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 has withdrawn the security cover given to four&nbsp;Kashmiri separatist leaders including Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.&nbsp;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 All security and any vehicles provided to them will stand withdrawn by today evening," the J&amp;K administration's order said.&nbsp;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 If they have any facilities provided by government, they are to be withdrawn forthwith.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There was no reason given as to why the security cover of the leaders was being withdrawn but the move comes two days after 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

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

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

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

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-government-withdraws-security-cover-of-5-separatist-leaders-including-mirwaiz-umar-farooq-197880">Normal life was affected in Kashmir on Sunday</a> due to a valley-wide bandh called by trade bodies here against the alleged harassment and attacks on Kashmiris in Jammu and outside the state, officials said.

The Kashmir bandh call was supported by major trade bodies like the Kashmir Economic Alliance and Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation as well as transporters' associations.

Shops, fuel stations and other business establishments were shut here in Srinagar, the summer capital of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-governor-asks-police-to-take-strict-action-against-people-indulging-in-violence-appeals-for-peace-197854">Jammu</a> and Kashmir, the officials said.

They said public transport was off the roads and cabs and auto-rickshaws also largely stayed away, they added.

However, private cars were seen plying in many areas.

The bandh also affected the weekly flea market as no vendor put up a stall on the TRC Chowk-Batamaloo axis through the city centre Lal Chowk, the officials said.

They said similar reports of shutdown were received from other district headquarters of the valley.&nbsp;

Various trade bodies on Saturday called for Kashmir bandh to protest against attacks on Kashmiris in Jammu and outside the state.

A shutdown was observed in Lal Chowk city centre and adjoining areas here after 3 pm on Saturday as a mark of protest against the harassment and attacks. The traders also took out a march to condemn the attacks.

They demanded the safety of Kashmiri traders and students outside the valley. They have threatened to cut off business ties with Jammu-based traders in case the attacks on Kashmiris in Jammu were not stopped immediately.

Various employees unions also protested at Press Colony here on Saturday.&nbsp;

Normal life was affected in Kashmir on Sunday due to a valley-wide bandh called by trade bodies here against the alleged harassment and attacks on Kashmiris in Jammu and outside the state, officials said.

Normal life was affected in Kashmir on Sunday due to a valley-wide bandh called by trade bodies here against the alleged harassment and attacks on Kashmiris in Jammu and outside the state, officials said. The Kashmir bandh call was supported by major trade bodies like the Kashmir Economic Alliance and Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation as well as transporters' associations. Shops, fuel stations and other business establishments were shut here in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, the officials said. They said public transport was off the roads and cabs and auto-rickshaws also largely stayed away, they added. However, private cars were seen plying in many areas. The bandh also affected the weekly flea market as no vendor put up a stall on the TRC Chowk-Batamaloo axis through the city centre Lal Chowk, the officials said. They said similar reports of shutdown were received from other district headquarters of the valley. Various trade bodies on Saturday called for Kashmir bandh to protest against attacks on Kashmiris in Jammu and outside the state. A shutdown was observed in Lal Chowk city centre and adjoining areas here after 3 pm on Saturday as a mark of protest against the harassment and attacks. The traders also took out a march to condemn the attacks. They demanded the safety of Kashmiri traders and students outside the valley. They have threatened to cut off business ties with Jammu-based traders in case the attacks on Kashmiris in Jammu were not stopped immediately. Various employees unions also protested at Press Colony here on Saturday.

Attacks on Kashmiris: Valley shuts down after bandh called by trade bodies

The Pulwama terror attack has shown that it is now time to penetrate into Pakistan directly, said Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday.

&nbsp;"This is not just a terrorist attack but an incursion of our intelligence agencies. If India had no prior information about such a major attack, then the question arises. What is the role of the intelligence agencies? If an intelligence failure led to the terrorist attack on the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy then those who were in charge should be removed," Uddhav Thackeray said while speaking to media persons on the ghastly terror attack on CRPF convoy in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir."

"After surgical strikes of 2016, it is now time to penetrate into Pakistan directly," he added.&nbsp;

Appealing the whole nation to stand together against Pakistan, Thackrey said, "In the whole country, people should come together to tell Pakistan that our country will not bend and we will teach them a lesson. Those who are in powers, if they do not understand what they are doing then they should be removed from their positions. We had made surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir but now have to penetrate into Pakistan directly."

"Elections and every other thing is secondary but it is most important to give a tit-for-tat response to Pakistan," he added.&nbsp;

As many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed after a suicide bomber attacked a CRPF convoy in Pulwama district with a vehicle laden with explosives.

The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.&nbsp;

The slain CRPF personnel were travelling in a bus which came under the terror attack.JeM, a Pakistan-based terrorist group, has claimed the responsibility for the attack which left the bus extensively damaged.&nbsp;

The Pulwama terror attack has shown that it is now time to penetrate into Pakistan directly, said Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday. "This is not just a terrorist attack but an incursion of our intelligence agencies.

The Pulwama terror attack has shown that it is now time to penetrate into Pakistan directly, said Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday. "This is not just a terrorist attack but an incursion of our intelligence agencies. If India had no prior information about such a major attack, then the question arises. What is the role of the intelligence agencies? If an intelligence failure led to the terrorist attack on the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy then those who were in charge should be removed," Uddhav Thackeray said while speaking to media persons on the ghastly terror attack on CRPF convoy in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir." "After surgical strikes of 2016, it is now time to penetrate into Pakistan directly," he added. Appealing the whole nation to stand together against Pakistan, Thackrey said, "In the whole country, people should come together to tell Pakistan that our country will not bend and we will teach them a lesson. Those who are in powers, if they do not understand what they are doing then they should be removed from their positions. We had made surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir but now have to penetrate into Pakistan directly." "Elections and every other thing is secondary but it is most important to give a tit-for-tat response to Pakistan," he added. As many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed after a suicide bomber attacked a CRPF convoy in Pulwama district with a vehicle laden with explosives. The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. The slain CRPF personnel were travelling in a bus which came under the terror attack.JeM, a Pakistan-based terrorist group, has claimed the responsibility for the attack which left the bus extensively damaged.

It's time to penetrate into Pakistan directly: Uddhav Thackeray on Pulwama terror attack

WION Gravitas: Over 40 CRPF personnel killed in Pulwama terror attack

Forty CRPF jawans were killed on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama after a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the bus they were travelling in.&nbsp;

Dozens of people were injured in the attack.&nbsp;

The bus the CRPF jawans had been travelling in was turned into a mangled heap of iron, and body parts could be seen strewn around the area.&nbsp;

A CRPF official said the bus had been travelling in a convoy of some 70 vehicles.

He added that the convoy had been travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.&nbsp;

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CRPF Official on Pulwama attack: There were 70 vehicles in the convoy and one of the vehicles came under attack. The convoy was on its way from Jammu to Srinagar. <a href="https://t.co/B0SaEEU5wE">https://t.co/B0SaEEU5wE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096009638473015297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Police said they have identified the terrorist who carried out Thursday's attack as Adil Ahmad from Kakapora in Pulwama. And that he joined the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2018.&nbsp;

The terror group has claimed responsibility for the incident, they added.&nbsp;

ANI added that the Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility for the attack in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS.

CRPF Director General RR Bhatnagar said there were 2,500 security personnel in the convoy. He added that an "investigation is underway" and the "injured being taken care of".

Zulfiqar Hassan, IG CRPF (Operations) added that the Jammu and Kashmir Police are investigating the attack. He added that the injured have been "shifted to hospital" and that a "post-blast analysis is being done at the spot".&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh also spoke to Bhatnagar about the attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Zulfiqar Hassan, IG CRPF(Operations) on Pulwama blast: J&amp;K Police has taken up the investigation. The injured shifted to hospital. Post-blast analysis being done at the spot <a href="https://t.co/BsOi2nJhfh">pic.twitter.com/BsOi2nJhfh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096012786797293568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The bus carrying the CRPF jawans was attacked on the Srinagar-Jammu highway in Pulwama's Awantipora area, a police official told PTI.

Further details are awaited, he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Forty CRPF jawans were killed on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama after a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the bus they were travelling in.

Forty CRPF jawans were killed on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama after a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the bus they were travelling in. Dozens of people were injured in the attack. The bus the CRPF jawans had been travelling in was turned into a mangled heap of iron, and body parts could be seen strewn around the area. A CRPF official said the bus had been travelling in a convoy of some 70 vehicles. He added that the convoy had been travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. CRPF Official on Pulwama attack: There were 70 vehicles in the convoy and one of the vehicles came under attack. The convoy was on its way from Jammu to Srinagar. https://t.co/B0SaEEU5wE — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × Police said they have identified the terrorist who carried out Thursday's attack as Adil Ahmad from Kakapora in Pulwama. And that he joined the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2018. The terror group has claimed responsibility for the incident, they added. ANI added that the Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility for the attack in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS. CRPF Director General RR Bhatnagar said there were 2,500 security personnel in the convoy. He added that an "investigation is underway" and the "injured being taken care of". Zulfiqar Hassan, IG CRPF (Operations) added that the Jammu and Kashmir Police are investigating the attack. He added that the injured have been "shifted to hospital" and that a "post-blast analysis is being done at the spot". Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh also spoke to Bhatnagar about the attack. Zulfiqar Hassan, IG CRPF(Operations) on Pulwama blast: J&K Police has taken up the investigation. The injured shifted to hospital. Post-blast analysis being done at the spot pic.twitter.com/BsOi2nJhfh — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × The bus carrying the CRPF jawans was attacked on the Srinagar-Jammu highway in Pulwama's Awantipora area, a police official told PTI. Further details are awaited, he added. (With inputs from PTI)

J&K: 40 CRPF jawans killed in Awantipora after JeM terrorist rams explosive-laden vehicle into their bus

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

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

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

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

Heavy snowfall engulfs Kashmir hitting lives hard

The week that was in pictures

Seven people, including five cops, have died after an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-cop-rescued-nine-stuck-after-avalanche-strikes-kulgam-district-196014">avalanche struck Kulgam district</a> near the Jawahar Tunnel on Srinagar-Jammu National Highway on Thursday evening, police said.

Fresh snowfall in the state has triggered several avalanches at different places of the valley.&nbsp;

A Husband, wife duo lost their life on Thursday when an avalanche hit their house, however, their two kids were rescued by the locals.&nbsp;

Officials told WION that 18 people were inside a police post when the avalanche hit them. Eight of them somehow managed to escape to safety.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> : 7 bodies including that of 5 policemen have been recovered from near the police post in Jawahar Tunnel area in Kulgam district where an avalanche took place earlier today. One policeman still missing. Two policemen who were rescued in the morning are stable now <a href="https://t.co/yZBf4IGITA">pic.twitter.com/yZBf4IGITA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1093916575978086401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"In the avalanche incident at JT (Jawahar Tunnel) Kulgam, seven bodies including five policemen have been recovered. One policeman is still missing. Two policemen rescued in the morning are stable," the police said.&nbsp;

NDRF, SDRF, CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir police began the rescue operation in the morning after it was halted throughout night due to bad weather conditions.&nbsp;

Kashmir valley has been witnessing heavy snowfall since Wednesday with Kulgam district in south Kashmir receiving maximum precipitation in the last 24 hours. Some places in the district have received as much as five feet snow, officials said.

The Snow and Avalanche Studies Establishment has issued an avalanche warning of varying degrees to 16 of the 22 districts in Jammu and Kashmir for the next 24 hours.

High danger avalanche warning has been issued to Anantnag, Bandipora, Baramulla, Budgam, Ganderbal, Kulgam and Kupwara districts in the valley, while medium danger warning was issued to Poonch, Rajouri, Ramban, Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, Udhampur and Leh districts.

A low danger warning was issued for Kargil district.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Seven people, including five cops, have died after an avalanche struck Kulgam district near the Jawahar Tunnel on Srinagar-Jammu National Highway on Thursday evening, police said.

Seven people, including five cops, have died after an avalanche struck Kulgam district near the Jawahar Tunnel on Srinagar-Jammu National Highway on Thursday evening, police said. Fresh snowfall in the state has triggered several avalanches at different places of the valley. A Husband, wife duo lost their life on Thursday when an avalanche hit their house, however, their two kids were rescued by the locals. Officials told WION that 18 people were inside a police post when the avalanche hit them. Eight of them somehow managed to escape to safety. #JammuAndKashmir : 7 bodies including that of 5 policemen have been recovered from near the police post in Jawahar Tunnel area in Kulgam district where an avalanche took place earlier today. One policeman still missing. Two policemen who were rescued in the morning are stable now pic.twitter.com/yZBf4IGITA — ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2019 × "In the avalanche incident at JT (Jawahar Tunnel) Kulgam, seven bodies including five policemen have been recovered. One policeman is still missing. Two policemen rescued in the morning are stable," the police said. NDRF, SDRF, CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir police began the rescue operation in the morning after it was halted throughout night due to bad weather conditions. Kashmir valley has been witnessing heavy snowfall since Wednesday with Kulgam district in south Kashmir receiving maximum precipitation in the last 24 hours. Some places in the district have received as much as five feet snow, officials said. The Snow and Avalanche Studies Establishment has issued an avalanche warning of varying degrees to 16 of the 22 districts in Jammu and Kashmir for the next 24 hours. High danger avalanche warning has been issued to Anantnag, Bandipora, Baramulla, Budgam, Ganderbal, Kulgam and Kupwara districts in the valley, while medium danger warning was issued to Poonch, Rajouri, Ramban, Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, Udhampur and Leh districts. A low danger warning was issued for Kargil district. (With inputs from PTI)

Five cops among seven dead in Kashmir avalanche

In a major decision, the Jammu and Kashmir administration Friday created a separate division for Ladakh, which was part of the Kashmir division till now.

Ladakh will now have a separate divisional commissioner and an inspector general of Police (IG) with a full administrative and revenue division at par with Kashmir and Jammu divisions, an order issued by the administration said.

"Ladakh created as a separate administrative and revenue division. Jammu and Kashmir will have three divisions -- Jammu, Ladakh and Kashmir," it said.

The administration has sanctioned creation of a separate administrative and revenue division comprising Leh and Kargil districts, with its headquarters at Leh, the order said.

It has also ordered constitution of a committee under the chairmanship of principal secretary, planning, development and monitoring department to identify the posts of divisional level heads of departments that may be required for the new division, particularly their staffing pattern, responsibilities and proposed location of these offices.

The order said this decision goes a long way in fulfilling the governance and development aspirations of the people of Ladakh region.

"The issue has been discussed at various fora and there has been a persistent demand for the creation of division for Ladakh from many organisations, including the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDC) Leh and Kargil," it added.

Ladakh is one of the most sparsely populated regions in Jammu and Kashmir and is the highest plateau in the state, with most of it being over 9,800 feet above sea level. The region is geographically isolated with an inhospitable terrain.&nbsp;

Consequently, the region is riddled with insurmountable problems with respect to delivery of developmental schemes, redressal of public grievances, conduct of administrative affairs and governance, it said.

The people of Ladakh have for a long time been demanding effective local institutional arrangements which can help accelerate the pace of development and equitable all-round growth and development, it said.

"At present the powers of local governance have already been decentralised by formation of Hill Development Councils for the Leh and Kargil Districts.

This was given effect by enacting the Jammu and Kashmir Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Act, 1997," the order said.

Under the said act, the Hill Development Councils were established both for Leh and Kargil districts.

In order to strengthen the councils, the LAHDC Act, 1997 was amended further in 2018 to give them more power.

Officials said the entire Ladakh region remains cut-off from rest of the country for almost six months. Air travel via Leh is the only mode of transport available to this region, which makes it impossible for people to visit other parts of the country.

The remoteness and inaccessibility of the area makes the area eligible for establishing a separate division for the said region, they said.

Taking all this into consideration, the administration has decided to create a separate administrative and revenue division for Ladakh, they said.&nbsp;

In a major decision, the Jammu and Kashmir administration Friday created a separate division for Ladakh, which was part of the Kashmir division till now. Ladakh will now have a separate divisional commissioner and an inspector general of Police (IG) with a full administrative and revenue division at par with Kashmir and Jammu divisions, an order issued by the administration said.

In a major decision, the Jammu and Kashmir administration Friday created a separate division for Ladakh, which was part of the Kashmir division till now. Ladakh will now have a separate divisional commissioner and an inspector general of Police (IG) with a full administrative and revenue division at par with Kashmir and Jammu divisions, an order issued by the administration said. "Ladakh created as a separate administrative and revenue division. Jammu and Kashmir will have three divisions -- Jammu, Ladakh and Kashmir," it said. The administration has sanctioned creation of a separate administrative and revenue division comprising Leh and Kargil districts, with its headquarters at Leh, the order said. It has also ordered constitution of a committee under the chairmanship of principal secretary, planning, development and monitoring department to identify the posts of divisional level heads of departments that may be required for the new division, particularly their staffing pattern, responsibilities and proposed location of these offices. The order said this decision goes a long way in fulfilling the governance and development aspirations of the people of Ladakh region. "The issue has been discussed at various fora and there has been a persistent demand for the creation of division for Ladakh from many organisations, including the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDC) Leh and Kargil," it added. Ladakh is one of the most sparsely populated regions in Jammu and Kashmir and is the highest plateau in the state, with most of it being over 9,800 feet above sea level. The region is geographically isolated with an inhospitable terrain. Consequently, the region is riddled with insurmountable problems with respect to delivery of developmental schemes, redressal of public grievances, conduct of administrative affairs and governance, it said. The people of Ladakh have for a long time been demanding effective local institutional arrangements which can help accelerate the pace of development and equitable all-round growth and development, it said. "At present the powers of local governance have already been decentralised by formation of Hill Development Councils for the Leh and Kargil Districts. This was given effect by enacting the Jammu and Kashmir Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Act, 1997," the order said. Under the said act, the Hill Development Councils were established both for Leh and Kargil districts. In order to strengthen the councils, the LAHDC Act, 1997 was amended further in 2018 to give them more power. Officials said the entire Ladakh region remains cut-off from rest of the country for almost six months. Air travel via Leh is the only mode of transport available to this region, which makes it impossible for people to visit other parts of the country. The remoteness and inaccessibility of the area makes the area eligible for establishing a separate division for the said region, they said. Taking all this into consideration, the administration has decided to create a separate administrative and revenue division for Ladakh, they said.

Jammu and Kashmir administration creates separate division for Ladakh

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday called up hard-line Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, in yet another provocative act on the eve of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-visit-jammu-and-kashmir-on-february-3-ram-madhav-191632">Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir</a>.

During the phone call, Qureshi discussed the situation in Kashmir with Geelani, according to ARY channel.

Geelani is the second Kashmiri separatist leader whom Qureshi called up in the last few days.

Earlier, he had a telephonic conversation Hurriyat chief Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

India took strong objection to that phone call and Pakistan's High Commissioner in New Delhi Sohail Mahmood was summoned by Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale to lodge a protest.

Gokhale bluntly told Mahmood that Pakistan should desist from such provocative actions, failing which there will be "implications".

Significantly, Qureshi`s phone call to Geelani came just a day ahead of the prime minister`s visit to the state.

Prime minister Modi will launch several developmental projects during the day-long visit.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday called up hard-line Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, in yet another provocative act on the eve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday called up hard-line Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, in yet another provocative act on the eve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir. During the phone call, Qureshi discussed the situation in Kashmir with Geelani, according to ARY channel. Geelani is the second Kashmiri separatist leader whom Qureshi called up in the last few days. Earlier, he had a telephonic conversation Hurriyat chief Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. India took strong objection to that phone call and Pakistan's High Commissioner in New Delhi Sohail Mahmood was summoned by Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale to lodge a protest. Gokhale bluntly told Mahmood that Pakistan should desist from such provocative actions, failing which there will be "implications". Significantly, Qureshi`s phone call to Geelani came just a day ahead of the prime minister`s visit to the state. Prime minister Modi will launch several developmental projects during the day-long visit.

Pakistan Foreign Minister calls up Kashmiri separatist leader Geelani

The average temperature rise in the northern India state of Jammu and Kashmir has far surpassed the world average, which has got experts extremely worried.&nbsp;

As against a global increase of 0.8 to 0.9 degrees Celsius over the last 100 years, temperatures in Jammu and Kashmir have risen by an average of 1.2 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

This has resulted in the melting of glaciers and greater precipitation which, the experts say, could lead to disaster in the state. Experts say that although warming is a global phenomenon, it will have a significant impact on the Kashmir valley since its glaciers are now melting at a fast pace. (Shafar glacier, which contributes to the Indus river, being among them.)

The experts say untimely rain and snowfall are indicators of the change. &nbsp;

And with the early snowfall this year, the effects of climate change are already being felt in the Kashmir valley.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84ed911e-e327-410d-9d82-f13bb231f638" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_1.jpg" />

A journalist in Srinagar recently compared the satellite images of important glaciers from the last 30 years and the results were astonishing, surprising to many.&nbsp;

<img alt="kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e801a79c-c390-4dd4-8ad0-34a63eb9cbc3" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_6.jpg" />

"What I found was that there was a visible receding of Ice cover over the mountains. We looked at Shafat Glacier, which is the source of water for Indus river, and we found that the ice has receded. From images, it seems between 10 to 12 Kilometres," said Qazi Zaid, a journalist in Srinagar.&nbsp;

In 2014, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a massive flood caused due to cloud bursting, which the first such indicator of global warming in the state.

According to a report prepared by the State Disaster Management Authority, since 2010, many flash floods and cloudbursts which have hit J&amp;K resulted in the killing of 300 people.&nbsp;

It reads that property worth crores of rupees were also damaged. Flash floods and cloudbursts have also proved disastrous for the agriculture and horticulture sector of the valley which is the backbone of the rural economy.&nbsp;

Experts believe that given the geographical location, Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh are prone to such calamities with continues deforestation adding to it.&nbsp;

"J&amp;K is a mountainous area, which is very susceptible to global warming and climate change. Our state is at a typical geographical location and if there is any human interference, like continuous infrastructure building, it becomes problematic," says Sonam Lotus, Director Meteorological department Kashmir, adding that five smalls floods declared after 2014 are the indicators.&nbsp;

The average temperature rise in the northern India state of Jammu and Kashmir has far surpassed the world average, which has got experts extremely worried. As against a global increase of 0.

The average temperature rise in the northern India state of Jammu and Kashmir has far surpassed the world average, which has got experts extremely worried. As against a global increase of 0.8 to 0.9 degrees Celsius over the last 100 years, temperatures in Jammu and Kashmir have risen by an average of 1.2 degrees Celsius. This has resulted in the melting of glaciers and greater precipitation which, the experts say, could lead to disaster in the state. Experts say that although warming is a global phenomenon, it will have a significant impact on the Kashmir valley since its glaciers are now melting at a fast pace. (Shafar glacier, which contributes to the Indus river, being among them.) The experts say untimely rain and snowfall are indicators of the change. And with the early snowfall this year, the effects of climate change are already being felt in the Kashmir valley. A journalist in Srinagar recently compared the satellite images of important glaciers from the last 30 years and the results were astonishing, surprising to many. "What I found was that there was a visible receding of Ice cover over the mountains. We looked at Shafat Glacier, which is the source of water for Indus river, and we found that the ice has receded. From images, it seems between 10 to 12 Kilometres," said Qazi Zaid, a journalist in Srinagar. In 2014, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a massive flood caused due to cloud bursting, which the first such indicator of global warming in the state. According to a report prepared by the State Disaster Management Authority, since 2010, many flash floods and cloudbursts which have hit J&K resulted in the killing of 300 people. It reads that property worth crores of rupees were also damaged. Flash floods and cloudbursts have also proved disastrous for the agriculture and horticulture sector of the valley which is the backbone of the rural economy. Experts believe that given the geographical location, Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh are prone to such calamities with continues deforestation adding to it. "J&K is a mountainous area, which is very susceptible to global warming and climate change. Our state is at a typical geographical location and if there is any human interference, like continuous infrastructure building, it becomes problematic," says Sonam Lotus, Director Meteorological department Kashmir, adding that five smalls floods declared after 2014 are the indicators.

Temperature rise in Jammu and Kashmir above world average, experts alarmed

Fresh snowfall in Kashmir, rains lash plains

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Monday.

The&nbsp;encounter broke out between security forces and militants after the police launched a search and cordon operation.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Encounter underway between terrorists and security forces in Zinpanchal, Chari Sharief in Budgam district; 2 terrorists have been neutralised. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAnd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAnd</a> Kashmir (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/mKMJorc4IQ">pic.twitter.com/mKMJorc4IQ</a>
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The operation was launched&nbsp;in Hapatnaar area of Budgam District following information about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said.

The search operation turned into a gunbattle after militants opened fire on security forces, the official added.

52 Rashtriya Rifles, Budgam police and CRPF personnel are involved in the operation against the terrorists.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Monday. The encounter broke out between security forces and militants after the police launched a search and cordon operation.

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Monday. The encounter broke out between security forces and militants after the police launched a search and cordon operation. #WATCH Encounter underway between terrorists and security forces in Zinpanchal, Chari Sharief in Budgam district; 2 terrorists have been neutralised. #JammuAnd Kashmir (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/mKMJorc4IQ — ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2019 × The operation was launched in Hapatnaar area of Budgam District following information about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said. The search operation turned into a gunbattle after militants opened fire on security forces, the official added. 52 Rashtriya Rifles, Budgam police and CRPF personnel are involved in the operation against the terrorists. (With inputs from agencies)

2 terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district

Militants carried out two grenade attacks on security forces in Kashmir on Friday but there were no reports of any casualty, police said.

The terrorists lobbed a grenade at a CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) bunker at Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) in Lal Chowk this afternoon, a police official said.

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Jammu and Kashmir: Blast at Ghanta Ghar Chowk in Srinagar. More details awaited. <a href="https://t.co/fG6a1TRmMT">pic.twitter.com/fG6a1TRmMT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1086177487732834304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In another incident, militants lobbed a grenade at security forces in Shopian district of south Kashmir, the police official said, adding there was no injury to anyone and damage to properties due to the explosion.

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Terrorists lobbed a grenade on Police camp in Gagran area of South Kashmir's Shopian. No loss of life or injury reported.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1086183200953516032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The grenade exploded on the roadside, he said, adding no one was hurt in the attack.

A private car parked on the roadside was partly damaged due to the explosion, the official said.This is the second attack on security forces in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, within 24 hours.

Terrorists hurled a grenade on police personnel at Zero Bridge here on Thursday, resulting in injuries to three policemen.

The attacks come less than 10 days ahead of Republic Day celebrations.&nbsp;

Militants carried out two grenade attacks on security forces in Kashmir on Friday but there were no reports of any casualty, police said. The terrorists lobbed a grenade at a CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) bunker at Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) in Lal Chowk this afternoon, a police official said.

Militants carried out two grenade attacks on security forces in Kashmir on Friday but there were no reports of any casualty, police said. The terrorists lobbed a grenade at a CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) bunker at Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) in Lal Chowk this afternoon, a police official said. Jammu and Kashmir: Blast at Ghanta Ghar Chowk in Srinagar. More details awaited. pic.twitter.com/fG6a1TRmMT — ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2019 × In another incident, militants lobbed a grenade at security forces in Shopian district of south Kashmir, the police official said, adding there was no injury to anyone and damage to properties due to the explosion. Terrorists lobbed a grenade on Police camp in Gagran area of South Kashmir's Shopian. No loss of life or injury reported. — ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2019 × The grenade exploded on the roadside, he said, adding no one was hurt in the attack. A private car parked on the roadside was partly damaged due to the explosion, the official said.This is the second attack on security forces in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, within 24 hours. Terrorists hurled a grenade on police personnel at Zero Bridge here on Thursday, resulting in injuries to three policemen. The attacks come less than 10 days ahead of Republic Day celebrations.

Two grenade attacks on security forces reported in Kashmir

"Hurriyat should not consider me an alien," said Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday.

Speaking to ANI, Malik said Hurriyat must approach him directly with matters pertaining to atrocities and injustice to the common man if they come across any such situation.

"As I am available to a common man, I am also available for Hurriyat. If some incident takes place regarding atrocities on residents here, I will with my full forces make efforts to deliver justice. I respect the senior leaders of the Hurriyats and will treat them the way I am treating the common man," he said.

However, he made it clear that his discussions with the Hurriyat will not be a political one.

He said, "Discussions with the Hurriyat cannot be termed as political. Being the Governor, I do not have the powers to hold political discussions with them. Only the Centre has the authority to do so."Governor`s rule was imposed in the state in June last year after Mehbooba Mufti resigned as Chief Minister following BJP`s exit from the alliance with the People`s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

The BJP and PDP formed a coalition government in 2015 after the state elections threw up a hung assembly.

However, both of them were ideologically divided on a variety of issues.

The BJP had 25 seats in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, while the PDP had 28.

This is the fourth time in the last 10 years that a Governor`s rule is imposed in the state.

"Hurriyat should not consider me an alien," said Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday. Speaking to ANI, Malik said Hurriyat must approach him directly with matters pertaining to atrocities and injustice to the common man if they come across any such situation.

"Hurriyat should not consider me an alien," said Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday. Speaking to ANI, Malik said Hurriyat must approach him directly with matters pertaining to atrocities and injustice to the common man if they come across any such situation. "As I am available to a common man, I am also available for Hurriyat. If some incident takes place regarding atrocities on residents here, I will with my full forces make efforts to deliver justice. I respect the senior leaders of the Hurriyats and will treat them the way I am treating the common man," he said. However, he made it clear that his discussions with the Hurriyat will not be a political one. He said, "Discussions with the Hurriyat cannot be termed as political. Being the Governor, I do not have the powers to hold political discussions with them. Only the Centre has the authority to do so."Governor`s rule was imposed in the state in June last year after Mehbooba Mufti resigned as Chief Minister following BJP`s exit from the alliance with the People`s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. The BJP and PDP formed a coalition government in 2015 after the state elections threw up a hung assembly. However, both of them were ideologically divided on a variety of issues. The BJP had 25 seats in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, while the PDP had 28. This is the fourth time in the last 10 years that a Governor`s rule is imposed in the state.

Hurriyat shouldn't consider me an alien: Satya Pal Malik

Kashmir is still a challenge due to destabilising activities by Pakistan, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-ready-to-hold-assembly-polls-in-jammu-kashmir-rajnath-singh-186991">Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh</a> said here on Monday.

He was talking to media persons after inaugurating the administrative building, residential block and officers' mess at the SSB sector headquarters here.

"Kashmir is still a challenge due to destabilising activities by neighbouring Pakistan. However, the Army, the CRPF, the J&amp;K police, and intelligence bureau men are acting in better coordination," he said.

Speaking about Naxal incidents, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajanath-singh-inaugurates-over-150-projects-in-lucknow-186494">the home minister said</a> they had dropped by 50 per cent during the last four years.

Extremist violence in northeastern areas saw a decline of 80 per cent, Singh said.

Lauding improvements made on the internal security front, he said, "No major terrorist incident had taken place in India during the last four-and-a-half years (of the Narendra Modi government)."

Singh said the country's economy today was counted as the world's fastest growing.

"By 2030, the Indian economy would rank among top three economies of the world," he said.

"The Modi government has launched the world's largest universal health care scheme Ayushmaan Bharat which has benefitted 7.5 lakh people so far," Singh said.&nbsp;

'By 2030, the Indian economy would rank among top three economies of the world,' Rajnath Singh said.

Kashmir is still a challenge due to destabilising activities by Pakistan, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said here on Monday. He was talking to media persons after inaugurating the administrative building, residential block and officers' mess at the SSB sector headquarters here. "Kashmir is still a challenge due to destabilising activities by neighbouring Pakistan. However, the Army, the CRPF, the J&K police, and intelligence bureau men are acting in better coordination," he said. Speaking about Naxal incidents, the home minister said they had dropped by 50 per cent during the last four years. Extremist violence in northeastern areas saw a decline of 80 per cent, Singh said. Lauding improvements made on the internal security front, he said, "No major terrorist incident had taken place in India during the last four-and-a-half years (of the Narendra Modi government)." Singh said the country's economy today was counted as the world's fastest growing. "By 2030, the Indian economy would rank among top three economies of the world," he said. "The Modi government has launched the world's largest universal health care scheme Ayushmaan Bharat which has benefitted 7.5 lakh people so far," Singh said.

Kashmir still a challenge due to Pakistan's destabilising activities: Rajnath Singh

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that though Islamabad is trying to have a dialogue with India, it is New Delhi that is not responding to Pak's talks, leading up to a"bizarre situation".&nbsp;

Khan said this in Turkey while standing alongside the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

"We are trying to have a dialogue. Trying to move towards a friendly relationship with India. We had a stand-off with India and India refuses to talk to Pakistan under the pretext that until Pakistan stops terrorism India will not talk to us. Its a bizarre situation were we feel how can you move forward if there is no dialogue, " Khan said.

The Pakistan prime minister was in Turkey on a two-day visit.&nbsp;

Imran Khan said his country "Obviously wants stability" because "We want economic progress which does not come without stability and stability will only take place when Pakistan and India sit down and resolve the differences”.

"The basic problem about Pakistan, India is about Kashmir. Problem with Kashmir is that there is an indigenous movement which is sick of three decades of trying to stop popular and democratic movement," he added.

This is not the first time when Pakistan's Prime Minister has raked up the Kashmir issue and linked it with dialogue process. During the groundbreaking ceremony of Kartarpur corridor on the Pakistani side in November 2018, Khan had said, "Our political leaders, our army are on one page. We want a civilised relationship with India. We have one problem, Kashmir. If man can walk on the moon, what problems are there that we cannot resolve."&nbsp;

India has been saying talks and terror cannot go together. In his first interview of 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said "Whether UPA or NDA government, never opposed dialogue(with Pakistan)" but "amid the noise of bombs and guns, the dialogue cannot be heard".&nbsp;

India had tried to engage with Pakistan especially with Prime Minister Narendra Modi making a stopover at Lahore on December 25, 2015 but it was followed by a major terror attack on Indian army base in Pathankot.&nbsp;

In 2018, Pakistan had suggested foreign ministers of India and Pakistan to meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. New Delhi did accept it initially but cancelled it within 24 hours after killings of its security personnel by Pakistan-based entities in Jammu &amp; Kashmir.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Indian Diplomats continued to be harassed in Pakistan. On December 3 major incidents of harassment of Indian Diplomats were reported. An intruder tried to break into the house of an Indian Diplomat on December 10, while on the 21st Indian high commission team was questioned on the road in Peshawar. The electricity was cut for four hours on December 25 at the house of the second secretary. India has sent a number of note verbale also to Pakistani ministry of foreign affairs regarding the issue.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that though Islamabad is trying to have a dialogue with India, it is New Delhi that is not responding to Pak's talks, leading up to a"bizarre situation".

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that though Islamabad is trying to have a dialogue with India, it is New Delhi that is not responding to Pak's talks, leading up to a"bizarre situation". Khan said this in Turkey while standing alongside the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. "We are trying to have a dialogue. Trying to move towards a friendly relationship with India. We had a stand-off with India and India refuses to talk to Pakistan under the pretext that until Pakistan stops terrorism India will not talk to us. Its a bizarre situation were we feel how can you move forward if there is no dialogue, " Khan said. The Pakistan prime minister was in Turkey on a two-day visit. Imran Khan said his country "Obviously wants stability" because "We want economic progress which does not come without stability and stability will only take place when Pakistan and India sit down and resolve the differences”. "The basic problem about Pakistan, India is about Kashmir. Problem with Kashmir is that there is an indigenous movement which is sick of three decades of trying to stop popular and democratic movement," he added. This is not the first time when Pakistan's Prime Minister has raked up the Kashmir issue and linked it with dialogue process. During the groundbreaking ceremony of Kartarpur corridor on the Pakistani side in November 2018, Khan had said, "Our political leaders, our army are on one page. We want a civilised relationship with India. We have one problem, Kashmir. If man can walk on the moon, what problems are there that we cannot resolve." India has been saying talks and terror cannot go together. In his first interview of 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said "Whether UPA or NDA government, never opposed dialogue(with Pakistan)" but "amid the noise of bombs and guns, the dialogue cannot be heard". India had tried to engage with Pakistan especially with Prime Minister Narendra Modi making a stopover at Lahore on December 25, 2015 but it was followed by a major terror attack on Indian army base in Pathankot. In 2018, Pakistan had suggested foreign ministers of India and Pakistan to meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. New Delhi did accept it initially but cancelled it within 24 hours after killings of its security personnel by Pakistan-based entities in Jammu & Kashmir. Meanwhile, Indian Diplomats continued to be harassed in Pakistan. On December 3 major incidents of harassment of Indian Diplomats were reported. An intruder tried to break into the house of an Indian Diplomat on December 10, while on the 21st Indian high commission team was questioned on the road in Peshawar. The electricity was cut for four hours on December 25 at the house of the second secretary. India has sent a number of note verbale also to Pakistani ministry of foreign affairs regarding the issue.

Trying to have dialogue with India but New Delhi refusing: Pak PM Imran Khan

In pics: Kashmir's cold waves no bar for skating championship

A group of young boys and girls in Jammu and Kashmir have turned a wall into 'Wall of Kindness' where people can hang their warm clothes for those in need.&nbsp;

Taking a cue from philanthropists in Iran and Turkey, the aim of the project is to provide relief to needy people of the state in the bone-chilling winters.

The sub-zero temperature in the mountainous state has frozen almost everything but this initiative is spreading warmth. The 'Wall of Kindness'&nbsp;is helping the poor and needy to survive in the biting cold winter.

Situated at the British-era boulevard, the wall has been painted by a non-governmental organisation where people can hang their clothes without being noticed.&nbsp;In the valley, many people have come forward with their clothes to help the needy in the freezing cold. State administration has also helped these people in getting the desired spaces for the wall.&nbsp;

<img alt="Wall of Kindness" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e2de1f75-867d-476e-b3d7-60a62db3046b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_4.jpg" />

The initiative has been started by an NGO 'Who is Hussain’ which has almost two dozen volunteers including students and young professionals.

"The main idea was to help the people. We identified a wall where people can come and donate and at the same time, people who need can take them without being identified," a volunteer associated with the NGO said.

These volunteers now aim to expand the project to other areas as well. They say that they are already in the process of identifying spots where similar walls could be started. The move is being hailed by several people in the state.

A local resident said, "This is a very good step. This will help people in minus temperature, poor people will be benefited from this move. This has happened in foreign countries as well, I am happy that it has come to Kashmir, I urge people to donate extra clothes."

The initiative was initially started for the homeless people of Mashhad in Iran. Soon the practice spread throughout the country with a motto 'leave if you do not need'. Since then, the movement has spread to many other countries including China, Pakistan and Italy.&nbsp;

A group of young boys and girls in Jammu and Kashmir have turned a wall into 'Wall of Kindness' where people can hang their warm clothes for those in need. Taking a cue from philanthropists in Iran and Turkey, the aim of the project is to provide relief to needy people of the state in the bone-chilling winters.

A group of young boys and girls in Jammu and Kashmir have turned a wall into 'Wall of Kindness' where people can hang their warm clothes for those in need. Taking a cue from philanthropists in Iran and Turkey, the aim of the project is to provide relief to needy people of the state in the bone-chilling winters. The sub-zero temperature in the mountainous state has frozen almost everything but this initiative is spreading warmth. The 'Wall of Kindness' is helping the poor and needy to survive in the biting cold winter. Situated at the British-era boulevard, the wall has been painted by a non-governmental organisation where people can hang their clothes without being noticed. In the valley, many people have come forward with their clothes to help the needy in the freezing cold. State administration has also helped these people in getting the desired spaces for the wall. The initiative has been started by an NGO 'Who is Hussain’ which has almost two dozen volunteers including students and young professionals. "The main idea was to help the people. We identified a wall where people can come and donate and at the same time, people who need can take them without being identified," a volunteer associated with the NGO said. These volunteers now aim to expand the project to other areas as well. They say that they are already in the process of identifying spots where similar walls could be started. The move is being hailed by several people in the state. A local resident said, "This is a very good step. This will help people in minus temperature, poor people will be benefited from this move. This has happened in foreign countries as well, I am happy that it has come to Kashmir, I urge people to donate extra clothes." The initiative was initially started for the homeless people of Mashhad in Iran. Soon the practice spread throughout the country with a motto 'leave if you do not need'. Since then, the movement has spread to many other countries including China, Pakistan and Italy.

'Wall of Kindness' warms up Jammu and Kashmir

Who would have thought that a mobile game called PUBG would become so popular that it would inspire people to open up a cafe in the Himalayan state of Jammu and Kashmir? A group of friends have set up a PUBG-theme cafe named 'Winner's Dinner' in the summer capital of the state, Srinagar.&nbsp;

PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds has taken the gaming sector by storm with over 100 million downloads in India and over 200 million downloads worldwide. The popular mobile game has become an instant hit since it was launched on mobile phones around the globe in March 2018.&nbsp;

The cafe is decorated with camouflage clothes and war room tables, even the pans have been specially designed based on the game. Cafe walls have been covered with the images and maps of PUBG.

Once you enter the cafe, guns, helmets and jackets welcome you. Most of the people who visit here wear them to take pictures. The idea of starting the cafe came to the owners while they were playing the game. They say it has been an instant hit in the valley.&nbsp;

"We were playing PUBG and suddenly decided to open this theme-based cafe. Initially, we had to struggle because of the situation here, but with the help of our parents we managed this," says Human Javaid, co-owner of the cafe.&nbsp;

Getting the support of their parents wasn't easy. The idea which looked bizarre is now a success story in a state like Jammu and Kashmir where frequent shutdowns and curfew can spell disaster for the business sector.&nbsp;

'Chicken dinner'&nbsp;is a popular meal here, apart from other food items that have been named after different levels of the game. These friends managed to set up this cafe in just three months. The theme-based cafe is attracting kids and adults alike to visit and feel the thrill.

"I am playing this game from last one year. When I came to know that there is a PUBG cafe, I came here. The interiors are beautiful," said Nasir, a frequent visitor to the cafe.&nbsp;

Similar cafes base on PUBG have opened up in several parts of the world including China. As per reports, more than 33 per cent Indians engage in mobile gaming and this game has already been named the best game of 2018 on Google Play. PUBG championships are now being held in several parts of the country with heavy cash prices and chicken dinner to win.&nbsp;

Who would have thought that a mobile game called PUBG would become so popular that it would inspire people to open up a cafe in the Himalayan state of Jammu and Kashmir?

Who would have thought that a mobile game called PUBG would become so popular that it would inspire people to open up a cafe in the Himalayan state of Jammu and Kashmir? A group of friends have set up a PUBG-theme cafe named 'Winner's Dinner' in the summer capital of the state, Srinagar. PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds has taken the gaming sector by storm with over 100 million downloads in India and over 200 million downloads worldwide. The popular mobile game has become an instant hit since it was launched on mobile phones around the globe in March 2018. The cafe is decorated with camouflage clothes and war room tables, even the pans have been specially designed based on the game. Cafe walls have been covered with the images and maps of PUBG. Once you enter the cafe, guns, helmets and jackets welcome you. Most of the people who visit here wear them to take pictures. The idea of starting the cafe came to the owners while they were playing the game. They say it has been an instant hit in the valley. "We were playing PUBG and suddenly decided to open this theme-based cafe. Initially, we had to struggle because of the situation here, but with the help of our parents we managed this," says Human Javaid, co-owner of the cafe. Getting the support of their parents wasn't easy. The idea which looked bizarre is now a success story in a state like Jammu and Kashmir where frequent shutdowns and curfew can spell disaster for the business sector. 'Chicken dinner' is a popular meal here, apart from other food items that have been named after different levels of the game. These friends managed to set up this cafe in just three months. The theme-based cafe is attracting kids and adults alike to visit and feel the thrill. "I am playing this game from last one year. When I came to know that there is a PUBG cafe, I came here. The interiors are beautiful," said Nasir, a frequent visitor to the cafe. Similar cafes base on PUBG have opened up in several parts of the world including China. As per reports, more than 33 per cent Indians engage in mobile gaming and this game has already been named the best game of 2018 on Google Play. PUBG championships are now being held in several parts of the country with heavy cash prices and chicken dinner to win.

Kashmir gets its own PUBG-theme cafe in Srinagar

Four&nbsp;terrorists were killed in the encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Saturday morning.

The encounter started in Rajpora area of Pulwama after the police&nbsp;launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists.

The search operation was initiated on specific&nbsp;inputs received about the presence of militants in Hanjan area of Pulwama.

The police have also recovered arms and ammunition from the deceased terrorists.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> Four terrorists have been killed.Arms and ammunition recovered <a href="https://t.co/23BX6oZUie">https://t.co/23BX6oZUie</a>
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A gun&nbsp;battle also broke out&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Wagoora area of Nowgam on the outskirts of Srinagar city in the early hours&nbsp;of Saturday morning.

Considering the security of civilians, the area had&nbsp;been cordoned off.

(With inputs from ANI)

Four terrorists were killed in the encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Saturday morning. The encounter started in Rajpora area of Pulwama after the police launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists.

Four terrorists were killed in the encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Saturday morning. The encounter started in Rajpora area of Pulwama after the police launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists. The search operation was initiated on specific inputs received about the presence of militants in Hanjan area of Pulwama. The police have also recovered arms and ammunition from the deceased terrorists. #UPDATE Four terrorists have been killed.Arms and ammunition recovered https://t.co/23BX6oZUie — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2018 × A gun battle also broke out in the Wagoora area of Nowgam on the outskirts of Srinagar city in the early hours of Saturday morning. Considering the security of civilians, the area had been cordoned off. (With inputs from ANI)

Four terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/honduras-guatemala-and-el-salvador-are-doing-nothing-for-us-says-trump-vowing-to-end-all-aid-187084">'Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador are doing nothing for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/honduras-guatemala-and-el-salvador-are-doing-nothing-for-us-says-trump-vowing-to-end-all-aid-187084">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/honduras-guatemala-and-el-salvador-are-doing-nothing-for-us-says-trump-vowing-to-end-all-aid-187084">,' says Trump vowing to end all aid</a>

President Donald Trump said Friday that the United States will eliminate all economic assistance to Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador in retaliation for the caravans of Central American migrants arriving at the southern border.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-bomb-blast-kills-3-vietnamese-tourists-guide-near-giza-pyramids-187090">Egypt: Bomb blast kills 3 Vietnamese tourists, guide near Giza pyramids</a>

Three Vietnamese holidaymakers and an Egyptian tour guide were killed Friday when a roadside bomb blast hit their bus as it travelled close to the Giza pyramids outside Cairo, officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-gun-battle-underway-between-security-forces-terrorists-187085">J&amp;K: Gun battle underway between security forces, terrorists in Pulwama's Rajpora</a>

A gun battle is underway between security forces and terrorists in Rajpora area of Pulwama district in Jammu and Kashmir. The police have launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/security-beefed-up-in-bangladesh-before-polls-on-sunday-187092">Security beefed up in Bangladesh ahead of polls on Sunday</a>

As Bangladesh prepares to go for polling on December 30 to elect a new Parliament in the country, armed forces have been deployed in 389 'upazilas' or administrative region till January 2.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-3rd-test-day-4-187077">INDvsAUS, 3rd Test, Day 4: Australia at 64-3 after 22 overs, need 335 runs to win</a>

Chasing 399 for an improbable win, Australia were reduced to 44 for two at lunch. This was after India declared their second innings at 106 for eight with Pat Cummins taking career-best figures of 6-27.&nbsp;

'Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador are doing nothing for US,' says Trump vowing to end all aid President Donald Trump said Friday that the United States will eliminate all economic assistance to Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador in retaliation for the caravans of Central American migrants arriving at the southern border.

'Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador are doing nothing for US,' says Trump vowing to end all aid President Donald Trump said Friday that the United States will eliminate all economic assistance to Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador in retaliation for the caravans of Central American migrants arriving at the southern border. Egypt: Bomb blast kills 3 Vietnamese tourists, guide near Giza pyramids Three Vietnamese holidaymakers and an Egyptian tour guide were killed Friday when a roadside bomb blast hit their bus as it travelled close to the Giza pyramids outside Cairo, officials said. J&K: Gun battle underway between security forces, terrorists in Pulwama's Rajpora A gun battle is underway between security forces and terrorists in Rajpora area of Pulwama district in Jammu and Kashmir. The police have launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists. Security beefed up in Bangladesh ahead of polls on Sunday As Bangladesh prepares to go for polling on December 30 to elect a new Parliament in the country, armed forces have been deployed in 389 'upazilas' or administrative region till January 2. INDvsAUS, 3rd Test, Day 4: Australia at 64-3 after 22 overs, need 335 runs to win Chasing 399 for an improbable win, Australia were reduced to 44 for two at lunch. This was after India declared their second innings at 106 for eight with Pat Cummins taking career-best figures of 6-27.

News brief: Big stories of the day

ISIS flag raised at Jama Masjid in Kashmir

In what is certain to create trouble for Islamabad's anti-India lobbying efforts in the United Kingdom, the Pakistani authorities detained Lord Nazir Ahmed at Islamabad airport for several hours on Christmas Day.

A member of the British House of Lords, Nazir remained a puppet for Pakistan to raise the Kashmir issue in UK.

He used to hold anti-India protests in London to mislead the international community.

Nazir was not allowed to enter the Pakistani territory as his National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) was expired.

Sources reveal that he was given 72-hours landing permit after having heated arguments with the authorities.

He reached Islamabad by Qatar Airways. Pakistan Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) officials told him that a valid NICOP is must for entry into Pakistan.

"We know you very well and respect your status but a law is law and no one is above the law. Firstly, we can't allow you to enter the city with invalid NICOP, secondly, if we hypothetically give you permission, it would become hot news for media and unnecessary controversy will start", Pakistani media quoted the officials.

Lord Ahmed said that it was very humiliating and embarrassing moments for him and it happened only because of wrong information floated by none other than PM Imran Khan's personal advisor Zulfiqar Ahmed Zulfi who told in London last week that NICOP is not necessary to travel to Pakistan."I shall advise to every overseas Pakistani to be vigilant and well informed before travelling. Thoroughly check and complete all necessary documents before starting their journey to Pakistan", Lord Ahmed stated.

"These PTI punters should not misguide their overseas countrymen and I shall bring this saga into knowledge of PM Imran Khan if I get a chance to meet him", said The Nation while quoting Lord Ahmed.

In what is certain to create trouble for Islamabad's anti-India lobbying efforts in the United Kingdom, the Pakistani authorities detained Lord Nazir Ahmed at Islamabad airport for several hours on Christmas Day.

In what is certain to create trouble for Islamabad's anti-India lobbying efforts in the United Kingdom, the Pakistani authorities detained Lord Nazir Ahmed at Islamabad airport for several hours on Christmas Day. A member of the British House of Lords, Nazir remained a puppet for Pakistan to raise the Kashmir issue in UK. He used to hold anti-India protests in London to mislead the international community. Nazir was not allowed to enter the Pakistani territory as his National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) was expired. Sources reveal that he was given 72-hours landing permit after having heated arguments with the authorities. He reached Islamabad by Qatar Airways. Pakistan Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) officials told him that a valid NICOP is must for entry into Pakistan. "We know you very well and respect your status but a law is law and no one is above the law. Firstly, we can't allow you to enter the city with invalid NICOP, secondly, if we hypothetically give you permission, it would become hot news for media and unnecessary controversy will start", Pakistani media quoted the officials. Lord Ahmed said that it was very humiliating and embarrassing moments for him and it happened only because of wrong information floated by none other than PM Imran Khan's personal advisor Zulfiqar Ahmed Zulfi who told in London last week that NICOP is not necessary to travel to Pakistan."I shall advise to every overseas Pakistani to be vigilant and well informed before travelling. Thoroughly check and complete all necessary documents before starting their journey to Pakistan", Lord Ahmed stated. "These PTI punters should not misguide their overseas countrymen and I shall bring this saga into knowledge of PM Imran Khan if I get a chance to meet him", said The Nation while quoting Lord Ahmed.

Pakistan detains member of British House of Lords at Islamabad airport

PUBG fans get 'chicken dinner' for real in Kashmir

Srinagar recorded the coldest night in 11 years as mercury dipped to minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, partially freezing the world famous Dal Lake and other water bodies.

Kashmir is currently under the grip of `Chillai-Kalan` &nbsp;the 40-day harshest period of winter when the chances of snowfall are most frequent and maximum and the temperature drops considerably.'Chillai-Kalan'&nbsp;ends on January 31, but the cold wave continues even after that in Kashmir.

The 40-day period is followed by a 20-day long 'Chillai-Khurd'&nbsp;(small cold) and a 10-day long 'Chillai-Bachha'&nbsp;(baby cold). As the areas near the lake were engulfed in snow, residents were seen battling with intense fog and chillwave.

According to India Meteorological Department (IMD), "Srinagar city registered a low of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius on Monday, which is the coldest recorded temperature in the city in almost 11 years. The city had recorded a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius on December 31, 2007.

"This wasn't expected that temperature will dip so early here, we are facing problems like lack of water supply but people are still coming to the city to enjoy winters," a local Pir Gulam Nabi told ANI.

As per the IMD, the temperature in the region will further plummet during the nights.

The minimum temperatures in Pahalgam (One of the base camps for the annual Amarnath yatra in south Kashmir), Kargil and Gulmarg were minus 8 degrees Celsius, minus 17 and minus 10, respectively.

Meanwhile, Katra recorded minus 6 degrees Celsius and Bannihal minus 2.

Srinagar recorded the coldest night in 11 years as mercury dipped to minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, partially freezing the world famous Dal Lake and other water bodies.

Srinagar recorded the coldest night in 11 years as mercury dipped to minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, partially freezing the world famous Dal Lake and other water bodies. Kashmir is currently under the grip of `Chillai-Kalan` the 40-day harshest period of winter when the chances of snowfall are most frequent and maximum and the temperature drops considerably.'Chillai-Kalan' ends on January 31, but the cold wave continues even after that in Kashmir. The 40-day period is followed by a 20-day long 'Chillai-Khurd' (small cold) and a 10-day long 'Chillai-Bachha' (baby cold). As the areas near the lake were engulfed in snow, residents were seen battling with intense fog and chillwave. According to India Meteorological Department (IMD), "Srinagar city registered a low of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius on Monday, which is the coldest recorded temperature in the city in almost 11 years. The city had recorded a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius on December 31, 2007. "This wasn't expected that temperature will dip so early here, we are facing problems like lack of water supply but people are still coming to the city to enjoy winters," a local Pir Gulam Nabi told ANI. As per the IMD, the temperature in the region will further plummet during the nights. The minimum temperatures in Pahalgam (One of the base camps for the annual Amarnath yatra in south Kashmir), Kargil and Gulmarg were minus 8 degrees Celsius, minus 17 and minus 10, respectively. Meanwhile, Katra recorded minus 6 degrees Celsius and Bannihal minus 2.

Dal Lake freezes partially as mercury dips in Kashmir

Asserting that India should adopt a "clear-cut roadmap" to tackle the Kashmir issue, former DGP of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-farooq-abdullah-over-promising-regional-autonomy-in-jammu-kashmir-if-his-party-comes-to-power-185789">Jammu &amp; Kashmir</a> K Rajendra Kumar has said the US pulling out troops from Afghanistan will have implications in the Valley and terrorist outfits may feel emboldened.

Kumar was delivering the Lalitaditya Memorial Lecture in Pune, organised by Sarhad organisation. During his speech, he also said that there is a need to send a stern <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-raised-kashmir-issue-with-un-chief-says-un-spokesman-185764">message to Pakistan </a>for its support to militancy.

"A stern message needs to be sent to Pakistan in terms of retaliation. We need to make it more costly for Pakistan because today Pakistan is not feeling the pinch it should feel," said Kumar.

He said India should deal strongly with Pakistan as far as training camps and terrorist launchpads are concerned.

"Now USA is existing Afghanistan. It has its implications in Kashmir. It is a matter of time that we will be feeling its implications in the Valley. After the US withdrawal, the terrorists organisations would feel pumped up, emboldened," he said.

Seeing America's withdrawal as a "sign of victory", terrorist outfits can feel that New Delhi can also be defeated, so there is an urgent need for India to adopt a "clear-cut roadmap" to deal with terrorism in Kashmir, he asserted.

The US is planning to withdraw 7,000 troops from Afghanistan. The American troops contribute to training and advising local forces fighting the Taliban and the Islamic State group.

Underlying Pakistan's active role in spreading terrorism in the Valley, the former IPS officer said Pakistan is not only sponsoring terrorism but also sending its nationals to Kashmir in the garb of fighting jihad.

"No matter which government is in power, Pakistan continues to sponsor terrorism in the Valley," he said.

He said militancy in Kashmir started with local terrorist organisations but now it is tilting towards Islamic extremism.

"The Valley has a rich history of Sufism but over the years it has moved towards Wahabism," he said, adding that efforts should be made to take Kashmir back to Sufism.

Suggesting measures, he said the state needs stringent laws to deal with anti-national forces, a concrete policy to encourage youths to give up militancy.

The surrender policy must ensure that youth who give up militancy are gainfully employed and discouraged from returning to the menace, he said.&nbsp;

He also called for political outreach and empowerment of the civil society.

He said social media has played a destructive role in inciting sentiments of the youth.

Asserting that India should adopt a "clear-cut roadmap" to tackle the Kashmir issue, former DGP of Jammu & Kashmir K Rajendra Kumar has said the US pulling out troops from Afghanistan will have implications in the Valley and terrorist outfits may feel emboldened.

Asserting that India should adopt a "clear-cut roadmap" to tackle the Kashmir issue, former DGP of Jammu & Kashmir K Rajendra Kumar has said the US pulling out troops from Afghanistan will have implications in the Valley and terrorist outfits may feel emboldened. Kumar was delivering the Lalitaditya Memorial Lecture in Pune, organised by Sarhad organisation. During his speech, he also said that there is a need to send a stern message to Pakistan for its support to militancy. "A stern message needs to be sent to Pakistan in terms of retaliation. We need to make it more costly for Pakistan because today Pakistan is not feeling the pinch it should feel," said Kumar. He said India should deal strongly with Pakistan as far as training camps and terrorist launchpads are concerned. "Now USA is existing Afghanistan. It has its implications in Kashmir. It is a matter of time that we will be feeling its implications in the Valley. After the US withdrawal, the terrorists organisations would feel pumped up, emboldened," he said. Seeing America's withdrawal as a "sign of victory", terrorist outfits can feel that New Delhi can also be defeated, so there is an urgent need for India to adopt a "clear-cut roadmap" to deal with terrorism in Kashmir, he asserted. The US is planning to withdraw 7,000 troops from Afghanistan. The American troops contribute to training and advising local forces fighting the Taliban and the Islamic State group. Underlying Pakistan's active role in spreading terrorism in the Valley, the former IPS officer said Pakistan is not only sponsoring terrorism but also sending its nationals to Kashmir in the garb of fighting jihad. "No matter which government is in power, Pakistan continues to sponsor terrorism in the Valley," he said. He said militancy in Kashmir started with local terrorist organisations but now it is tilting towards Islamic extremism. "The Valley has a rich history of Sufism but over the years it has moved towards Wahabism," he said, adding that efforts should be made to take Kashmir back to Sufism. Suggesting measures, he said the state needs stringent laws to deal with anti-national forces, a concrete policy to encourage youths to give up militancy. The surrender policy must ensure that youth who give up militancy are gainfully employed and discouraged from returning to the menace, he said. He also called for political outreach and empowerment of the civil society. He said social media has played a destructive role in inciting sentiments of the youth.

US withdrawal from Afghanistan will have implications in Kashmir: Former J&K DGP K Rajendra Kumar

Separatist-turned-mainstream politician Sajjad Lone Sunday said his party, People's Conference, favours constructive engagement for resolution of the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-becomes-first-state-to-have-a-law-banning-sextortion-184134"> Kashmir</a> problem for lasting peace in the region. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/presidents-rule-imposed-in-jammu-and-kashmir-185375">Jammu and Kashmir</a> Assembly has a role to control the situation but the solution is not available with our assembly. At the political level, it is the central government which has a bigger role and then it spans across the Line of Control (LoC) as well.

We are in favour of it and it should be done through constructive engagement, Lone told reporters while welcoming several prominent persons to his party fold here.

The people who joined Lone's party included former MLA Zanskar Syed Mohammad Baqir Rizvi, Peoples Democratic Party's additional spokesperson, lawyers Abrar Ahmad and Irfan Inquilabi from Poonch and Ashish Pandita.

He said that the state assembly does not have the power to resolve the Kashmir issue.

"If I promise you a solution of the conflict on the basis of a vote which is inadequate to resolve it, it will tantamount to lying (to the people). This is beyond the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly as the provincial government has a limited role to control the symptoms, which is violence," said the People's Conference leader, flanked by former minister Imran Ansari.

He said that the People's conference is not against the constructive engagement or dialogue to resolve the issue.

The constructive engagement of any sort on the conflict is not a substitute to reach out to the people of the state. Two measures are there to address any conflict— the operational, which the Army and the police are taking care of and the second one is structural which is not based on dialogue alone," he said.

He said the central government should have a long time strategy on reaching out to the J&amp;K people across the state.

"When I say reach out, it does not mean economic doles, it means engaging and removing the mistrust and when you speak about the conflict resolution, you never talk in days and years but it takes decades. The state assembly has a six-year tenure while the conflict resolution takes decades," he said.

Replying to a question about the lack of measures by the BJP-led government at the Centre to address the Kashmir problem, Lone shot back, "Why only five years, let us talk about 15, 20 and 25 years. I am saying there should be a long time strategy. The Manmohan Singh-led government have done no wonders. What type of dialogue or engagement he held? The working group were formed and I prepared a roadmap under the name of 'Achievable Nationhood' on their direction but they refused to acknowledge it. Instead, it was shelved."

Referring to the roundtable conferences and working groups, he said, "Roundtable was meant to be with separatist but the PDP went under the table and pleaded that they will be left irrelevant if the mainstream parties were involved, they were aware that they (separatists) will then not share the table with them."

"What happened to the recommendations of the working groups, interlocutor's reports? Nothing was implemented. It is a fine art of lying. How long we will lie? First, whom they met, their own people who have no grudge," he said, adding "they (the National Conference and the PDP) are propagating dialogue with separatists but who sabotaged the dialogue with militants in 2002 when the PDP was in power?"

He asked, "Who called the media to the guest house where dialogue was scheduled between militants and the government. All the three (Hizbul Mujahideen militant commanders involved in the dialogue) were killed. Who is sabotaging?"

The former minister in the PDP-BJP government said one is trying to go sincerely to reach out and resolve, other is pretending to resolve.&nbsp; 
"What we have seen are the pretensions of different sorts," he asserted.

Criticising the National Conference leadership, he said "it was the rigging in 1987 state elections which led to the eruption of militancy in the state. 
Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah welcomed the recent court order handing over life imprisonment to Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in 1984 Sikh riots case. The verdict plays a deterrent for others although the sentence was given after 34 years but who is responsible for the death and destruction in the valley and why they are being allowed to walk away with it,?" he said.

"I am not saying that it (1987 rigging of elections) was the cause but it definitely was the greatest facilitator to change a historically peaceful population and trigger violence. Nobody is talking about it. Why are we obsessed with only the symptom, killing is the symptom, there is a disease and 1987 is the part of the disease and unless you bring the perpetrators of 1987 to book, this thing will not stop," he said.&nbsp;

Separatist-turned-mainstream politician Sajjad Lone Sunday said his party, People's Conference, favours constructive engagement for resolution of the Kashmir problem for lasting peace in the region.

Separatist-turned-mainstream politician Sajjad Lone Sunday said his party, People's Conference, favours constructive engagement for resolution of the Kashmir problem for lasting peace in the region. Jammu and Kashmir Assembly has a role to control the situation but the solution is not available with our assembly. At the political level, it is the central government which has a bigger role and then it spans across the Line of Control (LoC) as well. We are in favour of it and it should be done through constructive engagement, Lone told reporters while welcoming several prominent persons to his party fold here. The people who joined Lone's party included former MLA Zanskar Syed Mohammad Baqir Rizvi, Peoples Democratic Party's additional spokesperson, lawyers Abrar Ahmad and Irfan Inquilabi from Poonch and Ashish Pandita. He said that the state assembly does not have the power to resolve the Kashmir issue. "If I promise you a solution of the conflict on the basis of a vote which is inadequate to resolve it, it will tantamount to lying (to the people). This is beyond the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly as the provincial government has a limited role to control the symptoms, which is violence," said the People's Conference leader, flanked by former minister Imran Ansari. He said that the People's conference is not against the constructive engagement or dialogue to resolve the issue. The constructive engagement of any sort on the conflict is not a substitute to reach out to the people of the state. Two measures are there to address any conflict— the operational, which the Army and the police are taking care of and the second one is structural which is not based on dialogue alone," he said. He said the central government should have a long time strategy on reaching out to the J&K people across the state. "When I say reach out, it does not mean economic doles, it means engaging and removing the mistrust and when you speak about the conflict resolution, you never talk in days and years but it takes decades. The state assembly has a six-year tenure while the conflict resolution takes decades," he said. Replying to a question about the lack of measures by the BJP-led government at the Centre to address the Kashmir problem, Lone shot back, "Why only five years, let us talk about 15, 20 and 25 years. I am saying there should be a long time strategy. The Manmohan Singh-led government have done no wonders. What type of dialogue or engagement he held? The working group were formed and I prepared a roadmap under the name of 'Achievable Nationhood' on their direction but they refused to acknowledge it. Instead, it was shelved." Referring to the roundtable conferences and working groups, he said, "Roundtable was meant to be with separatist but the PDP went under the table and pleaded that they will be left irrelevant if the mainstream parties were involved, they were aware that they (separatists) will then not share the table with them." "What happened to the recommendations of the working groups, interlocutor's reports? Nothing was implemented. It is a fine art of lying. How long we will lie? First, whom they met, their own people who have no grudge," he said, adding "they (the National Conference and the PDP) are propagating dialogue with separatists but who sabotaged the dialogue with militants in 2002 when the PDP was in power?" He asked, "Who called the media to the guest house where dialogue was scheduled between militants and the government. All the three (Hizbul Mujahideen militant commanders involved in the dialogue) were killed. Who is sabotaging?" The former minister in the PDP-BJP government said one is trying to go sincerely to reach out and resolve, other is pretending to resolve. "What we have seen are the pretensions of different sorts," he asserted. Criticising the National Conference leadership, he said "it was the rigging in 1987 state elections which led to the eruption of militancy in the state. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah welcomed the recent court order handing over life imprisonment to Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in 1984 Sikh riots case. The verdict plays a deterrent for others although the sentence was given after 34 years but who is responsible for the death and destruction in the valley and why they are being allowed to walk away with it,?" he said. "I am not saying that it (1987 rigging of elections) was the cause but it definitely was the greatest facilitator to change a historically peaceful population and trigger violence. Nobody is talking about it. Why are we obsessed with only the symptom, killing is the symptom, there is a disease and 1987 is the part of the disease and unless you bring the perpetrators of 1987 to book, this thing will not stop," he said.

'Constructive engagement not a substitute for Kashmir issue', says Sajjad Lone

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday urged UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to take the notice of the alleged human rights violations in Kashmir.

During a telephonic conversation with Guterres, Khan "underscored (the) UN's role to end these violations", Dawn reported, citing a statement issued by the prime minister's office.

Khan's call to the UN chief comes days after he condemned the killing of seven civilians in Kashmir's Pulwama and threatened to raise the issue at the UN.

Separately, the federal Cabinet in its meeting condemned the presidential rule in Kashmir.

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said the Cabinet meeting was held in Islamabad with Prime Minister Khan in chair.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday urged UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to take the notice of the alleged human rights violations in Kashmir. During a telephonic conversation with Guterres, Khan "underscored (the) UN's role to end these violations", Dawn reported, citing a statement issued by the prime minister's office.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday urged UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to take the notice of the alleged human rights violations in Kashmir. During a telephonic conversation with Guterres, Khan "underscored (the) UN's role to end these violations", Dawn reported, citing a statement issued by the prime minister's office. Khan's call to the UN chief comes days after he condemned the killing of seven civilians in Kashmir's Pulwama and threatened to raise the issue at the UN. Separately, the federal Cabinet in its meeting condemned the presidential rule in Kashmir. Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said the Cabinet meeting was held in Islamabad with Prime Minister Khan in chair.

Imran Khan calls UN chief, raises Kashmir issue

Lack of synergy and miscommunication between various wings of security forces led to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-encounter-in-jk-8-civilians-3-militants-and-one-soldier-among-12-dead-184239">mayhem in South Kashmir's Pulwama</a> district Saturday that resulted in the death of seven civilians after an encounter with Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists, officials said on Monday.

The lack of synergy was to the extent that civilians had almost reached the Army vehicles engaged in an encounter and there was serious apprehension that the mob could harm the personnel or loot the weapons, they said.&nbsp;

This had prompted the security forces to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-condemns-killing-of-seven-civilians-in-kashmirs-pulwama-threatens-to-raise-the-issue-at-un-184640">open fire at the unruly crowd</a> which approached the encounter site at Sirnoo village from multiple directions Saturday, officials added.

Even the governor's advisor K Vijay Kumar, in his address to senior police officials on Sunday, stressed on ensuring effective coordination and synergy between security agencies, besides exercising restraint to avoid civilian casualties and collateral damage during anti-militancy operations and security-related drills in the valley.

According to an internal probe, the day for the crack team began early Saturday morning and a hideout was raided in an area adjacent to Simroo village, which is the native area of Zahoor Thoker, an army deserter-turned-militant.&nbsp;

He is wanted in several cases of killings of security forces, including rifleman Aurangzeb in June and sub-inspector Imtiyaz Ahmad Mir in October.

After drawing a blank from the first hideout, the crack team of security forces did not come up with anything at the second hideout as well. They rather established contact with holed up terrorists in a couple of houses near an orchard.

"This was the third place raided by the crack team and here they were fired upon by the holed up militants," a senior security official said.&nbsp;

In the ensuing encounter, Thoker, who had gone missing in July last year from his camp in Gantmulla area along with an AK-47 rifle, was killed along with his two other accomplices.

However, the crack team had not made adequate arrangements to ensure complete sanitisation of the encounter site because of the paucity of time, the officials said.

People started thronging the encounter site as the outer cordon, which was to be thrown around by the CRPF and the local police was not in place due to lack of communication, they said.

As many as 20 people sustained bullet injuries on Saturday out of which seven civilians died, including 28-year-old MBA graduate Abid Hussain Lone, who had come home along with his Indonesian wife and a three-month-old baby.

By the time local police along with the CRPF could reach the spot of the encounter, the damage was done and people were seen running helter-skelter rushing the injured people to the hospital in Srinagar, a distance of 34 kilometres.

Lack of synergy and miscommunication between various wings of security forces led to mayhem in South Kashmir's Pulwama district Saturday that resulted in the death of seven civilians after an encounter with Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists, officials said on Monday.

Lack of synergy and miscommunication between various wings of security forces led to mayhem in South Kashmir's Pulwama district Saturday that resulted in the death of seven civilians after an encounter with Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists, officials said on Monday. The lack of synergy was to the extent that civilians had almost reached the Army vehicles engaged in an encounter and there was serious apprehension that the mob could harm the personnel or loot the weapons, they said. This had prompted the security forces to open fire at the unruly crowd which approached the encounter site at Sirnoo village from multiple directions Saturday, officials added. Even the governor's advisor K Vijay Kumar, in his address to senior police officials on Sunday, stressed on ensuring effective coordination and synergy between security agencies, besides exercising restraint to avoid civilian casualties and collateral damage during anti-militancy operations and security-related drills in the valley. According to an internal probe, the day for the crack team began early Saturday morning and a hideout was raided in an area adjacent to Simroo village, which is the native area of Zahoor Thoker, an army deserter-turned-militant. He is wanted in several cases of killings of security forces, including rifleman Aurangzeb in June and sub-inspector Imtiyaz Ahmad Mir in October. After drawing a blank from the first hideout, the crack team of security forces did not come up with anything at the second hideout as well. They rather established contact with holed up terrorists in a couple of houses near an orchard. "This was the third place raided by the crack team and here they were fired upon by the holed up militants," a senior security official said. In the ensuing encounter, Thoker, who had gone missing in July last year from his camp in Gantmulla area along with an AK-47 rifle, was killed along with his two other accomplices. However, the crack team had not made adequate arrangements to ensure complete sanitisation of the encounter site because of the paucity of time, the officials said. People started thronging the encounter site as the outer cordon, which was to be thrown around by the CRPF and the local police was not in place due to lack of communication, they said. As many as 20 people sustained bullet injuries on Saturday out of which seven civilians died, including 28-year-old MBA graduate Abid Hussain Lone, who had come home along with his Indonesian wife and a three-month-old baby. By the time local police along with the CRPF could reach the spot of the encounter, the damage was done and people were seen running helter-skelter rushing the injured people to the hospital in Srinagar, a distance of 34 kilometres.

Lack of synergy between forces resulted in civilian casualties in Pulwama: Officials

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