The Indian government has lifted some restrictions that were put on mobile phones connections. Now postpaid mobile services are back online while prepaid phones and mobile internet still remain suspended. The Jammu and Kashmir administration has set up internet kiosks in every district to facilitate students and common people as there is no internet access in the valley following the abrogation of article 370.

Indian government set up Internet kiosks across Jammu & Kashmir

Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, news agency ANI reported.

The Indian army is retaliating befittingly.

According to the report, the Pakistan Rangers initiated an unprovoked ceasefire at around 9:30 am in Qasba and Kirni sectors of Poonch district by firing small arms and shelling with mortars.

No casualty has been reported so far.

On October 13, One soldier lost his life in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan along the Line of Control in the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district.

The number of ceasefire violations by Pakistan has gone up significantly this year compared to 2018.

"2317 ceasefire violations by Pakistan in 2019 till October 10 while 147 terrorists have been killed in different operations by the security forces on the Line of Control (LoC) and hinterland," Indian Army sources said.

In 2018, the total number of ceasefire violations was 1629.

254 terrorists were killed last year including a large number of local and foreigner terrorist commanders.

The surge in ceasefire violations has happened in a year when the Indian abrogated Article 370 giving special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, news agency ANI reported. The Indian army is retaliating befittingly.

Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, news agency ANI reported. The Indian army is retaliating befittingly. According to the report, the Pakistan Rangers initiated an unprovoked ceasefire at around 9:30 am in Qasba and Kirni sectors of Poonch district by firing small arms and shelling with mortars. No casualty has been reported so far. On October 13, One soldier lost his life in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan along the Line of Control in the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district. The number of ceasefire violations by Pakistan has gone up significantly this year compared to 2018. "2317 ceasefire violations by Pakistan in 2019 till October 10 while 147 terrorists have been killed in different operations by the security forces on the Line of Control (LoC) and hinterland," Indian Army sources said. In 2018, the total number of ceasefire violations was 1629. 254 terrorists were killed last year including a large number of local and foreigner terrorist commanders. The surge in ceasefire violations has happened in a year when the Indian abrogated Article 370 giving special status to Jammu and Kashmir. (With inputs from agencies)

J&K: Pakistan violates ceasefire in Poonch district; Indian Army retaliates

Valley returning to normalcy as 60% mobile phone connections are restored in J&K. Internet connectivity to soon be restored.

Government ends communication blackout in J&K

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, who is a part of the Indian delegation at the ongoing Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) Meeting in the Serbian capital Belgrade, on Sunday hit out at Pakistan for raising the issue of Kashmir at the forum.

Shashi Tharoor slams Pakistan on J&K at  Asian Parliamentary Assembly meet

At least five civilians were injured in a grenade attack that took place in Jammu and Kashmir`s Srinagar on Saturday.

The attack happened when terrorists lobbed a grenade at Hari Singh High Street area, Jammu and Kashmir Police said.

The injured are said to be stable now and a cordon and search operation has been conducted in the area, police added.

At least five civilians were injured in a grenade attack that took place in Jammu and Kashmir`s Srinagar on Saturday. The attack happened when terrorists lobbed a grenade at Hari Singh High Street area, Jammu and Kashmir Police said.

At least five civilians were injured in a grenade attack that took place in Jammu and Kashmir`s Srinagar on Saturday. The attack happened when terrorists lobbed a grenade at Hari Singh High Street area, Jammu and Kashmir Police said. The injured are said to be stable now and a cordon and search operation has been conducted in the area, police added.

Jammu and Kashmir: 5 civilians injured in Srinagar grenade attack

Over 2,000 youth from three districts of south Kashmir turned up on the first day of Indian army recruitment drive in Srinagar on Saturday.

The youth who applied for around 110 vacancies included&nbsp;boys from terrorism prone areas.

Since morning, long queues were seen outside JKLI Regimental centre Srinagar where Jammu and Kashmir police were deployed to help the Indian army manage the crowd. Some youth said that they spent their night in rented cars, outside the army centre to get in first.

Among the youth is Haseeb Bashir, a resident of Kulgam, who lost his father in a terror attack Srigufwara in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district in 1995, when terrorism was on its peak in the state.

“Like my father died for the country, I want to serve too. I never saw my father and I could just study till 10th standard as I had to run my family which includes two sisters and mother,” said Haseeb adding that his father was associated with 3 Rashtriya Rifles, a counter-insurgency force operating in Jammu and Kashmir.

Most of the youth also say that they want to join the army due to unemployment and lack of opportunities in the valley.&nbsp;

“I am also afraid due to the situation but because we don’t have work, so I want to ask other unemployed youth to join the army,” says Umar, who didn’t wish to disclose his village or district, fearing a backlash.

The Indian army says that they are overwhelmed by the response of south Kashmir youth.&nbsp; 
“We carried out same recruitment in 2016 and 2017 and usually we wouldn’t get more then 800 candidates. Today, more than 2000 candidates have come in,” said RR Singh, who was overlooking the recruitment rally.

The rally for the recruitment into 162 infantry battalion will continue till October 21 and numbers are expected to grow.

Over 2,000 youth from three districts of south Kashmir turned up on the first day of Indian army recruitment drive in Srinagar on Saturday. The youth who applied for around 110 vacancies included boys from terrorism prone areas.

Over 2,000 youth from three districts of south Kashmir turned up on the first day of Indian army recruitment drive in Srinagar on Saturday. The youth who applied for around 110 vacancies included boys from terrorism prone areas. Since morning, long queues were seen outside JKLI Regimental centre Srinagar where Jammu and Kashmir police were deployed to help the Indian army manage the crowd. Some youth said that they spent their night in rented cars, outside the army centre to get in first. Among the youth is Haseeb Bashir, a resident of Kulgam, who lost his father in a terror attack Srigufwara in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district in 1995, when terrorism was on its peak in the state. “Like my father died for the country, I want to serve too. I never saw my father and I could just study till 10th standard as I had to run my family which includes two sisters and mother,” said Haseeb adding that his father was associated with 3 Rashtriya Rifles, a counter-insurgency force operating in Jammu and Kashmir. Most of the youth also say that they want to join the army due to unemployment and lack of opportunities in the valley. “I am also afraid due to the situation but because we don’t have work, so I want to ask other unemployed youth to join the army,” says Umar, who didn’t wish to disclose his village or district, fearing a backlash. The Indian army says that they are overwhelmed by the response of south Kashmir youth. “We carried out same recruitment in 2016 and 2017 and usually we wouldn’t get more then 800 candidates. Today, more than 2000 candidates have come in,” said RR Singh, who was overlooking the recruitment rally. The rally for the recruitment into 162 infantry battalion will continue till October 21 and numbers are expected to grow.

Jammu and Kashmir: Over 2,000 youth participate on day-1 of Indian army recruitment drive

Finally absolute normalcy in J&K, All schools & colleges to reopen finally after the valley got shut 2 months ago. Watch this video to know more.

Finally absolute normalcy in J&K, All schools & colleges to reopen

Mahabalipuram, a historically important place during the Pallava Empire, is all set to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 11 for his second informal meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 
Advertisement

The two leaders had held the first informal summit in Wuhan last year, which significantly helped normalise the turbulent bilateral relationship in the aftermath of the 73-day Doklam crisis. President Donald Trump’s trade war with China and his administration’s decision to increase tariffs on Indian goods, has also generated the prospect of improvement in relations between New Delhi and Beijing.

This became evident when China agreed to address India’s concern about the increasing bilateral trade deficit, deciding to take measures to increase import of rice and sugar and accelerate the process of review and approvals of Indian pharmaceuticals and agricultural goods.

However, China’s promise in this regard proved only rhetoric, with the trade deficit having touched US$ 57.86 billion in 2018. Moreover, India’s exports to China declined by 1.62 per cent to reach $7.70 billion in the first six months of 2019. While economic and trade issues have been a major bone of contention between the two sides, recent developments have added to the rising tensions. India’s decision to abrogate Article 370 and divide the Indian state of Jammu &amp; Kashmir into two union territories: Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh, has not gone down too well with the big dragon.

China’s position on the Kashmir issue is clear and consistent, a Chinese government spokesperson said, adding that it is a legacy of history between India and Pakistan, which it says is also the consensus of the international community. China also expressed its opposition to India’s move to create a separate Union Territory of Ladakh, saying that there are areas of dispute between the two nations which, according to Beijing, affects China’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Beijing even went to the extent of raising this issue at the General Assembly and the Security Council of the United Nations, miserably failing to garner any favourable response of the world community.

While India strongly responded to China’s attempt to interfere in its internal matter, the global community became sharply aware of how strongly China was trying to protect Pakistan, a breeding ground for terrorists.

In August, the armed forces of China and Pakistan held the Shaheen-VIII air force joint exercise. And, just before Jinping’s India visit, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will be in China to boost bilateral strategic ties.

China’s expanding presence in South Asian countries also has serious ramifications for India’s security. This is why over the last five years, the Modi government has taken all possible efforts to improve ties with its neighbours.

The recent opening of the oil pipeline between India and Nepal will have a profound impact on cementing relations between the two friendly countries.

Another stumbling block between India and China is the long-standing border dispute. While both the countries have reaffirmed their commitment to resolve this problem through peaceful means, China’s assertive posturing against India along the border in the recent times has underscored their real intent.

While Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India, Beijing - referring to it as South Tibet - puts its claim over the state. In turn, when the Indian armed forces have just concluded “Him Vijay” – the biggest ever mountain combat exercise, China has objected to such exercises, putting a big question mark over the outcome of the upcoming meeting between Modi and Xi.

The expanding ties between India and the US and Modi’s government’s decision to endorse the Trump administration’s Indo-Pacific strategy have also created an impression in China about India becoming part of a larger US containment policy towards it.

While it is logical for India and China to compete with each other, as the two aspire to play a pivotal role in shaping the geo-strategic direction of Asia, it must be backed by peace, security, development and prosperity. One can only hope that during his upcoming visit, President Xi will make some concrete announcements to boost bilateral ties between the two nations. 
 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-from-wuhan-to-mahabalipuram-under-the-shadow-of-kashmir-2795438">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Mahabalipuram, a historically important place during the Pallava Empire, is all set to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 11 for his second informal meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Mahabalipuram, a historically important place during the Pallava Empire, is all set to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 11 for his second informal meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Advertisement The two leaders had held the first informal summit in Wuhan last year, which significantly helped normalise the turbulent bilateral relationship in the aftermath of the 73-day Doklam crisis. President Donald Trump’s trade war with China and his administration’s decision to increase tariffs on Indian goods, has also generated the prospect of improvement in relations between New Delhi and Beijing. This became evident when China agreed to address India’s concern about the increasing bilateral trade deficit, deciding to take measures to increase import of rice and sugar and accelerate the process of review and approvals of Indian pharmaceuticals and agricultural goods. However, China’s promise in this regard proved only rhetoric, with the trade deficit having touched US$ 57.86 billion in 2018. Moreover, India’s exports to China declined by 1.62 per cent to reach $7.70 billion in the first six months of 2019. While economic and trade issues have been a major bone of contention between the two sides, recent developments have added to the rising tensions. India’s decision to abrogate Article 370 and divide the Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir into two union territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, has not gone down too well with the big dragon. China’s position on the Kashmir issue is clear and consistent, a Chinese government spokesperson said, adding that it is a legacy of history between India and Pakistan, which it says is also the consensus of the international community. China also expressed its opposition to India’s move to create a separate Union Territory of Ladakh, saying that there are areas of dispute between the two nations which, according to Beijing, affects China’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Beijing even went to the extent of raising this issue at the General Assembly and the Security Council of the United Nations, miserably failing to garner any favourable response of the world community. While India strongly responded to China’s attempt to interfere in its internal matter, the global community became sharply aware of how strongly China was trying to protect Pakistan, a breeding ground for terrorists. In August, the armed forces of China and Pakistan held the Shaheen-VIII air force joint exercise. And, just before Jinping’s India visit, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will be in China to boost bilateral strategic ties. China’s expanding presence in South Asian countries also has serious ramifications for India’s security. This is why over the last five years, the Modi government has taken all possible efforts to improve ties with its neighbours. The recent opening of the oil pipeline between India and Nepal will have a profound impact on cementing relations between the two friendly countries. Another stumbling block between India and China is the long-standing border dispute. While both the countries have reaffirmed their commitment to resolve this problem through peaceful means, China’s assertive posturing against India along the border in the recent times has underscored their real intent. While Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India, Beijing - referring to it as South Tibet - puts its claim over the state. In turn, when the Indian armed forces have just concluded “Him Vijay” – the biggest ever mountain combat exercise, China has objected to such exercises, putting a big question mark over the outcome of the upcoming meeting between Modi and Xi. The expanding ties between India and the US and Modi’s government’s decision to endorse the Trump administration’s Indo-Pacific strategy have also created an impression in China about India becoming part of a larger US containment policy towards it. While it is logical for India and China to compete with each other, as the two aspire to play a pivotal role in shaping the geo-strategic direction of Asia, it must be backed by peace, security, development and prosperity. One can only hope that during his upcoming visit, President Xi will make some concrete announcements to boost bilateral ties between the two nations. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Kashmir shadow looms large over Narendra Modi-Xi Jinping meet

A day after the Jammu and Kashmir government allowed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-conference-delegation-meets-farooq-abdullah-in-srinagar-clarifies-stand-on-article-370-254060">National Conference delegation</a> to meet party leaders Farook Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, a 10 member delegation of PDP leaders was also permitted to meet party chief Mahbooba Mufti.

The PDP leaders are scheduled to meet Mehbooba Mufti&nbsp;in Srinagar on Monday.

Speaking to ANI, PDP leader Firdous Tak said, "In the morning, we had requested the Governor to allow us to meet our party chief. Our request has been accepted. We will discuss the current situation and every other issue related to Jammu and Kashmir with Mufti. It has been two months since she and various other party leaders were put under detention."

Political leaders from Kashmir have been put under preventive detention following the abrogation of Article 370 which provided special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Farooq and Omar Abdullah were prominent leaders who were placed under preventive detention by the Jammu and Kashmir administration.

The government had on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31.

A 15 member delegation of the National Conference on Sunday met with their party president Farooq Abdullah at his residence in Srinagar where he is currently under house arrest since the abrogation of Article 370. The delegation will meet his son, Omar Abdullah, separately, later in the day.

(With inputs from ANI)

A day after the Jammu and Kashmir government allowed National Conference delegation to meet party leaders Farook Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, a 10 member delegation of PDP leaders was also permitted to meet party chief Mahbooba Mufti.

A day after the Jammu and Kashmir government allowed National Conference delegation to meet party leaders Farook Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, a 10 member delegation of PDP leaders was also permitted to meet party chief Mahbooba Mufti. The PDP leaders are scheduled to meet Mehbooba Mufti in Srinagar on Monday. Speaking to ANI, PDP leader Firdous Tak said, "In the morning, we had requested the Governor to allow us to meet our party chief. Our request has been accepted. We will discuss the current situation and every other issue related to Jammu and Kashmir with Mufti. It has been two months since she and various other party leaders were put under detention." Political leaders from Kashmir have been put under preventive detention following the abrogation of Article 370 which provided special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Farooq and Omar Abdullah were prominent leaders who were placed under preventive detention by the Jammu and Kashmir administration. The government had on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31. A 15 member delegation of the National Conference on Sunday met with their party president Farooq Abdullah at his residence in Srinagar where he is currently under house arrest since the abrogation of Article 370. The delegation will meet his son, Omar Abdullah, separately, later in the day. (With inputs from ANI)

After NC delegation meets Farooq Abdullah, PDP leaders also allowed to meet Mehbooba Mufti

Two months after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/political-leaders-from-kashmir-under-preventive-detention-to-be-released-soon-jk-administration-253517">government detained political leaders</a> from Jammu and Kashmir, a delegation of National Conference leaders on Saturday was allowed to meet the father-son duo Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah.

The meeting is scheduled for Sunday and will take place in Srinagar.

"Today, we've got the confirmation that a delegation will be allowed to meet Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. A 15-member delegation of NC leaders, all of them former legislators, is going to Srinagar tomorrow morning, " National Conference leader Devender Rana said in Jammu.

"The delegation led by provincial president Devender Singh Rana and comprising of former party legislators will leave by Indigo flight from Jammu on October 6 in the morning," party spokesperson&nbsp;Madan Mantoo&nbsp;said.

The spokesperson informed that the government gave permission after a request was made by Rana to Governor Satya Pal Malik on Thursday.

Political leaders from Kashmir have been put under preventive detention following the abrogation of Article 370 which provided special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Farooq and Omar Abdullah were prominent leaders who were placed under preventive detention by the Jammu and Kashmir administration.

The government had on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31.

(With inputs from ANI)

Two months after the government detained political leaders from Jammu and Kashmir, a delegation of National Conference leaders on Saturday was allowed to meet the father-son duo Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah.

Two months after the government detained political leaders from Jammu and Kashmir, a delegation of National Conference leaders on Saturday was allowed to meet the father-son duo Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. The meeting is scheduled for Sunday and will take place in Srinagar. "Today, we've got the confirmation that a delegation will be allowed to meet Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. A 15-member delegation of NC leaders, all of them former legislators, is going to Srinagar tomorrow morning, " National Conference leader Devender Rana said in Jammu. "The delegation led by provincial president Devender Singh Rana and comprising of former party legislators will leave by Indigo flight from Jammu on October 6 in the morning," party spokesperson Madan Mantoo said. The spokesperson informed that the government gave permission after a request was made by Rana to Governor Satya Pal Malik on Thursday. Political leaders from Kashmir have been put under preventive detention following the abrogation of Article 370 which provided special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Farooq and Omar Abdullah were prominent leaders who were placed under preventive detention by the Jammu and Kashmir administration. The government had on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31. (With inputs from ANI)

National Conference delegation allowed to meet Farooq Abdullah, Omar Abdullah

Following a grenade attack which led to as many as 10 people sustaining injuries here on Saturday, senior police officials have said that it was an attempt by terrorists to induce fear in the minds of people.

Speaking about the attack, AK Goyal, DIG South Kashmir said, "Terrorists lobbed a grenade at around 10:30 am today, in Lal Chowk area of Anantnag. Ten persons were injured and one of them is a traffic police constable."

He also said that terrorists want to create an atmosphere of fear through these attacks.

"People were busy in their work when this attack took place. This was done with an objective to spread fear and terror among people," he said.

Earlier in the day, the terrorists had lobbed grenade outside Deputy Commissioner`s office in Anantnag.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Following a grenade attack which led to as many as 10 people sustaining injuries here on Saturday, senior police officials have said that it was an attempt by terrorists to induce fear in the minds of people.

Following a grenade attack which led to as many as 10 people sustaining injuries here on Saturday, senior police officials have said that it was an attempt by terrorists to induce fear in the minds of people. Speaking about the attack, AK Goyal, DIG South Kashmir said, "Terrorists lobbed a grenade at around 10:30 am today, in Lal Chowk area of Anantnag. Ten persons were injured and one of them is a traffic police constable." He also said that terrorists want to create an atmosphere of fear through these attacks. "People were busy in their work when this attack took place. This was done with an objective to spread fear and terror among people," he said. Earlier in the day, the terrorists had lobbed grenade outside Deputy Commissioner`s office in Anantnag.

J&K: Terrorists wanted to spread fear among people, says DIG on grenade attack

On September 25, United Kingdom’s Labour Party at its conference in Brighton passed a resolution that supported “international intervention in Kashmir and a call for UN led-referendum”. The motion was submitted by the Blackburn, Dudley North, Keighley, Stockport and Wakefield constituencies of the Labour Party. It condemned “The recent actions of the Government of India to revoke Article 370 and 35A of the Indian Constitution and the special status” granted to Kashmir.

It called on the Labour party to clearly and vocally support the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination and for international observers to be sent to the region immediately. The resolution also sought the party’s intervention at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

Reacting to the development, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, “The government has noted certain developments at the Labour Party Conference on September 25 pertaining to the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. We regret the uninformed and unfounded positions taken at this event.” He also declined any engagement with the vote-bank driven politics of the Jeremy Corbyn-led Labour Party, which sits in the opposition and whose position is in conflict with the official stance of the British government that considers Kashmir a bilateral matter between India and Pakistan and Article 370 as an internal matter of India.

The High Commission of India in London cancelled the customary dinner reception to the Labour party and withdrew invites, a senior official said.

Jeremy Corbyn, 70, looks like the younger brother of Bernie Sanders on the other side of Atlantic, who in his speech, had made similar references to Kashmir.

Addressing the annual convention of the Islamic Society of North America in Houston on September 21, Sanders said he was “deeply concerned” about the situation in Kashmir and asked the US government to “speak out boldly” in support of a UN-backed peaceful resolution to resolve the issue.

This 77-year-old leader also penned an article in the Houston Chronicle at the same time when the highly successful ‘Howdy Modi’ extravaganza was taking place about. He wrote: “When President (Donald) Trump meets with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Houston, we will hear much about the friendship between the American and Indian peoples. However, there will be a deafening silence on the human rights crisis in Kashmir.”

The bad news is neither of them knows anything about Kashmir; the good news is both of them are well past their sell-by date and have no chance of winning office. Both are pandering to Muslim voters, more so in the case of Corbyn since London has become ‘Londonistan’ and Mirpuris from Kashmir are a significant vote bank.

Actually there are many commonalities between Corbyn and our own Rahul Gandhi. Both are leaders of a declining party with a dismal future. Both are college failures and full-time politicians with no other qualifications or expertise. The only difference is Corbyn is aged, married thrice and sometimes accused of being an anti-Semite.

After comments by Naz Shah in 2014 and Ken Livingstone in 2016 resulted in their suspension from membership pending investigation, Corbyn established the Chakrabarti Inquiry, which concluded that the Labour party was not “overrun by anti-Semitism or other forms of racism”, although there was an “occasionally toxic atmosphere” and “clear evidence of ignorant attitudes”. This exactly is apt in their comments on Kashmir — the occasionally toxic atmosphere and clear evidence of ignorant attitudes.

Someone needs to tell Corbyn that under his party, India became Independent and Pakistan itself is a gift of colonialism and a policy of divide and rule. This Kashmir mess is a British creation to keep a toe hold in the affairs of the Indian sub-continent.

Article 370 was obnoxious in denying rights to Scheduled Castes/nomadic tribes and women marrying non-Kashmiris. Women in Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) can now buy real estate and transfer property to children, even if they get married to a non-resident as Article 35A has automatically become void with the scrapping of Article 370.

Article 35A gives the J&amp;K government the right to decide who qualifies as a ‘permanent resident’. The permanent resident is subject to special rights as only he can acquire land, settle and get government jobs and scholarships in the state. Does Corbyn know that Pakistan has to fulfill certain conditions for a plebiscite — like withdrawal of its troops from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir?

Much water has flown down the Jhelum and the global situation has changed. If Corbyn is a chit-reading leader like Stalin in Tamil Nadu, then he is a great loser. He must start studying history and acquaint himself with the geography of the Jammu and Kashmir.

Interestingly, the British labour leader is rather quiet about Uighur Muslims who are denied freedom and kept as prisoners by China in its western region. That is the irony of Left Liberals. Attack democratic societies like India and uphold theocracies like Pakistan and dictatorships like China.

Of course, the UK itself is in dire straits economically, socially and politically and may request India to take over their country and rule them! After all, they did rule India for two centuries.

They are a failed country and sick child of Europe wanting to get out of the continent, but not knowing how to do so. The UK has become the butt of all jokes: Boris Johnson wants a poll, but does not want to resign and Corbyn wants Boris to resign but does not want a poll! The UK should take care it is not pushed out of Commonwealth because of its tantrums.

Corbyn has to be informed that his party may pamper and appease their Islamic constituency as much as they like, but there is no need to involve himself in India’s affairs. The Queen does not rule us any more — fortunately. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-uk-labour-s-india-pain-2793356">original article</a>) 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

On September 25, United Kingdom’s Labour Party at its conference in Brighton passed a resolution that supported “international intervention in Kashmir and a call for UN led-referendum”.

On September 25, United Kingdom’s Labour Party at its conference in Brighton passed a resolution that supported “international intervention in Kashmir and a call for UN led-referendum”. The motion was submitted by the Blackburn, Dudley North, Keighley, Stockport and Wakefield constituencies of the Labour Party. It condemned “The recent actions of the Government of India to revoke Article 370 and 35A of the Indian Constitution and the special status” granted to Kashmir. It called on the Labour party to clearly and vocally support the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination and for international observers to be sent to the region immediately. The resolution also sought the party’s intervention at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Reacting to the development, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, “The government has noted certain developments at the Labour Party Conference on September 25 pertaining to the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. We regret the uninformed and unfounded positions taken at this event.” He also declined any engagement with the vote-bank driven politics of the Jeremy Corbyn-led Labour Party, which sits in the opposition and whose position is in conflict with the official stance of the British government that considers Kashmir a bilateral matter between India and Pakistan and Article 370 as an internal matter of India. The High Commission of India in London cancelled the customary dinner reception to the Labour party and withdrew invites, a senior official said. Jeremy Corbyn, 70, looks like the younger brother of Bernie Sanders on the other side of Atlantic, who in his speech, had made similar references to Kashmir. Addressing the annual convention of the Islamic Society of North America in Houston on September 21, Sanders said he was “deeply concerned” about the situation in Kashmir and asked the US government to “speak out boldly” in support of a UN-backed peaceful resolution to resolve the issue. This 77-year-old leader also penned an article in the Houston Chronicle at the same time when the highly successful ‘Howdy Modi’ extravaganza was taking place about. He wrote: “When President (Donald) Trump meets with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Houston, we will hear much about the friendship between the American and Indian peoples. However, there will be a deafening silence on the human rights crisis in Kashmir.” The bad news is neither of them knows anything about Kashmir; the good news is both of them are well past their sell-by date and have no chance of winning office. Both are pandering to Muslim voters, more so in the case of Corbyn since London has become ‘Londonistan’ and Mirpuris from Kashmir are a significant vote bank. Actually there are many commonalities between Corbyn and our own Rahul Gandhi. Both are leaders of a declining party with a dismal future. Both are college failures and full-time politicians with no other qualifications or expertise. The only difference is Corbyn is aged, married thrice and sometimes accused of being an anti-Semite. After comments by Naz Shah in 2014 and Ken Livingstone in 2016 resulted in their suspension from membership pending investigation, Corbyn established the Chakrabarti Inquiry, which concluded that the Labour party was not “overrun by anti-Semitism or other forms of racism”, although there was an “occasionally toxic atmosphere” and “clear evidence of ignorant attitudes”. This exactly is apt in their comments on Kashmir — the occasionally toxic atmosphere and clear evidence of ignorant attitudes. Someone needs to tell Corbyn that under his party, India became Independent and Pakistan itself is a gift of colonialism and a policy of divide and rule. This Kashmir mess is a British creation to keep a toe hold in the affairs of the Indian sub-continent. Article 370 was obnoxious in denying rights to Scheduled Castes/nomadic tribes and women marrying non-Kashmiris. Women in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) can now buy real estate and transfer property to children, even if they get married to a non-resident as Article 35A has automatically become void with the scrapping of Article 370. Article 35A gives the J&K government the right to decide who qualifies as a ‘permanent resident’. The permanent resident is subject to special rights as only he can acquire land, settle and get government jobs and scholarships in the state. Does Corbyn know that Pakistan has to fulfill certain conditions for a plebiscite — like withdrawal of its troops from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir? Much water has flown down the Jhelum and the global situation has changed. If Corbyn is a chit-reading leader like Stalin in Tamil Nadu, then he is a great loser. He must start studying history and acquaint himself with the geography of the Jammu and Kashmir. Interestingly, the British labour leader is rather quiet about Uighur Muslims who are denied freedom and kept as prisoners by China in its western region. That is the irony of Left Liberals. Attack democratic societies like India and uphold theocracies like Pakistan and dictatorships like China. Of course, the UK itself is in dire straits economically, socially and politically and may request India to take over their country and rule them! After all, they did rule India for two centuries. They are a failed country and sick child of Europe wanting to get out of the continent, but not knowing how to do so. The UK has become the butt of all jokes: Boris Johnson wants a poll, but does not want to resign and Corbyn wants Boris to resign but does not want a poll! The UK should take care it is not pushed out of Commonwealth because of its tantrums. Corbyn has to be informed that his party may pamper and appease their Islamic constituency as much as they like, but there is no need to involve himself in India’s affairs. The Queen does not rule us any more — fortunately. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Kashmir mess is a British creation

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

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - September 29th, 2019

Security forces on Saturday shot dead <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-exchange-of-fire-between-security-forces-and-two-suspected-terrorists-at-batote-252575">three terrorists</a>&nbsp;who were holding hostage a civilian inside a house in Batote town of Ramban district. 
 
The hostage was rescued safely but one Army personnel was killed in the joint operation conducted jointly by the&nbsp;Army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF officials in the Jammu-Srinagar Highway town. 
 
Two Army personnel and one official from the Jammu and Kashmir police also sustained injuries in the encounter with the terrorists, which had been going on since the morning. 
 
"Three terrorists have been killed. The hostage has been rescued. Two police officials sustained bullet injuries and an Army personnel died. Operation is over now. They are the same terrorists who were seen in the morning," Jammu Inspector General of Police (IG) Mukesh Singh told ANI. 
 
Three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/clear-attempt-at-pandering-to-vote-bank-interests-india-condemns-labour-party-motion-on-kashmir-252103">terrorists</a> entered a house in Batote in the morning while attempting to flee the security forces after engaging in a gunfight with them. 
 
The encounter started after two of three terrorists tried to stop a civilian vehicle at Batote on the National Highway (NH) 244 but the owner did not stop the vehicle and informed the Army Quick Reaction Team (QRT). 
 
The Public Relations Officer (PRO), Defence, Jammu said: "The QRT reacted promptly, established contact with the two individuals and an exchange of fire took place."

Joint parties of Police, Army, and CRPF cordoned the area and exchange of fire ensued during which terrorists took shelter in a house. 
 
"We got the information that terrorists have held a civilian hostage. We attempted to persuade terrorists to surrender. They refused to surrender even though they initially said they would. Their motive was to delay. SSP Ramban gave them a final warning to surrender and later we took action. It was a neat and clean action. Three terrorists have been eliminated and the hostage has been rescued," Deputy Inspector General, CRPF PC Jha said. 
 
Earlier, Army had the information of "possibly" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-bid-to-internationalise-kashmir-fails-world-leans-on-indias-side-252264">five terrorists</a> inside the house where they had taken a local resident hostage. 
 
"One Mr Vijay (also known as Vijay Tailor) is a hostage in the house where the terrorists are holed up. The complex has an electronics shop in the front and house towards the rear. Vijay is the owner. Possibly five terrorists inside the house. They have so far refused to surrender. Exchange of firing is going on," Army said in a statement earlier.

Two AK rifles and one pistol were recovered from the possession of terrorists.

Security forces on Saturday shot dead three terrorists who were holding hostage a civilian inside a house in Batote town of Ramban district. The hostage was rescued safely but one Army personnel was killed in the joint operation conducted jointly by the Army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF officials in the Jammu-Srinagar Highway town.

Security forces on Saturday shot dead three terrorists who were holding hostage a civilian inside a house in Batote town of Ramban district. The hostage was rescued safely but one Army personnel was killed in the joint operation conducted jointly by the Army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF officials in the Jammu-Srinagar Highway town. Two Army personnel and one official from the Jammu and Kashmir police also sustained injuries in the encounter with the terrorists, which had been going on since the morning. "Three terrorists have been killed. The hostage has been rescued. Two police officials sustained bullet injuries and an Army personnel died. Operation is over now. They are the same terrorists who were seen in the morning," Jammu Inspector General of Police (IG) Mukesh Singh told ANI. Three terrorists entered a house in Batote in the morning while attempting to flee the security forces after engaging in a gunfight with them. The encounter started after two of three terrorists tried to stop a civilian vehicle at Batote on the National Highway (NH) 244 but the owner did not stop the vehicle and informed the Army Quick Reaction Team (QRT). The Public Relations Officer (PRO), Defence, Jammu said: "The QRT reacted promptly, established contact with the two individuals and an exchange of fire took place." Joint parties of Police, Army, and CRPF cordoned the area and exchange of fire ensued during which terrorists took shelter in a house. "We got the information that terrorists have held a civilian hostage. We attempted to persuade terrorists to surrender. They refused to surrender even though they initially said they would. Their motive was to delay. SSP Ramban gave them a final warning to surrender and later we took action. It was a neat and clean action. Three terrorists have been eliminated and the hostage has been rescued," Deputy Inspector General, CRPF PC Jha said. Earlier, Army had the information of "possibly" five terrorists inside the house where they had taken a local resident hostage. "One Mr Vijay (also known as Vijay Tailor) is a hostage in the house where the terrorists are holed up. The complex has an electronics shop in the front and house towards the rear. Vijay is the owner. Possibly five terrorists inside the house. They have so far refused to surrender. Exchange of firing is going on," Army said in a statement earlier. Two AK rifles and one pistol were recovered from the possession of terrorists.

Security forces kill three terrorists in Kashmir

India slams China over CPEC

National Security Advisor (NSA), Ajit Doval, who was on a one and half day visit to the Kashmir Valley, chaired a high-level meeting in Srinagar on Thursday.

The NSA reviewed the law and order situation, and position of essential services and supplies in the Valley.

He also asked security forces to be on high alert on the borders and strengthen the counter-infiltration grid in view of reports about large scale infiltration attempts.

On September 16, MHA officials had briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the current situation in Kashmir and also discussed the opening of mobile networks in different parts of Kashmir.

A detailed discussion was also held on the report by the intelligence agencies that over 200 Pakistani terrorists were waiting to infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir, sources had shared.

Restrictions remain in some parts of Kashmir. However, the Home Ministry is expecting that soon normalcy will be completely restored in the entire region.

Earlier this month Doval had said that Article 370 was not about any special status but was a special discrimination against the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Central government had in August read down Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The Centre also bifurcated the state into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

National Security Advisor (NSA), Ajit Doval, who was on a one and half day visit to the Kashmir Valley, chaired a high-level meeting in Srinagar on Thursday. The NSA reviewed the law and order situation, and position of essential services and supplies in the Valley.

National Security Advisor (NSA), Ajit Doval, who was on a one and half day visit to the Kashmir Valley, chaired a high-level meeting in Srinagar on Thursday. The NSA reviewed the law and order situation, and position of essential services and supplies in the Valley. He also asked security forces to be on high alert on the borders and strengthen the counter-infiltration grid in view of reports about large scale infiltration attempts. On September 16, MHA officials had briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the current situation in Kashmir and also discussed the opening of mobile networks in different parts of Kashmir. A detailed discussion was also held on the report by the intelligence agencies that over 200 Pakistani terrorists were waiting to infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir, sources had shared. Restrictions remain in some parts of Kashmir. However, the Home Ministry is expecting that soon normalcy will be completely restored in the entire region. Earlier this month Doval had said that Article 370 was not about any special status but was a special discrimination against the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Central government had in August read down Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The Centre also bifurcated the state into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

J&K: NSA Ajit Doval reviews law and order situation, essential services

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was disappointed with the International community over the Kashmir issue.

He mentioned India's global prominence and economic stature as one of the reasons behind&nbsp;the global community backing India on the matter. Khan admitted that Pakistan has failed to get support from the world leaders on Islamabad's stand on Kashmir issue.

Khan had raised the issue at several forums following the abrogation of Article 370 seeking the intervention of global leaders, but most leaders supported India calling Kashmir a bilateral issue between the two neighbours.

He, however, accepted that Pakistan could never attack India. Khan will speak on the Kashmir issue on September 27 when he addresses UNGA as he hopes to see world leaders come forward.

Earlier on Monday, Imran Khan, at a meeting at the Center for Foreign Relations in New York, admitted that the Pakistan army and ISI trained the Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups to fight in Afghanistan.

US President has again offered mediation between India and Pakistan on Kashmir. But India has maintained that talks between the two countries can't take place until and unless Pakistan stops aiding and abetting terrorists.

At Howdy Modi event, Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a common vision against terrorism. This endorsement for Modi, coming from the world's strongest leader, is a setback for Pakistan.

Pakistan has been crying foul over India's decision to scrap Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Imran Khan and other ministers of Pakistan had even threatened India with a Nuclear war for weeks.

Although, world leaders respect India's decision on Kashmir and acknowledge the strategic importance of India. And this realisation finally reflected in Imran Khan's 'honest' admissions in New York. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was disappointed with the International community over the Kashmir issue. He mentioned India's global prominence and economic stature as one of the reasons behind the global community backing India on the matter.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was disappointed with the International community over the Kashmir issue. He mentioned India's global prominence and economic stature as one of the reasons behind the global community backing India on the matter. Khan admitted that Pakistan has failed to get support from the world leaders on Islamabad's stand on Kashmir issue. Khan had raised the issue at several forums following the abrogation of Article 370 seeking the intervention of global leaders, but most leaders supported India calling Kashmir a bilateral issue between the two neighbours. He, however, accepted that Pakistan could never attack India. Khan will speak on the Kashmir issue on September 27 when he addresses UNGA as he hopes to see world leaders come forward. Earlier on Monday, Imran Khan, at a meeting at the Center for Foreign Relations in New York, admitted that the Pakistan army and ISI trained the Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups to fight in Afghanistan. US President has again offered mediation between India and Pakistan on Kashmir. But India has maintained that talks between the two countries can't take place until and unless Pakistan stops aiding and abetting terrorists. At Howdy Modi event, Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a common vision against terrorism. This endorsement for Modi, coming from the world's strongest leader, is a setback for Pakistan. Pakistan has been crying foul over India's decision to scrap Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Imran Khan and other ministers of Pakistan had even threatened India with a Nuclear war for weeks. Although, world leaders respect India's decision on Kashmir and acknowledge the strategic importance of India. And this realisation finally reflected in Imran Khan's 'honest' admissions in New York. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Imran Khan's moment of truth

<div class="content" itemprop="articleBody">
Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu asserted that Kashmir was a settled issue as every inch of the land belongs to India and there was nothing more to discuss.

Inaugurating the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations of BHS Higher Education Society here on Tuesday, he said that the dilution of Article 370 was "a national and not a political issue" as it concerned the unity, safety, security and integrity of the country.

According to an official release, Naidu pointed out that elections were being regularly held in Jammu and Kashmir and MPs, MLAs and representatives to local bodies were getting elected.

He said the reorganisation of the Jammu and Kashmir was an internal matter of India.

Criticising Pakistan for "aiding, abetting, training and funding terrorism", he said that India has always believed in having peaceful relations with all countries including her neighbours.
</div>

Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu asserted that Kashmir was a settled issue as every inch of the land belongs to India and there was nothing more to discuss. Inaugurating the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations of BHS Higher Education Society here on Tuesday, he said that the dilution of Article 370 was "a national and not a political issue" as it concerned the unity, safety, security and integrity of the country.

Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu asserted that Kashmir was a settled issue as every inch of the land belongs to India and there was nothing more to discuss. Inaugurating the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations of BHS Higher Education Society here on Tuesday, he said that the dilution of Article 370 was "a national and not a political issue" as it concerned the unity, safety, security and integrity of the country. According to an official release, Naidu pointed out that elections were being regularly held in Jammu and Kashmir and MPs, MLAs and representatives to local bodies were getting elected. He said the reorganisation of the Jammu and Kashmir was an internal matter of India. Criticising Pakistan for "aiding, abetting, training and funding terrorism", he said that India has always believed in having peaceful relations with all countries including her neighbours.

Kashmir a settled issue as every inch belongs to India: Venkaiah Naidu

At least 19 people have been killed and 300 wounded after a shallow earthquake rattled north-eastern Pakistan, a senior police officer said, with the tremor tearing car-sized cracks into roads and heavily damaging infrastructure.

The quake sent people in cities across the country running into the streets, as cars near the epicentre were wedged in between massive cracks that ripped apart roads while other vehicles were upended by the tremor.

The epicentre of the 5.2-magnitude quake was near the city of Mirpur, roughly 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Jhelum in agricultural Punjab province, according to data released by the US Geological Survey.

On one of the district's two main roads, AFP reporters could see cracks at least four feet deep, some filling with water from a nearby canal.

Ambulances could be seen, but Pakistani troops were preventing further travel. The military deployed "aviation and medical support" teams along with troops to affected areas, according to its spokesman.

Television footage showed cars trapped in some of the cracks, as well as a bus and a truck lying on their sides at the road's edge.

"At least 19 people have been killed and more than 300 wounded," said Sardar Gulfaraz, deputy inspector general of police in Mirpur, in televised comments.

However, the chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority gave a lower toll at a press conference in Islamabad.&nbsp;

"I can confirm 10 deaths and the number of wounded is 100," chairman Lieutenant General Mohammad Afzal said, adding that he had received reports of a higher toll.

"Things are under control," he said, adding that the nearby Mangla Dam, one of Pakistan's two main water reservoirs, was unaffected by the quake.

Roads, mobile phone towers, and electricity poles in the area were badly damaged, Naeem Chughtai, a Mirpur resident living near the city's main hospital, told AFP.

Witnesses Sajjad Jarral and Qazi Tahir, who spoke to AFP by telephone from Mirpur, said the quake had caused a building to collapse.

'So anxious'

Mirpur, a city known for its palatial houses, has strong ties to Britain with the majority of its 450,000 residents carrying both British and Pakistani passports.

A spokeswoman at the British High Commission told AFP they were monitoring the reports, while the US embassy offered its sympathies to those affected via Twitter.

Tremors were felt as far as New Delhi, with the Press Trust of India reporting that panicked people rushed out of their homes and offices in several places, including in Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana.

In October 2015, a 7.5-magnitude quake in Pakistan and Afghanistan killed almost 400 people, flattening buildings in rugged terrain that impeded relief efforts.

At least 19 people have been killed and 300 wounded after a shallow earthquake rattled north-eastern Pakistan, a senior police officer said, with the tremor tearing car-sized cracks into roads and heavily damaging infrastructure.

At least 19 people have been killed and 300 wounded after a shallow earthquake rattled north-eastern Pakistan, a senior police officer said, with the tremor tearing car-sized cracks into roads and heavily damaging infrastructure. The quake sent people in cities across the country running into the streets, as cars near the epicentre were wedged in between massive cracks that ripped apart roads while other vehicles were upended by the tremor. The epicentre of the 5.2-magnitude quake was near the city of Mirpur, roughly 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Jhelum in agricultural Punjab province, according to data released by the US Geological Survey. On one of the district's two main roads, AFP reporters could see cracks at least four feet deep, some filling with water from a nearby canal. Ambulances could be seen, but Pakistani troops were preventing further travel. The military deployed "aviation and medical support" teams along with troops to affected areas, according to its spokesman. Television footage showed cars trapped in some of the cracks, as well as a bus and a truck lying on their sides at the road's edge. "At least 19 people have been killed and more than 300 wounded," said Sardar Gulfaraz, deputy inspector general of police in Mirpur, in televised comments. However, the chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority gave a lower toll at a press conference in Islamabad. "I can confirm 10 deaths and the number of wounded is 100," chairman Lieutenant General Mohammad Afzal said, adding that he had received reports of a higher toll. "Things are under control," he said, adding that the nearby Mangla Dam, one of Pakistan's two main water reservoirs, was unaffected by the quake. Roads, mobile phone towers, and electricity poles in the area were badly damaged, Naeem Chughtai, a Mirpur resident living near the city's main hospital, told AFP. Witnesses Sajjad Jarral and Qazi Tahir, who spoke to AFP by telephone from Mirpur, said the quake had caused a building to collapse. 'So anxious' Mirpur, a city known for its palatial houses, has strong ties to Britain with the majority of its 450,000 residents carrying both British and Pakistani passports. A spokeswoman at the British High Commission told AFP they were monitoring the reports, while the US embassy offered its sympathies to those affected via Twitter. Tremors were felt as far as New Delhi, with the Press Trust of India reporting that panicked people rushed out of their homes and offices in several places, including in Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana. In October 2015, a 7.5-magnitude quake in Pakistan and Afghanistan killed almost 400 people, flattening buildings in rugged terrain that impeded relief efforts.

19 killed, dozens wounded as Pakistan jolted by shallow 5.2 quake

Inspector-General of Police (Jammu Zone) Mukesh Singh on Monday announced the arrest of three Hizbul Mujahideen militants in connection with four terrorist incidents in the past year in Kishtwar.

The four cases in which the police have made arrests are--the killing of BJP leader Anil Parihar, killing of RSS leader Chandrakant Sharma and his personal security officer and two-weapon snatching incidents.

Persons identified as Nissar Ahmed Sheikh, Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain have been arrested in connection with the four cases.

Addressing a press conference on Monday, Singh stated, "We have been able to solve these cases with help of CRPF, Indian Army and NIA. Three have been arrested in the killing of Chandrakant Sharma. Among those arrested, one is Nisar Ahmad Sheikh who was also present during killing of Anil Parihar," Singh said.

Singh revealed that the incidents were linked to an effort by terrorist group Hizbul Mujahideen to revive militancy in Chenab valley.

"It all goes back to an initial conspiracy during the years 2017 and 18. It was decided to revive militancy in Chenab valley and one of oldest commanders of Hizbul mujahideen, Jahangir Saroori played a part. In furtherance of this plan, they planned to kill Anil Parihar," Singh said.

Singh further said that militants named Osama, a Doda-based militant Harun, Zahid and Nisar Ahmed shaikh along with Saroori were involved in Parihar`s killing.

"In this whole conspiracy, Nissar Ahmed Shaikh also took help of Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain, who also have been arrested," Singh said.

Singh also stated that the police are trying to nab an over-ground worker identified as Rustom who aided the terrorists by creating a hideout for Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain.

"Today, I would like to send a message -- anyone harbouring, sympathising, transporting or helping terrorists in any form will be dealt with very strictly under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act," Singh said.&nbsp;

Inspector-General of Police (Jammu Zone) Mukesh Singh on Monday announced the arrest of three Hizbul Mujahideen militants in connection with four terrorist incidents in the past year in Kishtwar.

Inspector-General of Police (Jammu Zone) Mukesh Singh on Monday announced the arrest of three Hizbul Mujahideen militants in connection with four terrorist incidents in the past year in Kishtwar. The four cases in which the police have made arrests are--the killing of BJP leader Anil Parihar, killing of RSS leader Chandrakant Sharma and his personal security officer and two-weapon snatching incidents. Persons identified as Nissar Ahmed Sheikh, Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain have been arrested in connection with the four cases. Addressing a press conference on Monday, Singh stated, "We have been able to solve these cases with help of CRPF, Indian Army and NIA. Three have been arrested in the killing of Chandrakant Sharma. Among those arrested, one is Nisar Ahmad Sheikh who was also present during killing of Anil Parihar," Singh said. Singh revealed that the incidents were linked to an effort by terrorist group Hizbul Mujahideen to revive militancy in Chenab valley. "It all goes back to an initial conspiracy during the years 2017 and 18. It was decided to revive militancy in Chenab valley and one of oldest commanders of Hizbul mujahideen, Jahangir Saroori played a part. In furtherance of this plan, they planned to kill Anil Parihar," Singh said. Singh further said that militants named Osama, a Doda-based militant Harun, Zahid and Nisar Ahmed shaikh along with Saroori were involved in Parihar`s killing. "In this whole conspiracy, Nissar Ahmed Shaikh also took help of Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain, who also have been arrested," Singh said. Singh also stated that the police are trying to nab an over-ground worker identified as Rustom who aided the terrorists by creating a hideout for Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain. "Today, I would like to send a message -- anyone harbouring, sympathising, transporting or helping terrorists in any form will be dealt with very strictly under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act," Singh said.

J&K: Police arrest 3 Hizbul terrorists in connection with killing of BJP, RSS leader

MoS for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Monday said that a survey will be conducted in order to re-open cinema theatres, temples and educational institutions which had been closed in Jammu and Kashmir.

"We have constituted a committee to reopen schools which have been closed for many years. Around 50,000 temples were closed over the years, of which some were destroyed, and idols were defaced. We have ordered a survey of such temples and will re-open them. In Kashmir Valley, there is no cinema theatres and had been closed for 20 years. We are also thinking about reopening them. We will conduct a survey of school, cinema theatres, temples and other things which are closed now," he told reporters in a press conference in Bengaluru.

"There is abundant government land available so those want to invest do not need to purchase lands. We will give them government land so that they can open institutions there. In the state, we are employing 5 people from every village on government posts. Army, Navy and Air Force are also planning recruitment drive. In Jammu and Kashmir, we are planning to open universities. We have decided to encourage tourism," he said.

The government had abrogated Article 370 last month which gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The minister said that the Anti-corruption Bureau (ACB) will start an investigation into the money given by the Centre to Jammu and Kashmir but was not spent.

"ACB was not there in J&amp;K and we have established the ACB. The government has given crores of money but it was not spent. ACB will start the investigation," he said.

Reddy said that whole nation including Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir is the government`s agenda.

"The Home Minister and Defence Minister have already cautioned Pakistan and terrorists. But we are very much alert about it...Whole nation including POK is on our agenda. As our leaders said I`m also saying we will sacrifice our life if required for POK," he said.

The minister also hit out at the Opposition parties questioning the government`s move on Jammu and Kashmir.

"Rahul Gandhi and Congress leaders and other parties are speaking Pakistan language. Some of the political parties are speaking in support of Pakistan. We will give computers and Indian flag in hands of children in Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

"India fought with Pakistan for four times and win. Pakistan is isolated in the world now. Prime Minister Modi put Pakistan in question in front of the world on the issue of terrorism. India`s decision on Article 370 got support from all over the world including China and America," he said.&nbsp;

The minister said that strict action will be taken against those who burn the national flag in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"There is no case against people who burn the national flag in J&amp;K. In the coming days if anyone burns the national flag they will get the same treatment as per rules like in other states," he said.&nbsp;

MoS for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Monday said that a survey will be conducted in order to re-open cinema theatres, temples and educational institutions which had been closed in Jammu and Kashmir.

MoS for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Monday said that a survey will be conducted in order to re-open cinema theatres, temples and educational institutions which had been closed in Jammu and Kashmir. "We have constituted a committee to reopen schools which have been closed for many years. Around 50,000 temples were closed over the years, of which some were destroyed, and idols were defaced. We have ordered a survey of such temples and will re-open them. In Kashmir Valley, there is no cinema theatres and had been closed for 20 years. We are also thinking about reopening them. We will conduct a survey of school, cinema theatres, temples and other things which are closed now," he told reporters in a press conference in Bengaluru. "There is abundant government land available so those want to invest do not need to purchase lands. We will give them government land so that they can open institutions there. In the state, we are employing 5 people from every village on government posts. Army, Navy and Air Force are also planning recruitment drive. In Jammu and Kashmir, we are planning to open universities. We have decided to encourage tourism," he said. The government had abrogated Article 370 last month which gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The minister said that the Anti-corruption Bureau (ACB) will start an investigation into the money given by the Centre to Jammu and Kashmir but was not spent. "ACB was not there in J&K and we have established the ACB. The government has given crores of money but it was not spent. ACB will start the investigation," he said. Reddy said that whole nation including Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir is the government`s agenda. "The Home Minister and Defence Minister have already cautioned Pakistan and terrorists. But we are very much alert about it...Whole nation including POK is on our agenda. As our leaders said I`m also saying we will sacrifice our life if required for POK," he said. The minister also hit out at the Opposition parties questioning the government`s move on Jammu and Kashmir. "Rahul Gandhi and Congress leaders and other parties are speaking Pakistan language. Some of the political parties are speaking in support of Pakistan. We will give computers and Indian flag in hands of children in Jammu and Kashmir," he said. "India fought with Pakistan for four times and win. Pakistan is isolated in the world now. Prime Minister Modi put Pakistan in question in front of the world on the issue of terrorism. India`s decision on Article 370 got support from all over the world including China and America," he said. The minister said that strict action will be taken against those who burn the national flag in Jammu and Kashmir. "There is no case against people who burn the national flag in J&K. In the coming days if anyone burns the national flag they will get the same treatment as per rules like in other states," he said.

Closed for years, temples, education institutions to be re-opened in Jammu and Kashmir: MoS Reddy

<div class="content" itemprop="articleBody">
The Indian government's move to revoke Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir has a "national security connotation", External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday, while emphasising that the country "lives in a tough neighbourhood" and faces more than its fair share of national security challenges.

Addressing the Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA), the minister, in an apparent reference to Pakistan, said that the most prominent national security challenge that India has been subjected to for many decades is the "cross border terrorism", which has cost more than 40,000 lives in the past 3 decades.

"We are opposed to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and believe there is no justification for it, whatsoever. But it is not just enough to have a position. When subjected to terrorist attacks, any polity that is sincerely committed to the welfare of its people will surely respond," Jaishankar said.

"And indeed, that is precisely what we have done in recent years. Even the changes that were approved last month by the Indian Parliament with respect to Jammu and Kashmir, while driven by the needs of governance and development, and have a national security connotation," he added.

Referring to Pakistan, Jaishankar said that the epicentre of terrorism is "right in our neighbourhood. But even as we take our responsive measures, our belief is that this is not just a concern for one country but for the entire international community."

The External Affairs Minister is on a three-day visit to Finland.
</div>

The Indian government's move to revoke Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir has a "national security connotation", External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday, while emphasising that the country "lives in a tough neighbourhood" and faces more than its fair share of national security challenges.

The Indian government's move to revoke Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir has a "national security connotation", External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday, while emphasising that the country "lives in a tough neighbourhood" and faces more than its fair share of national security challenges. Addressing the Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA), the minister, in an apparent reference to Pakistan, said that the most prominent national security challenge that India has been subjected to for many decades is the "cross border terrorism", which has cost more than 40,000 lives in the past 3 decades. "We are opposed to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and believe there is no justification for it, whatsoever. But it is not just enough to have a position. When subjected to terrorist attacks, any polity that is sincerely committed to the welfare of its people will surely respond," Jaishankar said. "And indeed, that is precisely what we have done in recent years. Even the changes that were approved last month by the Indian Parliament with respect to Jammu and Kashmir, while driven by the needs of governance and development, and have a national security connotation," he added. Referring to Pakistan, Jaishankar said that the epicentre of terrorism is "right in our neighbourhood. But even as we take our responsive measures, our belief is that this is not just a concern for one country but for the entire international community." The External Affairs Minister is on a three-day visit to Finland.

Epicentre of terrorism is right in our neighbourhood: S Jaishankar

Officials of Rashtriya Rifles unit and locals of the area came together to celebrate the silver jubilee of six sectors headquarter force in Poonch on Monday.

The locals appreciated the efforts of Romeo Force of Indian Army`s Rashtriya Rifles in eradicating militancy from the area in the last 25 years.

Several programmes were held on the occasion in which children sang and danced on patriotic songs. They were also given prizes and gifts by the Army.&nbsp;

"We are living in peace as militancy was eradicated from our region by the Army. We are united here. The Army and civilians share a great bond," Omar Farooq, a local, said.

"We want to wish them. We hope in future we keep working like this and they eliminate militancy from this region whenever required," another local said.&nbsp;

"Poonch had become a mini-Pakistan. However, due to the army`s efforts, we are living here peacefully. We are happy that we got the opportunity to celebrate the silver jubilee of Rashtriya Rifles of sector 6", another local added. 
&nbsp;

Officials of Rashtriya Rifles unit and locals of the area came together to celebrate the silver jubilee of six sectors headquarter force in Poonch on Monday. The locals appreciated the efforts of Romeo Force of Indian Army`s Rashtriya Rifles in eradicating militancy from the area in the last 25 years.

Officials of Rashtriya Rifles unit and locals of the area came together to celebrate the silver jubilee of six sectors headquarter force in Poonch on Monday. The locals appreciated the efforts of Romeo Force of Indian Army`s Rashtriya Rifles in eradicating militancy from the area in the last 25 years. Several programmes were held on the occasion in which children sang and danced on patriotic songs. They were also given prizes and gifts by the Army. "We are living in peace as militancy was eradicated from our region by the Army. We are united here. The Army and civilians share a great bond," Omar Farooq, a local, said. "We want to wish them. We hope in future we keep working like this and they eliminate militancy from this region whenever required," another local said. "Poonch had become a mini-Pakistan. However, due to the army`s efforts, we are living here peacefully. We are happy that we got the opportunity to celebrate the silver jubilee of Rashtriya Rifles of sector 6", another local added.

Poonch: Civilians hail efforts of army unit in eradicating terrorism

Pakistani national and Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai has expressed concern about the people of Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 and said she has urged the United Nations to work towards peace&nbsp;and&nbsp;help Kashmiri children go back to school.

Malala is an activist for female education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate who was shot at by a gunman on her way back home from school in the Swat district in 2012.

She was targetted for speaking out about the plight of girls in her region who were banned from going to school by the Taliban.

Watch: Malala Yousafzai's 'selective &amp; ignoble' outrage on Kashmir

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Her concern for Kashmiris appears hypocritical as she has been tight-lipped about atrocities against minorities in her own country, Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws and forced conversions&nbsp;of Hindu girls.

She also never spoke against the human rights violations of Baloch people. People of Balochistan have raised the issue of their "annihilation" by the Pakistani forces at the forum of UNHRC also, but Malala did not extend any support to them.

Malala has been very selective in condemning human rights abuses. Fearing the backlash, she does not speak against barbarities people have been facing in her own country.

In her recent tweets on Kashmir issue, she reiterated Pakistan state narrative. Indian nationals firmly pointed out her hypocrisy, saying she is running Pakistan's agenda on Kashmir.

Pakistan has been responding hysterically since the time Indian government scrapped Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Prime Minister Imran Khan and other ministers tried to portray a manipulated picture with false narratives, however, got no traction from global leaders. Even the Taliban has strongly criticised Pakistan for linking the Kashmir issue with the situation in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Instead of fighting a social media war with India and making embarrassing statements, Malala, Pakistani leaders and need to accept the reality on Kashmir and solve their own issues. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Pakistani national and Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai has expressed concern about the people of Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 and said she has urged the United Nations to work towards peace and help Kashmiri children go back to school.

Pakistani national and Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai has expressed concern about the people of Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 and said she has urged the United Nations to work towards peace and help Kashmiri children go back to school. Malala is an activist for female education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate who was shot at by a gunman on her way back home from school in the Swat district in 2012. She was targetted for speaking out about the plight of girls in her region who were banned from going to school by the Taliban. Watch: Malala Yousafzai's 'selective & ignoble' outrage on Kashmir × Her concern for Kashmiris appears hypocritical as she has been tight-lipped about atrocities against minorities in her own country, Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws and forced conversions of Hindu girls. She also never spoke against the human rights violations of Baloch people. People of Balochistan have raised the issue of their "annihilation" by the Pakistani forces at the forum of UNHRC also, but Malala did not extend any support to them. Malala has been very selective in condemning human rights abuses. Fearing the backlash, she does not speak against barbarities people have been facing in her own country. In her recent tweets on Kashmir issue, she reiterated Pakistan state narrative. Indian nationals firmly pointed out her hypocrisy, saying she is running Pakistan's agenda on Kashmir. Pakistan has been responding hysterically since the time Indian government scrapped Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Prime Minister Imran Khan and other ministers tried to portray a manipulated picture with false narratives, however, got no traction from global leaders. Even the Taliban has strongly criticised Pakistan for linking the Kashmir issue with the situation in Afghanistan. Instead of fighting a social media war with India and making embarrassing statements, Malala, Pakistani leaders and need to accept the reality on Kashmir and solve their own issues. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Nobel Prize winner Malala Yousafzai is selective in condemning human rights abuses

Pakistan violated ceasefire in Mendhar sector of Poonch district on Sunday.

Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation at about 2230 hours by firing of small arms and intense shelling with mortars in Balakote, Mendhar.

The Indian Army retaliated befittingly.

Ever since India announced move to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, a rattled Pakistan has frequently resorted to ceasefire violations along the LOC.

These violations have been retaliated effectively by the Indian Army.

Pakistan violated ceasefire in Mendhar sector of Poonch district on Sunday. Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation at about 2230 hours by firing of small arms and intense shelling with mortars in Balakote, Mendhar.

Pakistan violated ceasefire in Mendhar sector of Poonch district on Sunday. Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation at about 2230 hours by firing of small arms and intense shelling with mortars in Balakote, Mendhar. The Indian Army retaliated befittingly. Ever since India announced move to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, a rattled Pakistan has frequently resorted to ceasefire violations along the LOC. These violations have been retaliated effectively by the Indian Army.

Pakistan violates ceasefire in Mendhar sector of Jammu and Kashmir

Supreme Court of India has directed govt to ensure normalcy in Jammu & Kashmir. Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Supreme Court directs govt to ensure normalcy in J&K

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told me to make Jammu and Kashmir so prosperous that the people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) would want to come and settle here, said Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday.

"When I came to take charge of Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister told me that make Jammu and Kashmir shine so much that people of PoK would want to cross the border over to our side and say proudly, this is our Kashmir," Malik said addressing the audience at an event here.

Malik was speaking at the electronic foundation stone laying ceremony for the upcoming 100 bedded State Cancer Institute at Government Medical College hospital here.

The Jammu and Kashmir Governor said that the Centre was eager to help the people of the region and urged them to come forward with their demands.

"The Central government has given us 8 medical colleges this year alone, which is more than what has been given to any other state in the country. We are soon going to have 4,500 doctors in the state. This is the perfect time for development in the region, I would request the people to keep the pressure on their politicians. Union Home Minister Amit Shahji meeting sarpanch of the villages from the state is a sign that the Centre is standing there with open arms," Malik said.

He said that the upcoming cancer institute will prove to be very beneficial for the state's residents and recounted his own battle with the deadly disease.

"I did not want to come here, because I have personally battled cancer, although I think having a cancer institute is a big thing. But the reason I did not want to come here was because I lost my wife to cancer eight years ago, and I was with her at every step during the 11 years of her fight against the disease. I finally decided to come because this institute would give the people an opportunity to get cured," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told me to make Jammu and Kashmir so prosperous that the people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) would want to come and settle here, said Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told me to make Jammu and Kashmir so prosperous that the people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) would want to come and settle here, said Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday. "When I came to take charge of Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister told me that make Jammu and Kashmir shine so much that people of PoK would want to cross the border over to our side and say proudly, this is our Kashmir," Malik said addressing the audience at an event here. Malik was speaking at the electronic foundation stone laying ceremony for the upcoming 100 bedded State Cancer Institute at Government Medical College hospital here. The Jammu and Kashmir Governor said that the Centre was eager to help the people of the region and urged them to come forward with their demands. "The Central government has given us 8 medical colleges this year alone, which is more than what has been given to any other state in the country. We are soon going to have 4,500 doctors in the state. This is the perfect time for development in the region, I would request the people to keep the pressure on their politicians. Union Home Minister Amit Shahji meeting sarpanch of the villages from the state is a sign that the Centre is standing there with open arms," Malik said. He said that the upcoming cancer institute will prove to be very beneficial for the state's residents and recounted his own battle with the deadly disease. "I did not want to come here, because I have personally battled cancer, although I think having a cancer institute is a big thing. But the reason I did not want to come here was because I lost my wife to cancer eight years ago, and I was with her at every step during the 11 years of her fight against the disease. I finally decided to come because this institute would give the people an opportunity to get cured," he said.

PM asked me to make J&K shine so that people of PoK want to come here: Governor Satya Pal Malik

Why does India get bad press internationally? The answer lies within complex layers of history and culture. Global media coverage of Kashmir is just the latest example of how misinformed, inaccurate and biased Western reportage on India can be.&nbsp;

Exhibit one: The New York Times editorial board wrote: “The Indian government’s decision to revoke the semi-autonomous status of Kashmir, accompanied by a huge security clampdown, is dangerous and wrong. Bloodshed is all but certain. The United Nations recommended holding a referendum to let Kashmiris decide their fate, but that never happened.”&nbsp;

Note the confidence with which The New York Times makes the assertion: “Bloodshed is all but certain.” Worse is the newspaper’s reference to the United Nations “recommending holding a referendum”, without mentioning the fact that the UN had set a pre-condition for Pakistan to vacate PoK before any referendum could be considered.&nbsp;

Exhibit two: Reuters reported: “Police used tear gas and pellets to fight back at least 10,000 people protesting Delhi’s withdrawal of special rights for Jammu and Kashmir in its main city of Srinagar on Friday, a police official and two witnesses said.”&nbsp;

Reuters’ sources? An unnamed police officer and two anonymous “witnesses”. The report of “a crowd of 10,000” protestors has been disproved by on-ground accounts from credible, independent Indian journalists. Reuters’ reportage clearly does not meet the standard of accurate and responsible journalism.&nbsp;

The New York Times editorial board has often been forced to apologise for inaccurate commentary. The BBC’s and Al Jazeera’s editorial coverage of Kashmir has been equally tendentious. Neither media organisation sufficiently stressed Pakistan’s malignant role in abetting terrorism in Kashmir. Without context, such journalism sets a low bar for itself.&nbsp;

Now history. Days before J&amp;K acceded to the Indian Union on October 26/27,1947,&nbsp;Pakistan connived with Britain to annex J&amp;K by force. Islamabad, with tacit support from the British, sent tribal Afridi fighters towards Srinagar. What transpired subsequently is well-documented. The Afridis were stopped just outside Srinagar and evicted by the Indian Army.

For Britain and the West, post-independent Pakistan has served as valuable geostrategic real estate. It helped thwart Soviet influence extending beyond the Khyber Pass. Pakistan plays the supplicant, ever ready to do the West’s bidding. The US prefers doing business with dictators — in the Middle East, South America and South Asia. Pakistan’s long line of military dictators, from the 1950s right up to Pervez Musharraf, has served Washington well.&nbsp;

The West’s pro-Pakistan tilt was evident when US President Richard Nixon and his Machiavellian Secretary of State Henry Kissinger tried to goad China into opening a second front against India during the 1971 Bangladesh war. A timely Indo-Russian treaty of peace and friendship signed astutely by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi with Moscow in August 1971, kept the Chinese at bay.&nbsp;

The US attempted, unsuccessfully, to help the beleaguered Pakistani Army by sending its Seventh Fleet to the Bay of Bengal in December 1971 to intimidate India.&nbsp;

While Independent India developed into a socialist democracy, Pakistan emerged as a capitalist dictatorship. For the US, socialism was culturally and politically anathema. It welcomed Pakistani dictators, but had little love lost for socialists like Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.&nbsp;

The US, Britain and other Anglo-Saxon nations have a grim record of committing historical crimes: trafficking Africans to North America during the centuries-long Atlantic slave trade; invading and colonising countries; waging extra-territorial wars; destabilising elected governments; supporting apartheid in South Africa; dispossessing Aborigines in Australia and indigenous Indians in the US; imposing a racist White Australia immigration policy; and segregating African-Americans in the southern states of the US till as late as the 1960s.&nbsp;

Western media tries its best to avoid highlighting these issues. It was only when Democratic Presidential candidates Elizabeth Warren and Kamala Harris raised the issue of reparations for slavery that the US media gingerly took cognisance of it with a nervous editorial twitch.

Warren has gone further by suggesting compensation for indigenous Indians whose land was usurped by European settlers in the US. &nbsp;

Amidst all this, India is a tempting target. A large, diverse democracy, it has multiple mutinies, as the late VS Naipaul wrote, going on raucously at the same time. These provide easy pickings for Western journalists. They have learnt their lesson the hard way after the French magazine Charlie Hebdo was attacked by Islamist terrorists, several of its staff killed and the publication eventually forced to change ownership. The lesson learnt? It is safer to criticise India. Indians don’t hit back.&nbsp;

India, in fact, provides Western media an invaluable additional resource: Indian journalists. These editorial sepoys can be inveigled to write how brutish and viscerally communal India is. Were Western journalists to write the same articles, they would be accused of racism. Indian journalists thus serve as useful surrogates. The Indian government has compounded the problem by not having daily briefings to provide timely information on key political and economic issues, allowing international media to misinform and distort as it has done in its reportage on Kashmir. &nbsp;

India has real problems of poverty, corruption and sectarianism, but there are gripping stories as well of startups, space technology and the rise of a new Dalit entrepreneurial class.&nbsp;

You won’t find much reportage on these in the Western media that picks its Indian mutinies carefully.&nbsp; 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-foreign-media-s-india-bias-2789101">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

Why does India get bad press internationally? The answer lies within complex layers of history and culture. Global media coverage of Kashmir is just the latest example of how misinformed, inaccurate and biased Western reportage on India can be.

Why does India get bad press internationally? The answer lies within complex layers of history and culture. Global media coverage of Kashmir is just the latest example of how misinformed, inaccurate and biased Western reportage on India can be. Exhibit one: The New York Times editorial board wrote: “The Indian government’s decision to revoke the semi-autonomous status of Kashmir, accompanied by a huge security clampdown, is dangerous and wrong. Bloodshed is all but certain. The United Nations recommended holding a referendum to let Kashmiris decide their fate, but that never happened.” Note the confidence with which The New York Times makes the assertion: “Bloodshed is all but certain.” Worse is the newspaper’s reference to the United Nations “recommending holding a referendum”, without mentioning the fact that the UN had set a pre-condition for Pakistan to vacate PoK before any referendum could be considered. Exhibit two: Reuters reported: “Police used tear gas and pellets to fight back at least 10,000 people protesting Delhi’s withdrawal of special rights for Jammu and Kashmir in its main city of Srinagar on Friday, a police official and two witnesses said.” Reuters’ sources? An unnamed police officer and two anonymous “witnesses”. The report of “a crowd of 10,000” protestors has been disproved by on-ground accounts from credible, independent Indian journalists. Reuters’ reportage clearly does not meet the standard of accurate and responsible journalism. The New York Times editorial board has often been forced to apologise for inaccurate commentary. The BBC’s and Al Jazeera’s editorial coverage of Kashmir has been equally tendentious. Neither media organisation sufficiently stressed Pakistan’s malignant role in abetting terrorism in Kashmir. Without context, such journalism sets a low bar for itself. Now history. Days before J&K acceded to the Indian Union on October 26/27,1947, Pakistan connived with Britain to annex J&K by force. Islamabad, with tacit support from the British, sent tribal Afridi fighters towards Srinagar. What transpired subsequently is well-documented. The Afridis were stopped just outside Srinagar and evicted by the Indian Army. For Britain and the West, post-independent Pakistan has served as valuable geostrategic real estate. It helped thwart Soviet influence extending beyond the Khyber Pass. Pakistan plays the supplicant, ever ready to do the West’s bidding. The US prefers doing business with dictators — in the Middle East, South America and South Asia. Pakistan’s long line of military dictators, from the 1950s right up to Pervez Musharraf, has served Washington well. The West’s pro-Pakistan tilt was evident when US President Richard Nixon and his Machiavellian Secretary of State Henry Kissinger tried to goad China into opening a second front against India during the 1971 Bangladesh war. A timely Indo-Russian treaty of peace and friendship signed astutely by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi with Moscow in August 1971, kept the Chinese at bay. The US attempted, unsuccessfully, to help the beleaguered Pakistani Army by sending its Seventh Fleet to the Bay of Bengal in December 1971 to intimidate India. While Independent India developed into a socialist democracy, Pakistan emerged as a capitalist dictatorship. For the US, socialism was culturally and politically anathema. It welcomed Pakistani dictators, but had little love lost for socialists like Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. The US, Britain and other Anglo-Saxon nations have a grim record of committing historical crimes: trafficking Africans to North America during the centuries-long Atlantic slave trade; invading and colonising countries; waging extra-territorial wars; destabilising elected governments; supporting apartheid in South Africa; dispossessing Aborigines in Australia and indigenous Indians in the US; imposing a racist White Australia immigration policy; and segregating African-Americans in the southern states of the US till as late as the 1960s. Western media tries its best to avoid highlighting these issues. It was only when Democratic Presidential candidates Elizabeth Warren and Kamala Harris raised the issue of reparations for slavery that the US media gingerly took cognisance of it with a nervous editorial twitch. Warren has gone further by suggesting compensation for indigenous Indians whose land was usurped by European settlers in the US. Amidst all this, India is a tempting target. A large, diverse democracy, it has multiple mutinies, as the late VS Naipaul wrote, going on raucously at the same time. These provide easy pickings for Western journalists. They have learnt their lesson the hard way after the French magazine Charlie Hebdo was attacked by Islamist terrorists, several of its staff killed and the publication eventually forced to change ownership. The lesson learnt? It is safer to criticise India. Indians don’t hit back. India, in fact, provides Western media an invaluable additional resource: Indian journalists. These editorial sepoys can be inveigled to write how brutish and viscerally communal India is. Were Western journalists to write the same articles, they would be accused of racism. Indian journalists thus serve as useful surrogates. The Indian government has compounded the problem by not having daily briefings to provide timely information on key political and economic issues, allowing international media to misinform and distort as it has done in its reportage on Kashmir. India has real problems of poverty, corruption and sectarianism, but there are gripping stories as well of startups, space technology and the rise of a new Dalit entrepreneurial class. You won’t find much reportage on these in the Western media that picks its Indian mutinies carefully. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Article 370 abrogation: Foreign media’s India bias

In a veiled attack against Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chief Yasin Malik, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said anyone who tends to provoke anti-India sentiment while living in India would have to "answer" for that.

"We have been saying for the last 30 years that there cannot be any premium on anti-India activism. Now the time has come... Those who have enjoyed premium by a way of anti-India activism would have to pay for it," he said when asked by a reporter about political patronage given to Yasin Malik and his alleged role in the killing of IAF officers.

"After the brutal assassination of IAF officers... we belong to a generation who witnessed all this what happened. We have been raising this time and again that precisely shows that this government does walk the talk. Anyone who tends to provoke anti-India sentiment while living in India would have to answer for that," Singh added.&nbsp;

In a veiled attack against Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chief Yasin Malik, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said anyone who tends to provoke anti-India sentiment while living in India would have to "answer" for that.

In a veiled attack against Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chief Yasin Malik, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said anyone who tends to provoke anti-India sentiment while living in India would have to "answer" for that. "We have been saying for the last 30 years that there cannot be any premium on anti-India activism. Now the time has come... Those who have enjoyed premium by a way of anti-India activism would have to pay for it," he said when asked by a reporter about political patronage given to Yasin Malik and his alleged role in the killing of IAF officers. "After the brutal assassination of IAF officers... we belong to a generation who witnessed all this what happened. We have been raising this time and again that precisely shows that this government does walk the talk. Anyone who tends to provoke anti-India sentiment while living in India would have to answer for that," Singh added.

Those who have enjoyed premium by anti-India activism would have to pay for it: Jitendra Singh on Yasin Malik

In this segment, WION speaks to J&K DGP Dilbag Singh. Watch this video to know more.

WION speaks to J&K DGP Dilbag Singh

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi admits himself, J&K as an Indian state during addressing the media at UNHRC, Geneva. Watch this video to know more.

Pakistan admits himself, 'J&K' as an Indian state on World stage

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