmir which was once the flagship of the state is sadly, however, &nbsp;facing a fast decline.

The handwoven silk carpets of Jammu and Kashmir are perhaps the most luxurious items that India showcases internationally. Each carpet is like a magic one and if though they do not fly, they have elaborate designs, vivid colour combinations, but above all, a durability which has made the Kashmiri carpet world famous for centuries.

The carpet craft arrived in the Kashmir valley in the 16th century from Persia. After the sufi saint Akhun Rehnuma went on a pilgrimage to Mecca. On his way back he learned the art of weaving carpets from the Persians. The industry expanded under the Dogra rule and the carpets became a favourite in British and European markets.

In recent years, however, this cottage industry has been in decline. in Srinagar, every second household used to have a cottage unit for crafting carpets. Now, there are only a handful of these units left in the city.

WION visited one of the last remaining carpet manufacturing units of Srinagar to try and understand what could be unthreading such a beautiful trade. Mehraj Din has been weaving carpets for three decades and says the younger generations have given up on the craft, thinning out the production.

Veteran carpet traders and exporters say the brand value of Kashmiri carpets in the international market still holds its high.

Says Mubeen Shah, a carpet exporter, &#39;&#39;There are four places in the international market which make these carpets: turkey, Iran, Kashmir and China&hellip; they make silk carpets. china make Turkish, Persian and now Kashmiri designs. Lots of retailers sell Chinese carpets as Kashmiri carpets because our brand is better.&#39;&#39;&nbsp;

As per the economic survey of Jammu and Kashmir, the total carpet exports in 2011 to 2012 amounted to 86 million dollars. but from 2016 to 2017 the exports decreased to 56 million dollars.

meanwhile, Iran - a rival in the field - has exported products worth 275 million dollars internationally.

Traders say a decreasing production isn&rsquo;t the only problem. creative designs are struggling to compete with their Iranian counterparts. The material used has also become substandard over the years. Carpet weaving units prefer low-quality Chinese silk yarn to the indigenous silk to bring down production costs.

&#39;&#39;In Iran and Turkey, they are promoting designers, individual designers. They are promoting silk carpets with their name. It is just like a brand, for example, you buy a branded watch or a branded bag. the material may not be so great but the brand adds value. The same happens in Iraq. They have developed brands for last 30-40 years and that differentiates between the very high quality and low quality in the market. By introducing new looms, our carpet designs will have better quality. We also have to use mulberry silk. People here had shifted to spun silk which is brought from Bangaluru. &#39;&#39;We need to use mulberry silk and by that will improve on quality this is a traditional industry, where there is little scope to modernise the manufacturing part of it.in other aspects there is a need for modernisation in promoting and marketing like using social media for our branding. The Kashmiri carpet has a good international value,&#39;&#39; Mubeen Shah added.

In recent years, however, this cottage industry has been in decline

The north Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is world famous for its intricately hand-woven silk carpets, which is in huge international demand. The carpet industry of Kashmir which was once the flagship of the state is sadly, however, facing a fast decline. The handwoven silk carpets of Jammu and Kashmir are perhaps the most luxurious items that India showcases internationally. Each carpet is like a magic one and if though they do not fly, they have elaborate designs, vivid colour combinations, but above all, a durability which has made the Kashmiri carpet world famous for centuries. The carpet craft arrived in the Kashmir valley in the 16th century from Persia. After the sufi saint Akhun Rehnuma went on a pilgrimage to Mecca. On his way back he learned the art of weaving carpets from the Persians. The industry expanded under the Dogra rule and the carpets became a favourite in British and European markets. In recent years, however, this cottage industry has been in decline. in Srinagar, every second household used to have a cottage unit for crafting carpets. Now, there are only a handful of these units left in the city. WION visited one of the last remaining carpet manufacturing units of Srinagar to try and understand what could be unthreading such a beautiful trade. Mehraj Din has been weaving carpets for three decades and says the younger generations have given up on the craft, thinning out the production. Veteran carpet traders and exporters say the brand value of Kashmiri carpets in the international market still holds its high. Says Mubeen Shah, a carpet exporter, ''There are four places in the international market which make these carpets: turkey, Iran, Kashmir and China… they make silk carpets. china make Turkish, Persian and now Kashmiri designs. Lots of retailers sell Chinese carpets as Kashmiri carpets because our brand is better.'' As per the economic survey of Jammu and Kashmir, the total carpet exports in 2011 to 2012 amounted to 86 million dollars. but from 2016 to 2017 the exports decreased to 56 million dollars. meanwhile, Iran - a rival in the field - has exported products worth 275 million dollars internationally. Traders say a decreasing production isn’t the only problem. creative designs are struggling to compete with their Iranian counterparts. The material used has also become substandard over the years. Carpet weaving units prefer low-quality Chinese silk yarn to the indigenous silk to bring down production costs. ''In Iran and Turkey, they are promoting designers, individual designers. They are promoting silk carpets with their name. It is just like a brand, for example, you buy a branded watch or a branded bag. the material may not be so great but the brand adds value. The same happens in Iraq. They have developed brands for last 30-40 years and that differentiates between the very high quality and low quality in the market. By introducing new looms, our carpet designs will have better quality. We also have to use mulberry silk. People here had shifted to spun silk which is brought from Bangaluru. ''We need to use mulberry silk and by that will improve on quality this is a traditional industry, where there is little scope to modernise the manufacturing part of it.in other aspects there is a need for modernisation in promoting and marketing like using social media for our branding. The Kashmiri carpet has a good international value,'' Mubeen Shah added.

Jammu and Kashmir's carpet industry in decline

A boy, who joined militancy in Kashmir, has returned home today following an appeal by his mother, a senior police official said.

&quot;Another young boy responding to the appeals of crying mother returned to the fold of family leaving path of violence in the valley&quot;, DGP S P Vaid said in a tweet today.&nbsp;

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Another young boy responding to the appeals of crying mother returned to the fold of family leaving path of violence in the valley. I wish the family happy re- union.
&mdash; Shesh Paul Vaid (@spvaid) <a href="https://twitter.com/spvaid/status/969448877916073984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The DGP also wished a happy reunion to the family in his tweet.

&quot;I wish the family happy re-union&quot;, he said.

The age of the boy has not been disclosed.

Four Kashmiri youths, who had taken to militancy, shunned the path of violence and returned to the mainstream in 2017.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kashmir-burhan-wanis-successor-asks-pandits-to-return-says-militants-planning-sikh-outfit-7706" target="_blank">Burhan Wani&#39;s &#39;successor&#39; asks Pandits to return</a>

Notably, last month, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, in a written reply to a question of BJP MLC Vikram Randhawa in the Legislative Council, said that four misguided youths shunned the path of violence and returned to the mainstream.

&quot;Efforts are being made to counsel the families of militants to convince their wards to give up violence&quot;, she said.

The chief minister said her government had taken a number of states to contain radicalisation and extremism, and undertaken youth engagement activities, such as cricket tournaments.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-and-a-difficult-out-of-south-kashmir-3206" target="_blank">In and a difficult out of South Kashmir</a>

Mufti said youth clubs had been set up at the police station level to train them in information technology and indoor games.

Also, she mentioned about the surveillance on social media, which she said had been enhanced as the Internet plays a major role in radicalisation of the youth.&nbsp;

The age of the boy has not been disclosed. Last year too, four boys who had joined the militants had returned home

A boy, who joined militancy in Kashmir, has returned home today following an appeal by his mother, a senior police official said. "Another young boy responding to the appeals of crying mother returned to the fold of family leaving path of violence in the valley", DGP S P Vaid said in a tweet today. Another young boy responding to the appeals of crying mother returned to the fold of family leaving path of violence in the valley. I wish the family happy re- union. — Shesh Paul Vaid (@spvaid) March 2, 2018 × The DGP also wished a happy reunion to the family in his tweet. "I wish the family happy re-union", he said. The age of the boy has not been disclosed. Four Kashmiri youths, who had taken to militancy, shunned the path of violence and returned to the mainstream in 2017. Also read: Burhan Wani's 'successor' asks Pandits to return Notably, last month, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, in a written reply to a question of BJP MLC Vikram Randhawa in the Legislative Council, said that four misguided youths shunned the path of violence and returned to the mainstream. "Efforts are being made to counsel the families of militants to convince their wards to give up violence", she said. The chief minister said her government had taken a number of states to contain radicalisation and extremism, and undertaken youth engagement activities, such as cricket tournaments. Also read: In and a difficult out of South Kashmir Mufti said youth clubs had been set up at the police station level to train them in information technology and indoor games. Also, she mentioned about the surveillance on social media, which she said had been enhanced as the Internet plays a major role in radicalisation of the youth.

Kashmir: Militant returns home after mother asks him to

Traffic on the 300-km long Jammu-Srinagar national highway was suspended on Monday after a massive landslide blocked the arterial road in Udhampur district, officials said.

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Jammu-Srinagar National Highway blocked after a landslide in Udhampur&#39;s Moud <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/vXTGVet5o7">pic.twitter.com/vXTGVet5o7</a>
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The authorities said the restoration of traffic on the highway could take two days.

As per reports, the authority has deployed JCB machines to clear the debris.

Jammu-Srinagar National Highway blocked after a landslide in Udhampur's Moud

Traffic on the 300-km long Jammu-Srinagar national highway was suspended on Monday after a massive landslide blocked the arterial road in Udhampur district, officials said. Jammu-Srinagar National Highway blocked after a landslide in Udhampur's Moud #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/vXTGVet5o7 — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2018 × The authorities said the restoration of traffic on the highway could take two days. As per reports, the authority has deployed JCB machines to clear the debris.

Landslide blocks Jammu-Srinagar highway in Udhampur's Moud

The BJP on Monday called for abandoning the pre-Independence, bi-annual practice of &#39;darbar move&#39;, under which the Jammu and Kashmir government functions six months each in the two capitals -- Srinagar and Jammu.

The stand of the BJP, a ruling coalition partner in Jammu and Kashmir, may trigger a major controversy in the state.

State government offices started functioning from the state&#39;s summer capital Srinagar on Monday after shifting from the winter capital Jammu.

The Raj Bhavan, Civil Secretariat and other offices closed in Jammu on April 28 and reopened in Srinagar on Monday.

&quot;The practice of &#39;darbar move&#39; should be abandoned. There should be bifurcation of the state offices,&quot; state BJP spokesperson Virender Gupta said.

His statement was endorsed by Assembly Speaker Kavinder Gupta who said the practice costs the state exchequers heavily.

The spokesperson said that practice of &#39;darbar move&#39; was adopted in Jammu and Kashmir as well as in some other parts of the country because of the special circumstance prevailing at that time when means of communication were limited and electronic communication was almost negligible.

He said because of the advancement in the electronic communication, air journey and better road facilities, this practice was abandoned in the rest of the country whereas it still continues in Jammu and Kashmir.

He suggested that the secretariat, directorates and offices of corporations should remain operational in Jammu as well as in Srinagar.&nbsp;

(PTI)

The BJP has called for a bifurcation of the state offices.

The BJP on Monday called for abandoning the pre-Independence, bi-annual practice of 'darbar move', under which the Jammu and Kashmir government functions six months each in the two capitals -- Srinagar and Jammu. The stand of the BJP, a ruling coalition partner in Jammu and Kashmir, may trigger a major controversy in the state. State government offices started functioning from the state's summer capital Srinagar on Monday after shifting from the winter capital Jammu. The Raj Bhavan, Civil Secretariat and other offices closed in Jammu on April 28 and reopened in Srinagar on Monday. "The practice of 'darbar move' should be abandoned. There should be bifurcation of the state offices," state BJP spokesperson Virender Gupta said. His statement was endorsed by Assembly Speaker Kavinder Gupta who said the practice costs the state exchequers heavily. The spokesperson said that practice of 'darbar move' was adopted in Jammu and Kashmir as well as in some other parts of the country because of the special circumstance prevailing at that time when means of communication were limited and electronic communication was almost negligible. He said because of the advancement in the electronic communication, air journey and better road facilities, this practice was abandoned in the rest of the country whereas it still continues in Jammu and Kashmir. He suggested that the secretariat, directorates and offices of corporations should remain operational in Jammu as well as in Srinagar. (PTI)

India: BJP calls for abandoning practice of 'darbar move' in Jammu and Kashmir

Two armed militants attacked a police station in Indian Kashmir on Monday, police said, as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his annual Independence Day speech in New Delhi. 
 
The gunmen were unable to take control of the police station in the old city of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu &amp; Kashmir, but did kill one police reservist and injure nine in the attack. WION&#39;s Srinagar correspondent reports that the man slain was the commandant of the 49th battalion. The CRPF spokesman said that firing has stopped, but that a search and combing operation is currently going on. &nbsp;Two militants are believed to have been killed. 
&nbsp;
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UPDATE: Two CRPF jawans and one J&amp;K policeman injured after 3 terrorists attack security forces in Srinagar,exchange of fire continues
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/765034579895914496">August 15, 2016</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;

 
Separately, the Indian Army said it had foiled an attempt to infiltrate two militants from Pakistan into India. The two men were killed in the Uri sector of the de facto border between the neighbouring countries in North Kashmir. 
 
Kashmir has witnessed violent protests since the July 8 killing of militant leader Burhan Wani, a commander of the Pakistan-based Islamist militant group Hizbul Mujahideen, with 54 people killed and several thousand wounded in clashes with security forces. 
 
Modi avoided direct reference to Kashmir in his Independence Day speech, but he did criticise people in Pakistan for celebrating when what he called terrorist attacks were launched on Indian soil. 
 
The prime minister met national party leaders on Friday to seek ways to end the worst unrest in Kashmir since 2010, but there was no agreement to send an all-party delegation to the region for talks to try and calm tensions there. 
 
Both India and Pakistan rule Kashmir in part but claim it in full. The nuclear-armed neighbours have fought two of their three wars since independence 69 years ago over the Muslim-majority region where the Line of Control, or de facto border, still runs roughly where the guns fell silent in 1948. 
 
(WION with inputs from&nbsp;Agencies)

The gunmen were unable to take control of the police station in the old city of Srinagar, but did kill 1 reservist and injure 9

Two armed militants attacked a police station in Indian Kashmir on Monday, police said, as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his annual Independence Day speech in New Delhi. The gunmen were unable to take control of the police station in the old city of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, but did kill one police reservist and injure nine in the attack. WION's Srinagar correspondent reports that the man slain was the commandant of the 49th battalion. The CRPF spokesman said that firing has stopped, but that a search and combing operation is currently going on. Two militants are believed to have been killed. UPDATE: Two CRPF jawans and one J&K policeman injured after 3 terrorists attack security forces in Srinagar,exchange of fire continues — ANI (@ANI_news) August 15, 2016 Separately, the Indian Army said it had foiled an attempt to infiltrate two militants from Pakistan into India. The two men were killed in the Uri sector of the de facto border between the neighbouring countries in North Kashmir. Kashmir has witnessed violent protests since the July 8 killing of militant leader Burhan Wani, a commander of the Pakistan-based Islamist militant group Hizbul Mujahideen, with 54 people killed and several thousand wounded in clashes with security forces. Modi avoided direct reference to Kashmir in his Independence Day speech, but he did criticise people in Pakistan for celebrating when what he called terrorist attacks were launched on Indian soil. The prime minister met national party leaders on Friday to seek ways to end the worst unrest in Kashmir since 2010, but there was no agreement to send an all-party delegation to the region for talks to try and calm tensions there. Both India and Pakistan rule Kashmir in part but claim it in full. The nuclear-armed neighbours have fought two of their three wars since independence 69 years ago over the Muslim-majority region where the Line of Control, or de facto border, still runs roughly where the guns fell silent in 1948. (WION with inputs from Agencies)

Militants open fire in India's Srinagar, 1 security personnel dead, 9 injured

Turkey, a close ally of Pakistan, today hoped that the Kashmir issue would be resolved through dialogue, while backing Islamabad&#39;s stance to send an Organisation of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC) team to the Valley to probe the alleged human rights violations. 
 
&quot;Turkey fully supports Pakistan&#39;s position on Jammu and Kashmir,&quot; Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said at a joint press conference here with Pakistan prime minister&#39;s advisor on foreign affairs Sartaj Aziz. 
 
Cavusoglu said Turkey is an active member of the OIC contact group of Kashmir and attends its meeting. Hopefully its next meeting would be held in September, he said. 
 
&quot;I would like to ask the secretary general of the OIC to mobilise the contact group and send an observer mission. We believe this issue (Kashmir) can be solved through dialogue,&quot; he said. 
 
Pakistan has raised the Kashmir issue at the UN, and demanded sending a fact finding team to the valley to probe the alleged human rights violations there.&nbsp;Forty-nine people have been killed in Kashmir in clashes since security forces killed Hizbul commander Burhan Wani on July 8. 
 
Cavusoglu, who is in Pakistan on an important visit after a failed military coup, thanked Islamabad for being the first country to denounce the coup attempt.&nbsp;He said Turkey was taking steps against those involved in the coup staged by supporters of US-based influential Turkish cleric Fetullah Gulen. 
 
He said Gulen&#39;s organisations pose a risk or threat to the security and stability of every country. 
 
&quot;This terrorist organisation has a global network of schools, business associations and cultural organisations. In the past, we supported them but we didn&#39;t know they had a hidden agenda, that they were trying to take over power in Turkey through such attempts,&quot; he said. 
 
He said that Pakistan and Turkey supported each other against terrorism.&nbsp;On his part, Aziz pledged Pakistan&#39;s unequivocal support for a democratic, peaceful and stable Turkey under the dynamic leadership of President Tayyip Erdogan. 
 
He noted with satisfaction that both sides have agreed to continue to tackle the menace of terrorism and defeat the scourge. The two sides also exchanged views on situation in Afghanistan and the need for a lasting political solution. 
 
Aziz said the two countries share similar views on the migration crisis and the plight of Syrian refugees. He said Pakistan and Turkey host the largest refugee population in the world. 
 
(PTI)

Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu extended his support in a press conference in Islamabad

Turkey, a close ally of Pakistan, today hoped that the Kashmir issue would be resolved through dialogue, while backing Islamabad's stance to send an Organisation of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC) team to the Valley to probe the alleged human rights violations. "Turkey fully supports Pakistan's position on Jammu and Kashmir," Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said at a joint press conference here with Pakistan prime minister's advisor on foreign affairs Sartaj Aziz. Cavusoglu said Turkey is an active member of the OIC contact group of Kashmir and attends its meeting. Hopefully its next meeting would be held in September, he said. "I would like to ask the secretary general of the OIC to mobilise the contact group and send an observer mission. We believe this issue (Kashmir) can be solved through dialogue," he said. Pakistan has raised the Kashmir issue at the UN, and demanded sending a fact finding team to the valley to probe the alleged human rights violations there. Forty-nine people have been killed in Kashmir in clashes since security forces killed Hizbul commander Burhan Wani on July 8. Cavusoglu, who is in Pakistan on an important visit after a failed military coup, thanked Islamabad for being the first country to denounce the coup attempt. He said Turkey was taking steps against those involved in the coup staged by supporters of US-based influential Turkish cleric Fetullah Gulen. He said Gulen's organisations pose a risk or threat to the security and stability of every country. "This terrorist organisation has a global network of schools, business associations and cultural organisations. In the past, we supported them but we didn't know they had a hidden agenda, that they were trying to take over power in Turkey through such attempts," he said. He said that Pakistan and Turkey supported each other against terrorism. On his part, Aziz pledged Pakistan's unequivocal support for a democratic, peaceful and stable Turkey under the dynamic leadership of President Tayyip Erdogan. He noted with satisfaction that both sides have agreed to continue to tackle the menace of terrorism and defeat the scourge. The two sides also exchanged views on situation in Afghanistan and the need for a lasting political solution. Aziz said the two countries share similar views on the migration crisis and the plight of Syrian refugees. He said Pakistan and Turkey host the largest refugee population in the world. (PTI)

Turkey backs Pakistan's stand on Jammu and Kashmir

Indian authorities today decided to suspend all Internet services across northern Indian region of Jammu to stop spread of rumours on social networking sites following the desecration of a temple here last evening. 
 
All mobile and broadband-based Internet services have been suspended, a district official said. 
 
&quot;To stop rumour mongering on social networking sites in the wake of the desecration of Shiv temple in Nanak Nagar area, the authorities decided to temporarily suspend all Internet services including mobile and landline Internet services,&quot; the official said. 
 
One more temple was allegedly desecrated in Jammu yesterday, leading to tension briefly in parts of the city. 
 
&quot;A man entered a temple in the Nanak Nagar area and tried to vandalise it. The man has been identified and arrested,&quot; deputy commissioner of Jammu Simrandeep Singh had said. 
 
A large number of people came onto the roads after news spread. Shopkeepers in the area downed their shutters and held a protest demanding action against the accused. 
 
&quot;Though some people held protest in the area, the situation is normal and under control. Adequate police personnel have been deployed to foil any untoward incident in the area,&quot; Singh said. 
 
The incident took place even as normalcy had returned to Jammu following alleged desecration of a temple in another area Roopnagar on Tuesday by a man who was described by police as &quot;mentally disturbed&quot;. The city had witnessed violence and arson over that incident.&nbsp; 
(PTI)

Protests were held demanding action against a man who tried to vandalise a temple in Jammu

Indian authorities today decided to suspend all Internet services across northern Indian region of Jammu to stop spread of rumours on social networking sites following the desecration of a temple here last evening. All mobile and broadband-based Internet services have been suspended, a district official said. "To stop rumour mongering on social networking sites in the wake of the desecration of Shiv temple in Nanak Nagar area, the authorities decided to temporarily suspend all Internet services including mobile and landline Internet services," the official said. One more temple was allegedly desecrated in Jammu yesterday, leading to tension briefly in parts of the city. "A man entered a temple in the Nanak Nagar area and tried to vandalise it. The man has been identified and arrested," deputy commissioner of Jammu Simrandeep Singh had said. A large number of people came onto the roads after news spread. Shopkeepers in the area downed their shutters and held a protest demanding action against the accused. "Though some people held protest in the area, the situation is normal and under control. Adequate police personnel have been deployed to foil any untoward incident in the area," Singh said. The incident took place even as normalcy had returned to Jammu following alleged desecration of a temple in another area Roopnagar on Tuesday by a man who was described by police as "mentally disturbed". The city had witnessed violence and arson over that incident. (PTI)

Jammu authorities suspend Internet in a bid to stop rumour mongering

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