Jammu & Kashmir will be celebrating Eid today. Last Friday the authorities eased restrictions imposed in Kashmir valley to facilitate people ahead of Eid. People were seen rushing to essential stores and bakery shops which were partially open.

Jammu & Kashmir to celebrate Eid today

Scrapping of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-from-jammu-and-kashmir-all-you-need-to-know-240772">Article 370 </a>in Jammu and Kashmir, instead of bringing two former chief ministers together on one platform, led to more bitterness between the two.

According to reports, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-omar-abdullah-mehbooba-mufti-detained-after-special-status-to-jammu-and-kashmir-is-revoked-240931">Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah</a> had an argument over the present state of Jammu and Kashmir at Hari Niwas Palace in Srinagar, where the two former chief ministers have been put under preventive custody after the abolishment of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Reports said that Omar and Mehbooba blamed each other for bringing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to the valley. 
 
Omar hit out at her for forming government in J&amp;K between 2015-2018 with BJP as the alliance partner whereas Mehbooba slammed Omar, saying that his father Farooq Abdullah had an alliance with Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.

Following the nasty argument, Omar was shifted out to a hut, managed by the forest department, in Chesmashahi.

Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference deputy chief Omar Abdullah were taken under preventive arrest last week abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. 
 
The Centre has deployed a huge contingent of central forces in the Valley anticipating violence after scrapping Article 370. 
 
Meanwhile, NSA Ajit Doval is also present in Jammu and Kashmir to take a review of the situation on the ground. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Scrapping of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, instead of bringing two former chief ministers together on one platform, led to more bitterness between the two. According to reports, Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah had an argument over the present state of Jammu and Kashmir at Hari Niwas Palace in Srinagar, where the two former chief ministers have been put under preventive custody after the abolishment of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Scrapping of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, instead of bringing two former chief ministers together on one platform, led to more bitterness between the two. According to reports, Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah had an argument over the present state of Jammu and Kashmir at Hari Niwas Palace in Srinagar, where the two former chief ministers have been put under preventive custody after the abolishment of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Reports said that Omar and Mehbooba blamed each other for bringing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to the valley. Omar hit out at her for forming government in J&K between 2015-2018 with BJP as the alliance partner whereas Mehbooba slammed Omar, saying that his father Farooq Abdullah had an alliance with Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. Following the nasty argument, Omar was shifted out to a hut, managed by the forest department, in Chesmashahi. Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference deputy chief Omar Abdullah were taken under preventive arrest last week abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. The Centre has deployed a huge contingent of central forces in the Valley anticipating violence after scrapping Article 370. Meanwhile, NSA Ajit Doval is also present in Jammu and Kashmir to take a review of the situation on the ground. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir: Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti 'fight it out' at Srinagar's Hari Niwas Palace

Amid the ongoing tensions with India over the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bringing-down-article-370-wall-the-battle-to-contain-jihad-in-jammu-kashmir-has-just-begun-242339"> abrogation of Article 370</a>, Pakistani forces have started moving equipment to their forward bases close to Ladakh.

"Three C-130 transport aircraft of the Pakistan Air Force was used on Saturday to ferry equipment to their Skardu airbase opposite the Union Territory of Ladakh. The Indian agencies concerned are keeping a close eye on the movement of Pakistanis along with the border areas," government sources told ANI.

Sources said the equipment moved to the forward operating base could be support equipment for fighter aircraft operations.

Pakistanis are most likely to move in their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-delivers-first-overhauled-jf-17-fighter-jet-to-pakistan-220677">JF-17 fighter planes </a>to the Skardu airfield, they said.

The Indian intelligence agencies along with the Air Force and Army are keeping a close watch on the movement of the Pakistani Air Force as they can see almost the entire length and breadth of Pakistan.

Watch: Glimpses of normal life in Jammu and Kashmir as restrictions relaxed for Eid

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The Pakistanis use an older version of the C-130 transport aircraft supplied by the Americans a long time ago and one of their military rulers Gen Zia Ul Haq was also killed in power when the C-130 in which he was travelling crashed in August 1988 due to a bomb explosion.

Sources said the Pakistan Air Force was planning to conduct an exercise of its Air Force and Army elements and the move of shifting planes to the forward base could also be a part of it.

Skardu is a forward operating base of the Pakistan Air Force and it uses it to support its Army operations on the border with India.

Pakistan has been trying to make a big issue out of India's decision of scrapping Article 370 and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/glimpses-of-normal-life-in-jammu-and-kashmir-as-restrictions-relaxed-for-eid-242341">bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir</a> into two union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Amid the ongoing tensions with India over the abrogation of Article 370, Pakistani forces have started moving equipment to their forward bases close to Ladakh. "Three C-130 transport aircraft of the Pakistan Air Force was used on Saturday to ferry equipment to their Skardu airbase opposite the Union Territory of Ladakh.

Amid the ongoing tensions with India over the abrogation of Article 370, Pakistani forces have started moving equipment to their forward bases close to Ladakh. "Three C-130 transport aircraft of the Pakistan Air Force was used on Saturday to ferry equipment to their Skardu airbase opposite the Union Territory of Ladakh. The Indian agencies concerned are keeping a close eye on the movement of Pakistanis along with the border areas," government sources told ANI. Sources said the equipment moved to the forward operating base could be support equipment for fighter aircraft operations. Pakistanis are most likely to move in their JF-17 fighter planes to the Skardu airfield, they said. The Indian intelligence agencies along with the Air Force and Army are keeping a close watch on the movement of the Pakistani Air Force as they can see almost the entire length and breadth of Pakistan. Watch: Glimpses of normal life in Jammu and Kashmir as restrictions relaxed for Eid × The Pakistanis use an older version of the C-130 transport aircraft supplied by the Americans a long time ago and one of their military rulers Gen Zia Ul Haq was also killed in power when the C-130 in which he was travelling crashed in August 1988 due to a bomb explosion. Sources said the Pakistan Air Force was planning to conduct an exercise of its Air Force and Army elements and the move of shifting planes to the forward base could also be a part of it. Skardu is a forward operating base of the Pakistan Air Force and it uses it to support its Army operations on the border with India. Pakistan has been trying to make a big issue out of India's decision of scrapping Article 370 and bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

India keeps a close watch as Pakistan deploys fighter jets to Skardu near Ladakh

In Jammu Kashmir, Section 144 eased out ahead of Eid. Schools in J&K reopened after almost a week. The communication system in J&K is partially restored. Watch this video to know more.

''Situation getting peaceful in J&K,'' says Satya Pal Malik

Russia supported abrogation of Article 370, 35A in J&K. Russia said J&K decision is within the framework of India's Constitution. No nation has supported Pakistan on the J&K so far.

Russia supported India on J&K, said, ''India's decision is Constitutional''

Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom Bob Blackman has written a letter to the newly-elected UK PM Boris Johnson regarding the Indian Governments decision of revoking article 370 in J&K.

Bob Blackman writes letter to UK PM regarding abrogation of article 370 in J&K

Normalcy was restored in Jammu on Saturday as the city woke up to the familiar sight of young children racing to school. Yesterday, the District Magistrate of Jammu had withdrawn section 144 of CrPC, which prohibits an assembly of more than four people, which was imposed in the district five days ago. Watch this video to know more.

Situation returning to normal in J&K, Schools re-open after five days

In the latest from Kashmir, Section 144 was eased for Friday prayers in parts of Kashmir today. Watch the full video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Section 144 eased in Kashmir for Friday prayers

Centre is unlikely to hold assembly elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for at least a year, said sources.&nbsp;

Centre has prepared a detailed plan and wants to use this time to completely overhaul the administration in the Union Territory (UT). Sources have indicated that massive financial and administrative reforms are on anvil starting with a business summit which might take place by end of the year.&nbsp;

Sources also told WION that Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two Union Territories for a purpose.

“If a state would have been created then it would have become business as usual. UT was created is to ensure that Kashmir gets properly aligned with the Indian Constitution. UT is not a demotion but an effort by the government to make required changes which wouldn’t have been possible otherwise,” a highly placed source informed WION.

Sources also told WION that government wants to send out the message that the country tried to attain peace with Article 370 for 70 years and now at least 10 years can be invested in a new set of laws.&nbsp;

The plan also includes new townships in the valley and job opportunities for Kashmiri Pandits so that their relocation can gain momentum. The government understands that relocation can never take place without proper job opportunities and a safe environment.

A slow trickle of migration has already happened in Jammu and Kashmir but the government does not want to speed up the process lest it creates distrust in the mind of the people. For example, new temples are a reality in the valley as it happened slowly and organically.

The government is also expected to set up a proper Delimitation Commission so that Jammu gets its due in the state assembly.&nbsp;

It would be accompanied by creation of a new set of political leadership in the valley which RSS-BJP believes can flow from those who contested&nbsp;panchayat polls recently.&nbsp;

The idea is to remove the existing layer of political leadership which RSS feels is tied to the idea of Article 370. Sources say that new leaders would be able to circumvent powerful families in Jammu and Kashmir. More than that, the idea is to assert the sacred geography of Kashmir which existed before the medieval age. The idea is not to force a demographic change but make the rest of India engage with Jammu and Kashmir more intensely.

The other idea on the wishlist is to repopulate Ladakh which RSS feels is very sparsely populated. Most ideas are on the drawing table of the ideologues of Sangh Parivar as they feel that it is their only chance.

Lastly, RSS feels that there could not have been any other way for the Narendra Modi-led government to implement the decision to revoke Article 370 as the existing leaders would have compromised the process and wouldn’t have allowed the government to go ahead with it.

&nbsp;

Centre is unlikely to hold assembly elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for at least a year, said sources. Centre has prepared a detailed plan and wants to use this time to completely overhaul the administration in the Union Territory (UT).

Centre is unlikely to hold assembly elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for at least a year, said sources. Centre has prepared a detailed plan and wants to use this time to completely overhaul the administration in the Union Territory (UT). Sources have indicated that massive financial and administrative reforms are on anvil starting with a business summit which might take place by end of the year. Sources also told WION that Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two Union Territories for a purpose. “If a state would have been created then it would have become business as usual. UT was created is to ensure that Kashmir gets properly aligned with the Indian Constitution. UT is not a demotion but an effort by the government to make required changes which wouldn’t have been possible otherwise,” a highly placed source informed WION. Sources also told WION that government wants to send out the message that the country tried to attain peace with Article 370 for 70 years and now at least 10 years can be invested in a new set of laws. The plan also includes new townships in the valley and job opportunities for Kashmiri Pandits so that their relocation can gain momentum. The government understands that relocation can never take place without proper job opportunities and a safe environment. A slow trickle of migration has already happened in Jammu and Kashmir but the government does not want to speed up the process lest it creates distrust in the mind of the people. For example, new temples are a reality in the valley as it happened slowly and organically. The government is also expected to set up a proper Delimitation Commission so that Jammu gets its due in the state assembly. It would be accompanied by creation of a new set of political leadership in the valley which RSS-BJP believes can flow from those who contested panchayat polls recently. The idea is to remove the existing layer of political leadership which RSS feels is tied to the idea of Article 370. Sources say that new leaders would be able to circumvent powerful families in Jammu and Kashmir. More than that, the idea is to assert the sacred geography of Kashmir which existed before the medieval age. The idea is not to force a demographic change but make the rest of India engage with Jammu and Kashmir more intensely. The other idea on the wishlist is to repopulate Ladakh which RSS feels is very sparsely populated. Most ideas are on the drawing table of the ideologues of Sangh Parivar as they feel that it is their only chance. Lastly, RSS feels that there could not have been any other way for the Narendra Modi-led government to implement the decision to revoke Article 370 as the existing leaders would have compromised the process and wouldn’t have allowed the government to go ahead with it.

Union Territory status for Jammu and Kashmir not a demotion, but an effort to align it with rest of India more intensely: Sources

Dutch politician Geert Wilders on Monday took to Twitter and hailed India's decision of scrapping Article 370 and 35A. He labelled Pakistan as a hundred per cent terror state and welcomed Kashmir back home. "India is a full democracy. Pakistan is a 100% terror state. So the choice is easy. Welcome home #Kashmir. #IndiaForKashmir," Wilder tweeted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geert Wilders is a Member of Parliament and the leader/Chairman of the Party for Freedom in the Netherlands. In an exclusive conversation with WION, the Dutch Parliamentarian openly welcomed the decision of by the Indian government and also mentioned that it is time for the western world to come out in support of democratic and sovereign nation India and forget all the rhetoric coming from terror state Pakistan.

WION: How do you see India's move to scrap Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir?

Geert Wilders: The decision to revoke Article 370 and 35 by the Indian government is the country's matter. I believe that the western world should support India because its Home Minister Amit Shah told Parliament earlier this week that democracy was never fully implemented in Jammu and Kashmir under the Article. Also, corruption was on the rise in the region. We all know that Article 370 was believed to be only a temporary measure, not a structural one. One cannot have a state within a state and Indian government, therefore, decided to completely include Jammu and Kashmir on the Indian law.&nbsp; 
Every country in the west, every democracy would not accept a state within a state. This is why I strongly support the decision of the Indian government.&nbsp; 
Pakistan government has been supporting terrorism since the last decade. It is more of state terrorism than anything else, from Pakistani-Taliban to Al-Qaeda to forces in Kashmir. They have been meddling in all the issues. Pakistan is not a democracy, if we in the west should choose we have to choose to support and I hope that my colleagues and other Parliaments in Europe will join me to support in the fight to end the state within a state. That is why I say welcome home Kashmir. Those regions and people will develop more under Indian control rather than under the influence of the terror regime in Islamabad. India is our friend and we should support our friend.

WION: You say the world must choose, and the west led by the US seems to have chosen to count on Pakistan to bring peace in the region and talk to the Taliban. Do you agree with the choice?

Geert Wilders:&nbsp;I do not think that you can talk to terrorists. The Taliban is like Al-Qaeda or the Islamic State or any terrorist group. One should not talk to terrorists. It will be the beginning of the end, we should fight for democratic institutions, Parliaments, counties, and elections, not corruption or terrorism. Unfortunately, Pakistan has supported terrorism all over the region not only in Kashmir but also in India. We all remember what happened in Mumbai all those terrible deeds either came from Pakistan or were supported by the Pakistani authorities. I know people are talking to Pakistan, but the west has a choice now between a democratic country called India and its PM Modi and its coalition who made a sovereign decision that Article 370 and 35A should be revoked and we do not allow a state or an autonomous region in our country. That is the right of any country to do so. There was pressure from Pakistan that supported terrorism in the past. The west should now stand up and say that we are on the side of India and we choose democracy, the sovereignty of India and Kashmir as Indian and not to be influenced by Pakistani pressure.

WION: Pak PM Imran Khan spoke about Kashmir in Parliament yesterday and spun it as a Hindu-Muslim issue. He portrayed it an act of injustice against Kashmir's Muslims. It is a convenient ploy to brand suck moves as anti-Muslim and Islamophobic. Is it how you see it?

Geert Wilders:&nbsp;I do not think it is Islamophobia. Once again India is a democratic state, unlike Pakistan. There is a coalition and they made a decision. Indeed everybody knows that in Kashmir the majority is Islamic but after revoking of Article 35A other people in India would be able to buy land and live there. At the end of the day, everybody Muslim or non-Muslim will benefit from less corruption and more economic prosperity. That is why Pakistan is spinning it. Once again it is a choice between prosperity and democratic state that made a sovereign decision or the rhetoric and the support of terrorism of the Pakistan government.

We should stand up and support India and forget all the rhetoric that is coming from Pakistan. I hope more politicians and countries in the western world would support India.

Dutch politician Geert Wilders on Monday took to Twitter and hailed India's decision of scrapping Article 370 and 35A. He labelled Pakistan as a hundred per cent terror state and welcomed Kashmir back home.

Dutch politician Geert Wilders on Monday took to Twitter and hailed India's decision of scrapping Article 370 and 35A. He labelled Pakistan as a hundred per cent terror state and welcomed Kashmir back home. "India is a full democracy. Pakistan is a 100% terror state. So the choice is easy. Welcome home #Kashmir. #IndiaForKashmir," Wilder tweeted. Geert Wilders is a Member of Parliament and the leader/Chairman of the Party for Freedom in the Netherlands. In an exclusive conversation with WION, the Dutch Parliamentarian openly welcomed the decision of by the Indian government and also mentioned that it is time for the western world to come out in support of democratic and sovereign nation India and forget all the rhetoric coming from terror state Pakistan. WION: How do you see India's move to scrap Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir? Geert Wilders: The decision to revoke Article 370 and 35 by the Indian government is the country's matter. I believe that the western world should support India because its Home Minister Amit Shah told Parliament earlier this week that democracy was never fully implemented in Jammu and Kashmir under the Article. Also, corruption was on the rise in the region. We all know that Article 370 was believed to be only a temporary measure, not a structural one. One cannot have a state within a state and Indian government, therefore, decided to completely include Jammu and Kashmir on the Indian law. Every country in the west, every democracy would not accept a state within a state. This is why I strongly support the decision of the Indian government. Pakistan government has been supporting terrorism since the last decade. It is more of state terrorism than anything else, from Pakistani-Taliban to Al-Qaeda to forces in Kashmir. They have been meddling in all the issues. Pakistan is not a democracy, if we in the west should choose we have to choose to support and I hope that my colleagues and other Parliaments in Europe will join me to support in the fight to end the state within a state. That is why I say welcome home Kashmir. Those regions and people will develop more under Indian control rather than under the influence of the terror regime in Islamabad. India is our friend and we should support our friend. WION: You say the world must choose, and the west led by the US seems to have chosen to count on Pakistan to bring peace in the region and talk to the Taliban. Do you agree with the choice? Geert Wilders: I do not think that you can talk to terrorists. The Taliban is like Al-Qaeda or the Islamic State or any terrorist group. One should not talk to terrorists. It will be the beginning of the end, we should fight for democratic institutions, Parliaments, counties, and elections, not corruption or terrorism. Unfortunately, Pakistan has supported terrorism all over the region not only in Kashmir but also in India. We all remember what happened in Mumbai all those terrible deeds either came from Pakistan or were supported by the Pakistani authorities. I know people are talking to Pakistan, but the west has a choice now between a democratic country called India and its PM Modi and its coalition who made a sovereign decision that Article 370 and 35A should be revoked and we do not allow a state or an autonomous region in our country. That is the right of any country to do so. There was pressure from Pakistan that supported terrorism in the past. The west should now stand up and say that we are on the side of India and we choose democracy, the sovereignty of India and Kashmir as Indian and not to be influenced by Pakistani pressure. WION: Pak PM Imran Khan spoke about Kashmir in Parliament yesterday and spun it as a Hindu-Muslim issue. He portrayed it an act of injustice against Kashmir's Muslims. It is a convenient ploy to brand suck moves as anti-Muslim and Islamophobic. Is it how you see it? Geert Wilders: I do not think it is Islamophobia. Once again India is a democratic state, unlike Pakistan. There is a coalition and they made a decision. Indeed everybody knows that in Kashmir the majority is Islamic but after revoking of Article 35A other people in India would be able to buy land and live there. At the end of the day, everybody Muslim or non-Muslim will benefit from less corruption and more economic prosperity. That is why Pakistan is spinning it. Once again it is a choice between prosperity and democratic state that made a sovereign decision or the rhetoric and the support of terrorism of the Pakistan government. We should stand up and support India and forget all the rhetoric that is coming from Pakistan. I hope more politicians and countries in the western world would support India.

West should stand up and say that we are on Indian side: Dutch politician Geert Wilders on revocation of Article 370

Jawahar Lal Nehru had probably realised his folly of giving a generous gift of ‘autonomy’ and ‘special status’ to Muslim-majority Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Within a few years, he had ordered the arrest of his good friend Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah on charges of conspiracy (hobnobbing with Pakistan) and overseen many privileges of the new state go away or get diluted.

Since 1955, saffron parties under different names kept their focus on this anomaly. To be fair to the BJP, the party had always promised to repeal Article 370 of the Constitution and bring Jammu &amp; Kashmir at par with the rest of the country.

Indian voters seldom give a second look to the election manifestoes of parties, and least believe the promises made therein. Therefore, people were in for a pleasant shock when the Narendra Modi government took the bold step of scrapping state’s special status and divide it into two Union territories.

As a Kashmir-born person, I can say that special privileges and autonomy never touched the lives of common people in the state. It deprived them of job and other economic opportunities as no big businesses were ready to set shop in the state.&nbsp;

Corruption was rampant as everyone believed the central funds were there for loot. The elite — ruling classes — &nbsp;formed a close-knit club to milk the autonomy cow. On one hand, they threatened Delhi with dire consequences if any reform or change was proposed or accountability sought, and on the other, they filled the minds of the common man with hate and fear of the Big Brother Delhi. The mistrust kept increasing and turned into a wave of hate and prejudice against Delhi.

No wonder, when Pakistan was ready to implement its Operation TOPAC and launch an insurgency in Kashmir by the end of the eighties, this very anger acted as a catalyst for the ‘Azadi’ movement that swept the Valley.&nbsp;

With the inevitability of security forces swarming the Valley’s towns and village to hunt down terrorists, this hate had made people desperate. In three decades, the Kashmiri had turned into a potential jihadi outpost for global terror groups — Taliban, ISIS and Al Qaeda all waiting in wings for swooping down in Kashmir.

On the other hand, over the years the so-called autonomy was further diluted with Supreme Court getting jurisdiction over the state and labour laws being implemented there.&nbsp;

The J&amp;K Assembly has no record of giving a single landmark law to the people that would be worth emulating by the rest of the country. It adopted most of the laws made by Parliament and dragged its feet on some others like Right to Information and Right to Education.&nbsp;

To top of it, the male-dominated polity kept women subjugated by not banning their right of inheritance in case they married a non-Kashmiri.&nbsp;

Nehru’s idea of a privileged Muslim-dominant state being the crowning glory of secular India was badly shattered in the early nineties when some 3.5 lakh Kashmiri Hindus had to flee their homes overnight from terrorists and their supporters.&nbsp;

His dream had turned sour and for the first time, the common man in India felt betrayed. The exodus of Kashmiri Pandits added to the rise of the right-wing politics in India.

On the ground, Ladakh was the first to rise in revolt against the Kashmiri-dominated political leadership. From day one, Ladakhis were clear that Union Territory status for their land would be enough for them.

Jammu may still not be happy at being clubbed with Kashmir in the new arrangement, while Ladakhis are genuinely feeling vindicated in their stand of a peaceful struggle.

The rise of insurgency and terrorism in Kashmir had taken India by surprise. Learning from our experience, one can safely say that the Union Territory status for the state is the best bet for ensuring there is no repeat of terrorism or unrest in Kashmir!&nbsp;

It could also facilitate the return of normalcy there, including the return of the natives in a routine and gradual way. The leaders in Kashmir have only believed in enjoying privileges and never felt responsible to the people and the nation.&nbsp;

When insurgency was at its peak in Kashmir and the situation was getting out of control in the early nineties, Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah simply resigned and abdicated his responsibilities. It was easy for him to blame Delhi and wash his hands off his regime’s responsibility in letting Kashmiri youth in hordes go to Pakistan for arms and sabotage training. Mehbooba Mufti was no better, as she is often blamed for leading Team B of the separatists.

As a reporter who witnessed the most violent 10 years of terrorism in Kashmir, I can hardly recollect one state leader who spoke for India and countered Pakistan’s narrative.&nbsp;

Many of them appeared to be apologists for Hurriyat and terrorists. Their stand led to confounding the confusion of the youth, many believing that supporting Pakistan is a way to survive in the tenuous situation.&nbsp;

Celebrations over, the Modi government will have to face the wrath of Kashmiris as soon as they emerge out of the forced confinement of their homes and the embargo on communication and TV is lifted. The process of confining people to their homes while the Parliament took crucial decisions on their land and lives, has left Kashmiris deeply hurt.

Maybe it was unavoidable for preventing bloodshed, but now onwards, New Delhi has to show its magnanimity and launch all-round developments for creating jobs.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-end-of-nehru-s-mission-kashmir-2779892">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Jawahar Lal Nehru had probably realised his folly of giving a generous gift of ‘autonomy’ and ‘special status’ to Muslim-majority Jammu and Kashmir. Within a few years, he had ordered the arrest of his good friend Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah on charges of conspiracy (hobnobbing with Pakistan) and overseen many privileges of the new state go away or get diluted.

Jawahar Lal Nehru had probably realised his folly of giving a generous gift of ‘autonomy’ and ‘special status’ to Muslim-majority Jammu and Kashmir. Within a few years, he had ordered the arrest of his good friend Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah on charges of conspiracy (hobnobbing with Pakistan) and overseen many privileges of the new state go away or get diluted. Since 1955, saffron parties under different names kept their focus on this anomaly. To be fair to the BJP, the party had always promised to repeal Article 370 of the Constitution and bring Jammu & Kashmir at par with the rest of the country. Indian voters seldom give a second look to the election manifestoes of parties, and least believe the promises made therein. Therefore, people were in for a pleasant shock when the Narendra Modi government took the bold step of scrapping state’s special status and divide it into two Union territories. As a Kashmir-born person, I can say that special privileges and autonomy never touched the lives of common people in the state. It deprived them of job and other economic opportunities as no big businesses were ready to set shop in the state. Corruption was rampant as everyone believed the central funds were there for loot. The elite — ruling classes — formed a close-knit club to milk the autonomy cow. On one hand, they threatened Delhi with dire consequences if any reform or change was proposed or accountability sought, and on the other, they filled the minds of the common man with hate and fear of the Big Brother Delhi. The mistrust kept increasing and turned into a wave of hate and prejudice against Delhi. No wonder, when Pakistan was ready to implement its Operation TOPAC and launch an insurgency in Kashmir by the end of the eighties, this very anger acted as a catalyst for the ‘Azadi’ movement that swept the Valley. With the inevitability of security forces swarming the Valley’s towns and village to hunt down terrorists, this hate had made people desperate. In three decades, the Kashmiri had turned into a potential jihadi outpost for global terror groups — Taliban, ISIS and Al Qaeda all waiting in wings for swooping down in Kashmir. On the other hand, over the years the so-called autonomy was further diluted with Supreme Court getting jurisdiction over the state and labour laws being implemented there. The J&K Assembly has no record of giving a single landmark law to the people that would be worth emulating by the rest of the country. It adopted most of the laws made by Parliament and dragged its feet on some others like Right to Information and Right to Education. To top of it, the male-dominated polity kept women subjugated by not banning their right of inheritance in case they married a non-Kashmiri. Nehru’s idea of a privileged Muslim-dominant state being the crowning glory of secular India was badly shattered in the early nineties when some 3.5 lakh Kashmiri Hindus had to flee their homes overnight from terrorists and their supporters. His dream had turned sour and for the first time, the common man in India felt betrayed. The exodus of Kashmiri Pandits added to the rise of the right-wing politics in India. On the ground, Ladakh was the first to rise in revolt against the Kashmiri-dominated political leadership. From day one, Ladakhis were clear that Union Territory status for their land would be enough for them. Jammu may still not be happy at being clubbed with Kashmir in the new arrangement, while Ladakhis are genuinely feeling vindicated in their stand of a peaceful struggle. The rise of insurgency and terrorism in Kashmir had taken India by surprise. Learning from our experience, one can safely say that the Union Territory status for the state is the best bet for ensuring there is no repeat of terrorism or unrest in Kashmir! It could also facilitate the return of normalcy there, including the return of the natives in a routine and gradual way. The leaders in Kashmir have only believed in enjoying privileges and never felt responsible to the people and the nation. When insurgency was at its peak in Kashmir and the situation was getting out of control in the early nineties, Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah simply resigned and abdicated his responsibilities. It was easy for him to blame Delhi and wash his hands off his regime’s responsibility in letting Kashmiri youth in hordes go to Pakistan for arms and sabotage training. Mehbooba Mufti was no better, as she is often blamed for leading Team B of the separatists. As a reporter who witnessed the most violent 10 years of terrorism in Kashmir, I can hardly recollect one state leader who spoke for India and countered Pakistan’s narrative. Many of them appeared to be apologists for Hurriyat and terrorists. Their stand led to confounding the confusion of the youth, many believing that supporting Pakistan is a way to survive in the tenuous situation. Celebrations over, the Modi government will have to face the wrath of Kashmiris as soon as they emerge out of the forced confinement of their homes and the embargo on communication and TV is lifted. The process of confining people to their homes while the Parliament took crucial decisions on their land and lives, has left Kashmiris deeply hurt. Maybe it was unavoidable for preventing bloodshed, but now onwards, New Delhi has to show its magnanimity and launch all-round developments for creating jobs. (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 scrapped: Special privileges and autonomy never touched lives of common people in Jammu and Kashmir

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Helpline numbers released for students, residents of Jammu and Kashmir

National Security Adviser Takes Stock Of The Situation At The Ground In Kashmir

Gravitas: Ajit Doval reviews security situation in Kashmir

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

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

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

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

Government Gets Lok Sabha's Nod For J&K Reorganisation Bill.

Gravitas: J&K Bifurcation bill passed in lower house

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

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

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

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

Article 370, which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K), has been removed by a Presidential Order.

Home Minister Amit Shah also presented a J&amp;K Reorganisation Bill, through which the state has been bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. With this, Article 35A has also been annulled, which was discriminatory against non-residents and women of J&amp;K.&nbsp;

With bigger mandate come bigger expectations. The right-wing supporters of BJP and RSS expected the Modi 2.0 government to walk the talk on Uniform Civil Code, Article 370, Article 35A, Ram Temple, Hindu rashtra, and other ideological issues. Through this, the BJP has fulfilled one of its long-standing promise.

In its 2019 poll manifesto, it had mentioned, “We reiterate our position since the time of the Jan Sangh to the abrogation of Article 370.” Through this act, it consolidates its core vote bank, who have stood by the party through thick and thin. It establishes the one nation, one constitution principle.&nbsp;

As BJP MP Swapan Dasgupta put it in Rajya Sabha, the repeal of Article 370 establishes the political sovereignty of the Indian Parliament to whole of India without making any exception for J&amp;K.&nbsp;

The stunned opposition was clueless and ill-prepared despite these rumours doing the rounds for the last few days. Congress leader P Chidambaram called the move a “constitutional monstrosity” and warned other states against “future moves to dismember them”.

The move has the potential of making local political parties irrelevant. The National Conference (NC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have opposed the move. The Abdullahs and Muftis (dynasts) have been ruling the state for decades since Independence and exploited the local sentiments for their political benefit.&nbsp;

On expected lines, Omar Abdullah termed the decision as disastrous, illegal and unconstitutional. He alleged that the Government of India resorted to deceit and stealth and this is an aggression on the people of J&amp;K.

Mehbooba Mufti, meanwhile, termed it as the darkest day in Indian democracy. She slammed the unilateral decision of the Government of India to scrap Article 370, which will make India an occupational force in J&amp;K.&nbsp;

Both these leaders have been put under house arrest. PDP has been accused of being soft on separatists even during the brief rule of PDP-BJP combine in the state. There is a risk that since the PDP and NC face an existential threat, they could join hands with separatist groups to fan unrest in the Valley. It could also force the two Valley parties to form an alliance in state elections to take on the BJP.

Many critics feel that politically this move amounts to an assault on the Muslim identity of J&amp;K. The RSS has always believed that the only way to resolve Kashmir issue is through a sweeping demographic change in the state, facilitated by the integration of the Valley with the rest of country.&nbsp;

Political parties across the spectrum, including the BSP, BJD, YSRCP, AAP, TRS and the TDP supported the repeal of Article 370. It is a good sign for the Indian democracy and highlights the fact that on issues of national interest, parties cutting across political spectrum and irrespective of ideology, can come together and work unitedly. Arvind Kejriwal hoped it would bring peace in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

JD (U)’s opposition, though, is a cause of concern for the BJP, especially with the Bihar Assembly elections due next year. The party earlier opposed the Triple Talaq Bill as well. JD (U) is not part of the Union Cabinet and shares a love-hate relationship with the BJP. There are also rumours that Nitish could go back to Lalu’s RJD, which could weaken BJP’s chances in Bihar. After reorganisation, de-limitation could be the next thing that the BJP comes up with. Kashmir has 46, Jammu 37 and Ladakh four seats, implying that the party securing a majority in the Valley has been dominating the political scene in the state.&nbsp;

The people of Jammu and Ladakh have for years, alleged discrimination and lack of development. In terms of area as well as voter population per seat, Jammu is much bigger compared to the Kashmir Valley.

As per reports, de-limitation could increase seats of Jammu by 10-15, bringing it at least on par with Kashmir. Reservation of seats for the SC/ST community is also likely to be introduced.&nbsp;

BJP hopes to sweep the Jammu region, as and when elections are held, and instal a first non-Kashmiri and Hindu chief minister in the state. Even if PDP and NC join forces and win the elections, the issue is that the chief minister of a Union Territory doesn’t enjoy the same powers as other states. In Delhi, Kejriwal has been fighting for absolute powers and alleging how the BJP has been meddling in the affairs of the state through the Lieutenant Governor. So, the old days of Abdullahs and Muftis may never return. The BJP at the Centre will have the reins of power of the state.

In the recent past, the BJP has got UAPA/RTI Amendment Bill and the Triple Talaq Bill passed in the House of Elders despite not having a majority. The J&amp;K Reorganisation Bill was introduced first in Rajya Sabha and not in Lok Sabha. This reflects the BJP’s confidence after winning a brute majority in May, using far superior floor management skills.&nbsp;

It also shows that India is now not only Congress-mukt, but also opposition-mukt. The BJP has now occupied the dominant position once held by the Congress in India’s political space.&nbsp;

Now, over to courts as the decision is likely to be challenged!

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-game-up-for-abdullahs-muftis-2779226">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Article 370, which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), has been removed by a Presidential Order. Home Minister Amit Shah also presented a J&K Reorganisation Bill, through which the state has been bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Article 370, which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), has been removed by a Presidential Order. Home Minister Amit Shah also presented a J&K Reorganisation Bill, through which the state has been bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. With this, Article 35A has also been annulled, which was discriminatory against non-residents and women of J&K. With bigger mandate come bigger expectations. The right-wing supporters of BJP and RSS expected the Modi 2.0 government to walk the talk on Uniform Civil Code, Article 370, Article 35A, Ram Temple, Hindu rashtra, and other ideological issues. Through this, the BJP has fulfilled one of its long-standing promise. In its 2019 poll manifesto, it had mentioned, “We reiterate our position since the time of the Jan Sangh to the abrogation of Article 370.” Through this act, it consolidates its core vote bank, who have stood by the party through thick and thin. It establishes the one nation, one constitution principle. As BJP MP Swapan Dasgupta put it in Rajya Sabha, the repeal of Article 370 establishes the political sovereignty of the Indian Parliament to whole of India without making any exception for J&K. The stunned opposition was clueless and ill-prepared despite these rumours doing the rounds for the last few days. Congress leader P Chidambaram called the move a “constitutional monstrosity” and warned other states against “future moves to dismember them”. The move has the potential of making local political parties irrelevant. The National Conference (NC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have opposed the move. The Abdullahs and Muftis (dynasts) have been ruling the state for decades since Independence and exploited the local sentiments for their political benefit. On expected lines, Omar Abdullah termed the decision as disastrous, illegal and unconstitutional. He alleged that the Government of India resorted to deceit and stealth and this is an aggression on the people of J&K. Mehbooba Mufti, meanwhile, termed it as the darkest day in Indian democracy. She slammed the unilateral decision of the Government of India to scrap Article 370, which will make India an occupational force in J&K. Both these leaders have been put under house arrest. PDP has been accused of being soft on separatists even during the brief rule of PDP-BJP combine in the state. There is a risk that since the PDP and NC face an existential threat, they could join hands with separatist groups to fan unrest in the Valley. It could also force the two Valley parties to form an alliance in state elections to take on the BJP. Many critics feel that politically this move amounts to an assault on the Muslim identity of J&K. The RSS has always believed that the only way to resolve Kashmir issue is through a sweeping demographic change in the state, facilitated by the integration of the Valley with the rest of country. Political parties across the spectrum, including the BSP, BJD, YSRCP, AAP, TRS and the TDP supported the repeal of Article 370. It is a good sign for the Indian democracy and highlights the fact that on issues of national interest, parties cutting across political spectrum and irrespective of ideology, can come together and work unitedly. Arvind Kejriwal hoped it would bring peace in the Kashmir Valley. JD (U)’s opposition, though, is a cause of concern for the BJP, especially with the Bihar Assembly elections due next year. The party earlier opposed the Triple Talaq Bill as well. JD (U) is not part of the Union Cabinet and shares a love-hate relationship with the BJP. There are also rumours that Nitish could go back to Lalu’s RJD, which could weaken BJP’s chances in Bihar. After reorganisation, de-limitation could be the next thing that the BJP comes up with. Kashmir has 46, Jammu 37 and Ladakh four seats, implying that the party securing a majority in the Valley has been dominating the political scene in the state. The people of Jammu and Ladakh have for years, alleged discrimination and lack of development. In terms of area as well as voter population per seat, Jammu is much bigger compared to the Kashmir Valley. As per reports, de-limitation could increase seats of Jammu by 10-15, bringing it at least on par with Kashmir. Reservation of seats for the SC/ST community is also likely to be introduced. BJP hopes to sweep the Jammu region, as and when elections are held, and instal a first non-Kashmiri and Hindu chief minister in the state. Even if PDP and NC join forces and win the elections, the issue is that the chief minister of a Union Territory doesn’t enjoy the same powers as other states. In Delhi, Kejriwal has been fighting for absolute powers and alleging how the BJP has been meddling in the affairs of the state through the Lieutenant Governor. So, the old days of Abdullahs and Muftis may never return. The BJP at the Centre will have the reins of power of the state. In the recent past, the BJP has got UAPA/RTI Amendment Bill and the Triple Talaq Bill passed in the House of Elders despite not having a majority. The J&K Reorganisation Bill was introduced first in Rajya Sabha and not in Lok Sabha. This reflects the BJP’s confidence after winning a brute majority in May, using far superior floor management skills. It also shows that India is now not only Congress-mukt, but also opposition-mukt. The BJP has now occupied the dominant position once held by the Congress in India’s political space. Now, over to courts as the decision is likely to be challenged! (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.)

Game up for Abdullahs, Muftis

Rajya Sabha passes Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill; scraps Articles 370, 35A.

Kashmir Reborn: What will change in Jammu & Kashmir?

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced that&nbsp;Article 35A will be scrapped.&nbsp;

Here is all you need to know about Article 35A:

Article 35A is based on the terms negotiated between Jammu and Kashmir's Sheikh Abdullah and the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1949.

The article was inserted into the constitution through a Presidential order in 1954, instead of a parliamentary amendment under article 368.

Article 35A empowers the Jammu and Kashmir government to define the state's permanent residents and to grant them privileges and special rights. Only permanent residents can purchase land and property, settle permanently in the region, and get government jobs, scholarships in the state.

It excludes outsiders from acquiring property and getting benefits including government jobs and scholarships in the state-run educational institutions.&nbsp;

According to Article 35A, women who marry a non-permanent resident lose their "state subject" status. However, in 2002, the Jammu and Kashmir high court held that a woman marrying a non-permanent resident will not lose her rights -- but children born to such a woman will not have succession rights. 
&nbsp;

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced that Article 35A will be scrapped. Here is all you need to know about Article 35A: Article 35A is based on the terms negotiated between Jammu and Kashmir's Sheikh Abdullah and the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1949.

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced that Article 35A will be scrapped. Here is all you need to know about Article 35A: Article 35A is based on the terms negotiated between Jammu and Kashmir's Sheikh Abdullah and the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1949. The article was inserted into the constitution through a Presidential order in 1954, instead of a parliamentary amendment under article 368. Article 35A empowers the Jammu and Kashmir government to define the state's permanent residents and to grant them privileges and special rights. Only permanent residents can purchase land and property, settle permanently in the region, and get government jobs, scholarships in the state. It excludes outsiders from acquiring property and getting benefits including government jobs and scholarships in the state-run educational institutions. According to Article 35A, women who marry a non-permanent resident lose their "state subject" status. However, in 2002, the Jammu and Kashmir high court held that a woman marrying a non-permanent resident will not lose her rights -- but children born to such a woman will not have succession rights.

What is Article 35A? Here's all you need to know

Mobile internet services have been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-conducts-high-level-meeting-with-nsa-ib-and-raw-chiefs-amid-kashmir-terror-threat-240663">suspended in Jammu and Kashmir</a>(J&amp;K) and all educational institutes have been shut in Srinagar until further orders with the government imposing section 144 in the state.

According to section 144, "any pre-planned congregation/sudden unforeseen congregation of ritualistic nature shall be conducted with the prior approval of the District Magistrate.". The order means gathering of more than four people has been barred in the state.

A cabinet meeting will be held on Monday to assess the law and order situation amid the security build-up in the Valley. Mobile and internet services were partially suspended in Kashmir Valley on Sunday.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/jammu-and-kashmir-governor-satyapal-malik-says-nothing-will-happen-secretly-240590/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Friday, the Army had said that Pakistani terrorists were plotting to carry out an attack on the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and that the security forces had recovered a Pakistan Ordnance Factory anti-personnel mine from a terror cache.

In a joint press conference, the forces displayed an M-24 sniper rifle, anti-personnel landmines recovered from the Pakistani Army along with a telescope from a terror cache along the Amarnath route

Subsequently, the Amarnath yatra was cancelled and tourists were ordered to leave.

The Indian Air Force carried out sorties and removed over 320 tourists out of Srinagar after the government said that there was an intelligence input of terror threats&nbsp;which could target pilgrims and tourists.

During the press conference, J&amp;K police chief Dilbag Singh said that reinforcing the number of forces in the Valley was to bridge the gap to deal with the law and order situation and also to give rest to some of the armed forces present in the Valley.&nbsp;

At least 35, 000 paramilitary forces have been deployed, according to reports. The Army said there was a spike in infiltration bid across the line of control(LoC) with reports indicating that infiltration bid by the Pakistan army was foiled.

Mobile internet services have been suspended in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) and all educational institutes have been shut in Srinagar until further orders with the government imposing section 144 in the state.

Mobile internet services have been suspended in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) and all educational institutes have been shut in Srinagar until further orders with the government imposing section 144 in the state. According to section 144, "any pre-planned congregation/sudden unforeseen congregation of ritualistic nature shall be conducted with the prior approval of the District Magistrate.". The order means gathering of more than four people has been barred in the state. A cabinet meeting will be held on Monday to assess the law and order situation amid the security build-up in the Valley. Mobile and internet services were partially suspended in Kashmir Valley on Sunday. Watch Video: On Friday, the Army had said that Pakistani terrorists were plotting to carry out an attack on the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and that the security forces had recovered a Pakistan Ordnance Factory anti-personnel mine from a terror cache. In a joint press conference, the forces displayed an M-24 sniper rifle, anti-personnel landmines recovered from the Pakistani Army along with a telescope from a terror cache along the Amarnath route Subsequently, the Amarnath yatra was cancelled and tourists were ordered to leave. The Indian Air Force carried out sorties and removed over 320 tourists out of Srinagar after the government said that there was an intelligence input of terror threats which could target pilgrims and tourists. During the press conference, J&K police chief Dilbag Singh said that reinforcing the number of forces in the Valley was to bridge the gap to deal with the law and order situation and also to give rest to some of the armed forces present in the Valley. At least 35, 000 paramilitary forces have been deployed, according to reports. The Army said there was a spike in infiltration bid across the line of control(LoC) with reports indicating that infiltration bid by the Pakistan army was foiled.

Section 144 imposed in J&K; internet services suspended

Whether you like it or not, Narendra Modi-Amit Shah model has unleashed new politics in India. One can call it politics of change which continuously challenges the status quo.

This combination has ended the politics of status quo which afflicted Indian politics and our international positions for a long time. By doing away with Article 370, Narendra Modi has shown that he means business when it comes to the core agenda of the RSS family.

The idea of abrogation of Article 370 was not born yesterday. It has been one of the original demands of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee who founded Jan Sangh and, very famously, coined the phrase, "Ek desh mein do vidhan, do pradhan aur do nishan nahi rah sakte hain."

It is a demand which has been part of BJP’s manifesto that was strongly supported by RSS. And hence, what Modi has done is to commit himself to the core idea of his party by changing the status quo of politics in Kashmir which was considered impossible. There can be reasons for and against the way Article 370 has been repealed, but the fact remains that he has done it. It will be appreciated by most Indians as it cements his image as a strong and committed leader.

Modi is also not the first person to take important decisions after earning landslide victory in the Lok Sabha elections. Indira Gandhi, after winning the war with Pakistan, hammered out an accord with the Kashmiri leader Sheikh Abdullah when the former had to agree that clock cannot be reset and pre-1953 status of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be restored.

Similarly, Narendra Modi after 2019 victory has taken the bold decision to end Kashmiri exceptionalism in Indian politics. Nation making is not cast in stone and laws and norms must reflect the moorings of the society.&nbsp;

Today, Article 370 cannot be seen in isolation as it serves as a deterrent to prevent integration of J&amp;K with India. Article 370 is a debate which has caught the imagination of many Indians who feel confident in a resurgent India wants status quo born out of partition to be changed forever.&nbsp;

The abrogation also ends the debate on what the Indian government can/should do with Kashmir. There will be international repercussion and, maybe, bigger domestic ones but it will not change anything on the ground per se.

We should also not forget that Kashmir also comprises Batalik, Kargil, Turtuk, Ladakh and Jammu region and their aspirations cannot be lost to radicalism which is emanating from Southern Kashmir.&nbsp;

Yes, there will be questions about the detention of state leaders and less time given to Parliament to debate the bill, but no one would argue that status changing step has not been taken. Whether it is demonetisation or triple talaq, BJP has successfully changed the status quo of politics in India. The best example is Balakot strike where Modi used the air platform against Pakistan which was considered impossible some years back.

Lastly, Opposition parties will have to creatively deal with the politics of positive nationalism. Any idea which public would see as going against the national unity would massively boom rang.

Though it does not mean that BJP will not have any hill to climb. The top focus of the BJP will remain to tackle violence in the valley. If BJP is able to control the urban centres and restore the normalcy in Kashmir, it will be a victory, but in case the situation becomes worst, then BJP may have to rue this for a long time.&nbsp;

But there are always big ifs before and after momentous decisions and no one can take away from BJP that it has, indeed, taken a big decision by reorganising the state of Jammu and Kashmir. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Whether you like it or not, Narendra Modi-Amit Shah model has unleashed new politics in India. One can call it politics of change which continuously challenges the status quo.

Whether you like it or not, Narendra Modi-Amit Shah model has unleashed new politics in India. One can call it politics of change which continuously challenges the status quo. This combination has ended the politics of status quo which afflicted Indian politics and our international positions for a long time. By doing away with Article 370, Narendra Modi has shown that he means business when it comes to the core agenda of the RSS family. The idea of abrogation of Article 370 was not born yesterday. It has been one of the original demands of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee who founded Jan Sangh and, very famously, coined the phrase, "Ek desh mein do vidhan, do pradhan aur do nishan nahi rah sakte hain." It is a demand which has been part of BJP’s manifesto that was strongly supported by RSS. And hence, what Modi has done is to commit himself to the core idea of his party by changing the status quo of politics in Kashmir which was considered impossible. There can be reasons for and against the way Article 370 has been repealed, but the fact remains that he has done it. It will be appreciated by most Indians as it cements his image as a strong and committed leader. Modi is also not the first person to take important decisions after earning landslide victory in the Lok Sabha elections. Indira Gandhi, after winning the war with Pakistan, hammered out an accord with the Kashmiri leader Sheikh Abdullah when the former had to agree that clock cannot be reset and pre-1953 status of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be restored. Similarly, Narendra Modi after 2019 victory has taken the bold decision to end Kashmiri exceptionalism in Indian politics. Nation making is not cast in stone and laws and norms must reflect the moorings of the society. Today, Article 370 cannot be seen in isolation as it serves as a deterrent to prevent integration of J&K with India. Article 370 is a debate which has caught the imagination of many Indians who feel confident in a resurgent India wants status quo born out of partition to be changed forever. The abrogation also ends the debate on what the Indian government can/should do with Kashmir. There will be international repercussion and, maybe, bigger domestic ones but it will not change anything on the ground per se. We should also not forget that Kashmir also comprises Batalik, Kargil, Turtuk, Ladakh and Jammu region and their aspirations cannot be lost to radicalism which is emanating from Southern Kashmir. Yes, there will be questions about the detention of state leaders and less time given to Parliament to debate the bill, but no one would argue that status changing step has not been taken. Whether it is demonetisation or triple talaq, BJP has successfully changed the status quo of politics in India. The best example is Balakot strike where Modi used the air platform against Pakistan which was considered impossible some years back. Lastly, Opposition parties will have to creatively deal with the politics of positive nationalism. Any idea which public would see as going against the national unity would massively boom rang. Though it does not mean that BJP will not have any hill to climb. The top focus of the BJP will remain to tackle violence in the valley. If BJP is able to control the urban centres and restore the normalcy in Kashmir, it will be a victory, but in case the situation becomes worst, then BJP may have to rue this for a long time. But there are always big ifs before and after momentous decisions and no one can take away from BJP that it has, indeed, taken a big decision by reorganising the state of Jammu and Kashmir. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

PM Narendra Modi does it again: BJP has achieved the impossible by revoking Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir

History of Kashmir and what revoking of special status means

The Central government on Monday asked state governments and Union Territories (UTs) to ensure the safety and security of residents and students of Jammu and Kashmir.

Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order to Chief Secretaries &amp; Director Generals of Police (DGPs) of all states and UTs, asking them to put security forces and law enforcement agencies on maximum alert.

Earlier in the day, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-to-be-bifurcated-article-370-scrapped-more-troops-to-be-deployed-240795">government revoked Article 370 </a>which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and proposed that the state be bifurcated into two union territories, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. 
 
WATCH:&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The resolution, moved by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, said that the President, on the recommendation of the Parliament, is pleased to declare that, as from August 5, 2019, all clauses of the said<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-from-jammu-and-kashmir-all-you-need-to-know-240772"> A</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-asks-states-to-ensure-safety-and-security-of-residents-students-of-jammu-and-kashmir-240807">rticle 370</a> shall cease to be operative except clause (1).

"Further, keeping in view the prevailing internal security situation, fuelled by cross border terrorism in the existing State of Jammu and Kashmir, a separate Union Territory for Jammu and Kashmir is being created. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will be with legislature," the resolution said.

The government has put Indian Army and Air Force on high alert as Article 370 was scrapped.

Meanwhile, mobile internet services have been suspended in Jammu and Kashmir and all educational institutes have been shut in Srinagar until further orders with the government imposing section 144 in the state. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Central government on Monday asked state governments and Union Territories (UTs) to ensure the safety and security of residents and students of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Central government on Monday asked state governments and Union Territories (UTs) to ensure the safety and security of residents and students of Jammu and Kashmir. Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order to Chief Secretaries & Director Generals of Police (DGPs) of all states and UTs, asking them to put security forces and law enforcement agencies on maximum alert. Earlier in the day, the government revoked Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and proposed that the state be bifurcated into two union territories, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. WATCH: × The resolution, moved by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, said that the President, on the recommendation of the Parliament, is pleased to declare that, as from August 5, 2019, all clauses of the said Article 370 shall cease to be operative except clause (1). "Further, keeping in view the prevailing internal security situation, fuelled by cross border terrorism in the existing State of Jammu and Kashmir, a separate Union Territory for Jammu and Kashmir is being created. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will be with legislature," the resolution said. The government has put Indian Army and Air Force on high alert as Article 370 was scrapped. Meanwhile, mobile internet services have been suspended in Jammu and Kashmir and all educational institutes have been shut in Srinagar until further orders with the government imposing section 144 in the state. (With inputs from agencies)

Centre asks states and union territories to ensure safety and security of residents, students of Jammu and Kashmir

Home minister Amit Shah today announced in India's upper house of Parliament the Rajya Sabha that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-now-a-union-territory-ladakh-to-be-administered-from-delhi-as-ut-240769">Article 370 which gave special status</a> of Jammu and Kashmir would be scrapped.

The BJP-led government moved a resolution to scrap<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-from-jammu-and-kashmir-all-you-need-to-know-240772"> Article 370 of the Constitution</a> and convert the state into a &nbsp;Union Territory with a legislature. It included the Ladakh region which was to be taken out of the state and made into a Union Territory without a legislature.

Moving the resolution, Amit Shah Shah said, "There should not be a delay of even a second to removing Article 370 from the Constitution."

The resolution said the President, on the recommendation of the Parliament, is pleased to declare that, as from August 5, 2019, all clauses of the said article 370 shall cease to be operative except clause (1).

Watch what Home Minister Amit Shah said in Rajya Sabha

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"Further, keeping in view the prevailing internal security situation, fuelled by cross border terrorism in the existing State of Jammu and Kashmir, a separate Union Territory for Jammu and Kashmir is being created. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will be with legislature," the resoultion said.

Even as the Congress resisted the resolution, it was supported by the AIADMK and BSP. Former finance minister Arun Jaitley hailed the BJP government's decision asserting that a "historical wrong was undone".

"The decision of the government will help the people of J&amp;K the most," he added. Former foreign minister Sushma Swaraj called it a "bold and historic decision".

The notification also made clear that all the provisions of the Constitution as amended from time to time, shall apply in relation to the state of Jammu and Kashmir and the exceptions and modifications subject to which they shall so apply.&nbsp;

The state of Jammu and Kashmir will now be bifircated, according to the resolution.

It also added a clause (4) to Article 367 which said,"(4) For the purposes of this Constitution as it applies in relation to the State of Jammu and Kashmir -(a) references to this Constitution or to the provisions thereof shall be construed as references to the Constitution or the provisions thereof as applied in relation to the said State;(b) references to the person for the time being recognized by the President on the recommendation of the Legislative Assembly of the State as the Sadar-i-Riyasat of Jammu and Kashmir, acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers of the State for the time being in office, shall be construed as references to the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir; (c) references to the Government of the said State shall be construed as including references to the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir acting on the advice of his Council of Ministers; and (d) in proviso to clause (3) of Article 370 of this Constitution, the expression "Constituent Assembly of the State referred to in clause (2)" shall read "Legislative Assembly of the State"."

Amit Shah also moved a bill providing 10 per cent quota for economically weaker sections in Jammu and Kashmir.

As Article 370 was scrapped, the Indian Army and Air Force were put on high alert with the Centre set to move over 8,000 paramiltary troops to J&amp;K in view of the changed situation.

Home minister Amit Shah today announced in India's upper house of Parliament the Rajya Sabha that Article 370 which gave special status of Jammu and Kashmir would be scrapped.

Home minister Amit Shah today announced in India's upper house of Parliament the Rajya Sabha that Article 370 which gave special status of Jammu and Kashmir would be scrapped. The BJP-led government moved a resolution to scrap Article 370 of the Constitution and convert the state into a Union Territory with a legislature. It included the Ladakh region which was to be taken out of the state and made into a Union Territory without a legislature. Moving the resolution, Amit Shah Shah said, "There should not be a delay of even a second to removing Article 370 from the Constitution." The resolution said the President, on the recommendation of the Parliament, is pleased to declare that, as from August 5, 2019, all clauses of the said article 370 shall cease to be operative except clause (1). Watch what Home Minister Amit Shah said in Rajya Sabha "Further, keeping in view the prevailing internal security situation, fuelled by cross border terrorism in the existing State of Jammu and Kashmir, a separate Union Territory for Jammu and Kashmir is being created. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will be with legislature," the resoultion said. Even as the Congress resisted the resolution, it was supported by the AIADMK and BSP. Former finance minister Arun Jaitley hailed the BJP government's decision asserting that a "historical wrong was undone". "The decision of the government will help the people of J&K the most," he added. Former foreign minister Sushma Swaraj called it a "bold and historic decision". The notification also made clear that all the provisions of the Constitution as amended from time to time, shall apply in relation to the state of Jammu and Kashmir and the exceptions and modifications subject to which they shall so apply. The state of Jammu and Kashmir will now be bifircated, according to the resolution. It also added a clause (4) to Article 367 which said,"(4) For the purposes of this Constitution as it applies in relation to the State of Jammu and Kashmir -(a) references to this Constitution or to the provisions thereof shall be construed as references to the Constitution or the provisions thereof as applied in relation to the said State;(b) references to the person for the time being recognized by the President on the recommendation of the Legislative Assembly of the State as the Sadar-i-Riyasat of Jammu and Kashmir, acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers of the State for the time being in office, shall be construed as references to the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir; (c) references to the Government of the said State shall be construed as including references to the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir acting on the advice of his Council of Ministers; and (d) in proviso to clause (3) of Article 370 of this Constitution, the expression "Constituent Assembly of the State referred to in clause (2)" shall read "Legislative Assembly of the State"." Amit Shah also moved a bill providing 10 per cent quota for economically weaker sections in Jammu and Kashmir. As Article 370 was scrapped, the Indian Army and Air Force were put on high alert with the Centre set to move over 8,000 paramiltary troops to J&K in view of the changed situation.

Jammu and Kashmir to be bifurcated, Article 370 scrapped; more troops to be deployed

The Centre on Monday scrapped Article 370 of the Constitution that gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir and bars people from rest of India from buying land in the state.

Union Minister Amit Shah announced in Rajya Sabha that Jammu and Kashmir will now be a union territory with legislature and Ladakh to be union territory without legislature. 
 
Amit Shah said that this had been done in view of constant threats of cross border terrorism.

Here is all you need to know about Article 370:

Article 370 is a "temporary provision" which accords special autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir under Part XXI of the Constitution and it specifies that except for Defence, Foreign Affairs, Communications and ancillary matters, Parliament needs the state government's concurrence for applying all other laws.&nbsp;

Parliament can also not increase or decrease the borders of the state. It allows the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly to make it own Constitution, and thus, granting it special autonomy. 
 
Article 35A comes under Article 370 which empowers the Jammu and Kashmir government to define the state's permanent residents and to grant them privileges and special rights.&nbsp;

The Centre on Monday scrapped Article 370 of the Constitution that gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir and bars people from rest of India from buying land in the state.

The Centre on Monday scrapped Article 370 of the Constitution that gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir and bars people from rest of India from buying land in the state. Union Minister Amit Shah announced in Rajya Sabha that Jammu and Kashmir will now be a union territory with legislature and Ladakh to be union territory without legislature. Amit Shah said that this had been done in view of constant threats of cross border terrorism. Here is all you need to know about Article 370: Article 370 is a "temporary provision" which accords special autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir under Part XXI of the Constitution and it specifies that except for Defence, Foreign Affairs, Communications and ancillary matters, Parliament needs the state government's concurrence for applying all other laws. Parliament can also not increase or decrease the borders of the state. It allows the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly to make it own Constitution, and thus, granting it special autonomy. Article 35A comes under Article 370 which empowers the Jammu and Kashmir government to define the state's permanent residents and to grant them privileges and special rights.

Article 370 revoked from Jammu and Kashmir: All you need to know

Jammu and Kashmir cricket team mentor-cum-coach Irfan Pathan said he, along with around 100 other cricketers, has been asked to leave the camp at the earliest. This came after the Jammu and Kashmir administration issued an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/britain-issues-travel-advisory-to-citizens-travelling-to-kashmir-over-amarnath-alert-240502">advisory to tourists</a> and Amarnath Yatris to leave the Valley immediately, citing a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/intel-report-warning-of-imminent-terror-attack-in-jk-behind-recent-troop-buildup-240405">terror threat</a>.

Speaking to ANI, Pathan said, "Our camp has been shut down and the cricketers were sent back to their homes. The camp was from June 14 to July 14 and after a break of ten days, camp restarted from July 25. Yesterday, about 100 players were sent back to their home."

"The matches were scheduled from July 31 and will last till August 17. These matches were organised for the selection of district cricketers," he added.

The 34-year-old, who was appointed as the mentor-cum-coach of the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team on July 1 last year, said support staff was also asked to leave the state.

The Indian Army had said earlier this week that there has been a desperate attempt to revive terrorism and push terrorists from Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and other terror groups to Kashmir.

Keeping citizens'&nbsp;security in mind, Jammu and Kashmir administration had on Friday issued an advisory for tourists and Amarnath pilgrims to curtail their stay in the Valley immediately.

The LoC in the last few days has been volatile with two armies frequently trading heavy fire including the use of higher calibre weapons.

The security forces have also recovered an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-security-forces-recovered-us-made-m-24-sniper-rifle-near-amarnath-yatra-route-240472">American made M24 sniper rifle</a> and mine with Pakistani Ordnance Factory (POF) markings on it.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir cricket team mentor-cum-coach Irfan Pathan said he, along with around 100 other cricketers, has been asked to leave the camp at the earliest. This came after the Jammu and Kashmir administration issued an advisory to tourists and Amarnath Yatris to leave the Valley immediately, citing a terror threat.

Jammu and Kashmir cricket team mentor-cum-coach Irfan Pathan said he, along with around 100 other cricketers, has been asked to leave the camp at the earliest. This came after the Jammu and Kashmir administration issued an advisory to tourists and Amarnath Yatris to leave the Valley immediately, citing a terror threat. Speaking to ANI, Pathan said, "Our camp has been shut down and the cricketers were sent back to their homes. The camp was from June 14 to July 14 and after a break of ten days, camp restarted from July 25. Yesterday, about 100 players were sent back to their home." "The matches were scheduled from July 31 and will last till August 17. These matches were organised for the selection of district cricketers," he added. The 34-year-old, who was appointed as the mentor-cum-coach of the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team on July 1 last year, said support staff was also asked to leave the state. The Indian Army had said earlier this week that there has been a desperate attempt to revive terrorism and push terrorists from Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and other terror groups to Kashmir. Keeping citizens' security in mind, Jammu and Kashmir administration had on Friday issued an advisory for tourists and Amarnath pilgrims to curtail their stay in the Valley immediately. The LoC in the last few days has been volatile with two armies frequently trading heavy fire including the use of higher calibre weapons. The security forces have also recovered an American made M24 sniper rifle and mine with Pakistani Ordnance Factory (POF) markings on it.

India's Irfan Pathan, 100 other cricketers asked to leave Jammu and Kashmir

The trigger for this essay comes from the mounting protests in Hong Kong; an advanced society in the throes of street turbulence. Sooner than later China may throw caution to the winds and send in the People’s Liberation Army to take over the territory and quell democracy. But my focus is elsewhere, on home territory, Kashmir. Having faced street protests there for many years it’s a different ballgame to Hong Kong. I am drawn back to it because of the rumours in the air of impending changes that could act as triggers.

Kashmir usually sits on the edge and street violence, for the last ten years, has been a norm. Will we see it implode again as it did in 2008 with the Amarnath Shrine Board agitation, in 2009 with rumours connected to the Shopian rape case, in 2010 with the Machil and Tufail Mattoo incidents and in 2016 with the killing of Burhan Wani? I am not examining here anything remotely related to the merits and demerits of Article 35A, the abrogation of which is being assessed as a likely trigger.

The power of the street was realised by the separatists in 2008 taking inspiration from the Palestinian Intifada. Little known but the other inspiration for Kashmir’s street turbulence was a book called ‘From Dictatorship to Democracy’ by an American scholar called Gene Sharpe. The latter is considered the father of modern revolutions and his chapter — ‘98 Ways of Non-Violent Action’ has inspired many of them. Syed Ali Shah Geelani is known to have read it and been inspired by it.

In Aug 2008 when we faced the murderous one lakh strong mob which attempted to march from Sopore to Uri, there was no social media. Yet thousands of people poured into the streets. None of us, the army, intelligence services or JK Police were prepared for it. &nbsp;Thereafter, seasoned commanders of anti-terrorist operations were taken aback by the vehemence and passion in the streets. They had little idea about dealing with such protests.

Many a time women led the front pushing even children ahead. Over a period of time, the art of street violence was near perfected by the Kashmiri protestors no doubt with some guidance from across the LoC. Social media expansion became the means of rallying protestors, taking inspiration from Tahrir Square, the Lotus Revolution and many other such protests of the Arab Spring. As the age of the street protestor became younger we witnessed 11 and 12-year-olds take to the streets. From 2014 an innovation entered into the methods with protestors rallying in support of terrorists cornered in houses through intelligence-driven cordons. This proved a major challenge for the security forces (SF) and led to more civilian casualties. The notion that separatists support nonviolent ways of protest has been a misnomer successfully fed to human rights organisations. &nbsp;In 2008-10 two recalls are of significance. First, the Army held a moral sway; its young company commanders had the networking skills and courage to walk up to leaders of protesting mobs and dissuade them many times to put an end to the protest in their area. Secondly, while the police had the most uncomfortable and challenging job the protestors mastered ways of breaking up police squads, attracting them into by lanes and then targeting them, forcing them to fire and cause civilian casualties.&nbsp;

The ecosystem of J&amp;K, of which much is being written and spoken about today, has been the core centre of the organisational capability to run the agitation which at one time came to be termed as ‘agitational terror’ for various reasons. Protest without money power would have ground to a halt. In the town of Baramula from where the protests really began and spread there were fixed rates for each stone thrower. Stones were ‘imported’ by vehicles and stone-throwers came from other towns so that identification of leaders was difficult. The rallying of mobs was done by a large network of over ground workers (OGWs) armed with an information system multiplied many times over today due to social media. Manipulated video clips and rumours form the focus of the information system which the government establishment has a little answer for except the shutting down of the internet. Civilian casualties draw mass response at funerals and increase alienation manifold. The local media with more publications than found in Delhi or Mumbai has rarely found itself under control except during periods when curfew restricted the movement of its workers.

No one is saying that we are heading towards a period of street protests but it’s always good to be wary and cautious when attempts are being to change the tack of the strategy and campaign in J&amp;K. The SF’s identified weakness is what the separatists consider their strength. That is the lack of a professional way of tackling mass protests. We cannot sit on a moral high horse and claim the use of minimum force when the international community throws such things in our face. Also, let us not gloat over our capability to resist international pressure. China may get away with treatment of Uyghur in Xinjiang and possibly even with handing over of Hong Kong to the PLA; that is because China does not claim democratic norms of functioning. Yet, even as Government of India is getting down to tackle issues which have never been tackled in the past it should ensure none of this is done in an unsmart way. It has done well to go after the ecosystem but the same is so strongly entrenched that it will take time. The money conduits and information system which help the separatists run the power of the streets must be legitimately choked completely. Let there be more transparency about this.&nbsp;

No doubt this seems an appropriate time to tackle the separatists when Pakistan too is under pressure and attention is more on Afghanistan. Kashmir’s stamina for resistance is also low notwithstanding formation of joint resistance committees by the separatists. There are far more smart, legitimate and humane ways of controlling violence in the streets than by just pumping in a hundred companies of armed police forces. May be good to take a cue from what the Indian Army does before it sends any troops to conflict zones. It trains them for the situation and threat that they are likely to meet. Untrained soldiers or armed policemen can be a greater liability than can be imagined. Lastly, where is our information system to counter the separatist misinformation? Rumour mongering isn’t the best way of tackling such situations.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-taking-to-the-jk-streets-2778405">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

The trigger for this essay comes from the mounting protests in Hong Kong; an advanced society in the throes of street turbulence. Sooner than later China may throw caution to the winds and send in the People’s Liberation Army to take over the territory and quell democracy.

The trigger for this essay comes from the mounting protests in Hong Kong; an advanced society in the throes of street turbulence. Sooner than later China may throw caution to the winds and send in the People’s Liberation Army to take over the territory and quell democracy. But my focus is elsewhere, on home territory, Kashmir. Having faced street protests there for many years it’s a different ballgame to Hong Kong. I am drawn back to it because of the rumours in the air of impending changes that could act as triggers. Kashmir usually sits on the edge and street violence, for the last ten years, has been a norm. Will we see it implode again as it did in 2008 with the Amarnath Shrine Board agitation, in 2009 with rumours connected to the Shopian rape case, in 2010 with the Machil and Tufail Mattoo incidents and in 2016 with the killing of Burhan Wani? I am not examining here anything remotely related to the merits and demerits of Article 35A, the abrogation of which is being assessed as a likely trigger. The power of the street was realised by the separatists in 2008 taking inspiration from the Palestinian Intifada. Little known but the other inspiration for Kashmir’s street turbulence was a book called ‘From Dictatorship to Democracy’ by an American scholar called Gene Sharpe. The latter is considered the father of modern revolutions and his chapter — ‘98 Ways of Non-Violent Action’ has inspired many of them. Syed Ali Shah Geelani is known to have read it and been inspired by it. In Aug 2008 when we faced the murderous one lakh strong mob which attempted to march from Sopore to Uri, there was no social media. Yet thousands of people poured into the streets. None of us, the army, intelligence services or JK Police were prepared for it. Thereafter, seasoned commanders of anti-terrorist operations were taken aback by the vehemence and passion in the streets. They had little idea about dealing with such protests. Many a time women led the front pushing even children ahead. Over a period of time, the art of street violence was near perfected by the Kashmiri protestors no doubt with some guidance from across the LoC. Social media expansion became the means of rallying protestors, taking inspiration from Tahrir Square, the Lotus Revolution and many other such protests of the Arab Spring. As the age of the street protestor became younger we witnessed 11 and 12-year-olds take to the streets. From 2014 an innovation entered into the methods with protestors rallying in support of terrorists cornered in houses through intelligence-driven cordons. This proved a major challenge for the security forces (SF) and led to more civilian casualties. The notion that separatists support nonviolent ways of protest has been a misnomer successfully fed to human rights organisations. In 2008-10 two recalls are of significance. First, the Army held a moral sway; its young company commanders had the networking skills and courage to walk up to leaders of protesting mobs and dissuade them many times to put an end to the protest in their area. Secondly, while the police had the most uncomfortable and challenging job the protestors mastered ways of breaking up police squads, attracting them into by lanes and then targeting them, forcing them to fire and cause civilian casualties. The ecosystem of J&K, of which much is being written and spoken about today, has been the core centre of the organisational capability to run the agitation which at one time came to be termed as ‘agitational terror’ for various reasons. Protest without money power would have ground to a halt. In the town of Baramula from where the protests really began and spread there were fixed rates for each stone thrower. Stones were ‘imported’ by vehicles and stone-throwers came from other towns so that identification of leaders was difficult. The rallying of mobs was done by a large network of over ground workers (OGWs) armed with an information system multiplied many times over today due to social media. Manipulated video clips and rumours form the focus of the information system which the government establishment has a little answer for except the shutting down of the internet. Civilian casualties draw mass response at funerals and increase alienation manifold. The local media with more publications than found in Delhi or Mumbai has rarely found itself under control except during periods when curfew restricted the movement of its workers. No one is saying that we are heading towards a period of street protests but it’s always good to be wary and cautious when attempts are being to change the tack of the strategy and campaign in J&K. The SF’s identified weakness is what the separatists consider their strength. That is the lack of a professional way of tackling mass protests. We cannot sit on a moral high horse and claim the use of minimum force when the international community throws such things in our face. Also, let us not gloat over our capability to resist international pressure. China may get away with treatment of Uyghur in Xinjiang and possibly even with handing over of Hong Kong to the PLA; that is because China does not claim democratic norms of functioning. Yet, even as Government of India is getting down to tackle issues which have never been tackled in the past it should ensure none of this is done in an unsmart way. It has done well to go after the ecosystem but the same is so strongly entrenched that it will take time. The money conduits and information system which help the separatists run the power of the streets must be legitimately choked completely. Let there be more transparency about this. No doubt this seems an appropriate time to tackle the separatists when Pakistan too is under pressure and attention is more on Afghanistan. Kashmir’s stamina for resistance is also low notwithstanding formation of joint resistance committees by the separatists. There are far more smart, legitimate and humane ways of controlling violence in the streets than by just pumping in a hundred companies of armed police forces. May be good to take a cue from what the Indian Army does before it sends any troops to conflict zones. It trains them for the situation and threat that they are likely to meet. Untrained soldiers or armed policemen can be a greater liability than can be imagined. Lastly, where is our information system to counter the separatist misinformation? Rumour mongering isn’t the best way of tackling such situations. (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.)

Taking to the J&K streets

Indian Government & J&K Governor said that advisory is out for the safety & security of the tourists. He said that the Amarnath yatra has been curtailed but there is no need to panic.

J&K Governor: Amarnath yatra curtailed, no need to panic

Governor of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir has cleared the prevailing security situation in the region. Satya Pal Malik has urged people not to panic. Watch this video to know more.

India: Tourists, pilgrims advised to leave J&K

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