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The Indian government has lifted some restrictions that were put on mobile phones connections. Now postpaid mobile services are back online while prepaid phones and mobile internet still remain suspended.

J&K: Postpaid mobile services back online

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

Indian government set up Internet kiosks across Jammu & Kashmir

Kashmir Is Limping Its Way Back To Normalcy After Government's Decision To Scrap Special Status

Gravitas: Kashmir: Government restores post-paid mobile connections

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/residents-of-jammu-and-kashmir-express-joy-after-restoration-of-postpaid-mobile-services-255860">Jammu and Kashmir</a> administration has set up internet kiosks in every district to&nbsp;facilitate students and common people&nbsp;as there is no internet access&nbsp;in the valley following the abrogation of article 370.

In Srinagar, two such centres have been established at the Tourist Reception Centre and the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Every day, hundreds of students and contractors visit the locations to fill different forms with the assistance of&nbsp;an official.

Students who visit these centres say that they were worried about their appearance in the competitive exams including GATE, JEE and&nbsp;UPSC. “We help them in filling examination and job forms. We have established six&nbsp;counters here and four&nbsp;at DC office. Around a&nbsp;thousand forms have already been filled from this centre,” said Wahid, in charge of this centre.

The officials also help them scan their documents, pay&nbsp;for exams and jobs online in all the districts of the state.

&nbsp;“We were facing hardships to fill these forms and this is of great help. I have come to fill UGC Net exam. I can’t afford to lose this opportunity but having said that in digital India, we want internet back in the state,” says Rashid, a UGC aspirant, who has been waiting for his turn, adding that the government should set up more such centres.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/postpaid-mobile-services-restored-in-jammu-and-kashmir-after-two-months-255767">The internet connection</a> isn’t just limited to students. At the Deputy Commissioner’s office, people who want to fill other forms are also welcomed by the officials. According to the sources, the government may restore the broadband internet in Kashmir at the end of this month after reviewing the security,&nbsp;law and order situation after the restoration of postpaid mobile services.

“Since the last two months, we had no internet and I think this is a great initiative. If we had no such system, I was planning to go outside the state to fill my MCI form,” said Mudasir Ahmad.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has set up internet kiosks in every district to facilitate students and common people as there is no internet access in the valley following the abrogation of article 370.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has set up internet kiosks in every district to facilitate students and common people as there is no internet access in the valley following the abrogation of article 370. In Srinagar, two such centres have been established at the Tourist Reception Centre and the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Every day, hundreds of students and contractors visit the locations to fill different forms with the assistance of an official. Students who visit these centres say that they were worried about their appearance in the competitive exams including GATE, JEE and UPSC. “We help them in filling examination and job forms. We have established six counters here and four at DC office. Around a thousand forms have already been filled from this centre,” said Wahid, in charge of this centre. The officials also help them scan their documents, pay for exams and jobs online in all the districts of the state. “We were facing hardships to fill these forms and this is of great help. I have come to fill UGC Net exam. I can’t afford to lose this opportunity but having said that in digital India, we want internet back in the state,” says Rashid, a UGC aspirant, who has been waiting for his turn, adding that the government should set up more such centres. The internet connection isn’t just limited to students. At the Deputy Commissioner’s office, people who want to fill other forms are also welcomed by the officials. According to the sources, the government may restore the broadband internet in Kashmir at the end of this month after reviewing the security, law and order situation after the restoration of postpaid mobile services. “Since the last two months, we had no internet and I think this is a great initiative. If we had no such system, I was planning to go outside the state to fill my MCI form,” said Mudasir Ahmad.

Government sets up internet kiosks in every district of Kashmir to help people

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 14th, 2019

Syrian Envoy Dr Riad Abbas slams Pakistan over Kashmir. To know more watch the video

In exclusive conversation with Dr Riad Abbas

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 13th, 2019

Postpaid mobile services in Jammu and Kashmir will be functional from Monday.

"Having reviewed the situation, a decision has now been taken to restore mobile phone services in the remaining areas of Jammu and Kashmir. All postpaid mobile services, irrespective of the telecom operator will stand restored and be functional from 12 noon, Monday, 14 October 2019. This will cover all 10 districts of Kashmir province," Rohit Kansal, Principal Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir said on Saturday.

Mobile network and landlines connections were suspended across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370.

Although the landline network was restored in phases, restrictions remained on the usage of mobile devices in various parts of the Kashmir Valley.

The decision to restore mobile phone services comes days after Jammu and Kashmir Governor announced the withdrawal of security advisory for tourists from October 10.

The administration had also said that tourists desirous of visiting the region will be provided with the necessary assistance and logistic support.

As normalcy started returning, postpaid mobile phone services were resumed in five districts- Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri and Poonch- of the Jammu region on August 29.

On September 12, Kansal had said that a considerable number of mobiles were functional in Kupwarra and Handwara.

The government had time and again reiterated that restrictions on mobile services were imposed in the valley to prevent misuse of these services for flaring tensions.

Governor Satya Pal Malik had said that the curb has been imposed as these facilities were abused as "a weapon" against the country and mostly exploited by terrorists to mobilise the people.

"There is much hullabaloo over the absence of telephone facilities. I want to say that people should wait for 10 more days. For us every life is important. Please try to understand the reasons behind these restrictions. Who uses phones and the internet? It is of little use for us but is mostly exploited by terrorists and Pakistanis," Malik had said.

The Central government had on August 5 abrogated Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcated the state into Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Postpaid mobile services in Jammu and Kashmir will be functional from Monday. "Having reviewed the situation, a decision has now been taken to restore mobile phone services in the remaining areas of Jammu and Kashmir.

Postpaid mobile services in Jammu and Kashmir will be functional from Monday. "Having reviewed the situation, a decision has now been taken to restore mobile phone services in the remaining areas of Jammu and Kashmir. All postpaid mobile services, irrespective of the telecom operator will stand restored and be functional from 12 noon, Monday, 14 October 2019. This will cover all 10 districts of Kashmir province," Rohit Kansal, Principal Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir said on Saturday. Mobile network and landlines connections were suspended across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370. Although the landline network was restored in phases, restrictions remained on the usage of mobile devices in various parts of the Kashmir Valley. The decision to restore mobile phone services comes days after Jammu and Kashmir Governor announced the withdrawal of security advisory for tourists from October 10. The administration had also said that tourists desirous of visiting the region will be provided with the necessary assistance and logistic support. As normalcy started returning, postpaid mobile phone services were resumed in five districts- Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri and Poonch- of the Jammu region on August 29. On September 12, Kansal had said that a considerable number of mobiles were functional in Kupwarra and Handwara. The government had time and again reiterated that restrictions on mobile services were imposed in the valley to prevent misuse of these services for flaring tensions. Governor Satya Pal Malik had said that the curb has been imposed as these facilities were abused as "a weapon" against the country and mostly exploited by terrorists to mobilise the people. "There is much hullabaloo over the absence of telephone facilities. I want to say that people should wait for 10 more days. For us every life is important. Please try to understand the reasons behind these restrictions. Who uses phones and the internet? It is of little use for us but is mostly exploited by terrorists and Pakistanis," Malik had said. The Central government had on August 5 abrogated Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcated the state into Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

J&K: Postpaid mobile services to be restored in valley from Monday

BJP president Amit Shah on Friday revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi told US President Donald Trump that Kashmir is an internal matter of India and he need not interfere in it.

"This has been our consistent stand for years that we will not tolerate any kind of interference in Kashmir. If any country tried to speak on Kashmir, we said that it is our internal matter, be it American President or anyone else. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said clearly that Kashmir is our internal matter and you need not interfere," said Shah at an election rally.

Shah said the Congress and the NCP have opposed the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and in Maharashtra Assembly polls, the voters should ask them about their stand on Kashmir issue.

"In the integration of Kashmir with India, Article 370 was the biggest hurdle. In 70 years, no other Prime Minister showed the courage to abrogate Article 370 but Narendra Modi did it," he said.

"Congress Ghulam Nabi Azad said in Parliament that river of blood would flow in Kashmir if Article 370 is repealed. But I would like to share with you that not even a drop of blood was flown after Article 370 was revoked," added Shah.

"The Congress and the NCP opposed the abrogation of Article 370. When they come to you asking for votes, you should ask what is their stand on it," said Shah.

Article 370 was abrogated on August 5, divesting Jammu and Kashmir of its special status and bifurcating it into two UTs -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Maharashtra is scheduled to go to polls on October 21. The BJP is in alliance with the Shiv Sena. The Congress is contesting the polls in alliance with the NCP.

The counting of votes will take place on October 24.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah on Friday revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi told US President Donald Trump that Kashmir is an internal matter of India and he need not interfere in it.

BJP president Amit Shah on Friday revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi told US President Donald Trump that Kashmir is an internal matter of India and he need not interfere in it. "This has been our consistent stand for years that we will not tolerate any kind of interference in Kashmir. If any country tried to speak on Kashmir, we said that it is our internal matter, be it American President or anyone else. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said clearly that Kashmir is our internal matter and you need not interfere," said Shah at an election rally. Shah said the Congress and the NCP have opposed the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and in Maharashtra Assembly polls, the voters should ask them about their stand on Kashmir issue. "In the integration of Kashmir with India, Article 370 was the biggest hurdle. In 70 years, no other Prime Minister showed the courage to abrogate Article 370 but Narendra Modi did it," he said. "Congress Ghulam Nabi Azad said in Parliament that river of blood would flow in Kashmir if Article 370 is repealed. But I would like to share with you that not even a drop of blood was flown after Article 370 was revoked," added Shah. "The Congress and the NCP opposed the abrogation of Article 370. When they come to you asking for votes, you should ask what is their stand on it," said Shah. Article 370 was abrogated on August 5, divesting Jammu and Kashmir of its special status and bifurcating it into two UTs -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Maharashtra is scheduled to go to polls on October 21. The BJP is in alliance with the Shiv Sena. The Congress is contesting the polls in alliance with the NCP. The counting of votes will take place on October 24.

PM Modi told Donald Trump not to interfere in Kashmir: Amit Shah

On the eve of the second India-China informal summit, New Delhi has reminded both Islamabad and Beijing that Kashmir is India's internal matter and countries should not comment on it.

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "India’s position has been consistent and clear that Jammu &amp; Kashmir is an integral part of India."

Adding, "China is well aware of our position. It is not for other countries to comment on the internal affairs of India."

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was on a two-day visit to China and held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Kashmir was mentioned in the release issued by Pakistan and China on the Xi-Khan talks and was a topic in the joint statement by both countries.

While the Chinese government readout on Xi-Imran talks said that the President supports "Pakistan's legitimate interest in Kashmir... and parties should resolve the dispute via peaceful dialogue", Pakistani readout was stronger and mentioned the "humanitarian crisis in Jammu and Kashmir."

The China-Pakistan joint statement mentioned Kashmir and called for a resolution "based on the UN Charter, relevant UN Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements" with China opposing "any unilateral actions that complicate the situation."

But China and Pakistan have been making statements critical of Delhi since the revocation of the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The India-China second informal summit will take place on October 11 and 12, and New Delhi has asserted that Jammu and Kashmir would not be on the agenda since it's India's internal matter.

Government sources said, "Irrespective of which every country we deal with, our position is very clear. The issue of discussing with any country doesn't arise."

Adding, "If the President of China would like to understand, the PM will outline what we have done. On Union Territory of Ladakh, the logic has been explained. Foreign Minister Jaishankar has made our position clear in this regard."&nbsp;

On Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's ongoing China visit, the source said, "Visit has been decided by Pakistan and China and the matter is not a concern to us... we don't see it as hyphenation if the other side sees it, the Chinese side has to react."

On the eve of the second India-China informal summit, New Delhi has reminded both Islamabad and Beijing that Kashmir is India's internal matter and countries should not comment on it.

On the eve of the second India-China informal summit, New Delhi has reminded both Islamabad and Beijing that Kashmir is India's internal matter and countries should not comment on it. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "India’s position has been consistent and clear that Jammu & Kashmir is an integral part of India." Adding, "China is well aware of our position. It is not for other countries to comment on the internal affairs of India." Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was on a two-day visit to China and held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday. Kashmir was mentioned in the release issued by Pakistan and China on the Xi-Khan talks and was a topic in the joint statement by both countries. While the Chinese government readout on Xi-Imran talks said that the President supports "Pakistan's legitimate interest in Kashmir... and parties should resolve the dispute via peaceful dialogue", Pakistani readout was stronger and mentioned the "humanitarian crisis in Jammu and Kashmir." The China-Pakistan joint statement mentioned Kashmir and called for a resolution "based on the UN Charter, relevant UN Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements" with China opposing "any unilateral actions that complicate the situation." But China and Pakistan have been making statements critical of Delhi since the revocation of the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The India-China second informal summit will take place on October 11 and 12, and New Delhi has asserted that Jammu and Kashmir would not be on the agenda since it's India's internal matter. Government sources said, "Irrespective of which every country we deal with, our position is very clear. The issue of discussing with any country doesn't arise." Adding, "If the President of China would like to understand, the PM will outline what we have done. On Union Territory of Ladakh, the logic has been explained. Foreign Minister Jaishankar has made our position clear in this regard." On Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's ongoing China visit, the source said, "Visit has been decided by Pakistan and China and the matter is not a concern to us... we don't see it as hyphenation if the other side sees it, the Chinese side has to react."

Ahead of second India-China informal summit, India reaffirms that Kashmir is internal matter

Jammu and Kashmir tourism department is planning to double its promotions after authorities decided to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-opens-to-tourists-as-government-lifts-security-advisory-on-travel-254898">lift an advisory on tourists</a> this week.&nbsp;

The government had issued a security advisory asking tourists to curtail their stay in Jammu and Kashmir. The move followed the Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370 in August.&nbsp;

In a security advisory issued by the state home department, it read that "the security advisory requesting tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir to curtail their visit in Kashmir valley... is hereby withdrawn." The authorities have promised tourists all necessary assistance and logistical support.&nbsp;

Sources in the tourism department told WION that a meeting, headed by the principal secretary and other top officials, was held to discuss the measures needed for the revival of tourism in Kashmir valley.

"Normally we publicise tourism but this year we will have to double our promotions. We have roadshows in metropolitan cities of India. We will also do the same shows in Bangladesh, Thailand and Malaysia. We will also publicise at all the major airports of the country," said Nisar Ahmad Wani, director of tourism, Kashmir.

After the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and the subsequent imposition of restrictions, the tourism sector here has seen a steep downfall. Hotels and tour operators have fallen silent as travel bookings were cancelled.

According to an estimate, five lakh people are directly associated with the tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir. The state tourism department says that the industry contributes 16 per cent to the state's total GDP.

"Kashmir is a 12-month destination for tourists and since winter is coming, travel agents are trying our best to get clients from across the world and our country. The government has to take many steps which includes restoring telecommunication and internet services," said Mohammad Altaf, a tour and travel agent based in Srinagar.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir tourism department is planning to double its promotions after authorities decided to lift an advisory on tourists this week. The government had issued a security advisory asking tourists to curtail their stay in Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir tourism department is planning to double its promotions after authorities decided to lift an advisory on tourists this week. The government had issued a security advisory asking tourists to curtail their stay in Jammu and Kashmir. The move followed the Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370 in August. In a security advisory issued by the state home department, it read that "the security advisory requesting tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir to curtail their visit in Kashmir valley... is hereby withdrawn." The authorities have promised tourists all necessary assistance and logistical support. Sources in the tourism department told WION that a meeting, headed by the principal secretary and other top officials, was held to discuss the measures needed for the revival of tourism in Kashmir valley. "Normally we publicise tourism but this year we will have to double our promotions. We have roadshows in metropolitan cities of India. We will also do the same shows in Bangladesh, Thailand and Malaysia. We will also publicise at all the major airports of the country," said Nisar Ahmad Wani, director of tourism, Kashmir. After the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and the subsequent imposition of restrictions, the tourism sector here has seen a steep downfall. Hotels and tour operators have fallen silent as travel bookings were cancelled. According to an estimate, five lakh people are directly associated with the tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir. The state tourism department says that the industry contributes 16 per cent to the state's total GDP. "Kashmir is a 12-month destination for tourists and since winter is coming, travel agents are trying our best to get clients from across the world and our country. The government has to take many steps which includes restoring telecommunication and internet services," said Mohammad Altaf, a tour and travel agent based in Srinagar.

Jammu and Kashmir tourism department to double promotions after tourist advisory withdrawal

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 9th, 2019

China's diplomatic shift. China asks Pakistan to resolve Kashmir issue bilaterally with India. Watch this video to know in detail.

China's diplomatic shift, asks Pakistan to resolve Kashmir issue bilaterally with India

After remaining closed since the abrogation of Article 370, schools, colleges and universities reopened on Wednesday following the government's directive issued earlier.

Since morning, teachers and professors were seen going to schools and colleges but yet again a very thin attendance was witnessed in Srinagar. Those who came to schools were spotted without uniform and had come to inquire about the upcoming exams and assignments.&nbsp;

It is important to mention that security forces who were airlifted, to control the situation, have been stationed in several colleges and higher secondary schools because of the lack of space to accommodate them.&nbsp;

"We have suffered since last two months and education is something, which is difficult to regain. The government should figure out a way because we suffered in 2016 and once again, we are facing hardships," said a 12th standard student Aqib, who had come to submit his assignments at government-run SP higher secondary school in Srinagar.&nbsp;

<img alt="College in Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cd07ff1a-71fa-450b-b4bd-26f06b28c3e9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2812%29_0.jpg" />

A meeting held on Monday by the J&amp;K governor also took up the issue of education which has been badly hit since August 5.

&nbsp;"Some of the major decisions taken in the past in the situation cum security review meetings include reopening of higher secondary schools; colleges and universities; restarting public transport.....monitoring attendance in government offices, etc," said a statement issued by the authorities.&nbsp;

"Being a parent, I haven't sent my kids to school because once they are there, I wouldn't be in touch with them as mobile communication is still shut. What is someone pelts stones at their bus?" said a parent.

Last month, the government had directed schools to open but the move remained unsuccessful given the communication shutdown and uncertainty regarding the situation in the Himalayan state.&nbsp;

The administration has asked education institutes not to charge any tuition fee or bus fee since August.&nbsp;

After remaining closed since the abrogation of Article 370, schools, colleges and universities reopened on Wednesday following the government's directive issued earlier.

After remaining closed since the abrogation of Article 370, schools, colleges and universities reopened on Wednesday following the government's directive issued earlier. Since morning, teachers and professors were seen going to schools and colleges but yet again a very thin attendance was witnessed in Srinagar. Those who came to schools were spotted without uniform and had come to inquire about the upcoming exams and assignments. It is important to mention that security forces who were airlifted, to control the situation, have been stationed in several colleges and higher secondary schools because of the lack of space to accommodate them. "We have suffered since last two months and education is something, which is difficult to regain. The government should figure out a way because we suffered in 2016 and once again, we are facing hardships," said a 12th standard student Aqib, who had come to submit his assignments at government-run SP higher secondary school in Srinagar. A meeting held on Monday by the J&K governor also took up the issue of education which has been badly hit since August 5. "Some of the major decisions taken in the past in the situation cum security review meetings include reopening of higher secondary schools; colleges and universities; restarting public transport.....monitoring attendance in government offices, etc," said a statement issued by the authorities. "Being a parent, I haven't sent my kids to school because once they are there, I wouldn't be in touch with them as mobile communication is still shut. What is someone pelts stones at their bus?" said a parent. Last month, the government had directed schools to open but the move remained unsuccessful given the communication shutdown and uncertainty regarding the situation in the Himalayan state. The administration has asked education institutes not to charge any tuition fee or bus fee since August.

Schools, colleges reopen in Kashmir; witness low attendance

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-symbol-of-valour-and-courage-amit-shah-on-air-force-day-254437">BJP president Amit Shah</a> on Monday said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi had repealed Article 370 within months of returning to power with an increased majority and urged people to take to task those who had "opposed" the move. 
 
Addressing a rally in poll-bound Maharashtra, he said the Modi government had taken steps for empowering the OBCs and given constitutional status to National Commission for Backward Classes. 
 
He said the government was moving in the direction shown by BR&nbsp;Ambedkar to empower the weaker sections. 
 
"You gave Narendra Modiji 300 seats (in the Lok Sabha polls). Modiji removed Article 370 in five months," he said. 
 
"Article 370 should have been scrapped or not? Is Kashmir an integral part of India or not? Prime Minister Narendra Modi has worked for integrating Kashmir with Bharat or not? Will you not question those who oppose it?" Shah asked. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/minimum-use-of-force-should-be-motto-of-police-everywhere-says-amit-shah-254336">The Union Home Minister</a> also heaped praises on Pankaja Munde, a Minister in Maharashtra government, who is contesting from Beed. 
 
He remembered her father and former union minister Gopinath Munde, saying he had done a lot of work for uplifting farmers, labourers and backward sections. 
 
"Gopinath Munde devoted his whole life for the sugarcane farmers, labourers in the sugar mills. Pankaja too is working for the backward sections of society," he said. 
 
Shah also greeted people on Dussehra. " It is the festival of victory of good over evil and inspires us to keep moving forward in life." 
 
BJP is contesting Maharashtra polls in alliance with Shiv Sena. The state will go to the polls on October 21.

BJP president Amit Shah on Monday said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi had repealed Article 370 within months of returning to power with an increased majority and urged people to take to task those who had "opposed" the move.

BJP president Amit Shah on Monday said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi had repealed Article 370 within months of returning to power with an increased majority and urged people to take to task those who had "opposed" the move. Addressing a rally in poll-bound Maharashtra, he said the Modi government had taken steps for empowering the OBCs and given constitutional status to National Commission for Backward Classes. He said the government was moving in the direction shown by BR Ambedkar to empower the weaker sections. "You gave Narendra Modiji 300 seats (in the Lok Sabha polls). Modiji removed Article 370 in five months," he said. "Article 370 should have been scrapped or not? Is Kashmir an integral part of India or not? Prime Minister Narendra Modi has worked for integrating Kashmir with Bharat or not? Will you not question those who oppose it?" Shah asked. The Union Home Minister also heaped praises on Pankaja Munde, a Minister in Maharashtra government, who is contesting from Beed. He remembered her father and former union minister Gopinath Munde, saying he had done a lot of work for uplifting farmers, labourers and backward sections. "Gopinath Munde devoted his whole life for the sugarcane farmers, labourers in the sugar mills. Pankaja too is working for the backward sections of society," he said. Shah also greeted people on Dussehra. " It is the festival of victory of good over evil and inspires us to keep moving forward in life." BJP is contesting Maharashtra polls in alliance with Shiv Sena. The state will go to the polls on October 21.

Question those who opposed repealing Article 370, says Amit Shah

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, and said the effort will come to fruition when justice denied under its influence is restored and Kashmiri Pandits are brought back and rehabilitated. 
 
In his address at the Vijayadashami function of RSS, Bhagwat said the move of the BJP-led regime to nullify Article 370 has once again proved that it has the courage to fulfil&nbsp;expectations and respect people's sentiments and wishes in the interest of the country. 
 
He said the repeal of Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, has been on the agenda of the ruling party. The Article was repealed in August this year almost two months after the BJP-led coalition returned to power at the Centre with a greater majority. 
 
"But this time by skilfully garnering the support of other parties in both Houses, with strong logic and plea in consonance with public sentiment, the work was accomplished, for which the members of the ruling party, including the Prime Minister and Home Minister, and other political parties who upheld the public sentiments in Parliament deserve congratulations," he said. 
 
"This effort will come to fruition only when justice denied under the influence of Article 370 is restored, injustices occurred are brought to an end. It will happen when our Kashmiri Pandits who were unjustly driven away are brought back and rehabilitated and allowed to remain secure, fearless, patriotic and Hindu," he added. 
 
Bhagwat said there is also a need to restore the rights of residents which were denied to them. 
 
"Many a right of residents of Kashmir which were denied to them so far will be restored, and false fears instilled in the minds of brothers of the Valley that there is a threat to their property and jobs due to the nullification of Article 370, will be removed and having done away with those fears, they will be able to perform their duties towards the country's development with brotherly affinity and concord with the people of rest of Bharat," he said.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, and said the effort will come to fruition when justice denied under its influence is restored and Kashmiri Pandits are brought back and rehabilitated.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, and said the effort will come to fruition when justice denied under its influence is restored and Kashmiri Pandits are brought back and rehabilitated. In his address at the Vijayadashami function of RSS, Bhagwat said the move of the BJP-led regime to nullify Article 370 has once again proved that it has the courage to fulfil expectations and respect people's sentiments and wishes in the interest of the country. He said the repeal of Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, has been on the agenda of the ruling party. The Article was repealed in August this year almost two months after the BJP-led coalition returned to power at the Centre with a greater majority. "But this time by skilfully garnering the support of other parties in both Houses, with strong logic and plea in consonance with public sentiment, the work was accomplished, for which the members of the ruling party, including the Prime Minister and Home Minister, and other political parties who upheld the public sentiments in Parliament deserve congratulations," he said. "This effort will come to fruition only when justice denied under the influence of Article 370 is restored, injustices occurred are brought to an end. It will happen when our Kashmiri Pandits who were unjustly driven away are brought back and rehabilitated and allowed to remain secure, fearless, patriotic and Hindu," he added. Bhagwat said there is also a need to restore the rights of residents which were denied to them. "Many a right of residents of Kashmir which were denied to them so far will be restored, and false fears instilled in the minds of brothers of the Valley that there is a threat to their property and jobs due to the nullification of Article 370, will be removed and having done away with those fears, they will be able to perform their duties towards the country's development with brotherly affinity and concord with the people of rest of Bharat," he said.

Article 370 repeal will come to fruition when Kashmiri pundits return, says RSS chief Bhagwat

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

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

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

Kashmir shadow looms large over Narendra Modi-Xi Jinping meet

In a major step to revive tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, the authorities have decided to lift the advisory. In its advisory, the government had asked tourists to leave and not to visit Kashmir.

A high-level situation-cum-security review meeting, headed by Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik, was held on Monday during which it was decided that the advisory will be lifted from October 10.&nbsp;

Those associated with the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir have welcomed the move and hoped that more tourists will visit the Valley after the announcement.

“We are happy that this advisory has been lifted but we hope that government of India does more to remove the fear among the tourists regarding the situation in Kashmir valley,” says Mohammad Hafiz Shalla who is involved in the tourism sector in Srinagar.

Shalla hopes winter tourism to bring people from India and across the globe to enjoy the hospitality Jammu and Kashmir offers. Few tourists have been visiting despite the advisory, most from Malaysia, Singapore and other parts of India.

“I have been in Srinagar from the last two days and we didn’t feel any insecurity. People here are warm and welcoming. Other people who are hesitant should change their mind,” says a young couple from Varanasi.

Although the Governor has been holding these meetings on a daily basis for almost two hours, sources say that Monday's meeting was an important one as several issues, regarding providing public transportation and opening schools, colleges and universities, were discussed at length.

“The main agenda of the meeting was reviewing the security scenario following the imposition of restrictions after constitutional changes that were made,” authorities said. 
&nbsp;

In a major step to revive tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, the authorities have decided to lift the advisory. In its advisory, the government had asked tourists to leave and not to visit Kashmir.

In a major step to revive tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, the authorities have decided to lift the advisory. In its advisory, the government had asked tourists to leave and not to visit Kashmir. A high-level situation-cum-security review meeting, headed by Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik, was held on Monday during which it was decided that the advisory will be lifted from October 10. Those associated with the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir have welcomed the move and hoped that more tourists will visit the Valley after the announcement. “We are happy that this advisory has been lifted but we hope that government of India does more to remove the fear among the tourists regarding the situation in Kashmir valley,” says Mohammad Hafiz Shalla who is involved in the tourism sector in Srinagar. Shalla hopes winter tourism to bring people from India and across the globe to enjoy the hospitality Jammu and Kashmir offers. Few tourists have been visiting despite the advisory, most from Malaysia, Singapore and other parts of India. “I have been in Srinagar from the last two days and we didn’t feel any insecurity. People here are warm and welcoming. Other people who are hesitant should change their mind,” says a young couple from Varanasi. Although the Governor has been holding these meetings on a daily basis for almost two hours, sources say that Monday's meeting was an important one as several issues, regarding providing public transportation and opening schools, colleges and universities, were discussed at length. “The main agenda of the meeting was reviewing the security scenario following the imposition of restrictions after constitutional changes that were made,” authorities said.

Jammu and Kashmir: Government to lift security advisory on tourists

There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship. 
 
Pakistan is not a normal country with political leaders, a Parliament, a constitution, the army and other branches of the state. It is one of the few places in the world where the army owns a country and runs it. The army is also in charge of a substantial portion of its economy.&nbsp;

After Indian action on Article 370, Pakistan appears to be very concerned about our 'secular’ fabric. They are trying to raise the issue in every way possible, without success.

In their ignorance or over enthusiasm, they claim that Kashmir is the jugular 'vain’ of Pakistan, as a recent press release by their official spokesperson, Director General ISPR revealed: “Pak Army is fully configured, prepared &amp; determined to defend honour, dignity &amp; territorial integrity of motherland at all cost. Kashmir is jugular vain (sic) of Pakistan &amp; no compromise shall be made which denies right of self-determination to our brave Kashmiri brethren” - COAS. Such is their level of vain about the jugular!&nbsp;

Their Constitution – the 1973 version visualises– to quote from its preamble, “Whereas sovereignty over the entire Universe belongs to Almighty Allah alone, and the authority to be exercised by the people of Pakistan within the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred trust; wherein the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice, as enunciated by Islam, shall be fully observed”&nbsp;

It is the Pakistani Army which is the chosen instrument to implement the will of God. This was clearly enunciated by its former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani; protecting Islam and protecting Pakistan are the sovereign duties of the armed forces. Actually, Kayani suggested that the role of army is more than protecting the country – it is to protect the idea and religion.&nbsp;

An UN investigating team appointed by former Pakistan President Asif Zardari probing the death of slain Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto could interview all civil leaders, including the PM and the President, but not the military brass. When the army objected to the Kerry–Lugar bill, the President had to bring in Kerry himself to convince the army chief.&nbsp;

It does not stop there. The army does not recognise some sects of Islam as Muslims. Ahmadis are an example. Abdus Salam, a Pak-origin scientist got the Nobel Prize in Physics, along with Steven Wienberg in 1979. His home town municipality erected an arch in memory of him, which said: ‘First Muslim Nobel Laureate in Physics’. There was a big hue and cry since he was an Ahmadi. So the word Muslim was erased. The revised plaque read: “First Nobel Laureate in Physics”!

Very recently, an MP brought a bill in the Pakistan senate to allow non-Muslims to occupy positions like Prime Minister, President etc. That was out rightly rejected by the parliamentarians. Forget about other ethnic groups like Hindus and Christians, minorities even within Islamic sects like Ahmadis and Bahais cannot occupy high constitutional positions.

In India, the defence minister can ask the army chief to court martial a General, but in Pakistan, any such attempt will result in a coup. That is why Pakistan always negotiates with a gun to its own head. It wants to assert its suicidal tendencies.&nbsp;

Many studies have found that a large number of companies in Pakistan are ultimately owned by Fauji Foundation (FF), Army Welfare Trust (AWT), Bahria Foundation (BF) and Shaheen Foundation (SF), all different wings of its armed forces.

Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). &nbsp;One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous.

At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country.&nbsp;

At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council.&nbsp;

If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them.

There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country. 
 
There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship.

Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). &nbsp;One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous.

At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country.&nbsp;

At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council.&nbsp;

If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them.

There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-pak-an-army-with-a-country-2795225">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship.

There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship. Pakistan is not a normal country with political leaders, a Parliament, a constitution, the army and other branches of the state. It is one of the few places in the world where the army owns a country and runs it. The army is also in charge of a substantial portion of its economy. After Indian action on Article 370, Pakistan appears to be very concerned about our 'secular’ fabric. They are trying to raise the issue in every way possible, without success. In their ignorance or over enthusiasm, they claim that Kashmir is the jugular 'vain’ of Pakistan, as a recent press release by their official spokesperson, Director General ISPR revealed: “Pak Army is fully configured, prepared & determined to defend honour, dignity & territorial integrity of motherland at all cost. Kashmir is jugular vain (sic) of Pakistan & no compromise shall be made which denies right of self-determination to our brave Kashmiri brethren” - COAS. Such is their level of vain about the jugular! Their Constitution – the 1973 version visualises– to quote from its preamble, “Whereas sovereignty over the entire Universe belongs to Almighty Allah alone, and the authority to be exercised by the people of Pakistan within the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred trust; wherein the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice, as enunciated by Islam, shall be fully observed” It is the Pakistani Army which is the chosen instrument to implement the will of God. This was clearly enunciated by its former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani; protecting Islam and protecting Pakistan are the sovereign duties of the armed forces. Actually, Kayani suggested that the role of army is more than protecting the country – it is to protect the idea and religion. An UN investigating team appointed by former Pakistan President Asif Zardari probing the death of slain Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto could interview all civil leaders, including the PM and the President, but not the military brass. When the army objected to the Kerry–Lugar bill, the President had to bring in Kerry himself to convince the army chief. It does not stop there. The army does not recognise some sects of Islam as Muslims. Ahmadis are an example. Abdus Salam, a Pak-origin scientist got the Nobel Prize in Physics, along with Steven Wienberg in 1979. His home town municipality erected an arch in memory of him, which said: ‘First Muslim Nobel Laureate in Physics’. There was a big hue and cry since he was an Ahmadi. So the word Muslim was erased. The revised plaque read: “First Nobel Laureate in Physics”! Very recently, an MP brought a bill in the Pakistan senate to allow non-Muslims to occupy positions like Prime Minister, President etc. That was out rightly rejected by the parliamentarians. Forget about other ethnic groups like Hindus and Christians, minorities even within Islamic sects like Ahmadis and Bahais cannot occupy high constitutional positions. In India, the defence minister can ask the army chief to court martial a General, but in Pakistan, any such attempt will result in a coup. That is why Pakistan always negotiates with a gun to its own head. It wants to assert its suicidal tendencies. Many studies have found that a large number of companies in Pakistan are ultimately owned by Fauji Foundation (FF), Army Welfare Trust (AWT), Bahria Foundation (BF) and Shaheen Foundation (SF), all different wings of its armed forces. Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous. At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country. At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council. If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them. There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country. There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship. Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous. At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country. At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council. If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them. There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country. (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)

Pakistan: An army with a country

Pakistani Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-made-up-the-numbers-india-on-islamabad-claiming-support-of-58-countries-at-unhrc-253777">Imran Khan</a> on Saturday warned his country's army and people not to cross over into India through Line of Control (LoC) to provide humanitarian aid or any support to Kashmiris as it will be playing into the "narrative of India" that says terrorism is driven by Pakistan.

His message for the Kashmiris on his 67th birthday came as a new admission from the Prime Minister over the fact that Pakistan indeed continues to push terrorists into India, along the LoC.

Khan took to Twitter to reiterate his&nbsp;rhetoric on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/grenade-attack-rocks-jammu-and-kashmirs-anantnag-253860">Kashmir</a>, saying that the "inhumane curfew" has been continuing since more than two months in the Valley.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-spokesperson-trolled-for-calling-kashmir-countrys-jugular-vain-253724">Pakistani</a>&nbsp;Prime Minister's advisory to his people to not cross over into India has come nearly ten days after the Indian Army chief revealed that terror camps in Balakot are active again, almost seven months after the Indian Air Force destroyed the Jaish-e-Mohammad-run complex run in retaliation for the Pulwama terror attack.

"Balakot has been reactivated by Pakistan very recently. That shows that Balakot has been affected. It had been damaged and destroyed. And that is why people have got away from there and now it has been reactivated," Army chief Bipin Rawat had told reporters on September 24 at the Officers Training Academy.

General Rawat added that close to 500 infiltrators are waiting to infiltrate into India.

This is not the first time that the cricketer-turned-prime minister has played a rash shot. His bid to internationalize Kashmir has disastrously failed on all international platforms.

Even before he spoke at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-nuclear-watchdog-says-iran-taking-step-in-right-direction-253726">United Nations</a> General Assembly last month, he was forced to admit the failure of "Mission Kashmir".

"To be absolutely frank, I am a bit disappointed by the international community," adding that the reaction would have been different and more urgent had it been 8 million Europeans who had been put under siege or Jewish people or Americans, it would have been different if there were just eight Americans. He lamented, "What options do we have? What do we do?," he said in a press conference on September 25.

Despite being snubbed globally over the Kashmir issue, Khan at the U.N. General Assembly meeting had yet again warned of dire consequences in the event of a nuclear war with India over the matter.

"My belief is we will fight and when a nuclear-armed country fights till the end it will have consequence far beyond the borders. I am warning you. It's not a threat but worry about where are we heading. If this goes wrong you hope for the best but prepare for the worst," Khan had said.

India has maintained that the move is an internal matter of the country - a stance which has been supported by several countries, including the SAARC nations and the Arab World.&nbsp;

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday warned his country's army and people not to cross over into India through Line of Control (LoC) to provide humanitarian aid or any support to Kashmiris as it will be playing into the "narrative of India" that says terrorism is driven by Pakistan.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday warned his country's army and people not to cross over into India through Line of Control (LoC) to provide humanitarian aid or any support to Kashmiris as it will be playing into the "narrative of India" that says terrorism is driven by Pakistan. His message for the Kashmiris on his 67th birthday came as a new admission from the Prime Minister over the fact that Pakistan indeed continues to push terrorists into India, along the LoC. Khan took to Twitter to reiterate his rhetoric on Kashmir, saying that the "inhumane curfew" has been continuing since more than two months in the Valley. Pakistani Prime Minister's advisory to his people to not cross over into India has come nearly ten days after the Indian Army chief revealed that terror camps in Balakot are active again, almost seven months after the Indian Air Force destroyed the Jaish-e-Mohammad-run complex run in retaliation for the Pulwama terror attack. "Balakot has been reactivated by Pakistan very recently. That shows that Balakot has been affected. It had been damaged and destroyed. And that is why people have got away from there and now it has been reactivated," Army chief Bipin Rawat had told reporters on September 24 at the Officers Training Academy. General Rawat added that close to 500 infiltrators are waiting to infiltrate into India. This is not the first time that the cricketer-turned-prime minister has played a rash shot. His bid to internationalize Kashmir has disastrously failed on all international platforms. Even before he spoke at the United Nations General Assembly last month, he was forced to admit the failure of "Mission Kashmir". "To be absolutely frank, I am a bit disappointed by the international community," adding that the reaction would have been different and more urgent had it been 8 million Europeans who had been put under siege or Jewish people or Americans, it would have been different if there were just eight Americans. He lamented, "What options do we have? What do we do?," he said in a press conference on September 25. Despite being snubbed globally over the Kashmir issue, Khan at the U.N. General Assembly meeting had yet again warned of dire consequences in the event of a nuclear war with India over the matter. "My belief is we will fight and when a nuclear-armed country fights till the end it will have consequence far beyond the borders. I am warning you. It's not a threat but worry about where are we heading. If this goes wrong you hope for the best but prepare for the worst," Khan had said. India has maintained that the move is an internal matter of the country - a stance which has been supported by several countries, including the SAARC nations and the Arab World.

Imran Khan advises his people not to cross Line of Control

Keeping up with the country's trend of making spelling errors while attacking India on Twitter, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-economic-crisis-army-chief-bajwa-meets-business-leaders-is-imran-khan-isolated-in-pakistan-253611">Pakistan Army</a> spokesperson Asif Ghafoor on Wednesday called Kashmir the jugular "vain" of Pakistan, inviting trolls.

Ghafoor was quoting a statement by Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa which reiterated that the country is fully "configured, prepared, and determined" to defend the "honour, dignity, and territorial integrity of motherland at all cost. Kashmir is jugular vain of Pakistan and no compromise shall be made which denies right of self-determination to our brave Kashmiri brethren."

"The last time I had corrected your Latin. This time please allow me to correct your English. It's - jugular vein - and not "vain", wrote a user.

"You are trying in "vain", another user wrote."change Vain to Vein, otherwise all in Vain," wrote a third user.&nbsp;

Watch: Pakistan Army spokesperson Asif Ghafoor trolled for calling Kashmir country's jugular 'vain'

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Earlier, Pakistan's Science and Technology Minister Fawad Chaudhary became the centre of all trolls when he spelt the very word satellite incorrect while trying to troll India after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-2-orbiter-doing-very-well-no-communication-with-vikram-lander-isro-chief-sivan-250935">ISRO lost communication</a> with its lander Vikram.

&nbsp;

Keeping up with the country's trend of making spelling errors while attacking India on Twitter, Pakistan Army spokesperson Asif Ghafoor on Wednesday called Kashmir the jugular "vain" of Pakistan, inviting trolls.

Keeping up with the country's trend of making spelling errors while attacking India on Twitter, Pakistan Army spokesperson Asif Ghafoor on Wednesday called Kashmir the jugular "vain" of Pakistan, inviting trolls. Ghafoor was quoting a statement by Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa which reiterated that the country is fully "configured, prepared, and determined" to defend the "honour, dignity, and territorial integrity of motherland at all cost. Kashmir is jugular vain of Pakistan and no compromise shall be made which denies right of self-determination to our brave Kashmiri brethren." "The last time I had corrected your Latin. This time please allow me to correct your English. It's - jugular vein - and not "vain", wrote a user. "You are trying in "vain", another user wrote."change Vain to Vein, otherwise all in Vain," wrote a third user. Watch: Pakistan Army spokesperson Asif Ghafoor trolled for calling Kashmir country's jugular 'vain' × Earlier, Pakistan's Science and Technology Minister Fawad Chaudhary became the centre of all trolls when he spelt the very word satellite incorrect while trying to troll India after ISRO lost communication with its lander Vikram.

Pakistan army spokesperson trolled for calling Kashmir country's jugular 'vain'

On August 5, when the Centre decided to abrogate article 370, which gave Jammu and Kashmir special status, the first move was to shut down communication and the internet, to avoid any gatherings and rumours. The announcement was made mid-night with strict restrictions in every district of Kashmir valley.&nbsp;

With time, thousands of landline phones were restored but mobile internet continues to remain shut. This has not only affected common man but also lovers in the valley, who are now spending times on the banks of Dal Lake and Jhelum river.&nbsp;

Most of them are having a hard time meeting and communicating. Restaurants, which are the hot favourites of couples are also shut since the abrogation of special status.&nbsp;

On the foothill of the Himalayan mountain range and along the banks of Dal lake, dozens of couples sit and talk while trying to avoid a gaze with the onlookers. Kashmir is a conservative society and if you are spotted meeting your lover, the backlash is inevitable.

"It's hard to fix a meeting without the mobile or internet. I am waiting for my girlfriend for 30 minutes since I last communicated to her using a telephone booth. Her dad received the call first, then I had to call again after few hours, luckily, she picked it up and we fixed the meeting spot and location," says a young man, who doesn't wish to be identified. He also said that he was seeing the girl after 60 days.

Kashmiri men in their 40's are having a flashback of the times when there would be no mobile phones and speaking to one's girlfriend from kiosks was a hard task. Mobile phone services came to Kashmir in around 2002 when Mufti Sayeed became the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Mufti first made a phone call to then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee from Civil Secretariat in Srinagar, setting the phones buzzing.&nbsp;

"My wife is in Delhi and yesterday she tried to contact me when I was at work, but couldn't. Later, she made a phone call to me over landline at home and it was just nostalgic," says Farooq Ahmad, a resident of Lal Bazaar area of Srinagar.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Dotted with leaves of autumn Chinar and one of the most prestigious addresses in Srinagar is the Bund; it is located near the city centre. The address was one of the star attractions for the foreign tourists beginning from the British era when beautifully craved houseboats in Jhelum river would evoke romance and mystique. The Bund is no longer filled with crowds, so the couples are dotting the area, without any fear.&nbsp;

"I told my parents that I need to collect an assignment from a friend but came to meet my boyfriend here. We fix meeting day and time in advance when we meet," said a girl in her 20's.&nbsp;

People in Kashmir are hopeful that the government will soon restore the mobile phones as the situation gets back to normal.

On August 5, when the Centre decided to abrogate article 370, which gave Jammu and Kashmir special status, the first move was to shut down communication and the internet, to avoid any gatherings and rumours.

On August 5, when the Centre decided to abrogate article 370, which gave Jammu and Kashmir special status, the first move was to shut down communication and the internet, to avoid any gatherings and rumours. The announcement was made mid-night with strict restrictions in every district of Kashmir valley. With time, thousands of landline phones were restored but mobile internet continues to remain shut. This has not only affected common man but also lovers in the valley, who are now spending times on the banks of Dal Lake and Jhelum river. Most of them are having a hard time meeting and communicating. Restaurants, which are the hot favourites of couples are also shut since the abrogation of special status. On the foothill of the Himalayan mountain range and along the banks of Dal lake, dozens of couples sit and talk while trying to avoid a gaze with the onlookers. Kashmir is a conservative society and if you are spotted meeting your lover, the backlash is inevitable. "It's hard to fix a meeting without the mobile or internet. I am waiting for my girlfriend for 30 minutes since I last communicated to her using a telephone booth. Her dad received the call first, then I had to call again after few hours, luckily, she picked it up and we fixed the meeting spot and location," says a young man, who doesn't wish to be identified. He also said that he was seeing the girl after 60 days. Kashmiri men in their 40's are having a flashback of the times when there would be no mobile phones and speaking to one's girlfriend from kiosks was a hard task. Mobile phone services came to Kashmir in around 2002 when Mufti Sayeed became the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Mufti first made a phone call to then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee from Civil Secretariat in Srinagar, setting the phones buzzing. "My wife is in Delhi and yesterday she tried to contact me when I was at work, but couldn't. Later, she made a phone call to me over landline at home and it was just nostalgic," says Farooq Ahmad, a resident of Lal Bazaar area of Srinagar. Dotted with leaves of autumn Chinar and one of the most prestigious addresses in Srinagar is the Bund; it is located near the city centre. The address was one of the star attractions for the foreign tourists beginning from the British era when beautifully craved houseboats in Jhelum river would evoke romance and mystique. The Bund is no longer filled with crowds, so the couples are dotting the area, without any fear. "I told my parents that I need to collect an assignment from a friend but came to meet my boyfriend here. We fix meeting day and time in advance when we meet," said a girl in her 20's. People in Kashmir are hopeful that the government will soon restore the mobile phones as the situation gets back to normal.

Kashmir: Love in the times of mobile and internet shutdown

The most trusted institution, the most powerful institution in pakistan is its army. In fact, political succession does not happen through democratic processes along in Pakistan.

Since 1947, Pakistan has spent the bulk of its existence under army rule.

Despite that dodgy tradition, when the business community goes to Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa&nbsp;for ideas instead of the elected prime minister, it gives rise to some serious questions.

Is Pakistan a country with an army? Or is Pakistan an army with a country?

On WION Edit, we will specifically explore these questions in the context of the economy. When Imran Khan came to power, he came on two tall promises.

1, Rooting out corruption 
2, Ushering in an era of economic growth

It is safe to say that the Pakistan Prime Minister has failed on both counts in a spectacular fashion. But still, can General Bajwa revive the economy?

Here, we have to understand the political dynamics in Pakistan.

Pakistan's army runs the country's economy. The Fauji Foundation is the second-largest conglomerate in Pakistan. It controls everything from the food sector to energy. And guess who runs it - the army

Decades of army rule have eroded democratic institutions in Islamabad. Besides General Bajwa always held more power than Imran khan.

Imran Khan calls himself the ambassador of Kashmir. In truth, he is just a spokesperson of the Pakistani army.

So would things change now, given that General Bajwa looks set to take economic decisions?

The straight-forward answer is 'no', not a chance.

Pakistan's economic troubles run deep and are structural. Right now, Pakistan is running on external money and debt is soaring.

And Imran Khan has no clue, no say, and general Bajwa will continue to protect the army's interests. Already, he has linked the economy with national security.

Unless Pakistan gets a semblance of democracy, the welfare measures will not reach the common man. With a more prominent role for General Bajwa, Pakistan's sham-democracy is unlikely to deliver growth.

Unless public investment and private investment picks up, unless wealth creation is prioritised, Pakistan's economic problems will continue.

And when you are an army with a country, the country will be forced to serve the needs of the army and not vice versa. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

The most trusted institution, the most powerful institution in pakistan is its army. In fact, political succession does not happen through democratic processes along in Pakistan.

The most trusted institution, the most powerful institution in pakistan is its army. In fact, political succession does not happen through democratic processes along in Pakistan. Since 1947, Pakistan has spent the bulk of its existence under army rule. Despite that dodgy tradition, when the business community goes to Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa for ideas instead of the elected prime minister, it gives rise to some serious questions. Is Pakistan a country with an army? Or is Pakistan an army with a country? On WION Edit, we will specifically explore these questions in the context of the economy. When Imran Khan came to power, he came on two tall promises. 1, Rooting out corruption 2, Ushering in an era of economic growth It is safe to say that the Pakistan Prime Minister has failed on both counts in a spectacular fashion. But still, can General Bajwa revive the economy? Here, we have to understand the political dynamics in Pakistan. Pakistan's army runs the country's economy. The Fauji Foundation is the second-largest conglomerate in Pakistan. It controls everything from the food sector to energy. And guess who runs it - the army Decades of army rule have eroded democratic institutions in Islamabad. Besides General Bajwa always held more power than Imran khan. Imran Khan calls himself the ambassador of Kashmir. In truth, he is just a spokesperson of the Pakistani army. So would things change now, given that General Bajwa looks set to take economic decisions? The straight-forward answer is 'no', not a chance. Pakistan's economic troubles run deep and are structural. Right now, Pakistan is running on external money and debt is soaring. And Imran Khan has no clue, no say, and general Bajwa will continue to protect the army's interests. Already, he has linked the economy with national security. Unless Pakistan gets a semblance of democracy, the welfare measures will not reach the common man. With a more prominent role for General Bajwa, Pakistan's sham-democracy is unlikely to deliver growth. Unless public investment and private investment picks up, unless wealth creation is prioritised, Pakistan's economic problems will continue. And when you are an army with a country, the country will be forced to serve the needs of the army and not vice versa. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: General in his labyrinth

Political leaders from Kashmir who were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-omar-abdullah-mehbooba-mufti-detained-after-special-status-to-jammu-and-kashmir-is-revoked-240931">under preventive detention</a> following the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-scrapped-what-will-change-in-jammu-and-kashmir-now-240934">abrogation of Article 370</a> will be released soon, Jammu and Kashmir administration said on Thursday.

"Yes, one by one after analysis of every individual, they (leaders) will be released," Farooq Khan, advisor to Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik told reporters.

The leaders from Jammu and Kashmir political parties were placed under detention following the abrogation of Article 370 by the Centre on August 5.

On being asked about the increased activity of the police and security personnel in Jammu and Kashmir, Khan said that it was not due to any special kind of terrorist threat but was more of a preventive measure.

"The administration has taken preventive measures by increasing its activity in the region. All forces including police, Army, BSF are on alert and will continue to give fitting reply to the terrorists," he said.

Upon being asked about the incessant ceasefire violations from across the border by Pakistan, Khan said, "Pakistan was taught a lesson before in the past too and if the need arises it will be taught a lesson again in the coming days."

People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Farooq and Omar Abdullah were prominent leaders who were placed under preventive detention by the Jammu and Kashmir administration.

The government had on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31.

Political leaders from Kashmir who were under preventive detention following the abrogation of Article 370 will be released soon, Jammu and Kashmir administration said on Thursday.

Political leaders from Kashmir who were under preventive detention following the abrogation of Article 370 will be released soon, Jammu and Kashmir administration said on Thursday. "Yes, one by one after analysis of every individual, they (leaders) will be released," Farooq Khan, advisor to Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik told reporters. The leaders from Jammu and Kashmir political parties were placed under detention following the abrogation of Article 370 by the Centre on August 5. On being asked about the increased activity of the police and security personnel in Jammu and Kashmir, Khan said that it was not due to any special kind of terrorist threat but was more of a preventive measure. "The administration has taken preventive measures by increasing its activity in the region. All forces including police, Army, BSF are on alert and will continue to give fitting reply to the terrorists," he said. Upon being asked about the incessant ceasefire violations from across the border by Pakistan, Khan said, "Pakistan was taught a lesson before in the past too and if the need arises it will be taught a lesson again in the coming days." People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Farooq and Omar Abdullah were prominent leaders who were placed under preventive detention by the Jammu and Kashmir administration. The government had on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31.

Political leaders from Kashmir under preventive detention to be released soon: J&K administration

Turkey & Pakistan Have Always Maintained Strong Ties. Despite That, Erdogan's Position On Kashmir Is Driven By Vested Interests & Economic Compulsions Pakistan and Turkey have historically maintained strong ties. Despite that, Turkey's President Erdogan's staunch support for Pakistan on Kashmir issue raises a few red flags. Turkey's support to Pakistan is driven by Erdogan's desire to exploit Pakistan as a market for the sale of weapons. This report analyses Turkey's ties with Pakistan.

Gravitas: Charting The Evolution Of Turkey-Pakistan Bilateral Ties

The Continued Support Of Turkey & Malaysia To Pakistan On Kashmir Is Based On Religion & Such Religious Congregation Is A Serious Problem On #WionEdit, @Palkisu analyses the unflinching support extended by Turkey and Malaysia to Pakistan on Kashmir issue. One, the congregation is based on religion and two, there are vested political benefits for all parties in this coalition. In simple terms, these countries are not guardians of Muslim community across the world.

Wion Edit: Turkey-malaysia-pakistan: Coalition Of Hypocrisy?

Numerous WhatsApp messaging centres, groups in Pakistan are spreading authentic-looking misinformation on Kashmir but we must only forward what is authentic and factual, said former Army Lt General Arun Kumar Sahni.

Sahni was speaking while addressing a gathering of engineering college students at a cybersecurity awareness campaign in Chennai. “As our agencies continuously block these groups and pages, others crop up to spread this fake propaganda”, he said.&nbsp;

Addressing over 1,400 students of the Sairam Engineering College, the former commander-in-chief of Indian Army said, "in the coming time, cyber warriors will be the people in academia, corporate world and not those who are in uniform".&nbsp;

"We live in a cyber era where a phishing attack can succeed in less than 4 minutes and 85 per cent of the breaches happen due to ten well-known vulnerabilities. In perception battles that are fought today, public opinion can be shaped without physical contact between forces,” Sahni said.

He highlighted the fact that it could take up to 100 days for developed countries to detect a system breach whereas it would take developing countries over a year for the same. Sahni emphasized on the need for the government to formulate more specific rules, regulation and legal provisions for the cyber domain. “We must be careful of the footprints we leave behind and ensure that they are not used against us,” he told students.&nbsp;

Speaking at the event, cyber-security expert Rakshit Tandon cited the importance of Sections 66, 67 of the IT Act and urged the students to understand what constitutes cybercrime.&nbsp;

“In the year 2016, over 5,000 people were arrested for cybercrime of which 3,000 were college students and 98 were school children. Child pornography, hacking, online trafficking, online financial frauds, among others include cyber offences that are punishable in India,” Tandon said.&nbsp;

He cited a recent case wherein a woman was duped, 1.5 lakh Rs siphoned off her bank account within minutes after she called a number that appeared to be of Google Pay customer service. “She was instructed by the criminal to install the Anydesk application for better assistance. Then the hacker activated the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and transferred all the money in less than 30 seconds. Apps such as Anydesk and Teamviewer can be used by hackers to take control of the computers or phones of unassuming users. These days hackers target phones due to the allure of digital wallets, they can also read our SMS by taking control of applications that have permission to read messages,” Tandon shared.

Cybersecurity author Nipun Jaswal demonstrated how a micro-controller placed in a USB fan or an interface device can be used as a keyboard to hack a computer, irrespective of its operating system. “There is a perception that a particular brand and their operating system is more secure but using certain methods it takes only a few seconds to break into a system, with or without anti-virus software. There are only two kinds of people - the ones who know they are hacked and the ones who don’t know they are hacked,” Jaswal noted.&nbsp;

The speakers also briefed the students on precautions such as two-factor authentication, regulating the permissions for all applications, use of Yubikey et cetera. They also informed the students about government platforms such as Cyberdost, cybercrime.gov where one could get tips to stay safer in the online world and post complaints whenever the need arises.

Numerous WhatsApp messaging centres, groups in Pakistan are spreading authentic-looking misinformation on Kashmir but we must only forward what is authentic and factual, said former Army Lt General Arun Kumar Sahni.

Numerous WhatsApp messaging centres, groups in Pakistan are spreading authentic-looking misinformation on Kashmir but we must only forward what is authentic and factual, said former Army Lt General Arun Kumar Sahni. Sahni was speaking while addressing a gathering of engineering college students at a cybersecurity awareness campaign in Chennai. “As our agencies continuously block these groups and pages, others crop up to spread this fake propaganda”, he said. Addressing over 1,400 students of the Sairam Engineering College, the former commander-in-chief of Indian Army said, "in the coming time, cyber warriors will be the people in academia, corporate world and not those who are in uniform". "We live in a cyber era where a phishing attack can succeed in less than 4 minutes and 85 per cent of the breaches happen due to ten well-known vulnerabilities. In perception battles that are fought today, public opinion can be shaped without physical contact between forces,” Sahni said. He highlighted the fact that it could take up to 100 days for developed countries to detect a system breach whereas it would take developing countries over a year for the same. Sahni emphasized on the need for the government to formulate more specific rules, regulation and legal provisions for the cyber domain. “We must be careful of the footprints we leave behind and ensure that they are not used against us,” he told students. Speaking at the event, cyber-security expert Rakshit Tandon cited the importance of Sections 66, 67 of the IT Act and urged the students to understand what constitutes cybercrime. “In the year 2016, over 5,000 people were arrested for cybercrime of which 3,000 were college students and 98 were school children. Child pornography, hacking, online trafficking, online financial frauds, among others include cyber offences that are punishable in India,” Tandon said. He cited a recent case wherein a woman was duped, 1.5 lakh Rs siphoned off her bank account within minutes after she called a number that appeared to be of Google Pay customer service. “She was instructed by the criminal to install the Anydesk application for better assistance. Then the hacker activated the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and transferred all the money in less than 30 seconds. Apps such as Anydesk and Teamviewer can be used by hackers to take control of the computers or phones of unassuming users. These days hackers target phones due to the allure of digital wallets, they can also read our SMS by taking control of applications that have permission to read messages,” Tandon shared. Cybersecurity author Nipun Jaswal demonstrated how a micro-controller placed in a USB fan or an interface device can be used as a keyboard to hack a computer, irrespective of its operating system. “There is a perception that a particular brand and their operating system is more secure but using certain methods it takes only a few seconds to break into a system, with or without anti-virus software. There are only two kinds of people - the ones who know they are hacked and the ones who don’t know they are hacked,” Jaswal noted. The speakers also briefed the students on precautions such as two-factor authentication, regulating the permissions for all applications, use of Yubikey et cetera. They also informed the students about government platforms such as Cyberdost, cybercrime.gov where one could get tips to stay safer in the online world and post complaints whenever the need arises.

Numerous WhatsApp messaging centres in Pakistan spreading lies on Kashmir: Former Army Lt General AK Sahni

Saudi Arabia has told India that it understands "India's approach and actions in Jammu and Kashmir".

The Saudi stance on the issue was conveyed to India in a two-hour meeting between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman in Riyadh on Wednesday, sources told ANI.

Highly placed sources said a wide range of issues were discussed on various aspects of bilateral relations in the meeting between Doval and the Saudi crown prince.

"The issue of Jammu and Kashmir also figured in the discussion which Saudi crown Prince expressed understanding about India's approach and actions in Jammu and Kashmir," they said.

India abrogated Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 and bifurcated the state into two new Union Territories- Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh. Riyadh's remarks come despite Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan visit to Saudi Arabia to seek support.

The important visit of Doval to Saudi Arabia highlights the regular and ongoing close consultations at highest levels between the two sides on issues of mutual importance, the sources said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and NSA Ajit Doval have developed close ties with the Saudi leadership over the last five years, which have also been credited for the closer security and intelligence cooperation between two countries.

Sources said the visit will further strengthen the deep bond between the two countries and help identify specific areas of cooperation at a time when Saudi Arabia is looking to diversify its economy in line with the crown prince's vision 2030.

Saudi has announced that it will make investments worth nearly $100 billion in India. NSA also had a meeting with his Saudi counterpart Musaid Al Alban, who chairs the Council of Political and Security Affairs of Saudi Arabia.

He is also Chairman of National Cyber Security Authority."They both discussed issues of national and regional security. Both sides highlighted the importance of close security ties," the sources said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia has told India that it understands "India's approach and actions in Jammu and Kashmir". The Saudi stance on the issue was conveyed to India in a two-hour meeting between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman in Riyadh on Wednesday, sources told ANI.

Saudi Arabia has told India that it understands "India's approach and actions in Jammu and Kashmir". The Saudi stance on the issue was conveyed to India in a two-hour meeting between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman in Riyadh on Wednesday, sources told ANI. Highly placed sources said a wide range of issues were discussed on various aspects of bilateral relations in the meeting between Doval and the Saudi crown prince. "The issue of Jammu and Kashmir also figured in the discussion which Saudi crown Prince expressed understanding about India's approach and actions in Jammu and Kashmir," they said. India abrogated Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 and bifurcated the state into two new Union Territories- Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh. Riyadh's remarks come despite Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan visit to Saudi Arabia to seek support. The important visit of Doval to Saudi Arabia highlights the regular and ongoing close consultations at highest levels between the two sides on issues of mutual importance, the sources said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and NSA Ajit Doval have developed close ties with the Saudi leadership over the last five years, which have also been credited for the closer security and intelligence cooperation between two countries. Sources said the visit will further strengthen the deep bond between the two countries and help identify specific areas of cooperation at a time when Saudi Arabia is looking to diversify its economy in line with the crown prince's vision 2030. Saudi has announced that it will make investments worth nearly $100 billion in India. NSA also had a meeting with his Saudi counterpart Musaid Al Alban, who chairs the Council of Political and Security Affairs of Saudi Arabia. He is also Chairman of National Cyber Security Authority."They both discussed issues of national and regional security. Both sides highlighted the importance of close security ties," the sources said.

Saudi Arabia endorses India's actions in Kashmir

Three years ago, when suicide terrorists attacked an Army camp at Uri, close to the LoC, they killed 19 soldiers but kindled a flame that spread like a fire. There were terrorist attacks earlier with a higher body count. There were suicide squads that had wreaked havoc before. But somehow this time, it was different. Several high-profile incidents had taken place that year. Suicide attack at Pathankot Air Base in January, biggest hostage situation in six storeyed EDI Building in Pampore in February, Kashmir Valley on the boil after terrorist leader Burhan Wani’s elimination in July. Right timing an audacious military plan backed by bold leadership that not only took ownership, but also converged other instruments of power to multiply the pressure on Pakistan.&nbsp;

Swift retaliation at terrorist launch pads across the line of control (LoC) followed with a stated intent served a twofold purpose. One, India had found space below the nuclear threshold, which we colloquially hear as being said, ‘…called their nuclear bluff’. The second and more importantly, we had now established our stance of dissuasion. For over three decades Pakistan has been waging a proxy war and pushing in terrorists into J&amp;K across the LoC, inter alia. Our response has been largely defensive and restricted to the confines of the LoC. By following the concept of ‘hot pursuit’ we’ve taken the battle to the enemy’s territory, as we would say in military parlance. The doctrine of hot pursuit owes its origin to the law of the seas, at a time when smuggling and piracy were rampant, this customary doctrine emerged to empower a coastal state to pursue on to the high seas a vessel that had violated its laws within its waters.&nbsp;

Over the years, some countries have expanded the doctrine of hot pursuit on land, to justify the breaches of territorial sovereignty of foreign states as part of the ongoing pursuit of offenders. It started in 1986 when South Africa sought to justify its incursions into neighbouring African states against rebels. More recently, it has been employed by the United States regarding Taliban militants crossing into Pakistan or by Turkey regarding its attacks on Kurdistan Workers Party bases in Northern Iraq, also by Colombia regarding its raid on a Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia camp in Ecuador in 2008.

Two years later when a similar high-profile suicide attack at Pulwama caused a larger number of casualties, the whole country expected another bold ‘surgical strike’, as the September retaliation at terrorist launch pads in POK had come to be known. Precise airstrikes were launched within 12 days, striking at the roots of terror far deep inside Pakistan. And like before, we announced to the world and to Pakistan, our intent and purpose. In both cases, India arguably found heartening international support against terrorist endeavours. The world has little patience for terrorism or its sponsors. India had firmly shed the soft-state tag.

Two other unconnected incidents have helped India cement it’s resolve and gain more confidence in initiating strong steps in support of bold decisions taken in the national interest, a veritable departure from the past practices notwithstanding. First, it was our operations against the Northeast insurgents camps in Myanmar, and second, was our standing up to China resolutely to defend the interest of Bhutan in Dolam Plateau in 2017. Is this the new normal? Has India announced a paradigm shift? Have we redrawn our red lines? And statedly so? These strong responses may seem like a one-off raid or strike, but a great deal of preparation and planning goes into it. Planning and execution of the operation itself is not the only facet. Planning and preparation for the possible enemy retaliation and being ready for all scenarios is the larger part. This includes diplomatic fallout as well. Mobilisation of international opinion against terrorism has to be balanced with other elements of state policy as well. Economic or commercial linkages were also leveraged.

India has taken a bold stand. Why must we continue to adopt such a strong response posture? Let us take a look at the emerging situation in Afghanistan. If USA pulls out soon, owing to its domestic compulsions, we may witness a situation like the nineties, with Pakistan in control (or not) of jihadis of different hues. And a there would natural inclination on their part to push them across the LoC, lest they destabilise their territory. It will also serve their agenda of reinvigorating proxy war in Kashmir. While we must prepare ourselves against this scenario, we must also take heart from the fact that India’s preparedness on the line of control today is far better than it was three decades ago. Our troop deployment, as well as weapon &amp; equipment profile, is much more robust now and there is an LC fence in place. However, our biggest card should be this new, bold response posture of taking the battle to enemy territory, if required. Therefore it is in India’s interest that this new dissuasive stand that we have started adopting must continue, the mode and modalities of dissuasion can change, must change actually. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-tackling-terrorism-smartly-2793140">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

Three years ago, when suicide terrorists attacked an Army camp at Uri, close to the LoC, they killed 19 soldiers but kindled a flame that spread like a fire. There were terrorist attacks earlier with a higher body count.

Three years ago, when suicide terrorists attacked an Army camp at Uri, close to the LoC, they killed 19 soldiers but kindled a flame that spread like a fire. There were terrorist attacks earlier with a higher body count. There were suicide squads that had wreaked havoc before. But somehow this time, it was different. Several high-profile incidents had taken place that year. Suicide attack at Pathankot Air Base in January, biggest hostage situation in six storeyed EDI Building in Pampore in February, Kashmir Valley on the boil after terrorist leader Burhan Wani’s elimination in July. Right timing an audacious military plan backed by bold leadership that not only took ownership, but also converged other instruments of power to multiply the pressure on Pakistan. Swift retaliation at terrorist launch pads across the line of control (LoC) followed with a stated intent served a twofold purpose. One, India had found space below the nuclear threshold, which we colloquially hear as being said, ‘…called their nuclear bluff’. The second and more importantly, we had now established our stance of dissuasion. For over three decades Pakistan has been waging a proxy war and pushing in terrorists into J&K across the LoC, inter alia. Our response has been largely defensive and restricted to the confines of the LoC. By following the concept of ‘hot pursuit’ we’ve taken the battle to the enemy’s territory, as we would say in military parlance. The doctrine of hot pursuit owes its origin to the law of the seas, at a time when smuggling and piracy were rampant, this customary doctrine emerged to empower a coastal state to pursue on to the high seas a vessel that had violated its laws within its waters. Over the years, some countries have expanded the doctrine of hot pursuit on land, to justify the breaches of territorial sovereignty of foreign states as part of the ongoing pursuit of offenders. It started in 1986 when South Africa sought to justify its incursions into neighbouring African states against rebels. More recently, it has been employed by the United States regarding Taliban militants crossing into Pakistan or by Turkey regarding its attacks on Kurdistan Workers Party bases in Northern Iraq, also by Colombia regarding its raid on a Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia camp in Ecuador in 2008. Two years later when a similar high-profile suicide attack at Pulwama caused a larger number of casualties, the whole country expected another bold ‘surgical strike’, as the September retaliation at terrorist launch pads in POK had come to be known. Precise airstrikes were launched within 12 days, striking at the roots of terror far deep inside Pakistan. And like before, we announced to the world and to Pakistan, our intent and purpose. In both cases, India arguably found heartening international support against terrorist endeavours. The world has little patience for terrorism or its sponsors. India had firmly shed the soft-state tag. Two other unconnected incidents have helped India cement it’s resolve and gain more confidence in initiating strong steps in support of bold decisions taken in the national interest, a veritable departure from the past practices notwithstanding. First, it was our operations against the Northeast insurgents camps in Myanmar, and second, was our standing up to China resolutely to defend the interest of Bhutan in Dolam Plateau in 2017. Is this the new normal? Has India announced a paradigm shift? Have we redrawn our red lines? And statedly so? These strong responses may seem like a one-off raid or strike, but a great deal of preparation and planning goes into it. Planning and execution of the operation itself is not the only facet. Planning and preparation for the possible enemy retaliation and being ready for all scenarios is the larger part. This includes diplomatic fallout as well. Mobilisation of international opinion against terrorism has to be balanced with other elements of state policy as well. Economic or commercial linkages were also leveraged. India has taken a bold stand. Why must we continue to adopt such a strong response posture? Let us take a look at the emerging situation in Afghanistan. If USA pulls out soon, owing to its domestic compulsions, we may witness a situation like the nineties, with Pakistan in control (or not) of jihadis of different hues. And a there would natural inclination on their part to push them across the LoC, lest they destabilise their territory. It will also serve their agenda of reinvigorating proxy war in Kashmir. While we must prepare ourselves against this scenario, we must also take heart from the fact that India’s preparedness on the line of control today is far better than it was three decades ago. Our troop deployment, as well as weapon & equipment profile, is much more robust now and there is an LC fence in place. However, our biggest card should be this new, bold response posture of taking the battle to enemy territory, if required. Therefore it is in India’s interest that this new dissuasive stand that we have started adopting must continue, the mode and modalities of dissuasion can change, must change actually. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India has taken the battle to enemy’s territory through surgical strike

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

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

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

Kashmir mess is a British creation

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