The Border Security Force has handover over a Pakistani national, who had crossed over the international border on Friday, to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-f-16-pilots-fired-4-5-amraams-at-indian-planes-from-40-50-km-sources-201455">Pakistan </a>Rangers.&nbsp;

The BSF said the Pakistani national was handed over as a "goodwill gesture" and to "maintain&nbsp;peace and&nbsp;tranquillity" along the International Border.&nbsp; 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-did-not-shoot-down-one-of-our-sukhois-india-201398">Pakistan</a> had earlier released the Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman as a "peace gesture".

The Indian Air Force&nbsp;had on February 26 conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. (The air strike had come 12 days after the suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama which had killed 40 personnel. The attack had been claimed by the JeM.)&nbsp;

Pakistan hit back a day later, dropping bombs on the Indian side of the Line of Control.&nbsp;

Pakistan said it did not cross the LoC. India said the Pakistani bombs had been aimed at Indian military installations but that they missed their targets.&nbsp;

India had scrambled jets to chase out the Pakistani planes.&nbsp;

One of those Indian planes — a MiG 21 Bison — had been flown by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wc-abhinandan-piloted-mig-21-bison-shot-down-pak-f-16-have-electronic-evidence-mea-202214">Abhinandan </a>who took down a Pakistani F-16 but was then shot down too.&nbsp;

He spent two nights in Pakistani custody before being released.&nbsp;&nbsp;

His release had very quickly de-escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Border Security Force has handover over a Pakistani national, who had crossed over the international border on Friday, to the Pakistan Rangers. The BSF said the Pakistani national was handed over as a "goodwill gesture" and to "maintain peace and tranquillity" along the International Border.

The Border Security Force has handover over a Pakistani national, who had crossed over the international border on Friday, to the Pakistan Rangers. The BSF said the Pakistani national was handed over as a "goodwill gesture" and to "maintain peace and tranquillity" along the International Border. Pakistan had earlier released the Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman as a "peace gesture". The Indian Air Force had on February 26 conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. (The air strike had come 12 days after the suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama which had killed 40 personnel. The attack had been claimed by the JeM.) Pakistan hit back a day later, dropping bombs on the Indian side of the Line of Control. Pakistan said it did not cross the LoC. India said the Pakistani bombs had been aimed at Indian military installations but that they missed their targets. India had scrambled jets to chase out the Pakistani planes. One of those Indian planes — a MiG 21 Bison — had been flown by Abhinandan who took down a Pakistani F-16 but was then shot down too. He spent two nights in Pakistani custody before being released. His release had very quickly de-escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.

India hands over Pakistani national as 'goodwill gesture'

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-imposes-ban-on-jamaat-e-islami-jammu-and-kashmir-200364">Jamaat-e-</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-imposes-ban-on-jamaat-e-islami-jammu-and-kashmir-200364">lslami</a> Jammu and Kashmir, which was banned by the government recently, has established strong links with Pakistan's ISI and has been maintaining regular contact with the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi for promoting secessionism in the state, officials said.

The most important member of the JeI (J&amp;K) in the Hurriyat Conference is Syed Ali Shah Geelani, who was at one point of time designated as the 'Amir-e-Jihad' (Head of Jehad) of Jammu and Kashmir by the proscribed organisation.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-police-crackdown-on-jamaat-e-islami-jammu-and-kashmir-top-leaders-detained-199109">JeI (J&amp;K) </a>has established strong links with Pakistan's ISI for ensuring logistics support for arming, training and supply of weapons to Kashmiri youths and its leaders continue to maintain regular contact with the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi for support, a senior government official said.

According to the intelligence inputs, the Jel (J&amp;K) has been using its network of schools to spread anti-India feelings among children in the Kashmir Valley and encouraging cadres of the Jel (J&amp;K) youth wing (Jamiat-ul-Tulba) to join 'Jihad' by getting recruited into terrorist outfits.

It is no surprise that the pattern of militancy in the Valley has a strong correlation with the spread of the hardline Jel (J&amp;K) activists in the area, the official said.

The Jel (J&amp;K) has been utilising the fear generated by Pakistan-based Hizbul Mujahideen and leveraging the financial clouts of its members and trusts under its control to mobilise funds both locally and from abroad and using these assets to consolidate its hold at the grassroot level.

This base is used to provide a fertile ground for the operation of militants outfits in the Kashmir Valley including motivation, new recruits, shelters and hideouts, couriers etc.

The hardliner elements in Jel have been at the forefront of secessionist activities and were the brain behind the formation of the All Party Hurriyat Conference (APHC) as well as Hizbul Mujahideen, another official said.

The JeI (J&amp;K) also has several trusts for running schools to disseminate orthodox Islamic education, has a youth wing and has numerous publications for spreading its fundamentalist ideology.

Behind this facade, hardliners within the JeI (J&amp;K) have been involved with militant groups, have actively participated in promotion of secessionist activities, have been questioning the finality of the Jammu and Kashmir's accession to India and have been "striving for merger of the state with Pakistan", the official said.

The group has extensive foreign links through which it secures funding and promotes its objectives. It has close links with Jel-Pakistan, Jel-POK and Jel-Bangladesh, where several leaders have faced death penalty for anti-national activities.

It has also been promoting sectarian tensions in the Valley by mobilizing opinion against the Hanfi-Aithkadi sects.

Gilani, the JeI (J&amp;K) representative in the Hurriyat, has been continuously supporting militancy in Kashmir and even during the Kargil War, he had termed the intruders as "freedom fighters".

The JeI (J&amp;K) was formed in 1945 as a chapter of the Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and separated in 1953 due to differences over political ideology with the parent body.

It is opposed to participating in the electoral process and has been pursuing the agenda of setting up an independent theocratic Islamic State by destabilising the government established by law.

The outfit was banned twice in the past due to its activities. The first time in 1975 for two years by the Jammu and Kashmir government and the second time in April 1990 for three years by the Centre, when Mufti Mohammad Sayeed was the Union home minister. The ban continued till December, 1993.

The JeI (J&amp;K) was banned again by the central government on February 28.

The Jamaat-e-lslami Jammu and Kashmir, which was banned by the government recently, has established strong links with Pakistan's ISI and has been maintaining regular contact with the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi for promoting secessionism in the state, officials said.

The Jamaat-e-lslami Jammu and Kashmir, which was banned by the government recently, has established strong links with Pakistan's ISI and has been maintaining regular contact with the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi for promoting secessionism in the state, officials said. The most important member of the JeI (J&K) in the Hurriyat Conference is Syed Ali Shah Geelani, who was at one point of time designated as the 'Amir-e-Jihad' (Head of Jehad) of Jammu and Kashmir by the proscribed organisation. The JeI (J&K) has established strong links with Pakistan's ISI for ensuring logistics support for arming, training and supply of weapons to Kashmiri youths and its leaders continue to maintain regular contact with the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi for support, a senior government official said. According to the intelligence inputs, the Jel (J&K) has been using its network of schools to spread anti-India feelings among children in the Kashmir Valley and encouraging cadres of the Jel (J&K) youth wing (Jamiat-ul-Tulba) to join 'Jihad' by getting recruited into terrorist outfits. It is no surprise that the pattern of militancy in the Valley has a strong correlation with the spread of the hardline Jel (J&K) activists in the area, the official said. The Jel (J&K) has been utilising the fear generated by Pakistan-based Hizbul Mujahideen and leveraging the financial clouts of its members and trusts under its control to mobilise funds both locally and from abroad and using these assets to consolidate its hold at the grassroot level. This base is used to provide a fertile ground for the operation of militants outfits in the Kashmir Valley including motivation, new recruits, shelters and hideouts, couriers etc. The hardliner elements in Jel have been at the forefront of secessionist activities and were the brain behind the formation of the All Party Hurriyat Conference (APHC) as well as Hizbul Mujahideen, another official said. The JeI (J&K) also has several trusts for running schools to disseminate orthodox Islamic education, has a youth wing and has numerous publications for spreading its fundamentalist ideology. Behind this facade, hardliners within the JeI (J&K) have been involved with militant groups, have actively participated in promotion of secessionist activities, have been questioning the finality of the Jammu and Kashmir's accession to India and have been "striving for merger of the state with Pakistan", the official said. The group has extensive foreign links through which it secures funding and promotes its objectives. It has close links with Jel-Pakistan, Jel-POK and Jel-Bangladesh, where several leaders have faced death penalty for anti-national activities. It has also been promoting sectarian tensions in the Valley by mobilizing opinion against the Hanfi-Aithkadi sects. Gilani, the JeI (J&K) representative in the Hurriyat, has been continuously supporting militancy in Kashmir and even during the Kargil War, he had termed the intruders as "freedom fighters". The JeI (J&K) was formed in 1945 as a chapter of the Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and separated in 1953 due to differences over political ideology with the parent body. It is opposed to participating in the electoral process and has been pursuing the agenda of setting up an independent theocratic Islamic State by destabilising the government established by law. The outfit was banned twice in the past due to its activities. The first time in 1975 for two years by the Jammu and Kashmir government and the second time in April 1990 for three years by the Centre, when Mufti Mohammad Sayeed was the Union home minister. The ban continued till December, 1993. The JeI (J&K) was banned again by the central government on February 28.

Jamaat-e-lslami established strong links with ISI: Officials

J&K Police's Manish K Sinha press briefing on explosion at Jammu bus-stand

A blast&nbsp;occurred at a bus stand in Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K)&nbsp;on Thursday.

MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police(IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion."

Reports said at least twenty-eight people were injured due to the blast.

This is the third grenade attack&nbsp;in the bus stand area of the city since May last year.

Police said people&nbsp;who were injured in the blast have been admitted to hospital. At least 5 people are in critical condition.

The scene of the blast along the BC Road was sealed off by police and a massive hunt has been launched to nab the grenade thrower, MK Sinha, IGP, Jammu, said.

Sinha, who immediately rushed to the scene to take stock of the situation, said a preliminary investigation suggests that someone lobbed the grenade, causing injuries to&nbsp;people who were evacuated to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital.

Windscreens of a parked state road transport corporation (SRTC) bus were damaged in the blast, a police official said, adding a condition of one of the injured was stated to be "critical".

&nbsp;

A blast occurred at a bus stand in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) on Thursday. MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police(IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion." Reports said at least twenty-eight people were injured due to the blast.

A blast occurred at a bus stand in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) on Thursday. MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police(IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion." Reports said at least twenty-eight people were injured due to the blast. This is the third grenade attack in the bus stand area of the city since May last year. Police said people who were injured in the blast have been admitted to hospital. At least 5 people are in critical condition. The scene of the blast along the BC Road was sealed off by police and a massive hunt has been launched to nab the grenade thrower, MK Sinha, IGP, Jammu, said. Sinha, who immediately rushed to the scene to take stock of the situation, said a preliminary investigation suggests that someone lobbed the grenade, causing injuries to people who were evacuated to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital. Windscreens of a parked state road transport corporation (SRTC) bus were damaged in the blast, a police official said, adding a condition of one of the injured was stated to be "critical".

Grenade blast in Jammu and Kashmir bus stand; at least 28 injured

Pakistani troops on Monday early morning continued unprovoked firing of mortar shells and small arms along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir’s Akhnoor sector.

The Indian army retaliated effectively, reported ANI, and the firing stopped in a few hours i.e; by 6.30 AM.

The Pakistan Army has violated the ceasefire for over 60 times during the last one week by targeting over 70 civilian and forward areas along the LoC in Poonch, Rajouri, Jammu and Baramulla districts of Jammu and Kashmir.

Meanwhile, the Centre has reportedly sanctioned an additional 400 bunkers for residents in Poonch and Rajouri districts of the state with 200 additional bunkers for each district.&nbsp;

According to locals, he said the bunkers have been found to be an effective response to cross-border shelling, providing border residents a safe place to shelter themselves during shelling incidents.

The decision comes in the wake of escalating tension between India and Pakistan and incidents of heightened cross-border shelling. 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

Pakistani troops on Monday early morning continued unprovoked firing of mortar shells and small arms along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir’s Akhnoor sector. The Indian army retaliated effectively, reported ANI, and the firing stopped in a few hours i.

Pakistani troops on Monday early morning continued unprovoked firing of mortar shells and small arms along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir’s Akhnoor sector. The Indian army retaliated effectively, reported ANI, and the firing stopped in a few hours i.e; by 6.30 AM. The Pakistan Army has violated the ceasefire for over 60 times during the last one week by targeting over 70 civilian and forward areas along the LoC in Poonch, Rajouri, Jammu and Baramulla districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Meanwhile, the Centre has reportedly sanctioned an additional 400 bunkers for residents in Poonch and Rajouri districts of the state with 200 additional bunkers for each district. According to locals, he said the bunkers have been found to be an effective response to cross-border shelling, providing border residents a safe place to shelter themselves during shelling incidents. The decision comes in the wake of escalating tension between India and Pakistan and incidents of heightened cross-border shelling. (With inputs from PTI)

J&K: Pakistan violates ceasefire in Akhnoor sector; Indian Army retaliates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jammu & Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire for eighth consecutive day

Breaking News: Two JeM terrorists killed in Shopian encounter

Encounter breaks out in Shopian, J&K; Cordon, search operation launched

Putting all speculation to rest, the Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday said its stance remained unchanged that only an elected government would be able to take a stand on Article 35-A before the Supreme Court, which is hearing a bunch of petitions challenging its validity.

Addressing a press conference, senior bureaucrat Rohit Kansal, who has been designated as the chief spokesperson of the governor's administration, said, "The stand of the state government on the request of deferment of hearing on Article 35A in the Supreme Court remains the same as requested by them on February 11."

He was replying to a question on whether there was a change in the stand of the governor's administration on the contentious issue.

Kansal also urged the people of the state not to pay heed to rumours and get panicky on the basis of unsubstantiated and exaggerated pieces of information which were in circulation.

"In the past few days several rumours have been circulated and panic messages disseminated. Most of these have been based on unsubstantiated or exaggerated pieces of information," he said.

The Jammu and Kashmir government's counsel had sought permission from the Supreme Court for circulating a letter among the contesting parties for adjourning the upcoming hearing on the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of Article 35A, which provides special rights and privileges to the natives of the state, saying there was no "elected government" in the state.

The apex court is scheduled to hear the petitions challenging Article 35A soon.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Sanjiv Khanna was told by lawyer Shoeb Alam, representing the Jammu and Kashmir government, on February 11 that he was seeking its nod to circulate the letter among the parties for getting the scheduled hearing deferred.

"On the day of listing, the undersigned (Alam) shall be requesting for an adjournment in the matter since presently, there is no elected government in the state of Jammu and Kashmir and the state is under President's Rule.

"The present matter involves a sensitive issue regarding a challenge to Article 35A of the Constitution of India. A short reply has been filed by the state of Jammu and Kashmir in the lead matter 'We the Citizens' and notices have not been issued on the other petitions. It will, therefore, be requesting that the matter may kindly be heard when an elected government is in place," the state government said in the letter.

Article 35A, which was incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, accords special rights and privileges to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir and bars people from outside the state from acquiring any immovable property in the state.

It denies property rights to a woman who marries a person from outside the state. The provision, which leads to such women from the state forfeiting their right over property, also applies to their heirs. 
The bench is hearing several petitions including the one filed by NGO 'We the Citizens' through lawyer Barun Kumar Sinha.

Several petitions, including those by political parties like the National Conference and the CPI-M, were also filed in the Supreme Court in support of Article 35A that also empowers the state Assembly to define "permanent residents" for bestowing special rights and privileges to them.

The state government, while defending the article, had cited two verdicts of the constitution benches of the Supreme Court in 1961 and 1969, which had upheld the powers of the president under Article 370(1)(d) of the Constitution to pass constitutional orders.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Putting all speculation to rest, the Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday said its stance remained unchanged that only an elected government would be able to take a stand on Article 35-A before the Supreme Court, which is hearing a bunch of petitions challenging its validity.

Putting all speculation to rest, the Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday said its stance remained unchanged that only an elected government would be able to take a stand on Article 35-A before the Supreme Court, which is hearing a bunch of petitions challenging its validity. Addressing a press conference, senior bureaucrat Rohit Kansal, who has been designated as the chief spokesperson of the governor's administration, said, "The stand of the state government on the request of deferment of hearing on Article 35A in the Supreme Court remains the same as requested by them on February 11." He was replying to a question on whether there was a change in the stand of the governor's administration on the contentious issue. Kansal also urged the people of the state not to pay heed to rumours and get panicky on the basis of unsubstantiated and exaggerated pieces of information which were in circulation. "In the past few days several rumours have been circulated and panic messages disseminated. Most of these have been based on unsubstantiated or exaggerated pieces of information," he said. The Jammu and Kashmir government's counsel had sought permission from the Supreme Court for circulating a letter among the contesting parties for adjourning the upcoming hearing on the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of Article 35A, which provides special rights and privileges to the natives of the state, saying there was no "elected government" in the state. The apex court is scheduled to hear the petitions challenging Article 35A soon. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Sanjiv Khanna was told by lawyer Shoeb Alam, representing the Jammu and Kashmir government, on February 11 that he was seeking its nod to circulate the letter among the parties for getting the scheduled hearing deferred. "On the day of listing, the undersigned (Alam) shall be requesting for an adjournment in the matter since presently, there is no elected government in the state of Jammu and Kashmir and the state is under President's Rule. "The present matter involves a sensitive issue regarding a challenge to Article 35A of the Constitution of India. A short reply has been filed by the state of Jammu and Kashmir in the lead matter 'We the Citizens' and notices have not been issued on the other petitions. It will, therefore, be requesting that the matter may kindly be heard when an elected government is in place," the state government said in the letter. Article 35A, which was incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, accords special rights and privileges to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir and bars people from outside the state from acquiring any immovable property in the state. It denies property rights to a woman who marries a person from outside the state. The provision, which leads to such women from the state forfeiting their right over property, also applies to their heirs. The bench is hearing several petitions including the one filed by NGO 'We the Citizens' through lawyer Barun Kumar Sinha. Several petitions, including those by political parties like the National Conference and the CPI-M, were also filed in the Supreme Court in support of Article 35A that also empowers the state Assembly to define "permanent residents" for bestowing special rights and privileges to them. The state government, while defending the article, had cited two verdicts of the constitution benches of the Supreme Court in 1961 and 1969, which had upheld the powers of the president under Article 370(1)(d) of the Constitution to pass constitutional orders.

No change in stance on Article 35A: J&K government seeks adjournment of hearing in Supreme Court

Tension mounted in Kashmir on Saturday as the government launched a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-fallout-government-withdraws-security-of-18-more-separatists-in-kashmir-198656">massive crackdown on separatists</a> and detained over 150 people, mainly from the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir, including its chief Abdul Hamid Fayaz, ahead of a hearing in the Supreme Court on Article 35-A of the Constitution.

The development, coupled with other administrative measures, triggered a "war hysteria", prompting people in Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir to stock up on groceries and essentials and buy petrol for their vehicles.

Though police termed the action as routine saying that leaders and potential stone pelters have been picked up in the past, officials privy to the development said this was the first major crackdown on the Jamaat-e-Islami, coming days after the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

The hearing on Article 35A, which provides special rights and privileges to natives of Jammu and Kashmir, is likely to take place in the apex court on Monday.

The Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL), an umbrella coalition of separatist groups, has called for a shutdown in the valley on Sunday.

"To protest these arbitrary mass arrests, nocturnal raids, insecurity among people due to state repression, killings and censorship and any tampering with Article 35-A, a strike will be observed on 24 Feb 2019 (Sunday)," the JRL said in a statement.

The authorities imposed restrictions under Section 144 of CrPC, which prohibits assembly of people, in old parts of Srinagar on Sunday, as a precautionary measure.

The Jamaat-e-Islami had in the past been touted to be the parent political party of the Hizbul Mujahdeen, but the organisation maintained that it is a socio-religious group.

Orders issued by some government departments added to the fears of the people. The Government Medical College in Srinagar cancelled winter vacation of its faculty members and directed them to positively report to work on Monday.

The Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, which provides ration to people through its outlets, has directed its staff members in Srinagar to ensure completing sale of food grains in their respective areas by Saturday evening.&nbsp;

They were also directed to keep ration depots and sale outlets open on Sunday as well.

As many as 100 additional companies of the paramilitary (nearly 10,000 personnel) have been sent to Kashmir Valley in the apprehension of a law and order situation. Officially, no reason was cited for the movement.

According to Union Home Ministry sources, the movement of troops was pre-election induction.

Markets in Lal Chowk, the commercial hub of the valley, and adjoining areas opened more than an hour late as business owners were not sure of the situation in the wake of detention of over 150 separatist and Jamaat cadres during the night on Friday.

The sound of frequent flying of fighter jets till 1.30 am on Saturday added to the worries of the residents due to simmering Indo-Pak tension.&nbsp;

However, IAF officials described it as a routine exercise.

Long queues were seen outside petrol stations and people were thronging provision shops and buying essential supplies.

The Jamaat issued a statement condemning the detentions and said "...The move is a well-designed conspiracy to pave way for further uncertainty in the region."

The party claimed that during the intervening night of February 22 and 23, police and other agencies launched a mass arrest drive and raided many houses in the valley, wherein dozens of its central and district-level leaders were arrested, including its ameer (chief) Abdul Hamid Fayaz and spokesperson, advocate Zahid Ali.

Besides this, police also detained JKLF chief Yaseen Malik on Friday night, and lodged him in central jail.

Reacting to the crackdown, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti questioned the legality of the action.

"In the past 24 hours, Hurriyat leaders and workers of Jamaat organisation have been arrested.&nbsp;

Fail to understand such an arbitrary move which will only precipitate matters in JK," she tweeted.

"Under what legal grounds are their arrests justified? You can imprison a person but not his ideas," she said.

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said the state administration needs to reduce the sense of panic among the people.&nbsp;

"People in the valley, especially the cities &amp; towns, are taking everything said or done as a sign that some big trouble is just around the corner. People are hoarding food &amp; fuel. Some government orders are adding to the sense of panic," he added.

Leader of People's Conference, an ally of the BJP, Sajad Lone also said such crackdowns in the past have yielded no results.&nbsp;

"Gov (sic) seems to be on an arrest spree. Just a word of caution. Large scale arrests took place in 1990. Leaders were ferried to Jodhpur and many jails across the country. Things worsened. This is a tried tested and failed model. Please desist from it. It won't work.Things will worsen," he tweeted.

CPI(M) MLA Mohammed Yusuf Tarigami said the crackdown on and arrests of separatist leaders without any solid legal grounds do not augur well for the state.&nbsp;

Moderate Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq also condemned Malik's detention and the crackdown.

"Strongly condemn the nocturnal crackdown on Jamaat-e-Islami leadership and cadres and the arrest of Yasin Malik. Such illegal and coercive measures against Kashmiris are futile and will not change realities on ground. Force and intimidation will only worsen the situation," the Mirwaiz tweeted.&nbsp;

Tension mounted in Kashmir on Saturday as the government launched a massive crackdown on separatists and detained over 150 people, mainly from the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir, including its chief Abdul Hamid Fayaz, ahead of a hearing in the Supreme Court on Article 35-A of the Constitution.

Tension mounted in Kashmir on Saturday as the government launched a massive crackdown on separatists and detained over 150 people, mainly from the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir, including its chief Abdul Hamid Fayaz, ahead of a hearing in the Supreme Court on Article 35-A of the Constitution. The development, coupled with other administrative measures, triggered a "war hysteria", prompting people in Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir to stock up on groceries and essentials and buy petrol for their vehicles. Though police termed the action as routine saying that leaders and potential stone pelters have been picked up in the past, officials privy to the development said this was the first major crackdown on the Jamaat-e-Islami, coming days after the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. The hearing on Article 35A, which provides special rights and privileges to natives of Jammu and Kashmir, is likely to take place in the apex court on Monday. The Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL), an umbrella coalition of separatist groups, has called for a shutdown in the valley on Sunday. "To protest these arbitrary mass arrests, nocturnal raids, insecurity among people due to state repression, killings and censorship and any tampering with Article 35-A, a strike will be observed on 24 Feb 2019 (Sunday)," the JRL said in a statement. The authorities imposed restrictions under Section 144 of CrPC, which prohibits assembly of people, in old parts of Srinagar on Sunday, as a precautionary measure. The Jamaat-e-Islami had in the past been touted to be the parent political party of the Hizbul Mujahdeen, but the organisation maintained that it is a socio-religious group. Orders issued by some government departments added to the fears of the people. The Government Medical College in Srinagar cancelled winter vacation of its faculty members and directed them to positively report to work on Monday. The Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, which provides ration to people through its outlets, has directed its staff members in Srinagar to ensure completing sale of food grains in their respective areas by Saturday evening. They were also directed to keep ration depots and sale outlets open on Sunday as well. As many as 100 additional companies of the paramilitary (nearly 10,000 personnel) have been sent to Kashmir Valley in the apprehension of a law and order situation. Officially, no reason was cited for the movement. According to Union Home Ministry sources, the movement of troops was pre-election induction. Markets in Lal Chowk, the commercial hub of the valley, and adjoining areas opened more than an hour late as business owners were not sure of the situation in the wake of detention of over 150 separatist and Jamaat cadres during the night on Friday. The sound of frequent flying of fighter jets till 1.30 am on Saturday added to the worries of the residents due to simmering Indo-Pak tension. However, IAF officials described it as a routine exercise. Long queues were seen outside petrol stations and people were thronging provision shops and buying essential supplies. The Jamaat issued a statement condemning the detentions and said "...The move is a well-designed conspiracy to pave way for further uncertainty in the region." The party claimed that during the intervening night of February 22 and 23, police and other agencies launched a mass arrest drive and raided many houses in the valley, wherein dozens of its central and district-level leaders were arrested, including its ameer (chief) Abdul Hamid Fayaz and spokesperson, advocate Zahid Ali. Besides this, police also detained JKLF chief Yaseen Malik on Friday night, and lodged him in central jail. Reacting to the crackdown, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti questioned the legality of the action. "In the past 24 hours, Hurriyat leaders and workers of Jamaat organisation have been arrested. Fail to understand such an arbitrary move which will only precipitate matters in JK," she tweeted. "Under what legal grounds are their arrests justified? You can imprison a person but not his ideas," she said. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said the state administration needs to reduce the sense of panic among the people. "People in the valley, especially the cities & towns, are taking everything said or done as a sign that some big trouble is just around the corner. People are hoarding food & fuel. Some government orders are adding to the sense of panic," he added. Leader of People's Conference, an ally of the BJP, Sajad Lone also said such crackdowns in the past have yielded no results. "Gov (sic) seems to be on an arrest spree. Just a word of caution. Large scale arrests took place in 1990. Leaders were ferried to Jodhpur and many jails across the country. Things worsened. This is a tried tested and failed model. Please desist from it. It won't work.Things will worsen," he tweeted. CPI(M) MLA Mohammed Yusuf Tarigami said the crackdown on and arrests of separatist leaders without any solid legal grounds do not augur well for the state. Moderate Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq also condemned Malik's detention and the crackdown. "Strongly condemn the nocturnal crackdown on Jamaat-e-Islami leadership and cadres and the arrest of Yasin Malik. Such illegal and coercive measures against Kashmiris are futile and will not change realities on ground. Force and intimidation will only worsen the situation," the Mirwaiz tweeted.

J&K: Tension mounts after government crackdown, separatists call for bandh today

A CRPF jawan who was transferred to Telangana from Jammu and Kashmir has gone missing from the train before arriving in Hyderabad to join duty.

A complaint in this regard has been filed by CRPF ASI Arjun Dubey, who was heading the team of personnel travelling to Telangana.

Ashok, the Superintendent of Police (SP)- Government Railway Police (GRP), Secunderabad District told ANI, “We have received the complaint. The 14 member team was transferred from Jammu and Kashmir to Telangana. On 19 February they took Telangana Express from Delhi and reached Secunderabad Railway Station on 20 February. 13 CRPF personnel got down but one Jawan by the name Saldeep Kumar a native of Jammu and Kashmir wasn’t found, all others waited for him for some time and left to Hakimpet CRPF quarters to report”

As per the police official, the missing CRPF official is not reachable over the phone and is yet to report for duty.

GRP has registered a missing case and has also issued a lookout notice for the missing Jawan.

Further investigation is the case is underway.&nbsp;

A CRPF jawan who was transferred to Telangana from Jammu and Kashmir has gone missing from the train before arriving in Hyderabad to join duty. A complaint in this regard has been filed by CRPF ASI Arjun Dubey, who was heading the team of personnel travelling to Telangana.

A CRPF jawan who was transferred to Telangana from Jammu and Kashmir has gone missing from the train before arriving in Hyderabad to join duty. A complaint in this regard has been filed by CRPF ASI Arjun Dubey, who was heading the team of personnel travelling to Telangana. Ashok, the Superintendent of Police (SP)- Government Railway Police (GRP), Secunderabad District told ANI, “We have received the complaint. The 14 member team was transferred from Jammu and Kashmir to Telangana. On 19 February they took Telangana Express from Delhi and reached Secunderabad Railway Station on 20 February. 13 CRPF personnel got down but one Jawan by the name Saldeep Kumar a native of Jammu and Kashmir wasn’t found, all others waited for him for some time and left to Hakimpet CRPF quarters to report” As per the police official, the missing CRPF official is not reachable over the phone and is yet to report for duty. GRP has registered a missing case and has also issued a lookout notice for the missing Jawan. Further investigation is the case is underway.

CRPF jawan goes missing while travelling from J&K to Telangana

Goa police has issued instructions to senior police officials for ensuring the safety and security of Jammu and Kashmir residents staying or visiting Goa.

Speaking to ANI, DGP Muktesh Chander said, “We have asked top police officials to keep track of security of J&amp;K residents in Goa. We have asked our SP North and South and Special Branch to look after the safety of Kashmiris and act in case of any problem”.

He also talked about cyber-security issues and cautioned people to stay away from suspicious websites and mobile applications.

“We are in a digitised world and it very necessary to exercise caution. Unnecessary applications must be avoided. If you visit download sites hosted abroad then your phone or computer may easily get virus. A large number of Indians download songs. There are many such sites based in Pakistan. While downloading them, it is possible that some virus can enter the computer. Someone may hack your computer and misuse it. You buy songs from the market or pay to download, free downloads are dangerous”, he said.

Outlining further as to how such websites and mobile application can lead to covert leakage of information, he added.

"Smartphone’s have camera, recorder, microphone, GPS. These can be activated by malware or virus. You won’t even know will get your phone on the table will get its microphone activated and your conversation is recorded.”

Chander also advised people to not to use social media for rumour mongering.

The Goa top cop`s remark comes amidst reports of Kashmiris, especially students, allegedly being threatened in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel.Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) claimed responsibility for the February 14 attack. &nbsp;

Goa police has issued instructions to senior police officials for ensuring the safety and security of Jammu and Kashmir residents staying or visiting Goa. Speaking to ANI, DGP Muktesh Chander said, “We have asked top police officials to keep track of security of J&K residents in Goa.

Goa police has issued instructions to senior police officials for ensuring the safety and security of Jammu and Kashmir residents staying or visiting Goa. Speaking to ANI, DGP Muktesh Chander said, “We have asked top police officials to keep track of security of J&K residents in Goa. We have asked our SP North and South and Special Branch to look after the safety of Kashmiris and act in case of any problem”. He also talked about cyber-security issues and cautioned people to stay away from suspicious websites and mobile applications. “We are in a digitised world and it very necessary to exercise caution. Unnecessary applications must be avoided. If you visit download sites hosted abroad then your phone or computer may easily get virus. A large number of Indians download songs. There are many such sites based in Pakistan. While downloading them, it is possible that some virus can enter the computer. Someone may hack your computer and misuse it. You buy songs from the market or pay to download, free downloads are dangerous”, he said. Outlining further as to how such websites and mobile application can lead to covert leakage of information, he added. "Smartphone’s have camera, recorder, microphone, GPS. These can be activated by malware or virus. You won’t even know will get your phone on the table will get its microphone activated and your conversation is recorded.” Chander also advised people to not to use social media for rumour mongering. The Goa top cop`s remark comes amidst reports of Kashmiris, especially students, allegedly being threatened in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel.Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) claimed responsibility for the February 14 attack.

Goa DGP issues directions for safeguarding J&K residents; cautions people on use of Pak websites

An encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Sopore township of Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Friday morning, police said.

Acting on specific input, the security personnel launched a cordon and search operation in the Warpora area of Sopore, they said.

A senior official said the search operation turned into an encounter after the militants fired at the search party of the security men, who then returned fire.

The exchange of fire was on and further details were awaited, he added.

An encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Sopore township of Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Friday morning, police said. Acting on specific input, the security personnel launched a cordon and search operation in the Warpora area of Sopore, they said.

An encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Sopore township of Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Friday morning, police said. Acting on specific input, the security personnel launched a cordon and search operation in the Warpora area of Sopore, they said. A senior official said the search operation turned into an encounter after the militants fired at the search party of the security men, who then returned fire. The exchange of fire was on and further details were awaited, he added.

J&K: Encounter breaks out between security forces and militants in Baramulla

Terrorist activities of Jehadi Islamic organisations in a part of Jammu and Kashmir has reached a new and crucial stage that calls for decisive and conclusive response from the Indian state. &nbsp;

The recent terrorist act in Pulwama, causing the death of 40 CRPF jawans travelling in a bus and not engaged in battle, makes it the turning point. It is “now or never” for ending terrorism in these parts of J&amp;K.&nbsp;

Violence to overawe a civilian population to attain political goals is terrorism. This type of violence is also a tool for dismembering a nation. The concern today is how, we as Indians, deter this terror and safeguard national integrity?&nbsp;

In Tamil Nadu, I was in charge in the Chandrashekar government [1990-91] and the process began by dismissing the Karunanidhi government. Tamils fully cooperated and we were able to decimate the LTTE without any civilian death. In the ensuing Assembly elections, the DMK won only two seats in the 224-seat House. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The dismemberment of Kashmir and the religious cleansing of Hindus from the state are the goals of J&amp;K Islamic terrorism.

In a cassette distributed in a mosque in Srinagar on June 8, 2007, Al Qaeda [now morphed into ISIS] confirmed that for Islam, India as presently constituted, is the target for terrorist acts and religious cleansing. The forced exodus of five lakh Hindu Kashmiris, principally the Pandit community, was beginning of religious cleansing in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

In J&amp;K, terrorism today is a premeditated, politically motivated and Jehadi Islamic religion-inspired violence perpetrated against the non-combatant target population, primarily those of Hindu faith, by clandestine agents to secure compliance by intimidation, to overawe the Hindu civilian population. &nbsp;

Terrorism in the state,&nbsp;thus, is a strategy of violence to generate fear and disruption, with the ultimate aim to secure the balkanisation of the Indian nation, the rubbishing of its ancient Hindu civilisation, secured through capitulation of law-abiding civilian citizens.&nbsp;

J&amp;K is thus today a terrorist-challenged state, which has profound national security implications.&nbsp;

Combating such terrorism has, however, become extremely complicated and multi-dimensional. Hence, we need to understand it’s nature and scope clearly before an effective strategy to deter terrorism can be formulated. There has been a paradigm change in terrorism’s character since 1968, caused by three specific innovations of the 20th century.&nbsp;

First, the invention of television with instant satellite relay, which has suddenly given small unknown groups the possibility of worldwide publicity. &nbsp;

Internet has raised that publicity potential manifold. The fact that most terrorist incidents take place in democratic states, may in part, be due to its availability.&nbsp;

Under an authoritarian regime like China, terrorists can be cut off from their media audience in the target country, thereby reducing to a minimum all the expected impact of their actions.

With freely available media, small groups of terrorists can attain heavy leverage against powerful opponents by getting wide publicity on small political events. The impact is mostly psychological and meant for media coverage. But it has the desired effect of promoting fear, shock and awe in the civilian population.

Hence, democratic India now need&nbsp;to formulate their counter-terrorist strategy keeping this in view, by imposing reasonable restrictions permitted in the Constitution on democratic freedom without destroying the basic structure of democratic practice itself.

Second is the incredible sophistication of hand-held weapons, especially it’s miniaturisation and proliferation that have enabled a small number of criminally-minded persons to do great harm.&nbsp;

Third, easy communication through internet and cell/satellite phones-enabled networking between various disparate terrorist groups. The ISI of Pakistan is engaged in assisting this enterprise to unravel India, and push it toward balkanisation. Hence, a terror cartel and networking has emerged in India.&nbsp;

A counter-terror strategy for India thus requires a paradigm shift from the traditional law &amp; order approach of providing more personnel and sophisticated weapons.&nbsp;

What then are the elements of this counter-terror strategy? &nbsp;In my view, there are three steps for an effective strategy to eliminate terror in J&amp;K.

First, all remaining traces of so-called “disputed status” of Jammu and Kashmir must be erased. For that, India must write to the United Nations withdrawing the illegal application filed by then Prime Minister Nehru.&nbsp;

It is illegal because it violated the 1935 British Indian Constitution on the Instrument of Accession Clause, which the J&amp;K Maharaja had signed merging the state into India. &nbsp;Also Nehru never took Cabinet approval for the application. Hence, it is illegal and not binding on successive Indian governments since the Cabinet had not cleared it.

Second, Article 370 of the Constitution labelled as “temporary” by the Constituent Assembly, should be deleted as per procedure laid out in the Constitution itself, which is that a notification prepared by the Cabinet for its abolition is issued by the President of India. With that, Article 35 A will also fade away.&nbsp;

Third, 10 lakh former servicemen should be liberally provided with funds and weapons and requested to go to the Valley and settle down there with their families. After five years, they can return and the houses they acquire can be occupied by the expelled Hindu Kashmiris.&nbsp;

Fourth, liberally help the Kashmiri Muslim youth with clean credentials, and even surrendered extremists, to get education and jobs anywhere in India.&nbsp;

I know many who are today more patriotic and able than the average citizen.

Finally, for five years, impose AFSPA all over the state, introduce POTA and have no election for the first two years. The success of these proposals will be obtained only in the next two years. Pakistan, which is ripe for dismemberment, needs to be broken into four — Baluchistan, Pakhtoonistan, Sindh, and residual West Punjab.&nbsp;

For this, India has to obtain the tacit support of China and US by their non-interference. For doubting Thomases remember, China did not interfere in 1965, 1971 and 1999 Indo-Pak wars.

(This article was originally published on the DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-india-s-moment-to-act-is-here-2722269">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Terrorist activities of Jehadi Islamic organisations in a part of Jammu and Kashmir has reached a new and crucial stage that calls for decisive and conclusive response from the Indian state.

Terrorist activities of Jehadi Islamic organisations in a part of Jammu and Kashmir has reached a new and crucial stage that calls for decisive and conclusive response from the Indian state. The recent terrorist act in Pulwama, causing the death of 40 CRPF jawans travelling in a bus and not engaged in battle, makes it the turning point. It is “now or never” for ending terrorism in these parts of J&K. Violence to overawe a civilian population to attain political goals is terrorism. This type of violence is also a tool for dismembering a nation. The concern today is how, we as Indians, deter this terror and safeguard national integrity? In Tamil Nadu, I was in charge in the Chandrashekar government [1990-91] and the process began by dismissing the Karunanidhi government. Tamils fully cooperated and we were able to decimate the LTTE without any civilian death. In the ensuing Assembly elections, the DMK won only two seats in the 224-seat House. The dismemberment of Kashmir and the religious cleansing of Hindus from the state are the goals of J&K Islamic terrorism. In a cassette distributed in a mosque in Srinagar on June 8, 2007, Al Qaeda [now morphed into ISIS] confirmed that for Islam, India as presently constituted, is the target for terrorist acts and religious cleansing. The forced exodus of five lakh Hindu Kashmiris, principally the Pandit community, was beginning of religious cleansing in the Kashmir Valley. In J&K, terrorism today is a premeditated, politically motivated and Jehadi Islamic religion-inspired violence perpetrated against the non-combatant target population, primarily those of Hindu faith, by clandestine agents to secure compliance by intimidation, to overawe the Hindu civilian population. Terrorism in the state, thus, is a strategy of violence to generate fear and disruption, with the ultimate aim to secure the balkanisation of the Indian nation, the rubbishing of its ancient Hindu civilisation, secured through capitulation of law-abiding civilian citizens. J&K is thus today a terrorist-challenged state, which has profound national security implications. Combating such terrorism has, however, become extremely complicated and multi-dimensional. Hence, we need to understand it’s nature and scope clearly before an effective strategy to deter terrorism can be formulated. There has been a paradigm change in terrorism’s character since 1968, caused by three specific innovations of the 20th century. First, the invention of television with instant satellite relay, which has suddenly given small unknown groups the possibility of worldwide publicity. Internet has raised that publicity potential manifold. The fact that most terrorist incidents take place in democratic states, may in part, be due to its availability. Under an authoritarian regime like China, terrorists can be cut off from their media audience in the target country, thereby reducing to a minimum all the expected impact of their actions. With freely available media, small groups of terrorists can attain heavy leverage against powerful opponents by getting wide publicity on small political events. The impact is mostly psychological and meant for media coverage. But it has the desired effect of promoting fear, shock and awe in the civilian population. Hence, democratic India now need to formulate their counter-terrorist strategy keeping this in view, by imposing reasonable restrictions permitted in the Constitution on democratic freedom without destroying the basic structure of democratic practice itself. Second is the incredible sophistication of hand-held weapons, especially it’s miniaturisation and proliferation that have enabled a small number of criminally-minded persons to do great harm. Third, easy communication through internet and cell/satellite phones-enabled networking between various disparate terrorist groups. The ISI of Pakistan is engaged in assisting this enterprise to unravel India, and push it toward balkanisation. Hence, a terror cartel and networking has emerged in India. A counter-terror strategy for India thus requires a paradigm shift from the traditional law & order approach of providing more personnel and sophisticated weapons. What then are the elements of this counter-terror strategy? In my view, there are three steps for an effective strategy to eliminate terror in J&K. First, all remaining traces of so-called “disputed status” of Jammu and Kashmir must be erased. For that, India must write to the United Nations withdrawing the illegal application filed by then Prime Minister Nehru. It is illegal because it violated the 1935 British Indian Constitution on the Instrument of Accession Clause, which the J&K Maharaja had signed merging the state into India. Also Nehru never took Cabinet approval for the application. Hence, it is illegal and not binding on successive Indian governments since the Cabinet had not cleared it. Second, Article 370 of the Constitution labelled as “temporary” by the Constituent Assembly, should be deleted as per procedure laid out in the Constitution itself, which is that a notification prepared by the Cabinet for its abolition is issued by the President of India. With that, Article 35 A will also fade away. Third, 10 lakh former servicemen should be liberally provided with funds and weapons and requested to go to the Valley and settle down there with their families. After five years, they can return and the houses they acquire can be occupied by the expelled Hindu Kashmiris. Fourth, liberally help the Kashmiri Muslim youth with clean credentials, and even surrendered extremists, to get education and jobs anywhere in India. I know many who are today more patriotic and able than the average citizen. Finally, for five years, impose AFSPA all over the state, introduce POTA and have no election for the first two years. The success of these proposals will be obtained only in the next two years. Pakistan, which is ripe for dismemberment, needs to be broken into four — Baluchistan, Pakhtoonistan, Sindh, and residual West Punjab. For this, India has to obtain the tacit support of China and US by their non-interference. For doubting Thomases remember, China did not interfere in 1965, 1971 and 1999 Indo-Pak wars. (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.)

Pulwama attack: India's moment to act is here

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

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

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

Normal life resumes in Jammu after authorities lift curfew

Senior Minister in the Punjab Congress Government Navjot Singh Sidhu has equalised Pak sponsored terrorism and the latest terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir with the release of Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Maulana Masood Azhar, all implicated in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in exchange for passengers travelling by Indian Airlines IC-814 flight in 1999.

There was pandemonium in the Punjab Assembly and Sidhu was targetted by the Akali members for his much-condemned statement after the dastardly terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama. Sidhu has come under attack over his remark - "For a handful of people, can you blame the entire nation; can you blame an individual?"

Without naming the then NDA Government headed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he even went on to ask "Who had set them (those wanted for the Mumbai terrorist attack) free in Kandahar in 1999. Asserting that his fight is against them, Sidhu also said: "Fight these terrorists and those who provide them shelter. Write to their protectors asking for their extradition." &nbsp;

Sidhu is not naive. In fact, he has crossed all limits as he has made a diabolic attempt to politicise the issue by pointing a finger at the previous Atal Bihari Vajpayee led NDA Government and tried to spread the message that the release of Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and Maulana Masood Azhar was the cause behind 1700 violent incidents.&nbsp;

At a time, when the entire nation is supposed to be in sync with the government to take the enemy head-on, Sidhu is playing politics. There could not be a softer stand at this juncture than turning a blind eye to the low-intensity war being waged against India by Pakistan and asking the Indian government to write to Pakistan for the extradition of those exporting terror.

While the Congress party bosses are silent regarding Sidhu, we also have West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is continuously at loggerheads with the Centre. Even at this critical juncture, when the nation is supposed to be united in its fight against terror outfits operating from Pakistan, she has thrown up a poser asking "Why did the Centre not do anything to stop Pakistanis from carrying out such attacks all these years. Only when an election is knocking at the door, you think of starting a shadow war?"

It is most unfortunate that the West Bengal Chief Minister has cast aspersion on the motive of the Narendra Modi Government and tried to politicise a national emergency like situation. This, especially when Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a rally in Nagpur, had said that the Indian soldiers will decide the fate of the terrorists who were responsible for the killing of 44 CRPF soldiers in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

By questioning the timing of Prime Minister’s announcement, the West Bengal chief minister stands exposed on the issue of national security.&nbsp;

It defies imagination that the chief minister of a state could take such a stand when the country is under attack and the PM has declared that a free hand has been given to the Army to tackle the situation.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Senior Minister in the Punjab Congress Government Navjot Singh Sidhu has equalised Pak sponsored terrorism and the latest terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir with the release of Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Maulana Masood Azhar, all implicated in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in exchange for passengers travelling by Indian Airlines IC-814 flight in 1999.

Senior Minister in the Punjab Congress Government Navjot Singh Sidhu has equalised Pak sponsored terrorism and the latest terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir with the release of Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Maulana Masood Azhar, all implicated in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in exchange for passengers travelling by Indian Airlines IC-814 flight in 1999. There was pandemonium in the Punjab Assembly and Sidhu was targetted by the Akali members for his much-condemned statement after the dastardly terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama. Sidhu has come under attack over his remark - "For a handful of people, can you blame the entire nation; can you blame an individual?" Without naming the then NDA Government headed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he even went on to ask "Who had set them (those wanted for the Mumbai terrorist attack) free in Kandahar in 1999. Asserting that his fight is against them, Sidhu also said: "Fight these terrorists and those who provide them shelter. Write to their protectors asking for their extradition." Sidhu is not naive. In fact, he has crossed all limits as he has made a diabolic attempt to politicise the issue by pointing a finger at the previous Atal Bihari Vajpayee led NDA Government and tried to spread the message that the release of Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and Maulana Masood Azhar was the cause behind 1700 violent incidents. At a time, when the entire nation is supposed to be in sync with the government to take the enemy head-on, Sidhu is playing politics. There could not be a softer stand at this juncture than turning a blind eye to the low-intensity war being waged against India by Pakistan and asking the Indian government to write to Pakistan for the extradition of those exporting terror. While the Congress party bosses are silent regarding Sidhu, we also have West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is continuously at loggerheads with the Centre. Even at this critical juncture, when the nation is supposed to be united in its fight against terror outfits operating from Pakistan, she has thrown up a poser asking "Why did the Centre not do anything to stop Pakistanis from carrying out such attacks all these years. Only when an election is knocking at the door, you think of starting a shadow war?" It is most unfortunate that the West Bengal Chief Minister has cast aspersion on the motive of the Narendra Modi Government and tried to politicise a national emergency like situation. This, especially when Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a rally in Nagpur, had said that the Indian soldiers will decide the fate of the terrorists who were responsible for the killing of 44 CRPF soldiers in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir. By questioning the timing of Prime Minister’s announcement, the West Bengal chief minister stands exposed on the issue of national security. It defies imagination that the chief minister of a state could take such a stand when the country is under attack and the PM has declared that a free hand has been given to the Army to tackle the situation. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Even at a critical juncture, Mamata Banerjee and Navjot Singh Sidhu are politicising the Pulwama attack

An army major was among four soldiers killed Monday in a firefight with terrorists in the Pinglan&nbsp;area of Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;Two terrorists and a civilian were also killed in the gun battle.&nbsp;

The civilian was reportedly killed in the&nbsp;crossfire.

The two terrorists killed are thought to be Kamran Hilaal, who authorities say is the mastermind of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">last Thursday's&nbsp;Pulwama attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel died</a>, and Hilal Ahmad. The authorities said Kamran Hilaal was a Pakistani national.&nbsp;

The firefight broke out early Monday morning, at about 2 am.&nbsp;

The encounter began after the security forces received a tip-off&nbsp;about the presence of terrorists in the area.&nbsp;

Two soldiers were also injured in the encounter. &nbsp;

The four soldiers killed have been identified as Major VS Dhoundiyal, Havaldar Sheo Ram, Sepoy Ajay Kumar, and Sepoy Hari Singh. All four are from the army's 55 Rashtriya Rifles.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Police in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pulwama?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pulwama</a> appeals to locals to leave the site of Pulwama encounter. Four 55 Rashtriya Rifles personnel have lost their lives &amp; one injured and two terrorists neutralised in the ongoing operation. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/q2X13OitXX">pic.twitter.com/q2X13OitXX</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1097384049591701504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Visuals: The 4 Army personnel including a Major, who were killed in action during encounter between terrorists and security forces, in Pinglan area of Pulwama district, belonged to 55 Rashtriya Rifles. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/Wa2sxz3bzT">pic.twitter.com/Wa2sxz3bzT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1097333691876081665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Monday's encounter comes only three days after the Pulwama attack.

A local youth, Adil Ahmad Dar, had last Thursday rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus ferrying Central Reserve Police Force personnel. The bus had been part of a convoy of 78 vehicles transporting 2,500 CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.&nbsp;

Thursday's attack was claimed by the Jaish-e-Mohammed.&nbsp;

The Jaish is headed by Masood Azhar, who is based out of Pakistan. Azhar was one of the three terrorists released by India after the hijacking of the Indian Airlines flight IC 814 from Kathmandu.&nbsp;

Since the attack, India has raised customs duties on Pakistani imports to 200%, thereby making trade with its neighbour virtually impossible.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also said that he has given Indian security forces a free hand to respond to the perpetrators of the attack at a time and place of their choosing.&nbsp;

An army major was among four soldiers killed Monday in a firefight with terrorists in the Pinglan area of Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir. Two terrorists and a civilian were also killed in the gun battle.

An army major was among four soldiers killed Monday in a firefight with terrorists in the Pinglan area of Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir. Two terrorists and a civilian were also killed in the gun battle. The civilian was reportedly killed in the crossfire. The two terrorists killed are thought to be Kamran Hilaal, who authorities say is the mastermind of last Thursday's Pulwama attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel died, and Hilal Ahmad. The authorities said Kamran Hilaal was a Pakistani national. The firefight broke out early Monday morning, at about 2 am. The encounter began after the security forces received a tip-off about the presence of terrorists in the area. Two soldiers were also injured in the encounter. The four soldiers killed have been identified as Major VS Dhoundiyal, Havaldar Sheo Ram, Sepoy Ajay Kumar, and Sepoy Hari Singh. All four are from the army's 55 Rashtriya Rifles. #WATCH Police in #Pulwama appeals to locals to leave the site of Pulwama encounter. Four 55 Rashtriya Rifles personnel have lost their lives & one injured and two terrorists neutralised in the ongoing operation. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/q2X13OitXX — ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2019 × Visuals: The 4 Army personnel including a Major, who were killed in action during encounter between terrorists and security forces, in Pinglan area of Pulwama district, belonged to 55 Rashtriya Rifles. #JammuAndKashmir (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/Wa2sxz3bzT — ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2019 × Monday's encounter comes only three days after the Pulwama attack. A local youth, Adil Ahmad Dar, had last Thursday rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus ferrying Central Reserve Police Force personnel. The bus had been part of a convoy of 78 vehicles transporting 2,500 CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar. Thursday's attack was claimed by the Jaish-e-Mohammed. The Jaish is headed by Masood Azhar, who is based out of Pakistan. Azhar was one of the three terrorists released by India after the hijacking of the Indian Airlines flight IC 814 from Kathmandu. Since the attack, India has raised customs duties on Pakistani imports to 200%, thereby making trade with its neighbour virtually impossible. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also said that he has given Indian security forces a free hand to respond to the perpetrators of the attack at a time and place of their choosing.

J&K: Encounter underway in Pulwama, major among 4 soldiers killed

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik Saturday directed the state police to take "strict action without mercy" against those indulging in violence in the aftermath of a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-outpouring-of-grief-anger-as-india-says-final-goodbye-to-slain-crpf-jawans-197851">terrorist attack in Pulwama</a> in which <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/pulwama-attack-pm-modi-vows-to-avenge-death-of-crpf-soldiers-197742">40 CRPF personnel died</a>, an official said.

Reviewing the law and order situation at a high-level meeting at Raj Bhavan, Malik also urged people to maintain communal harmony, so that the forces trying to disrupt peace in the state are defeated.

"The governor directed the police to take strict action without mercy against those indulging in any type of violence, arson or rumour-mongering irrespective of political and religious affiliation," an official spokesman said in Jammu.

The direction came after incidents of violence and stone-pelting were reported from Jammu city. A curfew was imposed in the city after several vehicles were torched on Friday.

The violence happened during protests against the attack in Pulwama on Thursday.

The spokesman said the governor also reviewed the security of students from Jammu and Kashmir studying in universities and colleges across the country. 
Officials informed Malik that liaison officers were working effectively and coordinating with university authorities and the local police to ensure safety of the students, he said.

Minor incidents involving students from Jammu and Kashmir were reported from Baba Fareed Institute of Technology, Dehradun; Maharishi Markand University, Ambala; and Chitkara University, Batti, Himachal Pradesh.

In all three places, liaison officers worked with the deans and vice chancellors to ensure safety of the students, the spokesman said.

Jammu divisional commissioner held a meeting of the Peace Committee Friday. In the meeting, all parties condemned the violence in Jammu and agreed to restrain their supporters from indulging in any unlawful behaviour.

Malik asked all political parties and senior political leaders to appeal to people to maintain peace and harmony. He urged them not to pay heed to rumours, the spokesman said.

"People of the state have always believed in mutual brotherhood and co-existence throughout the ages," the governor said during the meeting.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik Saturday directed the state police to take "strict action without mercy" against those indulging in violence in the aftermath of a terrorist attack in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel died, an official said.

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik Saturday directed the state police to take "strict action without mercy" against those indulging in violence in the aftermath of a terrorist attack in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel died, an official said. Reviewing the law and order situation at a high-level meeting at Raj Bhavan, Malik also urged people to maintain communal harmony, so that the forces trying to disrupt peace in the state are defeated. "The governor directed the police to take strict action without mercy against those indulging in any type of violence, arson or rumour-mongering irrespective of political and religious affiliation," an official spokesman said in Jammu. The direction came after incidents of violence and stone-pelting were reported from Jammu city. A curfew was imposed in the city after several vehicles were torched on Friday. The violence happened during protests against the attack in Pulwama on Thursday. The spokesman said the governor also reviewed the security of students from Jammu and Kashmir studying in universities and colleges across the country. Officials informed Malik that liaison officers were working effectively and coordinating with university authorities and the local police to ensure safety of the students, he said. Minor incidents involving students from Jammu and Kashmir were reported from Baba Fareed Institute of Technology, Dehradun; Maharishi Markand University, Ambala; and Chitkara University, Batti, Himachal Pradesh. In all three places, liaison officers worked with the deans and vice chancellors to ensure safety of the students, the spokesman said. Jammu divisional commissioner held a meeting of the Peace Committee Friday. In the meeting, all parties condemned the violence in Jammu and agreed to restrain their supporters from indulging in any unlawful behaviour. Malik asked all political parties and senior political leaders to appeal to people to maintain peace and harmony. He urged them not to pay heed to rumours, the spokesman said. "People of the state have always believed in mutual brotherhood and co-existence throughout the ages," the governor said during the meeting.

Violence in Jammu after Pulwama attack: J&K governor tells police to take 'strict action without mercy'

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-governor-asks-police-to-take-strict-action-against-people-indulging-in-violence-appeals-for-peace-197854">Jammu and Kashmir administration</a> has withdrawn the security cover given to four&nbsp;Kashmiri separatist leaders including Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.&nbsp;

"We are issuing orders withdrawing all security and any government facilities provided to separatist leaders Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Abdul Ghani Bhat, Bilal Lone and Shabir Shah. All security and any vehicles provided to them will stand withdrawn by today evening," the J&amp;K administration's order said.&nbsp;

"No security cover should be provided under any pretext to them or any separatists. If they have any facilities provided by government, they are to be withdrawn forthwith. Police will review if there are any separatists who have government security or facilities and will withdraw them immediately," the order added.&nbsp;

The order however made no mention of pro-Pakistan leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, seen as the tallest of the separatist leaders.&nbsp;

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Srinagar: Visuals from outside Separatist Abdul Ghani Bhat's office&amp;residence after J&amp;K admin withdraws security, Bhat says, 'Security was provided by state govt, I don't need it. My security is Kashmiri ppl. There are chances of war b/w Pak&amp;India.Let them address war issue first <a href="https://t.co/uiK5W5sknh">pic.twitter.com/uiK5W5sknh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1097035428211900416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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There was no reason given as to why the security cover of the leaders was being withdrawn but the move comes two days after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-outpouring-of-grief-anger-as-india-says-final-goodbye-to-slain-crpf-jawans-197851">over 40 CRPF personnel were killed</a> in the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

<img alt="J&amp;K" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eb56e808-be67-4306-95b9-9c4624b8e715" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/J%26K1.JPG" />

A local Kashmiri youth <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">Adil Ahmad Dar</a> had rammed a car packed full of explosive into a bus ferrying CRPF personnel. The bus had been part of a convoy of 78 vehicles transporting 2,500 CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar. The attack was later claimed by the Jaish-e-Mohammed, which is headed by Masood Azhar who is based out of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Azhar is one of the three terrorists released by India after the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 in Kathmandu.&nbsp;

Home Minister Rajnath Singh had on Friday said that the security given to people getting funds from Pakistan and its spy agency ISI should be reviewed.

"Some elements in Jammu and Kashmir have links with the ISI and terrorist organisations. Their security should be reviewed," Singh had said in Kashmir. He was in the state to review the security situation after the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

The Pulwama attack has baffled Indian intelligence agencies considering the losses Jaish has suffered recently in Kashmir.&nbsp;

Since the attack, India has raised customs duties on Pakistani imports by 200 per cent, making trade with its neighbour virtually impossible.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also announced that he has given Indian security forces a free hand to respond to the Pulwama attack at a time and place of their choosing. Home Minister Rajnath Singh has promised India will give a "muh-tod"&nbsp;(befitting) reply to the attack.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has withdrawn the security cover given to four Kashmiri separatist leaders including Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. "We are issuing orders withdrawing all security and any government facilities provided to separatist leaders Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Abdul Ghani Bhat, Bilal Lone and Shabir Shah.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has withdrawn the security cover given to four Kashmiri separatist leaders including Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. "We are issuing orders withdrawing all security and any government facilities provided to separatist leaders Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Abdul Ghani Bhat, Bilal Lone and Shabir Shah. All security and any vehicles provided to them will stand withdrawn by today evening," the J&K administration's order said. "No security cover should be provided under any pretext to them or any separatists. If they have any facilities provided by government, they are to be withdrawn forthwith. Police will review if there are any separatists who have government security or facilities and will withdraw them immediately," the order added. The order however made no mention of pro-Pakistan leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, seen as the tallest of the separatist leaders. Srinagar: Visuals from outside Separatist Abdul Ghani Bhat's office&residence after J&K admin withdraws security, Bhat says, 'Security was provided by state govt, I don't need it. My security is Kashmiri ppl. There are chances of war b/w Pak&India.Let them address war issue first pic.twitter.com/uiK5W5sknh — ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2019 × There was no reason given as to why the security cover of the leaders was being withdrawn but the move comes two days after over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in the Pulwama attack. A local Kashmiri youth Adil Ahmad Dar had rammed a car packed full of explosive into a bus ferrying CRPF personnel. The bus had been part of a convoy of 78 vehicles transporting 2,500 CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar. The attack was later claimed by the Jaish-e-Mohammed, which is headed by Masood Azhar who is based out of Pakistan. Azhar is one of the three terrorists released by India after the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 in Kathmandu. Home Minister Rajnath Singh had on Friday said that the security given to people getting funds from Pakistan and its spy agency ISI should be reviewed. "Some elements in Jammu and Kashmir have links with the ISI and terrorist organisations. Their security should be reviewed," Singh had said in Kashmir. He was in the state to review the security situation after the Pulwama attack. The Pulwama attack has baffled Indian intelligence agencies considering the losses Jaish has suffered recently in Kashmir. Since the attack, India has raised customs duties on Pakistani imports by 200 per cent, making trade with its neighbour virtually impossible. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also announced that he has given Indian security forces a free hand to respond to the Pulwama attack at a time and place of their choosing. Home Minister Rajnath Singh has promised India will give a "muh-tod" (befitting) reply to the attack.

J&K: Government withdraws security cover of 4 separatist leaders including Mirwaiz Umar Farooq

A Major-rank Army officer was killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district on Saturday while trying to defuse an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by terrorists, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The officer was from the Corps of Engineers. According to reports, the IED was planted around 1.5 kilometres inside the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district's Naushera sector.&nbsp;

Major Chitresh Singh Bisht, leading the Bomb Disposal Team in Naushera sector, defused one of the mines successfully. While neutralizing another mine, the device got activated. The officer suffered grievous injuries and succumbed to them.

Major Chitresh Singh Bisht hailed from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. During the sanitisation of track in Naushera Sector, mines were detected on the track, ANI reported.&nbsp;

The incident comes just a couple of days after a ghastly terror attack killed over 40 CRPF soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday. The attack is billed as the worst terror attack on security forces in the state.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, an all-party meeting called by Centre to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''.&nbsp;

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The Major-rank army officer was killed while defusing an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) which had been planted by terrorists. The officer is from the Corps of Engineers. The IED was planted 1.5 kms inside the Line of Control in the Naushera sector, Rajouri district, in J&amp;K <a href="https://t.co/ZyWFS9RbWR">https://t.co/ZyWFS9RbWR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096742058147151872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/leaders-at-all-party-meeting-strongly-condemn-dastardly-terror-act-of-14th-february-197746">The meeting chaired by Home Minister</a> Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&amp;K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost".

The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country.

"India has displayed both firmness and resilience in dealing with these challenges. The entire nation speaks in one voice to express its determination to fight these challenges. Today, we stand united in solidarity with our security forces in fighting terrorism and in defending the unity and integrity of India," it said.

Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

Following the attack, India on Friday announced the withdrawal of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated.

Sources told WION that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758">Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists responsible for the ghastly terror attack</a> in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama have been identified as Rashid Ghazi and Kamran, the main commanders of the terror outfit.&nbsp;

Both, Ghazi and Kamran, are believed to be located in and around Jammu and Kashmir's Tral. The duo is believed to have trained Adil Ahmad Dar, who carried out the terror attack on Thursday.

A Major-rank Army officer was killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district on Saturday while trying to defuse an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by terrorists, news agency ANI reported.

A Major-rank Army officer was killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district on Saturday while trying to defuse an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by terrorists, news agency ANI reported. The officer was from the Corps of Engineers. According to reports, the IED was planted around 1.5 kilometres inside the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district's Naushera sector. Major Chitresh Singh Bisht, leading the Bomb Disposal Team in Naushera sector, defused one of the mines successfully. While neutralizing another mine, the device got activated. The officer suffered grievous injuries and succumbed to them. Major Chitresh Singh Bisht hailed from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. During the sanitisation of track in Naushera Sector, mines were detected on the track, ANI reported. The incident comes just a couple of days after a ghastly terror attack killed over 40 CRPF soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday. The attack is billed as the worst terror attack on security forces in the state. Meanwhile, an all-party meeting called by Centre to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''. The Major-rank army officer was killed while defusing an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) which had been planted by terrorists. The officer is from the Corps of Engineers. The IED was planted 1.5 kms inside the Line of Control in the Naushera sector, Rajouri district, in J&K https://t.co/ZyWFS9RbWR — ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2019 × The meeting chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost". The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country. "India has displayed both firmness and resilience in dealing with these challenges. The entire nation speaks in one voice to express its determination to fight these challenges. Today, we stand united in solidarity with our security forces in fighting terrorism and in defending the unity and integrity of India," it said. Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Following the attack, India on Friday announced the withdrawal of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to Pakistan. New Delhi had granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, a year after the formation of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but Pakistan never reciprocated. Sources told WION that Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists responsible for the ghastly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama have been identified as Rashid Ghazi and Kamran, the main commanders of the terror outfit. Both, Ghazi and Kamran, are believed to be located in and around Jammu and Kashmir's Tral. The duo is believed to have trained Adil Ahmad Dar, who carried out the terror attack on Thursday.

J&K: Army officer killed while defusing IED planted by terrorists in Rajouri

Pakistan said on Thursday that the terrorist attack in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/crpf-convoy-attacked-in-jammu-kashmirs-pulwama-death-toll-climbs-to-40-197468">Kashmir's Pulwama district</a> is "a matter of grave concern" even as it strongly rejected Indian media and government's allegations of the country's link to the strike "without" probe.

In one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, a suicide bomber from the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group</a> rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a CRPF bus in Pulwama district on Thursday, killing at least 40 personnel and leaving many critically wounded.&nbsp;

The attack in Pulwama in Kashmir is "a matter of grave concern", the Pakistan government said in a statement.

Asserting that Pakistan has "always condemned acts of violence" anywhere in the world, it said, "We strongly reject any insinuation by elements in the Indian media and government that seek to link the attack to Pakistan without investigations."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India slammed Pakistan over the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Jaish-e-Mohammed and asked the neighbouring country to stop supporting terrorists and dismantle terror infrastructure operating from its soil.

India also strongly reiterated its appeal to all members of the international community to support the proposal to list terrorists, including JeM chief Masood Azhar, as a designated terrorist under the 1267 Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council, and to ban terrorist organisations operating from territories controlled by Pakistan.&nbsp;

The Indian government condemns in the strongest possible terms the cowardly terrorist attack on India's brave security forces in Pulwama, the ministry of external affairs said in a statement.

This heinous and despicable act has been perpetrated by Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terrorist organisation proscribed by the United Nations and other countries, it said.

This terror group is led by the international terrorist Masood Azhar, who has been given full freedom by the Pakistani government to operate and expand his terror infrastructure in territories under Pakistan's control and to carry out attacks in India and elsewhere with impunity, the MEA said.

Pakistan said on Thursday that the terrorist attack in Kashmir's Pulwama district is "a matter of grave concern" even as it strongly rejected Indian media and government's allegations of the country's link to the strike "without" probe.

Pakistan said on Thursday that the terrorist attack in Kashmir's Pulwama district is "a matter of grave concern" even as it strongly rejected Indian media and government's allegations of the country's link to the strike "without" probe. In one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, a suicide bomber from the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a CRPF bus in Pulwama district on Thursday, killing at least 40 personnel and leaving many critically wounded. The attack in Pulwama in Kashmir is "a matter of grave concern", the Pakistan government said in a statement. Asserting that Pakistan has "always condemned acts of violence" anywhere in the world, it said, "We strongly reject any insinuation by elements in the Indian media and government that seek to link the attack to Pakistan without investigations." Meanwhile, India slammed Pakistan over the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Jaish-e-Mohammed and asked the neighbouring country to stop supporting terrorists and dismantle terror infrastructure operating from its soil. India also strongly reiterated its appeal to all members of the international community to support the proposal to list terrorists, including JeM chief Masood Azhar, as a designated terrorist under the 1267 Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council, and to ban terrorist organisations operating from territories controlled by Pakistan. The Indian government condemns in the strongest possible terms the cowardly terrorist attack on India's brave security forces in Pulwama, the ministry of external affairs said in a statement. This heinous and despicable act has been perpetrated by Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terrorist organisation proscribed by the United Nations and other countries, it said. This terror group is led by the international terrorist Masood Azhar, who has been given full freedom by the Pakistani government to operate and expand his terror infrastructure in territories under Pakistan's control and to carry out attacks in India and elsewhere with impunity, the MEA said.

Reject insinuation by India to link Pulwama attack to Pak without investigation: Pakistan government

More than 12 hours after the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476"> Pulwama terror attack</a> that killed more than <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pulwama-terror-attack-enough-is-enough-we-need-to-treat-pakistan-like-a-pariah-197568">40 CRPF personnel</a>, United States has come hard on Pakistan but China hasn't reacted on the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

The White House in a strong statement hit out at Islamabad. Taking <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/reject-insinuation-by-india-to-link-pulwama-attack-to-pak-without-investigation-pak-government-197496">Pakistan's name the United States </a>called on "Pakistan to end immediately the support and safe haven provided to all terrorist groups operating on its soil, whose only goal is to sow chaos, violence, and terror in the region."

It further said, "this attack only strengthens our resolve to bolster counterterrorism cooperation and coordination between the United States and India."

The US State Department in a statement said:&nbsp;"We call on all countries to uphold their responsibilities pursuant to UN Security Council resolutions to deny safe haven and support for terrorists." 
 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pulwama-terror-attack-enough-is-enough-we-need-to-treat-pakistan-like-a-pariah-197568">Also </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pulwama-terror-attack-enough-is-enough-we-need-to-treat-pakistan-like-a-pariah-197568">read:</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pulwama-terror-attack-enough-is-enough-we-need-to-treat-pakistan-like-a-pariah-197568">&nbsp;Pulwama terror attack: Enough is enough, we need to treat Pakistan like a pariah</a>

Eleven US senators, 15 members of US house of representatives have condemned the Pulwama attack.

UN-designated, Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) claimed responsibility for the terror attack.

India's neighbours - Sri Lanka, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Bhutan - and major countries in the world - &nbsp;Russia, UK, Germany, France, Australia, Israel, Iran, UAE too strongly came out in strong support of New Delhi.

However, there hasn't been any reaction from China more than 12 hours after the attack. Chinese ambassador Luo Zhaohui made no comments on Twitter while his counterparts from the US, France, Israel were quick to tweet and condemn the attack.

The ministry of external affairs last night in a strong statement hit out at Islamabad for its support to terrorism and sent a message to Beijing for its role in shielding Pakistan-based terrorist.

JEM chief Masood Azhar was blocked by China three times from being put on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions list.&nbsp;

India had approached the UNSC Sanctions Committee with the proposal to designate Masood Azhar under the 1267sanction regime which was backed by the US, UK and France but blocked by China.&nbsp;

A reaction is expected by the Chinese foreign ministry in its daily presser.

China and Pakistan call themselves as "all-weather friends" with the Chinese economic project China-Pakistan economic corridor&nbsp;passing through the country, providing Beijing with a lucrative link to&nbsp;West Asia. &nbsp;

Last year&nbsp;was a good year for India-China ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting four times starting with famous Wuhan summit to reset ties after the 2017 Doklam crisis.

The Doklam crisis saw a two-month long standoff between Chinese and Indian forces after Beijing's bid to build a road on Bhutanese territory was stopped by New Delhi.

More than 12 hours after the Pulwama terror attack that killed more than 40 CRPF personnel, United States has come hard on Pakistan but China hasn't reacted on the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

More than 12 hours after the Pulwama terror attack that killed more than 40 CRPF personnel, United States has come hard on Pakistan but China hasn't reacted on the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The White House in a strong statement hit out at Islamabad. Taking Pakistan's name the United States called on "Pakistan to end immediately the support and safe haven provided to all terrorist groups operating on its soil, whose only goal is to sow chaos, violence, and terror in the region." It further said, "this attack only strengthens our resolve to bolster counterterrorism cooperation and coordination between the United States and India." The US State Department in a statement said: "We call on all countries to uphold their responsibilities pursuant to UN Security Council resolutions to deny safe haven and support for terrorists." Also read: Pulwama terror attack: Enough is enough, we need to treat Pakistan like a pariah Eleven US senators, 15 members of US house of representatives have condemned the Pulwama attack. UN-designated, Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) claimed responsibility for the terror attack. India's neighbours - Sri Lanka, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Bhutan - and major countries in the world - Russia, UK, Germany, France, Australia, Israel, Iran, UAE too strongly came out in strong support of New Delhi. However, there hasn't been any reaction from China more than 12 hours after the attack. Chinese ambassador Luo Zhaohui made no comments on Twitter while his counterparts from the US, France, Israel were quick to tweet and condemn the attack. The ministry of external affairs last night in a strong statement hit out at Islamabad for its support to terrorism and sent a message to Beijing for its role in shielding Pakistan-based terrorist. JEM chief Masood Azhar was blocked by China three times from being put on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions list. India had approached the UNSC Sanctions Committee with the proposal to designate Masood Azhar under the 1267sanction regime which was backed by the US, UK and France but blocked by China. A reaction is expected by the Chinese foreign ministry in its daily presser. China and Pakistan call themselves as "all-weather friends" with the Chinese economic project China-Pakistan economic corridor passing through the country, providing Beijing with a lucrative link to West Asia. Last year was a good year for India-China ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting four times starting with famous Wuhan summit to reset ties after the 2017 Doklam crisis. The Doklam crisis saw a two-month long standoff between Chinese and Indian forces after Beijing's bid to build a road on Bhutanese territory was stopped by New Delhi.

US calls on Pakistan to immediately end support to all terrorist groups: White House

The ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) Board of Directors, present and voting at its board meeting on September 21, 2021, unanimously approved the merger between Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) and ZEEL.&nbsp;

The Board considered not just the financial aspects of the partnership, but also the strategic value it brings to the table.

The Board came to the conclusion that the merger would benefit all shareholders and stakeholders.&nbsp;

Punit Goenka will continue as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) after the merger of Zee Entertainment and Sony Pictures India. &nbsp; 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/zeel-board-gives-go-ahead-for-merger-with-sony-pictures-networks-india-414797">ZEEL board gives go-ahead for merger with Sony Pictures Networks India</a>

Talking about the mega-merger deal, Goenka said: “The mega-merger between ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited and Sony Pictures Networks India will create the largest media and entertainment company in India. The merger will create close to $2 billion in revenue.” &nbsp;

He also stated that the combined business will be valued at $1.6 billion in cash. In the mega-merger, ZEEL will own 47 percent of the company. There will also be a non-binding term sheet with a 90-day mutual diligence period.”

Sony will have the opportunity to designate new promoters to the board, according to Goenka. The new board of the amalgamated firm will decide on fund infusion avenues.”&nbsp;

He also asserted that the overlaps are largely in the Hindi GEC space. However, the objective is to maximise viewership. The MD also mentioned that no open offer is required in a merger. &nbsp;

Goenka further added that the channel rationalisation call will be taken by the board of the merged entity. Similarly, the capital allocation strategy will also be taken by the board. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He mentioned that “We will first optimise revenue from the merged entity and then cost.” 
 
(Disclaimer: Zee Entertainment is not our sister concern/ group company. Though our names sound similar, but our company is owned by Zee Media Corporation, which is a different group)

The ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) Board of Directors, present and voting at its board meeting on September 21, 2021, unanimously approved the merger between Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) and ZEEL.

The ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) Board of Directors, present and voting at its board meeting on September 21, 2021, unanimously approved the merger between Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) and ZEEL. The Board considered not just the financial aspects of the partnership, but also the strategic value it brings to the table. The Board came to the conclusion that the merger would benefit all shareholders and stakeholders. Punit Goenka will continue as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) after the merger of Zee Entertainment and Sony Pictures India. Also read: ZEEL board gives go-ahead for merger with Sony Pictures Networks India Talking about the mega-merger deal, Goenka said: “The mega-merger between ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited and Sony Pictures Networks India will create the largest media and entertainment company in India. The merger will create close to $2 billion in revenue.” He also stated that the combined business will be valued at $1.6 billion in cash. In the mega-merger, ZEEL will own 47 percent of the company. There will also be a non-binding term sheet with a 90-day mutual diligence period.” Sony will have the opportunity to designate new promoters to the board, according to Goenka. The new board of the amalgamated firm will decide on fund infusion avenues.” He also asserted that the overlaps are largely in the Hindi GEC space. However, the objective is to maximise viewership. The MD also mentioned that no open offer is required in a merger. Goenka further added that the channel rationalisation call will be taken by the board of the merged entity. Similarly, the capital allocation strategy will also be taken by the board. He mentioned that “We will first optimise revenue from the merged entity and then cost.” (Disclaimer: Zee Entertainment is not our sister concern/ group company. Though our names sound similar, but our company is owned by Zee Media Corporation, which is a different group)

Simultaneous Lok Sabha, Assembly polls possible in Jammu and Kashmir: Ram Madhav

Twelve school students were injured in a blast inside the classroom of a private school&nbsp;Falai-e-Millat in the Narbal area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Wednesday.

“Several students reported injured in the blast and the details with regard to it is being ascertained,” a police official said.

The injured students were rushed to a hospital for treatment.&nbsp;Some of them have been taken shifted to SMHS hospital in Srinagar for advanced treatment.

The explosion took place inside the classroom at 2:30 pm.

"I was teaching and then suddenly an explosion occurred. I can't say how many students are injured," Jawed Ahmed, a teacher at the school, said.

<img alt="Pulwama" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ac3193f8-bba8-4fd3-a6e4-51b009185764" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_2.JPG" />

Visuals from the hospital where the students have been admitted. (ANI photo)

The cause of the blast is not yet known.

The police meanwhile have reached the spot and a probe is underway.

A case has been registered and an&nbsp;investigation is underway.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

Twelve school students were injured in a blast inside the classroom of a private school Falai-e-Millat in the Narbal area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Wednesday.

Twelve school students were injured in a blast inside the classroom of a private school Falai-e-Millat in the Narbal area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Wednesday. “Several students reported injured in the blast and the details with regard to it is being ascertained,” a police official said. The injured students were rushed to a hospital for treatment. Some of them have been taken shifted to SMHS hospital in Srinagar for advanced treatment. The explosion took place inside the classroom at 2:30 pm. "I was teaching and then suddenly an explosion occurred. I can't say how many students are injured," Jawed Ahmed, a teacher at the school, said. Visuals from the hospital where the students have been admitted. (ANI photo) The cause of the blast is not yet known. The police meanwhile have reached the spot and a probe is underway. A case has been registered and an investigation is underway. (With inputs from ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir: 12 schoolchildren injured after explosion inside classroom

A terrorist and an army jawan were killed while another soldier was injured in an encounter in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday, police sources said.

"One militant has been killed in an ongoing operation in Ratnipora area of Pulwama," the sources said.

They said an armyman also lost his life in the encounter, while another soldier was injured.

The injured soldier has been taken to a hospital for treatment, the sources said.

Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Ratnipora area in south Kashmir during the night following specific information about the presence of militants there.

The search operation turned into an encounter after militants fired on the forces who retaliated.

The operation is on and further details were awaited.&nbsp;

A terrorist and an army jawan were killed while another soldier was injured in an encounter in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday, police sources said.

A terrorist and an army jawan were killed while another soldier was injured in an encounter in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday, police sources said. "One militant has been killed in an ongoing operation in Ratnipora area of Pulwama," the sources said. They said an armyman also lost his life in the encounter, while another soldier was injured. The injured soldier has been taken to a hospital for treatment, the sources said. Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Ratnipora area in south Kashmir during the night following specific information about the presence of militants there. The search operation turned into an encounter after militants fired on the forces who retaliated. The operation is on and further details were awaited.

Terrorist, soldier killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama; encounter underway

A terrorist was killed and an Army Havaldar martyred while another soldier was wounded in a fierce encounter which ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in south Kashmir district of Pulwama on Tuesday morning.

Police have identified the terrorist as Hilal Ahmad Rather son of Ghulam Mohammad Rather, a resident of Behgambagh Kakapora district Pulwama.

Police said that he was involved in several terror crimes, including the escape of top Lashkar commander, Naveed Jatt, who was killed in an encounter last year.&nbsp;

"As per police records, he was affiliated with proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen. He had a long history of terror crime records and was wanted by law for his complicity in a series of terror crimes including an attack on security establishments and civilian atrocities," police said in a press release.&nbsp;

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Jammu and Kashmir: Army Jawan Baljeet Singh lost his life in an encounter with terrorists in Pulwama earlier today. <a href="https://t.co/iGSBWCojpf">pic.twitter.com/iGSBWCojpf</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095231389824249857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A joint team of 50 Rashtriya Rifles. 10 PAPA, Special operation group of the Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a cordon-and-search operation around 3 AM in Ratnipora village. As forces zeroed in on the spot, terrorists opened fire on them.&nbsp;

Two Indian army personnel suffered grievous wounds and were shifted to army's 92 base hospital, Badamibagh Srinagar, where one Havaldar Baljeet Singh of 55 RR succumb to his injuries.&nbsp;

"Chinar Corps Cdr and all ranks salute the supreme sacrifice of Havaldar Baljeet Singh (50 RR), who was martyred in the line of duty in Pulwama on 12 Feb 2019 &amp; offer condolences to the family," Army said.&nbsp;

On Sunday, five terrorists were killed in an operation on Sunday in Kulgam district.&nbsp;

A terrorist was killed and an Army Havaldar martyred while another soldier was wounded in a fierce encounter which ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in south Kashmir district of Pulwama on Tuesday morning.

A terrorist was killed and an Army Havaldar martyred while another soldier was wounded in a fierce encounter which ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in south Kashmir district of Pulwama on Tuesday morning. Police have identified the terrorist as Hilal Ahmad Rather son of Ghulam Mohammad Rather, a resident of Behgambagh Kakapora district Pulwama. Police said that he was involved in several terror crimes, including the escape of top Lashkar commander, Naveed Jatt, who was killed in an encounter last year. "As per police records, he was affiliated with proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen. He had a long history of terror crime records and was wanted by law for his complicity in a series of terror crimes including an attack on security establishments and civilian atrocities," police said in a press release. Jammu and Kashmir: Army Jawan Baljeet Singh lost his life in an encounter with terrorists in Pulwama earlier today. pic.twitter.com/iGSBWCojpf — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2019 × A joint team of 50 Rashtriya Rifles. 10 PAPA, Special operation group of the Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a cordon-and-search operation around 3 AM in Ratnipora village. As forces zeroed in on the spot, terrorists opened fire on them. Two Indian army personnel suffered grievous wounds and were shifted to army's 92 base hospital, Badamibagh Srinagar, where one Havaldar Baljeet Singh of 55 RR succumb to his injuries. "Chinar Corps Cdr and all ranks salute the supreme sacrifice of Havaldar Baljeet Singh (50 RR), who was martyred in the line of duty in Pulwama on 12 Feb 2019 & offer condolences to the family," Army said. On Sunday, five terrorists were killed in an operation on Sunday in Kulgam district.

J&K: Army jawan martyred, one terrorist gunned down in Pulwama encounter

The&nbsp;security personnel of Army artillery unit at Jammu and Kashmir's Rajarwani in Uri detected suspicious movement around the military camp and opened fire on Sunday night.

The army cordoned off the area and launched a search operation jointly by the police.&nbsp;

Two people&nbsp;were examined in connection with the case, reports said.

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J&amp;K: Last night the security personnel of Army Artillery unit at Rajarwani, Uri detected some suspicious movement around the camp and opened fire. The area has been cordoned off and is being searched jointly by Police &amp; Army. Two people are being examined. <a href="https://t.co/yL2e4l3h5Y">pic.twitter.com/yL2e4l3h5Y</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094795592746889216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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J&amp;K: Visuals from Rajarwani, Uri where suspicious movement was detected around camp of Army Artillery unit last night following which a security personnel opened fire. Area cordoned off&amp;is being searched by Police&amp;Army. 2 ppl being examined.(Visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/S9oEgVnawZ">pic.twitter.com/S9oEgVnawZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094812539421147136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This is developing story. More details awaited.

The security personnel of Army artillery unit at Jammu and Kashmir's Rajarwani in Uri detected suspicious movement around the military camp and opened fire on Sunday night.

The security personnel of Army artillery unit at Jammu and Kashmir's Rajarwani in Uri detected suspicious movement around the military camp and opened fire on Sunday night. The army cordoned off the area and launched a search operation jointly by the police. Two people were examined in connection with the case, reports said. J&K: Last night the security personnel of Army Artillery unit at Rajarwani, Uri detected some suspicious movement around the camp and opened fire. The area has been cordoned off and is being searched jointly by Police & Army. Two people are being examined. pic.twitter.com/yL2e4l3h5Y — ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2019 × J&K: Visuals from Rajarwani, Uri where suspicious movement was detected around camp of Army Artillery unit last night following which a security personnel opened fire. Area cordoned off&is being searched by Police&Army. 2 ppl being examined.(Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/S9oEgVnawZ — ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2019 × This is developing story. More details awaited.

J&K: Security personnel open fire after detecting suspicious activity near Uri army camp

Cold wave conditions returned to Kashmir as the minimum temperatures on Friday night plunged several degrees below freezing point, which resulted in the formation of black ice on the roads in the valley, hampering the movement of traffic, officials said Saturday.

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, recorded a low of minus 5.7 degrees Celsius on Friday night, registering a drop of nearly five degrees compared to the previous night, an official at the MeT Department said.

Gulmarg ski resort in north Kashmir was the coldest place in the valley as the mercury plunged to minus 14.4 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam in south Kashmir recorded a low of minus 12.7 degrees Celsius, he said.

Qazigund recorded a low of minus 9.0 degrees Celsius while Kupwara and Kokernag registered minimum temperatures of minus 7.4 and minus 7.7 degrees Celsius, respectively.

The sudden dip in the night temperature was due to clear skies overnight, which led to the formation of black ice on the roads in the city and elsewhere in the valley.

The motorists faced difficulty in driving over the frozen roads but bright sunshine eased the situation by melting the thin layer of ice.

Cold wave conditions returned to Kashmir as the minimum temperatures on Friday night plunged several degrees below freezing point, which resulted in the formation of black ice on the roads in the valley, hampering the movement of traffic, officials said Saturday.

Cold wave conditions returned to Kashmir as the minimum temperatures on Friday night plunged several degrees below freezing point, which resulted in the formation of black ice on the roads in the valley, hampering the movement of traffic, officials said Saturday. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, recorded a low of minus 5.7 degrees Celsius on Friday night, registering a drop of nearly five degrees compared to the previous night, an official at the MeT Department said. Gulmarg ski resort in north Kashmir was the coldest place in the valley as the mercury plunged to minus 14.4 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam in south Kashmir recorded a low of minus 12.7 degrees Celsius, he said. Qazigund recorded a low of minus 9.0 degrees Celsius while Kupwara and Kokernag registered minimum temperatures of minus 7.4 and minus 7.7 degrees Celsius, respectively. The sudden dip in the night temperature was due to clear skies overnight, which led to the formation of black ice on the roads in the city and elsewhere in the valley. The motorists faced difficulty in driving over the frozen roads but bright sunshine eased the situation by melting the thin layer of ice.

Cold wave conditions return to Kashmir Valley; temperature drops to -5.7 degrees Celsius

A terrorist was killed Wednesday in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district.

The terrorist has been identified as Irfan Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Chakoora in Pulwama.

Police said Sheikh was a district commander of the Lashkar e Taiba.

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir Police: One terrorist got killed in an exchange of fire with security forces in Pulwama today.The terrorist has been identified as Irfan Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Chakoora, Pulwama. He was affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba &amp; was known as district Commander of LeT. <a href="https://t.co/bBAqgESS82">pic.twitter.com/bBAqgESS82</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1093139816370233345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A member of the security forces was also injured in Kulgam district after terrorists&nbsp;threw a grenade at a CRPF camp.&nbsp;

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Terrorists fired a grenade at a CRPF camp in Kulgam which blasted in open ground, today. One security personnel sustained splinter injuries and was immediately evacuated to Govt Hospital, Kulgam. His condition is stable.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1093115847994998784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The injured man was immediately rushed to Government Hospital, Kulgam. His condition is believed to be stable.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

A terrorist was killed Wednesday in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. The terrorist has been identified as Irfan Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Chakoora in Pulwama.

A terrorist was killed Wednesday in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. The terrorist has been identified as Irfan Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Chakoora in Pulwama. Police said Sheikh was a district commander of the Lashkar e Taiba. Jammu & Kashmir Police: One terrorist got killed in an exchange of fire with security forces in Pulwama today.The terrorist has been identified as Irfan Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Chakoora, Pulwama. He was affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba & was known as district Commander of LeT. pic.twitter.com/bBAqgESS82 — ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2019 × A member of the security forces was also injured in Kulgam district after terrorists threw a grenade at a CRPF camp. Jammu & Kashmir: Terrorists fired a grenade at a CRPF camp in Kulgam which blasted in open ground, today. One security personnel sustained splinter injuries and was immediately evacuated to Govt Hospital, Kulgam. His condition is stable. — ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2019 × The injured man was immediately rushed to Government Hospital, Kulgam. His condition is believed to be stable. (With inputs from ANI)

Terrorist killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama

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