Kashmiri Pandit activist and RTI campaigner Rakesh Handu, popularly known as ‘Bunty’, was arrested by Baramulla Police from his residence in Faridabad, Haryana, on October 17 in connection with a cyber-terrorism case. His arrest has triggered concern within sections of the Kashmiri Pandit community, with supporters demanding an impartial investigation and adherence to due legal process.Handu is currently lodged in Baramulla Jail in connection with FIR No. 151/2026, registered at Baramulla Police Station on September 12 under Sections 66F and 84C of the Information Technology Act.According to case documents, the complaint was filed by Rohit Raina, a Kashmiri Pandit employee posted in the Finance Department in Baramulla under the Prime Minister’s Rehabilitation Package. The allegations concern the repeated sharing and modification of electronic content through a public social media account, reportedly linked to an organisation identified as the United Liberation Council (ULC).Police had earlier issued notices directing Handu to join the investigation. He reportedly cited security concerns and his residence in Faridabad while requesting permission to participate through video conferencing. According to the available documents, he was subsequently informed of the grounds for his arrest and his legal rights.Although the Jammu and Kashmir Police have not issued a detailed public statement, police sources have linked the case to a broader investigation into alleged threats against Kashmiri Pandits. An officer reportedly alleged that Handu had repeatedly shared posters containing threats against members of the community. The officer maintained that the investigation was proceeding in accordance with the law.Handu is known for raising issues concerning the rehabilitation and security of Kashmiri Pandits, particularly employees recruited under the Prime Minister’s Rehabilitation Package. His campaigns have focused on secure accommodation, security audits and concerns over the alleged leakage of employees’ personal data.Reports from September 2026 indicate that Handu had highlighted social media posts containing threats allegedly issued by the ULC and urged the Prime Minister’s Office and the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to take action and provide secure accommodation to affected employees.His supporters argue that his advocacy on employee safety should not be conflated with the allegations in the case, which remain subject to investigation.Lok Janshakti Party leader Sanjay Saraf has also expressed support for Handu, calling for a transparent investigation and protection of his legal rights. In a social media statement, Saraf said the arrest had caused concern among those familiar with Handu’s work and expressed confidence that the truth would emerge through the judicial process.

Kashmiri Pandit activist and RTI campaigner Rakesh Handu has been arrested in a Baramulla cyber-terrorism case, prompting supporters to seek an impartial investigation.

Kashmiri Pandit activist and RTI campaigner Rakesh Handu, popularly known as ‘Bunty’, was arrested by Baramulla Police from his residence in Faridabad, Haryana, on October 17 in connection with a cyber-terrorism case. His arrest has triggered concern within sections of the Kashmiri Pandit community, with supporters demanding an impartial investigation and adherence to due legal process. Handu is currently lodged in Baramulla Jail in connection with FIR No. 151/2026, registered at Baramulla Police Station on September 12 under Sections 66F and 84C of the Information Technology Act. According to case documents, the complaint was filed by Rohit Raina, a Kashmiri Pandit employee posted in the Finance Department in Baramulla under the Prime Minister’s Rehabilitation Package. The allegations concern the repeated sharing and modification of electronic content through a public social media account, reportedly linked to an organisation identified as the United Liberation Council (ULC). Police had earlier issued notices directing Handu to join the investigation. He reportedly cited security concerns and his residence in Faridabad while requesting permission to participate through video conferencing. According to the available documents, he was subsequently informed of the grounds for his arrest and his legal rights. Although the Jammu and Kashmir Police have not issued a detailed public statement, police sources have linked the case to a broader investigation into alleged threats against Kashmiri Pandits. An officer reportedly alleged that Handu had repeatedly shared posters containing threats against members of the community. The officer maintained that the investigation was proceeding in accordance with the law. Handu is known for raising issues concerning the rehabilitation and security of Kashmiri Pandits, particularly employees recruited under the Prime Minister’s Rehabilitation Package. His campaigns have focused on secure accommodation, security audits and concerns over the alleged leakage of employees’ personal data. Reports from September 2026 indicate that Handu had highlighted social media posts containing threats allegedly issued by the ULC and urged the Prime Minister’s Office and the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to take action and provide secure accommodation to affected employees. His supporters argue that his advocacy on employee safety should not be conflated with the allegations in the case, which remain subject to investigation. Lok Janshakti Party leader Sanjay Saraf has also expressed support for Handu, calling for a transparent investigation and protection of his legal rights. In a social media statement, Saraf said the arrest had caused concern among those familiar with Handu’s work and expressed confidence that the truth would emerge through the judicial process.

Kashmiri Pandit activist and RTI campaigner Rakesh Handu has been arrested in a Baramulla cyber-terrorism case, prompting supporters to seek an impartial investigation.

Kashmiri Pandit activist Rakesh Handu arrested in cyber-terrorism case; community seeks fair probe

India has highlighted how Pakistan armed and trained the terrorists who forced Kashmiri Pandits to leave their homes in 1990 and later killed Kashmiris of every faith, in a sharp right of reply at the UN Human Rights Council.&nbsp;Kshitij Tyagi, Indian diplomat at India’s Permanent Mission in Geneva, said Pakistan was in no position to raise Jammu and Kashmir after decades of sponsoring cross-border terrorism.&nbsp;“This Council does not need Pakistan to explain it. It happened in 1990, to the Kashmiri Pandits, driven from their homes by terrorists Pakistan armed, trained, and sent across the border,” he said. “Those same terrorists have since killed Kashmiris of every faith, many of them Muslim. The State that sponsored them is now asking this Council for an inquiry. The irony will not be lost on this Council.”The remarks came as Pakistan again raised Kashmir at the council’s 60th session. India restated its core position: “Jammu and Kashmir was, is and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India. The only part of Jammu and Kashmir under foreign occupation is the part Pakistan holds, which we again call upon it to vacate.”&nbsp;The 1990 exodus remains one of the biggest crises that the Kashmir Valley faced. Pakistan-backed Hizbul Mujahideen targeted killings of prominent Hindus began in 1989. Tens of thousands of Pandits, a small Hindu minority that had lived in the Valley for centuries, fled within months. Community estimates put those killed in the hundreds; most of the community has not returned. Terrorism in the valley subsequently claimed thousands of Muslim lives as well.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-heads-to-washington-for-trump-talks-trade-ai-taiwan-and-iran-on-the-agenda-1790164264702">Xi Jinping heads to Washington for Trump talks: Trade, AI, Taiwan and Iran on the agenda</a>&nbsp;Tyagi also pointed to a deteriorating situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, citing reports of civilian deaths since June, student arrests in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, and restrictions on food and medicine. “If any delegation in this room meets every objective criterion for this Council’s scrutiny, it is Pakistan,” he said.&nbsp;On minorities, he drew a contrast. India, he noted, has one of the world’s largest Muslim populations, with minorities voting, legislating, sitting on the Supreme Court and leading institutions. In Pakistan, he said, Hindu, Sikh and Christian communities have shrunk since 1947; daughters are abducted and forcibly converted; blasphemy laws hang over minority households; and Shias, Ahmadis, Ismailis and Hazaras face systemic attack. “A State with that record is in no position to lecture anyone on minorities.”&nbsp;Pakistan, he added, would “better serve its people by focusing on development, rather than by coveting territory of others or exporting terror,” because neither that nor “theatrics in the Council” would repay the loans on which its economy depends.

India’s Kshitij Tyagi hit back at Pakistan over arming and training terrorists who drove Kashmiri Pandits from their homes in 1990, while calling on Islamabad to vacate PoK.

India has highlighted how Pakistan armed and trained the terrorists who forced Kashmiri Pandits to leave their homes in 1990 and later killed Kashmiris of every faith, in a sharp right of reply at the UN Human Rights Council. Kshitij Tyagi, Indian diplomat at India’s Permanent Mission in Geneva, said Pakistan was in no position to raise Jammu and Kashmir after decades of sponsoring cross-border terrorism. “This Council does not need Pakistan to explain it. It happened in 1990, to the Kashmiri Pandits, driven from their homes by terrorists Pakistan armed, trained, and sent across the border,” he said. “Those same terrorists have since killed Kashmiris of every faith, many of them Muslim. The State that sponsored them is now asking this Council for an inquiry. The irony will not be lost on this Council.” The remarks came as Pakistan again raised Kashmir at the council’s 60th session. India restated its core position: “Jammu and Kashmir was, is and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India. The only part of Jammu and Kashmir under foreign occupation is the part Pakistan holds, which we again call upon it to vacate.” The 1990 exodus remains one of the biggest crises that the Kashmir Valley faced. Pakistan-backed Hizbul Mujahideen targeted killings of prominent Hindus began in 1989. Tens of thousands of Pandits, a small Hindu minority that had lived in the Valley for centuries, fled within months. Community estimates put those killed in the hundreds; most of the community has not returned. Terrorism in the valley subsequently claimed thousands of Muslim lives as well. Also Read: Xi Jinping heads to Washington for Trump talks: Trade, AI, Taiwan and Iran on the agenda Tyagi also pointed to a deteriorating situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, citing reports of civilian deaths since June, student arrests in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, and restrictions on food and medicine. “If any delegation in this room meets every objective criterion for this Council’s scrutiny, it is Pakistan,” he said. On minorities, he drew a contrast. India, he noted, has one of the world’s largest Muslim populations, with minorities voting, legislating, sitting on the Supreme Court and leading institutions. In Pakistan, he said, Hindu, Sikh and Christian communities have shrunk since 1947; daughters are abducted and forcibly converted; blasphemy laws hang over minority households; and Shias, Ahmadis, Ismailis and Hazaras face systemic attack. “A State with that record is in no position to lecture anyone on minorities.” Pakistan, he added, would “better serve its people by focusing on development, rather than by coveting territory of others or exporting terror,” because neither that nor “theatrics in the Council” would repay the loans on which its economy depends.

India’s Kshitij Tyagi hit back at Pakistan over arming and training terrorists who drove Kashmiri Pandits from their homes in 1990, while calling on Islamabad to vacate PoK.

India at UN: Pakistan trained the terrorists who forced Kashmiri Pandits to leave the valley

Despite receiving more than half a dozen threats from terrorist groups over the past three months, members of the Kashmiri Pandit community have continued to demonstrate resilience and a determination to preserve their cultural traditions. Kashmiri Pandits gathered in large numbers in Srinagar to celebrate Ganesh Visarjan, marking what participants described as a historic revival of a tradition that had largely disappeared from the Valley for decades.The procession began at the Shiva Temple in Sonwar and made its way through the streets of Srinagar to the banks of the Jhelum River, where the Ganesh idol was immersed. Devotees chanted hymns and devotional songs as the procession moved through the city, creating a vibrant atmosphere of faith and celebration.The event evoked memories of nearly 35 years ago, when Ganesh Visarjan was celebrated along the banks of the Jhelum with the participation of Kashmiri Pandits and members of the Muslim community. For many participants, today’s gathering brought back memories of a shared cultural tradition that had been interrupted by years of conflict and migration.“There were certainly threats circulating, but Kashmir and its people, irrespective of religion, have seen a lot since the 1990s. Faith has kept Kashmir moving. We have always known this land as an abode of saints, peers and Sufi culture, and that syncretic spirit continues to endure. The confidence and sense of security extended to the Kashmiri Pandit community by local Muslims, along with the police and administration, sends a powerful message: we are not alone, and people will stand with us to ensure that everything goes smoothly,” said Mohit Bhan, Kashmiri Pandit Politician.Kashmiri Pandits who had travelled from different parts of the country took part in the procession. Many were accompanied by their children, who had grown up hearing stories about Kashmir and its traditions but were experiencing the celebration in the Valley for the first time.As chants of Lord Ganesha echoed from Sonwar to the Jhelum, participants described the occasion as an emotional connection with their ancestral homeland and cultural heritage.Several participants said the gathering reflected what they remembered as Kashmir's tradition of communal harmony and Hindu-Muslim participation in cultural and religious occasions. They expressed hope that the revival of such traditions could contribute to the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley.

The event evoked memories of nearly 35 years ago, when Ganesh Visarjan was celebrated along the banks of the Jhelum with the participation of Kashmiri Pandits and members of the Muslim community. 

Despite receiving more than half a dozen threats from terrorist groups over the past three months, members of the Kashmiri Pandit community have continued to demonstrate resilience and a determination to preserve their cultural traditions. Kashmiri Pandits gathered in large numbers in Srinagar to celebrate Ganesh Visarjan, marking what participants described as a historic revival of a tradition that had largely disappeared from the Valley for decades. The procession began at the Shiva Temple in Sonwar and made its way through the streets of Srinagar to the banks of the Jhelum River, where the Ganesh idol was immersed. Devotees chanted hymns and devotional songs as the procession moved through the city, creating a vibrant atmosphere of faith and celebration. The event evoked memories of nearly 35 years ago, when Ganesh Visarjan was celebrated along the banks of the Jhelum with the participation of Kashmiri Pandits and members of the Muslim community. For many participants, today’s gathering brought back memories of a shared cultural tradition that had been interrupted by years of conflict and migration. “There were certainly threats circulating, but Kashmir and its people, irrespective of religion, have seen a lot since the 1990s. Faith has kept Kashmir moving. We have always known this land as an abode of saints, peers and Sufi culture, and that syncretic spirit continues to endure. The confidence and sense of security extended to the Kashmiri Pandit community by local Muslims, along with the police and administration, sends a powerful message: we are not alone, and people will stand with us to ensure that everything goes smoothly,” said Mohit Bhan, Kashmiri Pandit Politician. Kashmiri Pandits who had travelled from different parts of the country took part in the procession. Many were accompanied by their children, who had grown up hearing stories about Kashmir and its traditions but were experiencing the celebration in the Valley for the first time. As chants of Lord Ganesha echoed from Sonwar to the Jhelum, participants described the occasion as an emotional connection with their ancestral homeland and cultural heritage. Several participants said the gathering reflected what they remembered as Kashmir's tradition of communal harmony and Hindu-Muslim participation in cultural and religious occasions. They expressed hope that the revival of such traditions could contribute to the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley.

The event evoked memories of nearly 35 years ago, when Ganesh Visarjan was celebrated along the banks of the Jhelum with the participation of Kashmiri Pandits and members of the Muslim community.&nbsp;

Defying threats, Kashmiri Pandits bring back Ganesh Visarjan in Srinagar

The Jammu and Kashmir Police are investigating a 1990 double murder case involving a Kashmiri Pandit father-son duo.

The case relates to the killing of the father and son during a period of heightened violence and unrest in Jammu and Kashmir. The investigation is focused on establishing the circumstances surrounding the killings and identifying those responsible.

The development has once again brought attention to cases involving Kashmiri Pandits from the turbulent period of the 1990s and the continuing efforts to investigate unresolved cases.

Watch this space for the latest updates on the J&K Police investigation, the 1990 killings and developments in the case.

J&K Police Probe 1990 Killing of Kashmiri Pandit Father-Son Duo

The State Investigation Agency (SIA) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday carried out simultaneous searches at nine locations across the Union Territory as part of its renewed investigation into the abduction and murder of noted Kashmiri Pandit poet, writer and social activist Sarwanand Kaul ‘Premi’ and his son, Virendra Kaul.&nbsp;The searches were conducted in connection with FIR No. 45/1990, originally registered at Duru Police Station in Anantnag district and now under investigation by the SIA. Officials said six locations were searched in Rajouri district, two in Jammu and one in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-bandh-tomorrow-what-s-open-what-s-closed-on-august-13-schools-transport-and-border-impact-decoded-1786518579218">Karnataka Bandh tomorrow: What’s open, what’s closed on August 13? Schools, transport, and border impact decoded</a>&nbsp;According to officials familiar with the investigation, the searches were aimed at individuals and properties suspected to have links with the conspiracy surrounding the decades-old double murder. Investigators are also attempting to identify those involved in the killings, trace possible accomplices and recover any evidence that could help establish the circumstances of the crime.&nbsp;The case dates back to the turbulent period of 1990, when violence and targeted killings contributed to the mass displacement of the Kashmiri Pandit community from the Valley. Sarwanand Kaul ‘Premi’, a respected litterateur, scholar and freedom fighter from Sof-Shali village in the Kokernag area of Anantnag, was abducted along with his 27-year-old son, Virendra, from their home during the night of April 29–30, 1990.&nbsp;Their bodies were recovered on May 1, 1990, hanging from a tree nearly 20 kilometres from their residence. The killings became emblematic of the brutal violence suffered by members of the Kashmiri Pandit community during the period.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-dead-several-trapped-after-landslide-in-mumbai-s-kurla-rescue-operations-underway-1786503984218">Two feared dead, several trapped after landslide in Mumbai’s Kurla</a>&nbsp;For years, the investigation made little visible progress. The case was subsequently taken up for reinvestigation following directions from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs concerning unsolved cases of violence against minorities dating back to the period.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir's State Investigation Agency searched nine locations after reopening the 1990 abduction and murder case of Kashmiri Pandit poet Sarwanand Kaul Premi and his son Virendra.

The State Investigation Agency (SIA) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday carried out simultaneous searches at nine locations across the Union Territory as part of its renewed investigation into the abduction and murder of noted Kashmiri Pandit poet, writer and social activist Sarwanand Kaul ‘Premi’ and his son, Virendra Kaul. The searches were conducted in connection with FIR No. 45/1990, originally registered at Duru Police Station in Anantnag district and now under investigation by the SIA. Officials said six locations were searched in Rajouri district, two in Jammu and one in the Kashmir Valley. Also read: Karnataka Bandh tomorrow: What’s open, what’s closed on August 13? Schools, transport, and border impact decoded According to officials familiar with the investigation, the searches were aimed at individuals and properties suspected to have links with the conspiracy surrounding the decades-old double murder. Investigators are also attempting to identify those involved in the killings, trace possible accomplices and recover any evidence that could help establish the circumstances of the crime. The case dates back to the turbulent period of 1990, when violence and targeted killings contributed to the mass displacement of the Kashmiri Pandit community from the Valley. Sarwanand Kaul ‘Premi’, a respected litterateur, scholar and freedom fighter from Sof-Shali village in the Kokernag area of Anantnag, was abducted along with his 27-year-old son, Virendra, from their home during the night of April 29–30, 1990. Their bodies were recovered on May 1, 1990, hanging from a tree nearly 20 kilometres from their residence. The killings became emblematic of the brutal violence suffered by members of the Kashmiri Pandit community during the period. Also read: Two feared dead, several trapped after landslide in Mumbai’s Kurla For years, the investigation made little visible progress. The case was subsequently taken up for reinvestigation following directions from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs concerning unsolved cases of violence against minorities dating back to the period.

Jammu and Kashmir's State Investigation Agency searched nine locations after reopening the 1990 abduction and murder case of Kashmiri Pandit poet Sarwanand Kaul Premi and his son Virendra.&nbsp;

SIA revives probe into 1990 killing of Kashmiri Pandit poet's son

Five Houses belonging to the Kashmiri Pandit Community in South Kashmir's Anantnag district were completely gutted in a fire incident. The fire broke during the night hours in the Mattan area of Anantnag, destroying the old houses of the Kashmiri Pandit community. The Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered a case and started investigating the cause of the fire.&nbsp;

The members of the Kashmiri Pandit community living outside Kashmir allege that the fire was caused to threaten the Kashmiri Pandit Community and dissuade them from coming back to the Valley.

The National Conference Party leaders said that they stand united with Kashmiri Pandit brethren in Mattan, Anantnag, following the tragic fire that destroyed several houses. They also said that one of the affected houses holds deep sentimental value as it was the maternal home of our Additional Spokesperson, Umesh Talashi. They further added that this loss of property is deeply emotional and significant, and they call on the authorities to conduct a swift and thorough investigation to bring the culprits to justice.

''The recent fire incident of Kashmiri Migrant Properties in Mattan area of Kashmir, raises an eyebrow. The Deputy commissioner of the district is the custodian of the minority properties and is not taking the proper steps to preserve the minority properties and four houses have been gutted of Kashmiri Pandit Migrants. We request the government to take steps for the protection of these sites. No one was living there so there was no possibility of short circuit or gas cylinder blast, etc. It is a clear case of sabotage, and we need to take preventive measures. The administration should gear up so that the exiled community does not see such acts again and these owners should be compensated. And we hope all properties should be protected,'' said Ravindra Pandita, President, Kashmir Shardapeeth Asthapan.&nbsp;

Multiple Kashmiri Pandit community members warned the government that terrorism is still not finished in the Kashmir Valley, but added that these incidents will also not intimidate them. They said that they would continue to live in their homeland alongside the Muslim brothers.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have started an investigation into the case. The FSL teams have taken the samples, and an FIR has been registered under section 326. The police have also taken CCTV footage of the area for investigation.&nbsp;

''A fire incident at a Kashmiri Pandit's house in Mattan Area of Anantnag, which belongs to Shri Anand Ji Razdan, was reported. The moment we received the report, the SHO Mattan along with the Police Party reached the spot and the fire brigade was brought in. In around one and half hours, the fire was doused. The adjacent houses were also damaged due to the fire. Police brought the FSL teams and also took the CCTV footage of the area.&nbsp;A case has been registered under section 326. The investigation has started and I want to assure that we have started a robust investigation, and a senior officer is conducting it,'' said Javed Iqbal, DIG South Kashmir Range.&nbsp;

Not only the Pandit community organisations but also the political leadership of Jammu and Kashmir called for a thorough investigation into the fire incident.&nbsp;

Five Houses belonging to the Kashmiri Pandit Community in South Kashmir's Anantnag district were completely gutted in a fire incident. The fire broke during the night hours in the Mattan area of Anantnag, destroying the old houses of the Kashmiri Pandit community.

Five Houses belonging to the Kashmiri Pandit Community in South Kashmir's Anantnag district were completely gutted in a fire incident. The fire broke during the night hours in the Mattan area of Anantnag, destroying the old houses of the Kashmiri Pandit community. The Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered a case and started investigating the cause of the fire. The members of the Kashmiri Pandit community living outside Kashmir allege that the fire was caused to threaten the Kashmiri Pandit Community and dissuade them from coming back to the Valley. The National Conference Party leaders said that they stand united with Kashmiri Pandit brethren in Mattan, Anantnag, following the tragic fire that destroyed several houses. They also said that one of the affected houses holds deep sentimental value as it was the maternal home of our Additional Spokesperson, Umesh Talashi. They further added that this loss of property is deeply emotional and significant, and they call on the authorities to conduct a swift and thorough investigation to bring the culprits to justice. ''The recent fire incident of Kashmiri Migrant Properties in Mattan area of Kashmir, raises an eyebrow. The Deputy commissioner of the district is the custodian of the minority properties and is not taking the proper steps to preserve the minority properties and four houses have been gutted of Kashmiri Pandit Migrants. We request the government to take steps for the protection of these sites. No one was living there so there was no possibility of short circuit or gas cylinder blast, etc. It is a clear case of sabotage, and we need to take preventive measures. The administration should gear up so that the exiled community does not see such acts again and these owners should be compensated. And we hope all properties should be protected,'' said Ravindra Pandita, President, Kashmir Shardapeeth Asthapan. Multiple Kashmiri Pandit community members warned the government that terrorism is still not finished in the Kashmir Valley, but added that these incidents will also not intimidate them. They said that they would continue to live in their homeland alongside the Muslim brothers. The Jammu and Kashmir Police have started an investigation into the case. The FSL teams have taken the samples, and an FIR has been registered under section 326. The police have also taken CCTV footage of the area for investigation. ''A fire incident at a Kashmiri Pandit's house in Mattan Area of Anantnag, which belongs to Shri Anand Ji Razdan, was reported. The moment we received the report, the SHO Mattan along with the Police Party reached the spot and the fire brigade was brought in. In around one and half hours, the fire was doused. The adjacent houses were also damaged due to the fire. Police brought the FSL teams and also took the CCTV footage of the area. A case has been registered under section 326. The investigation has started and I want to assure that we have started a robust investigation, and a senior officer is conducting it,'' said Javed Iqbal, DIG South Kashmir Range. Not only the Pandit community organisations but also the political leadership of Jammu and Kashmir called for a thorough investigation into the fire incident.

Five Kashmiri pandit houses gutted in Anantnag, community members allege sabotage; police start investigation

State Investigation Agency (SIA) in India's Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has chargesheeted 12 terror accused in a case of killing of a Kashmiri Pandit. Sanjay Sharma was killed last year in south Kashmir's Pulwama district. The case, initially registered in a police station in Litter, Pulwama was later transferred to SIA Kashmir for investigation.

According to the State Investigation Agency (SIA), the crime took place at Achhan Pulwama on February 26, 2023. Subsequent investigation revealed a broader conspiracy originating from across the border.&nbsp;

"The aim was to disrupt the revival of peace and communal harmony in the valley, using the murder of an innocent person from the minority community to fuel communal disharmony and sustain terrorism. Upon taking over the case, SIA Kashmir conducted extensive searches across south Kashmir, unearthing vital physical and technical evidence. This evidence exposed the accused persons' involvement in the crime, including providing logistical support, harboring the accused, and concealing evidence," said an SIA Official.&nbsp;

Watch | Ram Mandir: Ayodhya all decked up as countdown begins for consecration ceremony

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During the course of investigation, SIA conducted 5 rounds of extensive searches at 32 locations across the valley during which mobile devices, incriminating documents like bank records and a pistol with live cartridges were seized.&nbsp;

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The investigation revealed that the accused individuals were acting on instructions from terror handlers across the border in Pakistan. They were maintaining communication via encrypted online messaging platforms.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-anti-terror-squad-arrests-men-allegedly-awaiting-terrorist-pannuns-instruction-681816">Ayodhya: Anti-terrorist squad arrests men allegedly awaiting terrorist Pannun's instruction</a>

According to the State Investigation Agency (SIA), a man named Jazim Farooq Wani pulled the trigger and received weapons handling training from Nassir Farooq Shah after directions from Pakistani handler Khalid Kamran.&nbsp;

"SIA Kashmir reaffirms to follow the case vigorously in the court of law. The investigation of the case shall continue, and SIA is committed to ensure all the accused who have been a part of the crime in any way are brought to justice," said the agency. 
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State Investigation Agency (SIA) in India's Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has chargesheeted 12 terror accused in a case of killing of a Kashmiri Pandit. Sanjay Sharma was killed last year in south Kashmir's Pulwama district.

State Investigation Agency (SIA) in India's Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has chargesheeted 12 terror accused in a case of killing of a Kashmiri Pandit. Sanjay Sharma was killed last year in south Kashmir's Pulwama district. The case, initially registered in a police station in Litter, Pulwama was later transferred to SIA Kashmir for investigation. According to the State Investigation Agency (SIA), the crime took place at Achhan Pulwama on February 26, 2023. Subsequent investigation revealed a broader conspiracy originating from across the border. "The aim was to disrupt the revival of peace and communal harmony in the valley, using the murder of an innocent person from the minority community to fuel communal disharmony and sustain terrorism. Upon taking over the case, SIA Kashmir conducted extensive searches across south Kashmir, unearthing vital physical and technical evidence. This evidence exposed the accused persons' involvement in the crime, including providing logistical support, harboring the accused, and concealing evidence," said an SIA Official. Watch | Ram Mandir: Ayodhya all decked up as countdown begins for consecration ceremony × During the course of investigation, SIA conducted 5 rounds of extensive searches at 32 locations across the valley during which mobile devices, incriminating documents like bank records and a pistol with live cartridges were seized. Also Read | Indian defence minister hints China might weaponise weather for strategic gains The investigation revealed that the accused individuals were acting on instructions from terror handlers across the border in Pakistan. They were maintaining communication via encrypted online messaging platforms. Also Read | Ayodhya: Anti-terrorist squad arrests men allegedly awaiting terrorist Pannun's instruction According to the State Investigation Agency (SIA), a man named Jazim Farooq Wani pulled the trigger and received weapons handling training from Nassir Farooq Shah after directions from Pakistani handler Khalid Kamran. "SIA Kashmir reaffirms to follow the case vigorously in the court of law. The investigation of the case shall continue, and SIA is committed to ensure all the accused who have been a part of the crime in any way are brought to justice," said the agency.

Jammu and Kashmir: Investigation agency chargesheets 12 terror accused over killing of a Kashmiri Pandit

An Indian couple in the US state of California was robbed and assaulted by a group of thieves last week. The robbers allegedly followed the couple to their home and struck when the pair pulled up in the driveway.&nbsp;

Priyanka Wali, a Kashmiri Pandit-American and daughter of the couple took to social media to share the CCTV footage of the incident and narrated how her parents went through the terrifying ordeal.&nbsp;

“On December 22nd at 7:48 PM in Fullerton, CA my father Dr&nbsp;Vijay Wali was assaulted and my mother Dr Wali Jyotika’s purse was stolen containing jewellery and ancestral heirlooms after they returned from the jewellery store in Cerritos. This is calculated organised crime, robbery and assault,” Priyanka recounted.&nbsp;

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**CRIME ALERT UPDATE** New footage shows my parents were FOLLOWED for over 16 miles by a Black Honda Odyssey with tinted windows from the jewelry store in Little India Artesia to Fullerton where robbery &amp; assault was committed in their driveway please share if you have any info <a href="https://t.co/n9o5F70M6z">pic.twitter.com/n9o5F70M6z</a>
— Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) <a href="https://twitter.com/WaliPriyanka/status/1738800304538398945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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According to Priyanka, her parents had gone jewellery shopping when the thieves laid a marker upon them. The couple in their white Tesla was followed by a black Honda Odyssey with a tinted window for over 16 miles. The robbers were joined by another white car in the middle and later the thieves from both cars combined to commit the robbery.&nbsp;

In one of the footage, Vijay Wali could be seen getting assaulted by one of the robbers as he attempted to make a dash to save his wife.&nbsp;

"The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person," Priyanka said.&nbsp;

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**NEW FOOTAGE WITH AUDIO**: The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fullerton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fullerton</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/crimealert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#crimealert</a> <a href="https://t.co/oxtAJYitFr">pic.twitter.com/oxtAJYitFr</a>
— Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) <a href="https://twitter.com/WaliPriyanka/status/1738615563398848566?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chicago-news-crew-reporting-on-robberies-gets-robbed-630766">Watch |&nbsp;Chicago news crew reporting on robberies gets robbed</a>

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According to reports, the thieves took away the treasured family heirlooms known as&nbsp;dejhoor, which are long earrings with unique hexagon pendants that symbolise marriage.

"I mean, that's ancestral jewellery that's been in our family for so long and it's priceless. That's really the most important thing that we want back," Priyanka was quoted as saying by ABC7.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1989-neelkanth-ganjoo-murder-case-fresh-probe-into-killing-of-kashmiri-pandit-judge-623247">Also read |&nbsp;1989 Neelkanth Ganjoo murder case: Fresh probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit judge</a>

Notably, the Walis, both doctors have served Orange County for the last 35 years but the incident has left a deep imprint on them, with the family&nbsp;fearful of security within the community.

The authorities have launched an investigation and are using the multiple security camera surveillance videos to track down the thieves.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian couple in the US state of California was robbed and assaulted by a group of thieves last week. The robbers allegedly followed the couple to their home and struck when the pair pulled up in the driveway.

An Indian couple in the US state of California was robbed and assaulted by a group of thieves last week. The robbers allegedly followed the couple to their home and struck when the pair pulled up in the driveway. Priyanka Wali, a Kashmiri Pandit-American and daughter of the couple took to social media to share the CCTV footage of the incident and narrated how her parents went through the terrifying ordeal. “On December 22nd at 7:48 PM in Fullerton, CA my father Dr Vijay Wali was assaulted and my mother Dr Wali Jyotika’s purse was stolen containing jewellery and ancestral heirlooms after they returned from the jewellery store in Cerritos. This is calculated organised crime, robbery and assault,” Priyanka recounted. **CRIME ALERT UPDATE** New footage shows my parents were FOLLOWED for over 16 miles by a Black Honda Odyssey with tinted windows from the jewelry store in Little India Artesia to Fullerton where robbery & assault was committed in their driveway please share if you have any info pic.twitter.com/n9o5F70M6z — Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) December 24, 2023 × According to Priyanka, her parents had gone jewellery shopping when the thieves laid a marker upon them. The couple in their white Tesla was followed by a black Honda Odyssey with a tinted window for over 16 miles. The robbers were joined by another white car in the middle and later the thieves from both cars combined to commit the robbery. In one of the footage, Vijay Wali could be seen getting assaulted by one of the robbers as he attempted to make a dash to save his wife. "The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person," Priyanka said. **NEW FOOTAGE WITH AUDIO**: The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person #fullerton #crimealert pic.twitter.com/oxtAJYitFr — Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) December 23, 2023 × Watch | Chicago news crew reporting on robberies gets robbed × According to reports, the thieves took away the treasured family heirlooms known as dejhoor, which are long earrings with unique hexagon pendants that symbolise marriage. "I mean, that's ancestral jewellery that's been in our family for so long and it's priceless. That's really the most important thing that we want back," Priyanka was quoted as saying by ABC7. Also read | 1989 Neelkanth Ganjoo murder case: Fresh probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit judge Notably, the Walis, both doctors have served Orange County for the last 35 years but the incident has left a deep imprint on them, with the family fearful of security within the community. The authorities have launched an investigation and are using the multiple security camera surveillance videos to track down the thieves. (With inputs from agencies)

Video | Kashmiri Pandit-American couple robbed, assaulted in their driveway

The State Investigation Agency (SIA) in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday (August 7) sought information from the general public to unearth the "larger criminal conspiracy" behind the killing of retired judge Neelkanth Ganjoo, who was shot dead by militants nearly 33 years ago.&nbsp;

In 1989 November, Ganjoo was shot dead by militants and was among the prominent Kashmiri Pandits targeted by the militants.&nbsp;

His murder happened after he had sentenced JKLF founder Mohammad Maqbool Bhat to death in the 1960s in a case related to the murder of police officer Amar Chand.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-kills-top-commander-of-hizb-ul-mujahideen-in-poonch-operation-623217">Indian Army kills top commander of Hizb-Ul-Mujahideen in Poonch operation</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by the news agency PTI, an official spokesman said on Monday, "In order to unearth the larger criminal conspiracy behind the murder of retired judge, Neelkanth Ganjoo three decades ago, the State Investigation Agency (SIA), through a communique, has appealed to all persons familiar with facts or circumstances of this murder case to come forward and share any account of events which has a direct or indirect bearing on the investigation of the instant case."&nbsp;

The spokesman said that the identity of all such persons shall be kept secret and protected, and all useful and relevant information shall be suitably rewarded.&nbsp;

"The public has been asked to contact on 8899004976 or on email sspsia-kmr@jkpolice.Gov.In for having any information related to this murder case," the spokesman added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reinstated as member of parliament&nbsp;

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-border-infrastructure-strengthened-to-address-lac-challenges-eam-jaishankar-623148">India's border infrastructure strengthened to address LAC challenges: EAM Jaishankar</a>&nbsp;

<h2>'Even though this reopens wounds...'</h2>

Ganjoo's granddaughter reacted to the announcement. Taking to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, she wrote: "Even though this reopens wounds, we welcome the news."

"Justice for all martyrs including my beloved grandfather Justice NeelKanth Ganjoo, who became victims of senseless killing because of their faith is long overdue," she added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The State Investigation Agency (SIA) in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday (August 7) sought information from the general public to unearth the "larger criminal conspiracy" behind the killing of retired judge Neelkanth Ganjoo, who was shot dead by militants nearly 33 years ago.

The State Investigation Agency (SIA) in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday (August 7) sought information from the general public to unearth the "larger criminal conspiracy" behind the killing of retired judge Neelkanth Ganjoo, who was shot dead by militants nearly 33 years ago. In 1989 November, Ganjoo was shot dead by militants and was among the prominent Kashmiri Pandits targeted by the militants. His murder happened after he had sentenced JKLF founder Mohammad Maqbool Bhat to death in the 1960s in a case related to the murder of police officer Amar Chand. Also read: Indian Army kills top commander of Hizb-Ul-Mujahideen in Poonch operation As quoted by the news agency PTI, an official spokesman said on Monday, "In order to unearth the larger criminal conspiracy behind the murder of retired judge, Neelkanth Ganjoo three decades ago, the State Investigation Agency (SIA), through a communique, has appealed to all persons familiar with facts or circumstances of this murder case to come forward and share any account of events which has a direct or indirect bearing on the investigation of the instant case." The spokesman said that the identity of all such persons shall be kept secret and protected, and all useful and relevant information shall be suitably rewarded. "The public has been asked to contact on 8899004976 or on email sspsia-kmr@jkpolice.Gov.In for having any information related to this murder case," the spokesman added. Watch: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reinstated as member of parliament × Also read: India's border infrastructure strengthened to address LAC challenges: EAM Jaishankar 'Even though this reopens wounds...' Ganjoo's granddaughter reacted to the announcement. Taking to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, she wrote: "Even though this reopens wounds, we welcome the news." "Justice for all martyrs including my beloved grandfather Justice NeelKanth Ganjoo, who became victims of senseless killing because of their faith is long overdue," she added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

1989 Neelkanth Ganjoo murder case: Fresh probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit judge

The poignant and enduring story of the Kashmiri Pandits has captured the attention of the world. Their struggles, etched deeply in the annals of history, have touched the hearts of many. The arduous journey of the Kashmiri Pandits encompasses a multitude of challenges that they have faced throughout the years. From the initial obstacles of finding colleges that offer migrant quotas for fee concessions to secure education, to the daunting task of securing jobs for survival far from their beloved homeland, their resilience knows no bounds. Yet, despite the hardships, an unyielding desire burns within them to return to their ancestral land, even if it means risking their lives for low-paid government positions.

It was not until 2008, a staggering 18 years after the genocide that shook the community, that approximately 2,000 Kashmiri Pandits managed to secure government jobs under the PM Rehabilitation and Employment Package. This package was meant to provide them with the basic entitlements of security and safety. Over the years, the number of vacancies increased, and presently, around 5,500 Kashmiri Pandits are working in the valley under the PM Package. Some decided to settle alone, leaving their families behind in Jammu, while others chose to resettle with their loved ones, including ailing elderly parents. With meagre salaries, some found themselves in subpar accommodations, while others rented single-room quarters, all in pursuit of their dream to reclaim their homeland.

However, the reality of being a micro-minority in their own land, navigating their way to a respectable life among the majority, remains a constant struggle for the Kashmiri Pandits. Denied the fundamental rights of promotions in their jobs, these men and women were posted haphazardly, requiring them to travel to far-flung areas and districts outside their home districts, incurring additional expenses. As if these challenges weren't enough, the sympathizers of Pakistan in the neighbourhood have started labelling these hardworking refugees as stooges or agents, making them vulnerable targets for terrorists who advocate for a Pandit-free Kashmir.

For years, the spectre of fear and threats has loomed over the Kashmiri Pandits, and tragically, it has materialized with the brutal killings of innocent community members and non-local labourers. From the heart-wrenching loss of individuals like Rajni Bala to Makhan Lal Bindroo, numerous innocent lives have been taken without reason. Yet, the indomitable spirit of the Kashmiri Pandits remains unbroken. They continue to stand their ground, persevering through their work while living under the constant shadow of potential loss.

The tragic murder of Rahul Bhat served as a chilling reminder of the sacrificial existence they have endured. Once again, the Kashmiri Pandit community found themselves on the streets, with their bags packed, desperately seeking a safe passage to Jammu. However, their path was blocked by government authorities, confining them to their makeshift homes. The peaceful protests of the Kashmiri Pandit migrant employees persisted for approximately five months, until they were finally compelled to return to their respective duties in Kashmir. Regrettably, there was no reallocation or resettlement offered to them.

The lack of effective administration and cohesive policymaking can be attributed to the disarray among our community leaders, who often hold contradictory plans and proposals. When we examine the current political scenario in Jammu and Kashmir, it becomes apparent that the Kashmiri Pandit community has limited representation, with only a few former leaders sporadically addressing the issues faced by the common people.

Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi: India will never forget atrocities committed on Kashmiri Pandits

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The abrogation of Article 370 resulted in a significant shift in ideologies between the Kashmiri Pandit and Kashmiri Muslim communities. As a result, major political parties have engaged in intensive deliberations to establish connections with the Kashmiri Pandit community, recognizing the importance of their vote bank in shaping the political and electoral landscape. Some members have been courted by the PDP, while others have aligned with the NC, and the Congress has had a few Kashmiri Pandit allies for some time.

However, the main concern lies in the BJP's failure to incorporate influential and politically knowledgeable members of the KP community into their action plans, policy-making, or advisory board. Although the BJP did identify individuals like Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi from Kashmir, Shri Gulam Ali Khatana from Jammu, and several others from across the J&amp;K region, there seems to be no intention to promote any political or influential MP or advisor from the KP community.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-jk-govt-inaugurates-over-1200-flats-for-kashmiri-pandit-employees-586367">Also read:&nbsp;India: J&amp;K government inaugurates over 1200 flats for Kashmiri pandit employees</a>

This political manoeuvring by the BJP raises questions about whether the KP community is being directly neglected or if it signals that they have no significant say in the region's political landscape. If the BJP solely relies on the Muslim, Dogra, and Gujjar majorities, it may be time for the Kashmiri Pandits to reassess their strategies in fighting for the agendas they have passionately pursued since 1990.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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&nbsp;

The poignant and enduring story of the Kashmiri Pandits has captured the attention of the world. Their struggles, etched deeply in the annals of history, have touched the hearts of many.

The poignant and enduring story of the Kashmiri Pandits has captured the attention of the world. Their struggles, etched deeply in the annals of history, have touched the hearts of many. The arduous journey of the Kashmiri Pandits encompasses a multitude of challenges that they have faced throughout the years. From the initial obstacles of finding colleges that offer migrant quotas for fee concessions to secure education, to the daunting task of securing jobs for survival far from their beloved homeland, their resilience knows no bounds. Yet, despite the hardships, an unyielding desire burns within them to return to their ancestral land, even if it means risking their lives for low-paid government positions. It was not until 2008, a staggering 18 years after the genocide that shook the community, that approximately 2,000 Kashmiri Pandits managed to secure government jobs under the PM Rehabilitation and Employment Package. This package was meant to provide them with the basic entitlements of security and safety. Over the years, the number of vacancies increased, and presently, around 5,500 Kashmiri Pandits are working in the valley under the PM Package. Some decided to settle alone, leaving their families behind in Jammu, while others chose to resettle with their loved ones, including ailing elderly parents. With meagre salaries, some found themselves in subpar accommodations, while others rented single-room quarters, all in pursuit of their dream to reclaim their homeland. However, the reality of being a micro-minority in their own land, navigating their way to a respectable life among the majority, remains a constant struggle for the Kashmiri Pandits. Denied the fundamental rights of promotions in their jobs, these men and women were posted haphazardly, requiring them to travel to far-flung areas and districts outside their home districts, incurring additional expenses. As if these challenges weren't enough, the sympathizers of Pakistan in the neighbourhood have started labelling these hardworking refugees as stooges or agents, making them vulnerable targets for terrorists who advocate for a Pandit-free Kashmir. For years, the spectre of fear and threats has loomed over the Kashmiri Pandits, and tragically, it has materialized with the brutal killings of innocent community members and non-local labourers. From the heart-wrenching loss of individuals like Rajni Bala to Makhan Lal Bindroo, numerous innocent lives have been taken without reason. Yet, the indomitable spirit of the Kashmiri Pandits remains unbroken. They continue to stand their ground, persevering through their work while living under the constant shadow of potential loss. The tragic murder of Rahul Bhat served as a chilling reminder of the sacrificial existence they have endured. Once again, the Kashmiri Pandit community found themselves on the streets, with their bags packed, desperately seeking a safe passage to Jammu. However, their path was blocked by government authorities, confining them to their makeshift homes. The peaceful protests of the Kashmiri Pandit migrant employees persisted for approximately five months, until they were finally compelled to return to their respective duties in Kashmir. Regrettably, there was no reallocation or resettlement offered to them. The lack of effective administration and cohesive policymaking can be attributed to the disarray among our community leaders, who often hold contradictory plans and proposals. When we examine the current political scenario in Jammu and Kashmir, it becomes apparent that the Kashmiri Pandit community has limited representation, with only a few former leaders sporadically addressing the issues faced by the common people. Watch: PM Modi: India will never forget atrocities committed on Kashmiri Pandits × The abrogation of Article 370 resulted in a significant shift in ideologies between the Kashmiri Pandit and Kashmiri Muslim communities. As a result, major political parties have engaged in intensive deliberations to establish connections with the Kashmiri Pandit community, recognizing the importance of their vote bank in shaping the political and electoral landscape. Some members have been courted by the PDP, while others have aligned with the NC, and the Congress has had a few Kashmiri Pandit allies for some time. However, the main concern lies in the BJP's failure to incorporate influential and politically knowledgeable members of the KP community into their action plans, policy-making, or advisory board. Although the BJP did identify individuals like Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi from Kashmir, Shri Gulam Ali Khatana from Jammu, and several others from across the J&K region, there seems to be no intention to promote any political or influential MP or advisor from the KP community. Also read: India: J&K government inaugurates over 1200 flats for Kashmiri pandit employees This political manoeuvring by the BJP raises questions about whether the KP community is being directly neglected or if it signals that they have no significant say in the region's political landscape. If the BJP solely relies on the Muslim, Dogra, and Gujjar majorities, it may be time for the Kashmiri Pandits to reassess their strategies in fighting for the agendas they have passionately pursued since 1990. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

From homeland to refugee, and back to homeland, only to become refugees once again

The Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) government inaugurated secure accommodation/ flats for the Kashmiri pandit community in north Kashmir’s Baramulla, Bandipora districts, Shopian district of south Kashmir and Ganderbal district of central Kashmir today. The Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha inaugurated the accommodation.&nbsp;

The accommodation has been built under the Prime Minister’s package. Over 1200 flats were inaugurated by the LG of J&amp;K today. Around 300 flats are being constructed at a new migrant colony in Khwaja Bagh area of Baramulla in North Kashmir at a cost of Rs 40.22 crore rupees (51,39,468.60&nbsp;US$). Work on most of the flats have been completed while the rest of the flats are said to be completed within sometime.

“Around 576 flats have been completed for the Kashmiri Pandit employees and we are trying our best to complete the 2000 flats by the end of this year. The Kashmiri community wants to live together and peacefully, we are trying to help solve the logistical problems of the Kashmiri Pandits as soon as possible,” said Manoj Sinha, LG JK.&nbsp;

The government also inaugurated another secure accommodation for Kashmiri pandit employees located at Sumbul area of Bandipora in north Kashmir. Officials said that alongside the safe and secure accommodations, steps are being taken to provide other necessary facilities to Kashmiri pandit migrant employees to live in these colonies.

The J&amp;K administration is constructing the safe accommodations in all 10 districts of Kashmir valley, for Kashmiri pandit migrant employees working in the valley. The decision of constructing more accommodation was taken in view of the spurt in target killings of Kashmiri pandits in Kashmir.&nbsp;

“It's a big development, it’s after 13 years these accommodations are completed, and the government has promised to the Kashmiri pandit community these flats and finally have been finished. We thank the LG and DC madam for the project. A lot of employees are living on rent, and some are not even earning that much, so this will help them a lot,“ said a local Kashmiri Pandit.&nbsp;

The migrant Kashmiri Pandit employees have also expressed satisfaction over the inauguration of newly constructed safe accommodations today in Bandipora and Baramulla areas of the valley.&nbsp;

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The Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) government inaugurated secure accommodation/ flats for the Kashmiri pandit community in north Kashmir’s Baramulla, Bandipora districts, Shopian district of south Kashmir and Ganderbal district of central Kashmir today.

The Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) government inaugurated secure accommodation/ flats for the Kashmiri pandit community in north Kashmir’s Baramulla, Bandipora districts, Shopian district of south Kashmir and Ganderbal district of central Kashmir today. The Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha inaugurated the accommodation. The accommodation has been built under the Prime Minister’s package. Over 1200 flats were inaugurated by the LG of J&K today. Around 300 flats are being constructed at a new migrant colony in Khwaja Bagh area of Baramulla in North Kashmir at a cost of Rs 40.22 crore rupees (51,39,468.60 US$). Work on most of the flats have been completed while the rest of the flats are said to be completed within sometime. “Around 576 flats have been completed for the Kashmiri Pandit employees and we are trying our best to complete the 2000 flats by the end of this year. The Kashmiri community wants to live together and peacefully, we are trying to help solve the logistical problems of the Kashmiri Pandits as soon as possible,” said Manoj Sinha, LG JK. The government also inaugurated another secure accommodation for Kashmiri pandit employees located at Sumbul area of Bandipora in north Kashmir. Officials said that alongside the safe and secure accommodations, steps are being taken to provide other necessary facilities to Kashmiri pandit migrant employees to live in these colonies. The J&K administration is constructing the safe accommodations in all 10 districts of Kashmir valley, for Kashmiri pandit migrant employees working in the valley. The decision of constructing more accommodation was taken in view of the spurt in target killings of Kashmiri pandits in Kashmir. “It's a big development, it’s after 13 years these accommodations are completed, and the government has promised to the Kashmiri pandit community these flats and finally have been finished. We thank the LG and DC madam for the project. A lot of employees are living on rent, and some are not even earning that much, so this will help them a lot,“ said a local Kashmiri Pandit. The migrant Kashmiri Pandit employees have also expressed satisfaction over the inauguration of newly constructed safe accommodations today in Bandipora and Baramulla areas of the valley. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: J&K government inaugurates over 1200 flats for Kashmiri pandit employees

Two terrorists and one Indian army soldier were killed in an encounter in the Awantipora area of South Kashmir's Pulwama district. One of the two terrorists killed has been identified as Aqib Mushtaq Bhat, a local resident of Pulwama who was associated with The Resistance Front (TRF) terrorist organisation.

According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, Aqib was responsible for the recent killing of Kashmiri Pandit Sanjay Sharma.&nbsp;

"Killed terrorist has been identified as Aqib Mushtaq Bhat of Pulwama (A-category). He initially worked for HM terror outfit, but nowadays he had been working with TRF. Killer of late Sanjay Sharma neutralised, '' said Jammu and Kashmir Police ADGP Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mehbooba-mufti-visits-family-of-slain-kashmiri-pandit-in-pulwama-566368">Read more:&nbsp;Mehbooba Mufti visits family of slain Kashmiri Pandit in Pulwama</a>

According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, Aqib was an A-category terrorist and was initially associated with the Hizbul Mujahideen terror outfit and had later shifted to the TRF. One Indian army soldier was also injured in the incident and is being treated at the Indian Army's base hospital.&nbsp;

''One more terrorist killed (total two). Incriminating materials including arms and ammunition recovered. Search going on. Further details shall follow, '' said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

The identification of the second terrorist has not been done so far.&nbsp;

A team of joint security forces had received input about the presence of terrorists in the area after which a cordon and search operation was launched.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-police-intensify-operations-against-narco-terror-in-valley-565505">Read more:&nbsp;Kashmir: Police intensify operations against narco terror in valley, seize drugs, cash</a>

As the security forces reached close to the spot where the terrorists were hiding, they started shooting towards the forces resulting in a gun battle. The area is still being searched as security forces believe there could be more terrorists hiding in the area.&nbsp;

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Two terrorists and one Indian army soldier were killed in an encounter in the Awantipora area of South Kashmir's Pulwama district. One of the two terrorists killed has been identified as Aqib Mushtaq Bhat, a local resident of Pulwama who was associated with The Resistance Front (TRF) terrorist organisation.

Two terrorists and one Indian army soldier were killed in an encounter in the Awantipora area of South Kashmir's Pulwama district. One of the two terrorists killed has been identified as Aqib Mushtaq Bhat, a local resident of Pulwama who was associated with The Resistance Front (TRF) terrorist organisation. According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, Aqib was responsible for the recent killing of Kashmiri Pandit Sanjay Sharma. "Killed terrorist has been identified as Aqib Mushtaq Bhat of Pulwama (A-category). He initially worked for HM terror outfit, but nowadays he had been working with TRF. Killer of late Sanjay Sharma neutralised, '' said Jammu and Kashmir Police ADGP Vijay Kumar. Read more: Mehbooba Mufti visits family of slain Kashmiri Pandit in Pulwama According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, Aqib was an A-category terrorist and was initially associated with the Hizbul Mujahideen terror outfit and had later shifted to the TRF. One Indian army soldier was also injured in the incident and is being treated at the Indian Army's base hospital. ''One more terrorist killed (total two). Incriminating materials including arms and ammunition recovered. Search going on. Further details shall follow, '' said Jammu and Kashmir Police. The identification of the second terrorist has not been done so far. A team of joint security forces had received input about the presence of terrorists in the area after which a cordon and search operation was launched. Read more: Kashmir: Police intensify operations against narco terror in valley, seize drugs, cash As the security forces reached close to the spot where the terrorists were hiding, they started shooting towards the forces resulting in a gun battle. The area is still being searched as security forces believe there could be more terrorists hiding in the area. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

TRF terrorists responsible for Kashmiri Pandit’s killing neutralised in Pulwama encounter

Former chief minister of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, launched a sharp attack on BJP and accused it of&nbsp;disrupting everything in the Union territory. She alleged that BJP is using Kashmiri Pandits for votes, and called the Election commission a puppet&nbsp;of the BJP.&nbsp;

''Kashmiri Pandits have been asking for a transfer to Jammu till the conditions in the valley improve, but the government is stopping their salaries sometimes and ration. BJP&nbsp;is not concerned about anyone, whether it's Kashmiri pandits or anyone. They just want votes and nothing else,'' said Mufti.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terror-funding-and-recruitment-module-busted-in-kupwara-6-arrested-532909" hreflang="en">Kashmir: Terror funding and recruitment module busted in Kupwara, 6 arrested</a>

Speaking to the media about the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, while touring Anantnag,&nbsp;PDP president Mehbooba Mufti called the Election Commission a puppet in the hands of the BJP.

''I can't decide on the elections. It's the work of BJP as the election commission has become a branch of BJP, a hand of BJP. If you have noticed in Himachal Pradesh, BJP has been doing religious propaganda and no action was taken by the Election Commission. Muslims are being threatened in the country and the election commission is silent,'' said Mufti.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaish-e-mohammad-terrorist-from-pakistan-killed-in-encounter-in-shopian-kashmir-533269" hreflang="en">Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist from Pakistan killed in encounter at Shopian, Kashmir</a>

She also said that India's Election commission was a great example across the world and claimed that&nbsp;now it's just a puppet in the hands of the BJP.

''The Election Commission is no longer independent like it used to be. India was proud of it and countries from across the world used to call the Indian election commission on how to hold elections, but now our election commission has become a puppet. And they will only announce elections here when BJP tells them to,'' said&nbsp;Mufti.&nbsp;

Former chief minister of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, launched a sharp attack on BJP and accused it of disrupting everything in the Union territory.

Former chief minister of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, launched a sharp attack on BJP and accused it of disrupting everything in the Union territory. She alleged that BJP is using Kashmiri Pandits for votes, and called the Election commission a puppet of the BJP. ''Kashmiri Pandits have been asking for a transfer to Jammu till the conditions in the valley improve, but the government is stopping their salaries sometimes and ration. BJP is not concerned about anyone, whether it's Kashmiri pandits or anyone. They just want votes and nothing else,'' said Mufti. Also read | Kashmir: Terror funding and recruitment module busted in Kupwara, 6 arrested Speaking to the media about the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, while touring Anantnag, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti called the Election Commission a puppet in the hands of the BJP. ''I can't decide on the elections. It's the work of BJP as the election commission has become a branch of BJP, a hand of BJP. If you have noticed in Himachal Pradesh, BJP has been doing religious propaganda and no action was taken by the Election Commission. Muslims are being threatened in the country and the election commission is silent,'' said Mufti. Also read | Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist from Pakistan killed in encounter at Shopian, Kashmir She also said that India's Election commission was a great example across the world and claimed that now it's just a puppet in the hands of the BJP. ''The Election Commission is no longer independent like it used to be. India was proud of it and countries from across the world used to call the Indian election commission on how to hold elections, but now our election commission has become a puppet. And they will only announce elections here when BJP tells them to,'' said Mufti.

Mehbooba Mufti: Election commission puppet of BJP, party using Kashmiri Pandits for votes

Terrorists shot dead a Kashmiri Pandit in the Choudary Gund area of South Kashmir’s Shopian district on Saturday. The deceased Kashmiri Pandit has been identified as Pooran Krishan Bhat, son of Tarak Nath Bhat.&nbsp;

Terrorists shot Bhat when he was present in the lawn of his house.&nbsp;He was rushed to the hospital where he succumbed to the injuries.&nbsp;

“Terrorists fired upon a civilian (minority) Shri Puran Krishan Bhat while he was on way to orchard in Chowdary Gund Shopian. He was immediately shifted to hospital where he succumbed. Area cordoned off. Search in progress,” said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

Pooran Krishan Bhat (42) is survived by his wife Sweety and two children.&nbsp;

“Attack on Puran Krishan Bhat by terrorists in Shopian is a dastardly act of cowardice. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. I assure the people that the perpetrators and those aiding and abetting terrorists will be severely punished," tweeted Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha.

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Attack on Puran Krishan Bhat by terrorists in Shopian is a dastardly act of cowardice. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved family. I assure the people that the perpetrators and those aiding and abetting terrorists will be severely punished.
— Office of LG J&amp;K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfLGJandK/status/1581211978856812544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The area has been cordoned off by security forces and a search for the attackers has been started. Jammu and Kashmir Police DIG Sujit Kumar visited the terror incident spot.

"The unfortunate incident has happened here.&nbsp; The terror group 'Kashmir freedom fighters' has taken responsibility for the attack. We are investigating the matter and have launched massive manhunt to nab the terrorists," said DIG Kumar.&nbsp;

"As per eyewitness, one terrorist was seen attacking the Kashmiri Pandit Pooran Kishan Bhat but there is a possibility that there could be some more terrorists involved in the attack," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-armys-assault-dog-zoom-succumbs-to-his-injuries-525095">Read more:&nbsp;Indian Army’s assault dog 'Zoom' succumbs to gunshot injuries sustained in terror operation</a>

On being asked about the security lapse, DIG admitted that the terrorists managed to attack despite a security guard in place and an army camp nearby. The DIG added that they would look at all the angles and take action if any dereliction of duty was found.

Many condemned the attack, including the Grand Mufti of Kashmir, Mufti Nasir ul lslam.

''The killing of Kashmiri Pandit is deplorable. Such acts cannot be accepted and will disturb the peace and harmony of Kashmir. The killing of any innocent human is killing all humanity. I stand behind the family of the deceased and express my sympathy with them,' said Mufti Nasir ul lslam.&nbsp;

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Terrorists shot dead a Kashmiri Pandit in the Choudary Gund area of South Kashmir’s Shopian district on Saturday. The deceased Kashmiri Pandit has been identified as Pooran Krishan Bhat, son of Tarak Nath Bhat.

Terrorists shot dead a Kashmiri Pandit in the Choudary Gund area of South Kashmir’s Shopian district on Saturday. The deceased Kashmiri Pandit has been identified as Pooran Krishan Bhat, son of Tarak Nath Bhat. Terrorists shot Bhat when he was present in the lawn of his house. He was rushed to the hospital where he succumbed to the injuries. “Terrorists fired upon a civilian (minority) Shri Puran Krishan Bhat while he was on way to orchard in Chowdary Gund Shopian. He was immediately shifted to hospital where he succumbed. Area cordoned off. Search in progress,” said Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Kashmir Police. Pooran Krishan Bhat (42) is survived by his wife Sweety and two children. “Attack on Puran Krishan Bhat by terrorists in Shopian is a dastardly act of cowardice. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. I assure the people that the perpetrators and those aiding and abetting terrorists will be severely punished," tweeted Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha. Attack on Puran Krishan Bhat by terrorists in Shopian is a dastardly act of cowardice. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved family. I assure the people that the perpetrators and those aiding and abetting terrorists will be severely punished. — Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) October 15, 2022 × The area has been cordoned off by security forces and a search for the attackers has been started. Jammu and Kashmir Police DIG Sujit Kumar visited the terror incident spot. "The unfortunate incident has happened here. The terror group 'Kashmir freedom fighters' has taken responsibility for the attack. We are investigating the matter and have launched massive manhunt to nab the terrorists," said DIG Kumar. "As per eyewitness, one terrorist was seen attacking the Kashmiri Pandit Pooran Kishan Bhat but there is a possibility that there could be some more terrorists involved in the attack," he added. Read more: Indian Army’s assault dog 'Zoom' succumbs to gunshot injuries sustained in terror operation On being asked about the security lapse, DIG admitted that the terrorists managed to attack despite a security guard in place and an army camp nearby. The DIG added that they would look at all the angles and take action if any dereliction of duty was found. Many condemned the attack, including the Grand Mufti of Kashmir, Mufti Nasir ul lslam. ''The killing of Kashmiri Pandit is deplorable. Such acts cannot be accepted and will disturb the peace and harmony of Kashmir. The killing of any innocent human is killing all humanity. I stand behind the family of the deceased and express my sympathy with them,' said Mufti Nasir ul lslam. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Another Kashmiri Pandit shot dead by terrorists in South Kashmir

A man from the minority Kashmiri Pandit community was shot dead and his brother injured in another targetted attack on civilians by the terrorists in Shopian district on Tuesday.

According to the police, the terrorists fired upon the civilians in an apple orchard in Chotipora area.&nbsp;So far, 22 civilians&nbsp;have been killed in the Kashmir valley this year.

“Terrorists fired upon civilians in an apple orchard in Chotipora area of #Shopian. One person died and one injured. Both belong to minority community. Injured person has been shifted to hospital. Area #cordoned off. Further details shall follow,” Kashmir Zone Police tweeted on Tuesday.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Terrorists?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Terrorists</a> fired upon civilians in an apple orchard in Chotipora area of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shopian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shopian</a>. One person died and one injured. Both belong to minority community. Injured person has been shifted to hospital. Area <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cordoned?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cordoned</a> off. Further details shall follow.<a href="https://twitter.com/JmuKmrPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JmuKmrPolice</a>
— Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/KashmirPolice/status/1559429688614760448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The deceased has been identified as Sunil Kumar, while his brother Pintu Kumar is undergoing medical treatment.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha condemned the attack in a tweet, saying that the terrorists responsible for the act won’t be spared.

"Pained beyond words on despicable terror attack on civilians in Shopian. My thoughts are with the family of Sunil Kumar. Praying for speedy recovery of injured. The attack deserves strongest condemnation from everyone. Terrorists responsible for barbaric act will not be spared," office of the L-G J&amp;K tweeted.

Former chief&nbsp;Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti, too,&nbsp;deplored the attack and said that the central government's claim of normalcy in the valley is "farce".&nbsp;

''Terribly sorry to hear about the targeted killing in Shopian. Condolences to the deceased’s family. GOI continues to behave like an ostrich with its head buried deep under the sand. Every resident of J&amp;K has become cannon fodder in Delhi’s quest for ‘manufactured normalcy,'' said Mufti.

There have been a spate of targetted killings by the terrorists in the Kashmir valley over the past week. On Sunday, a policeman was killed in Nowhatta and a migrant labourer in Bandipora last week.

A joint cordon and search operation has been started by the forces in the area after the attack. &nbsp;

Two grenade attacks took place in Budgam and Srinagar districts on Monday.

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A man from the minority Kashmiri Pandit community was shot dead and his brother injured in another targetted attack on civilians by the terrorists in Shopian district on Tuesday.

A man from the minority Kashmiri Pandit community was shot dead and his brother injured in another targetted attack on civilians by the terrorists in Shopian district on Tuesday. According to the police, the terrorists fired upon the civilians in an apple orchard in Chotipora area. So far, 22 civilians have been killed in the Kashmir valley this year. “Terrorists fired upon civilians in an apple orchard in Chotipora area of #Shopian. One person died and one injured. Both belong to minority community. Injured person has been shifted to hospital. Area #cordoned off. Further details shall follow,” Kashmir Zone Police tweeted on Tuesday. #Terrorists fired upon civilians in an apple orchard in Chotipora area of #Shopian. One person died and one injured. Both belong to minority community. Injured person has been shifted to hospital. Area #cordoned off. Further details shall follow.@JmuKmrPolice — Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) August 16, 2022 × The deceased has been identified as Sunil Kumar, while his brother Pintu Kumar is undergoing medical treatment. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha condemned the attack in a tweet, saying that the terrorists responsible for the act won’t be spared. "Pained beyond words on despicable terror attack on civilians in Shopian. My thoughts are with the family of Sunil Kumar. Praying for speedy recovery of injured. The attack deserves strongest condemnation from everyone. Terrorists responsible for barbaric act will not be spared," office of the L-G J&K tweeted. Former chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti, too, deplored the attack and said that the central government's claim of normalcy in the valley is "farce". ''Terribly sorry to hear about the targeted killing in Shopian. Condolences to the deceased’s family. GOI continues to behave like an ostrich with its head buried deep under the sand. Every resident of J&K has become cannon fodder in Delhi’s quest for ‘manufactured normalcy,'' said Mufti. There have been a spate of targetted killings by the terrorists in the Kashmir valley over the past week. On Sunday, a policeman was killed in Nowhatta and a migrant labourer in Bandipora last week. A joint cordon and search operation has been started by the forces in the area after the attack. Two grenade attacks took place in Budgam and Srinagar districts on Monday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

J&K: Terrorists shoot two Kashmiri Pandit brothers, one dead

The Jammu and Kashmir government transferred 177 Kashmiri Pandit teachers from various districts of the Valley to Srinagar city. The decision was taken after the recent target killings in the Kashmir Valley in which Kashmiri Pandits, Non-Locals and locals were targeted. The Education department of Kashmir has made the list of 177 Kashmir Pandit teachers public which is being seen as a security concern as the list has names of all the Kashmiri Pandit teachers and also the schools to which they are transferred. &nbsp;

The political parties in the valley have questioned the government and the officials responsible for making the list public. The BJP leader Altaf Thakur said that making the transfer list public on social platforms is a big security breach as terrorists now have a clear idea of who is posted where. The government must take strong note of it and find out who is making the fresh transfer list of migrant Kashmiri Pandits public at a time when targeted killings are taking place in the Valley, '' said BJP JK spokesman Altaf Thakur.&nbsp;

BJP said that the government was taking serious steps for the protection of Kashmiri Pandits, but some officials are playing spoilsport. He also urged officers not to make the transfer list of the Kashmiri Pandits public given its sensitivity. Local parties like National Conference and PDP have also reacted to the issue.&nbsp;

''It's a concern and it needs to be looked into. The community has been living here for years and a lot of work was done to bring them back. It should not go to waste. Our party also worked a lot on it and it's sad to see what is happening now. '' Ali Mohammad Sagar, NC Leader and Former Law Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The PDP says it is to put the lives of these people at risk by making the list public and sharing it on WhatsApp group. ''There is no one to question this government. Popular governments are answerable. On one side they are talking about security and on the other, they are making the list public and sharing it on WhatsApp groups. It's a concern and should not have been made public like this. It's not right, God knows who guides these people at the helm.'' Harbakhsh Singh, PDP Leader.&nbsp;

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The Jammu and Kashmir government transferred 177 Kashmiri Pandit teachers from various districts of the Valley to Srinagar city. The decision was taken after the recent target killings in the Kashmir Valley in which Kashmiri Pandits, Non-Locals and locals were targeted.

The Jammu and Kashmir government transferred 177 Kashmiri Pandit teachers from various districts of the Valley to Srinagar city. The decision was taken after the recent target killings in the Kashmir Valley in which Kashmiri Pandits, Non-Locals and locals were targeted. The Education department of Kashmir has made the list of 177 Kashmir Pandit teachers public which is being seen as a security concern as the list has names of all the Kashmiri Pandit teachers and also the schools to which they are transferred. The political parties in the valley have questioned the government and the officials responsible for making the list public. The BJP leader Altaf Thakur said that making the transfer list public on social platforms is a big security breach as terrorists now have a clear idea of who is posted where. The government must take strong note of it and find out who is making the fresh transfer list of migrant Kashmiri Pandits public at a time when targeted killings are taking place in the Valley, '' said BJP JK spokesman Altaf Thakur. BJP said that the government was taking serious steps for the protection of Kashmiri Pandits, but some officials are playing spoilsport. He also urged officers not to make the transfer list of the Kashmiri Pandits public given its sensitivity. Local parties like National Conference and PDP have also reacted to the issue. ''It's a concern and it needs to be looked into. The community has been living here for years and a lot of work was done to bring them back. It should not go to waste. Our party also worked a lot on it and it's sad to see what is happening now. '' Ali Mohammad Sagar, NC Leader and Former Law Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. The PDP says it is to put the lives of these people at risk by making the list public and sharing it on WhatsApp group. ''There is no one to question this government. Popular governments are answerable. On one side they are talking about security and on the other, they are making the list public and sharing it on WhatsApp groups. It's a concern and should not have been made public like this. It's not right, God knows who guides these people at the helm.'' Harbakhsh Singh, PDP Leader. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

List of 177 Kashmiri Pandit teachers transferred by the government made public

Protests rocked various areas of the Kashmir Valley after the killing of a Kashmiri Pandit, Rahul Bhat, an employee with the revenue department in Kashmir. Rahul was shot at by terrorists in Tehsildar office Chadoora, of Budgam district.&nbsp;

The Kashmiri Pandit community took out protests in central Kashmir, South Kashmir as well as the North to condemn the killing. Jammu and Kashmir Police said that two terrorists were involved in carrying out the attack and shot Rahul with a pistol.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-tourism-breaks-records-arrivals-highest-in-10-years-478416" hreflang="en">Kashmir tourism breaks records, arrivals highest in 10 years</a>

''Terrorists fired upon one employee namely Shri Rahul Bhat from the minority community in Tehsildar office Chadoora, Budgam. The injured was immediately brought to SMHS Hospital, Srinagar for treatment where he succumbed to his injuries. Preliminary investigation reveals that 02 terrorists are involved in this heinous crime &amp; have used pistol for committing this crime,'' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir.&nbsp;

It's the first time since the 90's that the Kashmiri Pandit community has come out to protest against a killing. Migrant Kashmiri Pandits who have returned to Kashmir under the Prime Minister's rehabilitation package staged a protest and blocked the main Srinagar-Budgam Road outside their security colony in the Shiekhpora area. Protests by Kashmiri Pandits were reported from the Veesu and Mattan areas of Anantnag in South Kashmir as well.&nbsp;

Watch | Economic impact of heatwave in India

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The LG of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha condemned the attack and said, ''I strongly condemn the barbaric killing of Rahul Bhat by terrorists at Budgam. Those behind this despicable terror attack will not go unpunished. J&amp;K Govt stands in solidarity with the bereaved family in this hour of grief''.&nbsp;

Politicians from Kashmir Valley have also condemned the killing and called it a gruesome murder. ''Condemn the gruesome act where in a Kashmiri Pandit boy Rahul Bhat was murdered in chadoora. Another life ended and another family devastated. My heart goes out to the bereaved family in this hour of grief. It also belies the false claims of normalcy in Kashmir,'' said Mehbooba Mufti, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-deadly-heat-wave-govt-issues-guidelines-for-schools-asks-to-modify-timings-478327" hreflang="en">India's deadly heat wave: Govt issues guidelines for schools,&nbsp;asks to modify timings</a>

Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir also tweeted and said, ''I unequivocally condemn the murderous militant attack on Rahul Bhatt. Rahul was a government employee working in the Tehsil office in Chadoora where he was attacked. Targeted killings continue &amp; a sense of fear grows unchecked. My heartfelt condolences to Rahul’s family. RIP''.&nbsp;

There has been an increase in the target attacks on Kashmiri Pandits and other non-locals in the valley in the last few months. It has raised a lot of fear among the minority communities living in the Valley.&nbsp;

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Protests rocked various areas of the Kashmir Valley after the killing of a Kashmiri Pandit, Rahul Bhat, an employee with the revenue department in Kashmir. Rahul was shot at by terrorists in Tehsildar office Chadoora, of Budgam district.

Protests rocked various areas of the Kashmir Valley after the killing of a Kashmiri Pandit, Rahul Bhat, an employee with the revenue department in Kashmir. Rahul was shot at by terrorists in Tehsildar office Chadoora, of Budgam district. The Kashmiri Pandit community took out protests in central Kashmir, South Kashmir as well as the North to condemn the killing. Jammu and Kashmir Police said that two terrorists were involved in carrying out the attack and shot Rahul with a pistol. Also read | Kashmir tourism breaks records, arrivals highest in 10 years ''Terrorists fired upon one employee namely Shri Rahul Bhat from the minority community in Tehsildar office Chadoora, Budgam. The injured was immediately brought to SMHS Hospital, Srinagar for treatment where he succumbed to his injuries. Preliminary investigation reveals that 02 terrorists are involved in this heinous crime & have used pistol for committing this crime,'' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir. It's the first time since the 90's that the Kashmiri Pandit community has come out to protest against a killing. Migrant Kashmiri Pandits who have returned to Kashmir under the Prime Minister's rehabilitation package staged a protest and blocked the main Srinagar-Budgam Road outside their security colony in the Shiekhpora area. Protests by Kashmiri Pandits were reported from the Veesu and Mattan areas of Anantnag in South Kashmir as well. Watch | Economic impact of heatwave in India The LG of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha condemned the attack and said, ''I strongly condemn the barbaric killing of Rahul Bhat by terrorists at Budgam. Those behind this despicable terror attack will not go unpunished. J&K Govt stands in solidarity with the bereaved family in this hour of grief''. Politicians from Kashmir Valley have also condemned the killing and called it a gruesome murder. ''Condemn the gruesome act where in a Kashmiri Pandit boy Rahul Bhat was murdered in chadoora. Another life ended and another family devastated. My heart goes out to the bereaved family in this hour of grief. It also belies the false claims of normalcy in Kashmir,'' said Mehbooba Mufti, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Also read | India's deadly heat wave: Govt issues guidelines for schools, asks to modify timings Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir also tweeted and said, ''I unequivocally condemn the murderous militant attack on Rahul Bhatt. Rahul was a government employee working in the Tehsil office in Chadoora where he was attacked. Targeted killings continue & a sense of fear grows unchecked. My heartfelt condolences to Rahul’s family. RIP''. There has been an increase in the target attacks on Kashmiri Pandits and other non-locals in the valley in the last few months. It has raised a lot of fear among the minority communities living in the Valley. Watch WION LIVE HERE:

Kashmiri Pandit shot dead by terrorists, community protests across Kashmir

This evening, a shopkeeper in Kashmir's Shopian area was shot, in the Valley's fourth terrorist strike since yesterday.

Bal Krishan, a Kashmiri Pandit, was shot in the hand and leg and sent to a Srinagar Army hospital.

His status, according to reports, is stable.

Terrorists opened fire on CRPF soldiers in Srinagar's Maisuma district earlier today, killing one and wounding another.

The two paramilitary troops were airlifted to the SMHS Hospital, where one of them was pronounced dead.

The area was blocked off, and a search for the assailants began.&nbsp;

"Preliminary investigation revealed that terrorists had fired upon a Kashmiri pandit identified as Bal Krishan near his house at Choutigam Shopian. In this terror incident, he had received critical gunshot injuries," the police said in a statement.

The injured man was immediately evacuated to a nearby hospital for the treatment of his injuries.

Police have registered a case in this regard under relevant sections of law. The investigation is in progress and officers continue to work to establish the full circumstances of this terror crime.&nbsp;

Earlier, two CRPF jawans suffered injuries in the terrorist attack at Maisuma in Lal Chowk in Srinagar.&nbsp;

Later, one jawan, who was injured in the terrorist attack succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

This evening, a shopkeeper in Kashmir's Shopian area was shot, in the Valley's fourth terrorist strike since yesterday. Bal Krishan, a Kashmiri Pandit, was shot in the hand and leg and sent to a Srinagar Army hospital.

This evening, a shopkeeper in Kashmir's Shopian area was shot, in the Valley's fourth terrorist strike since yesterday. Bal Krishan, a Kashmiri Pandit, was shot in the hand and leg and sent to a Srinagar Army hospital. His status, according to reports, is stable. Terrorists opened fire on CRPF soldiers in Srinagar's Maisuma district earlier today, killing one and wounding another. The two paramilitary troops were airlifted to the SMHS Hospital, where one of them was pronounced dead. The area was blocked off, and a search for the assailants began. "Preliminary investigation revealed that terrorists had fired upon a Kashmiri pandit identified as Bal Krishan near his house at Choutigam Shopian. In this terror incident, he had received critical gunshot injuries," the police said in a statement. The injured man was immediately evacuated to a nearby hospital for the treatment of his injuries. Police have registered a case in this regard under relevant sections of law. The investigation is in progress and officers continue to work to establish the full circumstances of this terror crime. Earlier, two CRPF jawans suffered injuries in the terrorist attack at Maisuma in Lal Chowk in Srinagar. Later, one jawan, who was injured in the terrorist attack succumbed to his injuries. (With inputs from agencies)

Kashmiri Pandit shot at by terrorists in fourth terror attack in J&K

In a small village in South Kashmir's Anantnag district, half a dozen houses are being built or renovated in Matan area. These houses belong to the Kashmiri Pandits, who were forced to move out from the Kashmir Valley during the early 1990s during the start of the insurgency.&nbsp;

Around 15 Kashmiri Pandit families in this colony have come back, while more&nbsp;are planning to return. These houses were in dilapidated conditions for years and now finally, it seems that these colonies would see happy times again.&nbsp;

''Yes, it's true that houses are being built again. The Kashmiri Pandit community is now finally thinking of returning to their homes. The pandit community in Jammu is also thinking of returning. We used to live with so much love around us. People want to come. There are around 15 houses which are being built and more will be built too. In a few years, I am sure, if conditions are peaceful, everyone would return. '' said Ashok Kumar Sidha, President of Martand Temple Trust.&nbsp;

In the last few years, many such families have come back to the valley and are living happily. Matan village has seen the maximum number of Kashmiri Pandits returning to their&nbsp;homeland.

Without any government help, these people have started to build or renovate their old houses. Some local Muslim Kashmiris say things are returning to how it used to be in the 1980s and before.&nbsp;

''A lot of them have come back and a lot of them are coming back. We have always lived in brotherhood. There are many new houses being built here. As you can see, many houses in this colony are being built. We are with them and would love them to return. We always used to celebrate auspicious occasions days together. Kaka ji (Uncle) has returned back after many years. His house is all ready, and he will come soon to live in it. They have a lot of trust in us, and we have a lot of trust in them too. '' said Mohammad Rajab Lone, neighbour.&nbsp;

Most of the construction work is being done by the Kashmiri Muslim community. They have been taking care of these properties and now, they are helping them to rebuild these houses as well.&nbsp;

''We are so happy that they are returning. We are working on their houses. We have been working on these constructions. There are around 15 new houses being built. We are giving them all the support and we are very happy that they have come back. We are always there for help. Some of them never left and those who left are coming back. Insha Allah (Praise the lord), the brotherhood between us would remain forever,'' said Farooq Ahmad Lone, another local.&nbsp;

The Pandit community wants the government to provide&nbsp;them security and also help them build their houses. They say if there are no homes for the Pandits, how can they return to the valley.

The government had said that 6,000 Kashmiri Pandits have returned to the valley recently, but the community has claimed that they have not been provided proper accommodation and are living in rented rooms.

''The Pandits cannot return if they don't have a place to stay. No 6,000 pandits have returned. These are those who are employees. Six employees live in one room here. That's why we say the government hasn't done anything for us. If the government had done something for these employees that meant creating space for 6000 families. Which would encourage others to come back too, '' said Ashok Kumar Sidha, President of Martand Temple Trust.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In a small village in South Kashmir's Anantnag district, half a dozen houses are being built or renovated in Matan area. These houses belong to the Kashmiri Pandits, who were forced to move out from the Kashmir Valley during the early 1990s during the start of the insurgency.

In a small village in South Kashmir's Anantnag district, half a dozen houses are being built or renovated in Matan area. These houses belong to the Kashmiri Pandits, who were forced to move out from the Kashmir Valley during the early 1990s during the start of the insurgency. Around 15 Kashmiri Pandit families in this colony have come back, while more are planning to return. These houses were in dilapidated conditions for years and now finally, it seems that these colonies would see happy times again. ''Yes, it's true that houses are being built again. The Kashmiri Pandit community is now finally thinking of returning to their homes. The pandit community in Jammu is also thinking of returning. We used to live with so much love around us. People want to come. There are around 15 houses which are being built and more will be built too. In a few years, I am sure, if conditions are peaceful, everyone would return. '' said Ashok Kumar Sidha, President of Martand Temple Trust. In the last few years, many such families have come back to the valley and are living happily. Matan village has seen the maximum number of Kashmiri Pandits returning to their homeland. Without any government help, these people have started to build or renovate their old houses. Some local Muslim Kashmiris say things are returning to how it used to be in the 1980s and before. ''A lot of them have come back and a lot of them are coming back. We have always lived in brotherhood. There are many new houses being built here. As you can see, many houses in this colony are being built. We are with them and would love them to return. We always used to celebrate auspicious occasions days together. Kaka ji (Uncle) has returned back after many years. His house is all ready, and he will come soon to live in it. They have a lot of trust in us, and we have a lot of trust in them too. '' said Mohammad Rajab Lone, neighbour. Most of the construction work is being done by the Kashmiri Muslim community. They have been taking care of these properties and now, they are helping them to rebuild these houses as well. ''We are so happy that they are returning. We are working on their houses. We have been working on these constructions. There are around 15 new houses being built. We are giving them all the support and we are very happy that they have come back. We are always there for help. Some of them never left and those who left are coming back. Insha Allah (Praise the lord), the brotherhood between us would remain forever,'' said Farooq Ahmad Lone, another local. The Pandit community wants the government to provide them security and also help them build their houses. They say if there are no homes for the Pandits, how can they return to the valley. The government had said that 6,000 Kashmiri Pandits have returned to the valley recently, but the community has claimed that they have not been provided proper accommodation and are living in rented rooms. ''The Pandits cannot return if they don't have a place to stay. No 6,000 pandits have returned. These are those who are employees. Six employees live in one room here. That's why we say the government hasn't done anything for us. If the government had done something for these employees that meant creating space for 6000 families. Which would encourage others to come back too, '' said Ashok Kumar Sidha, President of Martand Temple Trust.

Kashmiri Pandit families return to Anantnag, seek government’s help

Reacting to the recently released Bollywood film ' The Kashmir Files', which has kicked up a political storm in India, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said the movie will have ramifications on the ground, and it will worsen the situation.

He said that it was not only Kashmir Pandits but also Muslims and Sikhs who suffered in the valley. &nbsp;

He also questioned the filmmakers of 'The Kashmir Files' for failing to highlight&nbsp;the role of&nbsp;the then governor Jagmohan Malhotra during the exodus.

Yechury said that every community was hit by the militancy equally. Citing a recent RTI reply by Srinagar Police, he said that 89 pandits and 1,635 Muslims and people of other faiths were killed since the inception of the militancy.&nbsp;

“The people belonging to any religion or sect including Muslims, Sikhs and Kashmir Pandits have suffered equally in Kashmir. Why did only the Pandits leave?'' asked Sitaram Yechury.

CPI(M) Kashmir leader Muhammad Yosuf Tarigami, who was accompanying Yechury, said that the party would demand an independent probe to check the authentic facts on the ground on who suffered in the valley.

Reacting to the recently released Bollywood film ' The Kashmir Files', which has kicked up a political storm in India, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said the movie will have ramifications on the ground, and it will worsen the situation.

Reacting to the recently released Bollywood film ' The Kashmir Files', which has kicked up a political storm in India, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said the movie will have ramifications on the ground, and it will worsen the situation. He said that it was not only Kashmir Pandits but also Muslims and Sikhs who suffered in the valley. He also questioned the filmmakers of 'The Kashmir Files' for failing to highlight the role of the then governor Jagmohan Malhotra during the exodus. Yechury said that every community was hit by the militancy equally. Citing a recent RTI reply by Srinagar Police, he said that 89 pandits and 1,635 Muslims and people of other faiths were killed since the inception of the militancy. “The people belonging to any religion or sect including Muslims, Sikhs and Kashmir Pandits have suffered equally in Kashmir. Why did only the Pandits leave?'' asked Sitaram Yechury. CPI(M) Kashmir leader Muhammad Yosuf Tarigami, who was accompanying Yechury, said that the party would demand an independent probe to check the authentic facts on the ground on who suffered in the valley.

‘It will have ramifications’: CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury reacts to ‘The Kashmir Files’

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at a BJP Parliamentary Party meeting on Tuesday, March 15, in which he lauded The Kashmir Files and complimented the film industry's role in conveying history, despite an effort to trash it.

PM Modi said in a new video that a "entire ecosystem" was working to undermine the film because it tells the "truth."&nbsp;

Vivek Agnihotri's film The Kashmir Files was released on March 11th.

The film is based on the 1990s Kashmiri Hindu exodus from the Valley.

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It has sparked passionate debate on all sides.

PM Modi commented on the film, saying, "For the past few days, people have been talking about it.People who normally spend their lives fighting for freedom of expression have become angry.They aren't talking about the movie as a work of art.Instead, the entire ecosystem is attempting to discredit the film."&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheKashmirFiles?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheKashmirFiles</a>… 
 
Truth based on facts presented in the movie, but the whole “ecosystem” is out to discredit it. <a href="https://t.co/V4cuQhNuCq">pic.twitter.com/V4cuQhNuCq</a>
— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1503645403123961860?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi said such films should be made so that people get to know the truth, the source added.&nbsp;

"My issue is not a film. My concern is that whatever is the truth needs to be presented in the right manner for the good of the country," he added, saying that if "one wants they can bring another movie on the same issue with a different perspective".

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at a BJP Parliamentary Party meeting on Tuesday, March 15, in which he lauded The Kashmir Files and complimented the film industry's role in conveying history, despite an effort to trash it.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at a BJP Parliamentary Party meeting on Tuesday, March 15, in which he lauded The Kashmir Files and complimented the film industry's role in conveying history, despite an effort to trash it. PM Modi said in a new video that a "entire ecosystem" was working to undermine the film because it tells the "truth." Vivek Agnihotri's film The Kashmir Files was released on March 11th. The film is based on the 1990s Kashmiri Hindu exodus from the Valley. This ecosystem is hell-bent on condemning an individual who has demonstrated the bravery to tell the truth. They also refuse to comprehend or permit others to do so. They do not want to accept the reality, and they do not want the truth to be presented in public. × It has sparked passionate debate on all sides. PM Modi commented on the film, saying, "For the past few days, people have been talking about it.People who normally spend their lives fighting for freedom of expression have become angry.They aren't talking about the movie as a work of art.Instead, the entire ecosystem is attempting to discredit the film." Prime Minister Narendra Modi on #TheKashmirFiles… Truth based on facts presented in the movie, but the whole “ecosystem” is out to discredit it. pic.twitter.com/V4cuQhNuCq — Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) March 15, 2022 × PM Modi said such films should be made so that people get to know the truth, the source added. "My issue is not a film. My concern is that whatever is the truth needs to be presented in the right manner for the good of the country," he added, saying that if "one wants they can bring another movie on the same issue with a different perspective". (With inputs from agencies)

Entire ecosystem out to discredit a film that tells the truth: PM Modi on 'The Kashmir Files'

Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai on Wednesday informed the Rajya Sabha that nine properties of Hindus have been restored by the Jammu and Kashmir administration so far. 
 
In a written reply to a star question Rai, citing the information provided by the government of Jammu and Kashmir, said, "Regarding restoration of properties to its rightful and original owner, 9 properties have been restored, as per the information provided by the Govt of Jammu &amp; Kashmir". 
 
Asked about what steps the J&amp;K Government was taking to restore the ancestral property of Hindus who had to flee from Kashmir in the wake of terrorist violence, the Minister said that under the J&amp;K Migrant Immovable Property (Preservation, Protection &amp; Restraint on Distress Sales) Act, 1997, the District Magistrates of the concerned districts in Jammu &amp; Kashmir are the legal custodians of the immovable properties of migrants, who take suo moto action on eviction proceedings in cases of encroachment. The migrants can also request the District Magistrates in such cases. 
 
He informed that after the abrogation of Article 370, a total of 520 migrants have returned to Kashmir for taking up jobs under the Prime Minister`s Development Package-2015. 
 
In reply to another question on whether the Government has altered the land laws of Jammu and Kashmir wherein no domicile or permanent resident certificate is required to purchase non-agricultural land in the UT, Rai informed that after August 5, 2019 all provisions of the Constitution of India have been made applicable to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir which necessitated changes in existing laws in Jammu and Kashmir by Adaptation Orders so as to conform with the provisions of the Constitution of India.

As per the adapted land laws of Jammu and Kashmir, the Government may, by notification in the official gazette, allow transfer of land for public purposes such as education, charitable and healthcare. 
 
He said in his written reply that under the Jammu and Kashmir Big Landed Estates Abolition Act, 1950, the land was transferred to the tillers. The Act also prescribed a limit to right of ownership to 182 standard kanals (22.75 acres).

However, this Act has been repealed and another legislation, `The Jammu &amp; Kashmir Agrarian Reforms Act, 1976`, for transfer of land to tillers, is in force. This Act prescribes a ceiling restriction of 100 standard kanals (12.5 acres).

Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai on Wednesday informed the Rajya Sabha that nine properties of Hindus have been restored by the Jammu and Kashmir administration so far.

Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai on Wednesday informed the Rajya Sabha that nine properties of Hindus have been restored by the Jammu and Kashmir administration so far. In a written reply to a star question Rai, citing the information provided by the government of Jammu and Kashmir, said, "Regarding restoration of properties to its rightful and original owner, 9 properties have been restored, as per the information provided by the Govt of Jammu & Kashmir". Asked about what steps the J&K Government was taking to restore the ancestral property of Hindus who had to flee from Kashmir in the wake of terrorist violence, the Minister said that under the J&K Migrant Immovable Property (Preservation, Protection & Restraint on Distress Sales) Act, 1997, the District Magistrates of the concerned districts in Jammu & Kashmir are the legal custodians of the immovable properties of migrants, who take suo moto action on eviction proceedings in cases of encroachment. The migrants can also request the District Magistrates in such cases. He informed that after the abrogation of Article 370, a total of 520 migrants have returned to Kashmir for taking up jobs under the Prime Minister`s Development Package-2015. In reply to another question on whether the Government has altered the land laws of Jammu and Kashmir wherein no domicile or permanent resident certificate is required to purchase non-agricultural land in the UT, Rai informed that after August 5, 2019 all provisions of the Constitution of India have been made applicable to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir which necessitated changes in existing laws in Jammu and Kashmir by Adaptation Orders so as to conform with the provisions of the Constitution of India. As per the adapted land laws of Jammu and Kashmir, the Government may, by notification in the official gazette, allow transfer of land for public purposes such as education, charitable and healthcare. He said in his written reply that under the Jammu and Kashmir Big Landed Estates Abolition Act, 1950, the land was transferred to the tillers. The Act also prescribed a limit to right of ownership to 182 standard kanals (22.75 acres). However, this Act has been repealed and another legislation, `The Jammu & Kashmir Agrarian Reforms Act, 1976`, for transfer of land to tillers, is in force. This Act prescribes a ceiling restriction of 100 standard kanals (12.5 acres).

9 ancestral properties of Hindus restored in Jammu & Kashmir: Centre

Nearly 80 million people were forcibly displaced globally by the end of 2019 as a result of war, violence, persecution and other emergencies, according to the United Nations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rohingya-refugees-relocated-to-controversial-bangladesh-island-after-spending-weeks-at-sea-296449">Also read: Rohingya refugees relocated to controversial Bangladesh island after spending weeks at sea</a> 
 
The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, in its annual report on displacement released on Thursday, noted that an additional 11 million people were newly displaced in 2019 alone, with developing countries the worst-hit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/malaysia-could-send-rohingya-detainees-back-out-to-sea-sources-306778">Also read: Malaysia could send Rohingya detainees back out to sea</a> 
 
The number is almost double the total figure over the past decade.

While 2.4 million sought protection outside their country, 8.6 million were newly displaced within the borders of their countries.

Many displaced populations failed to find long-lasting solutions for rebuilding their lives, with only 317,200 refugees able to return to their country of origin and only 107,800 resettled in third countries, the UNHCR said in the report released ahead of World Refugee Day on June 20.

The global displacement number of 79.5 million or one in every 97 people on the planet at the end of 2019 is almost double the number of people in crisis registered a decade ago, it noted.

"This almost 80 million figure -- the highest that UNHCR has recorded since these statistics have been systematically collected, is, of course, a reason for great concern. This is approximately one per cent of the world's population, we have never reached this very significant percentage," UNHCR High Commissioner Filippo Grandi said.

Speaking to journalists in Geneva, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees chief noted that although the issue of displacement affects all nations, data showed that it was poorer countries which hosted 85 per cent of those forced from their home.

"This continues to be a global issue, an issue for all States, but one that challenges most directly the poorer countries - not the richer countries - in spite of the rhetoric," he said.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reminded countries of their fundamental obligation to protect the nearly 80 million people worldwide forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution and other crises.

In his message to mark the World Refugee Day, the UN chief also praised those nations and communities hosting refugees and internally displaced people, often amid their own economic and security challenges.

"We owe these countries our thanks, our support and our investment," he said.

While refugees and internally displaced people are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Secretary-General commended them for stepping up on the frontlines of response.

"From camps in Bangladesh to hospitals in Europe, refugees are working as nurses, doctors, scientists, teachers and in other essential roles, protecting themselves and giving back to the communities that host them," he said.

Numerous emergencies old and new are behind the massive people flows, from Afghanistan to Central African Republic, to Myanmar, with hotspots including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burkina Faso -- and the wider Sahel -- and the continuing fallout in Syria, after nearly a decade of civil war, the report said.

About 73 per cent of the 79.5 million on the move have sought shelter in a country neighbouring their own, Grandi said, dismissing the regularly politicised misconception that most migrants and refugees target richer countries far from home.

Nearly seven in 10 of those displaced came from Syria, Venezuela, Afghanistan, South Sudan and Myanmar, he said.

"If crises in these countries were solved, 68 per cent of global forced displacement would be on its way to being solved," Grandi said.

Asked about the impact of COVID-19 on mass population movements, he said it would "no doubt" push more people into crisis.

"I am very worried and we've said it to a lot of different governments that have asked us the question," he said.

"The livelihoods crisis...the increased poverty of these populations, in my opinion -- coupled with lack of solutions to a situation of conflict and in situations like the Sahel, with a deterioration of security -- there's no doubt it will increase population movements in the region but also beyond, towards Europe," Grandi said.

Since the global health crisis began, the agency has also reported an increase in the number of Rohingyas moving from Bangladesh and Myanmar, towards Malaysia and other States in South East Asia.

'That, in my opinion, is linked more than COVID-19 once again by the very stagnant situation of the Rohingya issue,' Grandi said.

'No solution, great poverty and lack of opportunities in the camps in Bangladesh, now maybe also couple with the lockdown that was made necessary by COVID that has added to the hardship.'

For the first time, Venezuela's 3.5 million displaced people feature in the UNHCR report, accounting in part for the significant rise, compared with the 2018-19 data.

In terms of the ages of those affected, the UN agency estimates that around 30 to 34 million of the world's 79.5 million forcibly displaced, are children.

Of the near 80 million people cited in the report, 26 million are refugees; 20.4 million come under UNHCR's mandate and 5.6 million are Palestine refugees registered with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

Nearly 80 million people were forcibly displaced globally by the end of 2019 as a result of war, violence, persecution and other emergencies, according to the United Nations.

Nearly 80 million people were forcibly displaced globally by the end of 2019 as a result of war, violence, persecution and other emergencies, according to the United Nations. Also read: Rohingya refugees relocated to controversial Bangladesh island after spending weeks at sea The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, in its annual report on displacement released on Thursday, noted that an additional 11 million people were newly displaced in 2019 alone, with developing countries the worst-hit. Also read: Malaysia could send Rohingya detainees back out to sea The number is almost double the total figure over the past decade. While 2.4 million sought protection outside their country, 8.6 million were newly displaced within the borders of their countries. Many displaced populations failed to find long-lasting solutions for rebuilding their lives, with only 317,200 refugees able to return to their country of origin and only 107,800 resettled in third countries, the UNHCR said in the report released ahead of World Refugee Day on June 20. The global displacement number of 79.5 million or one in every 97 people on the planet at the end of 2019 is almost double the number of people in crisis registered a decade ago, it noted. "This almost 80 million figure -- the highest that UNHCR has recorded since these statistics have been systematically collected, is, of course, a reason for great concern. This is approximately one per cent of the world's population, we have never reached this very significant percentage," UNHCR High Commissioner Filippo Grandi said. Speaking to journalists in Geneva, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees chief noted that although the issue of displacement affects all nations, data showed that it was poorer countries which hosted 85 per cent of those forced from their home. "This continues to be a global issue, an issue for all States, but one that challenges most directly the poorer countries - not the richer countries - in spite of the rhetoric," he said. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reminded countries of their fundamental obligation to protect the nearly 80 million people worldwide forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution and other crises. In his message to mark the World Refugee Day, the UN chief also praised those nations and communities hosting refugees and internally displaced people, often amid their own economic and security challenges. "We owe these countries our thanks, our support and our investment," he said. While refugees and internally displaced people are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Secretary-General commended them for stepping up on the frontlines of response. "From camps in Bangladesh to hospitals in Europe, refugees are working as nurses, doctors, scientists, teachers and in other essential roles, protecting themselves and giving back to the communities that host them," he said. Numerous emergencies old and new are behind the massive people flows, from Afghanistan to Central African Republic, to Myanmar, with hotspots including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burkina Faso -- and the wider Sahel -- and the continuing fallout in Syria, after nearly a decade of civil war, the report said. About 73 per cent of the 79.5 million on the move have sought shelter in a country neighbouring their own, Grandi said, dismissing the regularly politicised misconception that most migrants and refugees target richer countries far from home. Nearly seven in 10 of those displaced came from Syria, Venezuela, Afghanistan, South Sudan and Myanmar, he said. "If crises in these countries were solved, 68 per cent of global forced displacement would be on its way to being solved," Grandi said. Asked about the impact of COVID-19 on mass population movements, he said it would "no doubt" push more people into crisis. "I am very worried and we've said it to a lot of different governments that have asked us the question," he said. "The livelihoods crisis...the increased poverty of these populations, in my opinion -- coupled with lack of solutions to a situation of conflict and in situations like the Sahel, with a deterioration of security -- there's no doubt it will increase population movements in the region but also beyond, towards Europe," Grandi said. Since the global health crisis began, the agency has also reported an increase in the number of Rohingyas moving from Bangladesh and Myanmar, towards Malaysia and other States in South East Asia. 'That, in my opinion, is linked more than COVID-19 once again by the very stagnant situation of the Rohingya issue,' Grandi said. 'No solution, great poverty and lack of opportunities in the camps in Bangladesh, now maybe also couple with the lockdown that was made necessary by COVID that has added to the hardship.' For the first time, Venezuela's 3.5 million displaced people feature in the UNHCR report, accounting in part for the significant rise, compared with the 2018-19 data. In terms of the ages of those affected, the UN agency estimates that around 30 to 34 million of the world's 79.5 million forcibly displaced, are children. Of the near 80 million people cited in the report, 26 million are refugees; 20.4 million come under UNHCR's mandate and 5.6 million are Palestine refugees registered with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

Nearly 80 million people forcibly displaced globally at the end of 2019: United Nations

Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra slammed those alleging that he "commercialised the pain of Kashmiri pandits" with his film `Shikara` and termed them donkeys.&nbsp; 
 
"'3 Idiots' earned 33 crores on the first day and we knew the first day of Shikara will be 30 lakh. I make a film in the memory of my mother for 30 lakh collection on first day and some people say I commercialised the pain of Kashmiri Pandits. These people are donkeys," said Chopra at an event on Tuesday. 
 
Earlier on the day of the release of the film, a woman belonging to the Kashmiri Pandit community broke down and lashed out at Chopra after watching the film at a theatre here where he had come to get a firsthand public review of the film. 
 
The woman alleged that Chopra commercialised the entire issue of the exodus of the community which took place in 1990 and did not portray the actual suffering of the community including the genocide, mass rapes and mass murders committed by Islamic radical groups in his film. 
 
This further stirred a debate on the credibility of the portrayal of the sensitive issue in the flick.The period-drama `Shikara` which is a love story that revolves around the true event of the mass exodus of the Kashmiri Pandits from the valley was released across the country on Friday, February 7.&nbsp;

Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra slammed those alleging that he "commercialised the pain of Kashmiri pandits" with his film `Shikara` and termed them donkeys. "'3 Idiots' earned 33 crores on the first day and we knew the first day of Shikara will be 30 lakh.

Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra slammed those alleging that he "commercialised the pain of Kashmiri pandits" with his film `Shikara` and termed them donkeys. "'3 Idiots' earned 33 crores on the first day and we knew the first day of Shikara will be 30 lakh. I make a film in the memory of my mother for 30 lakh collection on first day and some people say I commercialised the pain of Kashmiri Pandits. These people are donkeys," said Chopra at an event on Tuesday. Earlier on the day of the release of the film, a woman belonging to the Kashmiri Pandit community broke down and lashed out at Chopra after watching the film at a theatre here where he had come to get a firsthand public review of the film. The woman alleged that Chopra commercialised the entire issue of the exodus of the community which took place in 1990 and did not portray the actual suffering of the community including the genocide, mass rapes and mass murders committed by Islamic radical groups in his film. This further stirred a debate on the credibility of the portrayal of the sensitive issue in the flick.The period-drama `Shikara` which is a love story that revolves around the true event of the mass exodus of the Kashmiri Pandits from the valley was released across the country on Friday, February 7.

Those who say I commercialised pain of Kashmiri pandits in 'Shikara' are donkeys: Vidhu Vinod Chopra

Spreading a message of unity in times of tension in Jammu and Kashmir, around 3,000 people, mostly Muslims, got together in the Pulwama district to attend the funeral of a local Kashmiri Pandit.&nbsp;

The Muslim community in the Trichal village helped perform the last rites of 50-year-old Tej Kishan as per Hindu rituals, ANI reported.

As news of Kishan&rsquo;s death after a year-long battle with paralysis came in, his neighbours spread the word about performing his last rites over Mosque loudspeakers in the entire region.

&quot;This is true Kashmir; this is our culture and we share a brotherhood. We do not believe in duality or divisive politics. We share composite culture,&quot; said Janki Nath Panditha, Kishan&rsquo;s brother, told ANI.

Kishan and his family stayed back in the Valley in the nineties when most from the Kashmiri Pandit community were leaving the region fearing persecution under Islamist militancy. &nbsp;

&quot;Majority of people present in the last rituals were Muslims. We performed his last rites. We condemn incidents which try to create differences between Hindus and Muslims. We live here in peace and harmony,&quot; Muhammad Yousuf, Kishan&rsquo;s neighbour, told ANI.&nbsp;

 
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About 3,000 people, mostly Muslims, gathered in the Trichal village to perform the last rites of a local Kashmiri Pandit who died after a year-long paralysis

Spreading a message of unity in times of tension in Jammu and Kashmir, around 3,000 people, mostly Muslims, got together in the Pulwama district to attend the funeral of a local Kashmiri Pandit. The Muslim community in the Trichal village helped perform the last rites of 50-year-old Tej Kishan as per Hindu rituals, ANI reported. As news of Kishan’s death after a year-long battle with paralysis came in, his neighbours spread the word about performing his last rites over Mosque loudspeakers in the entire region. "This is true Kashmir; this is our culture and we share a brotherhood. We do not believe in duality or divisive politics. We share composite culture," said Janki Nath Panditha, Kishan’s brother, told ANI. Kishan and his family stayed back in the Valley in the nineties when most from the Kashmiri Pandit community were leaving the region fearing persecution under Islamist militancy. "Majority of people present in the last rituals were Muslims. We performed his last rites. We condemn incidents which try to create differences between Hindus and Muslims. We live here in peace and harmony," Muhammad Yousuf, Kishan’s neighbour, told ANI.

Muslims help perform last rites of Kashmiri Pandit man in Valley

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Militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen has asked migrant Kashmiri Pandits, who were forced to flee the Jammu and Kashmir &nbsp;Valley in the early 90&#39;s&nbsp;after the eruption of militancy, to return to their homes, assuring them of protection, and also said it was planning to raise a Sikh outfit.

&quot;We request Kashmiri Pandits to return to their homes. We take responsibility of their safety,&quot; &nbsp;Zakir Rashid Bhat alias &quot;Musa&quot;, the self-styled commander of the militant outfit, said in a brief video message released yesterday.

Thousands of Kashmiri Pandits were forced to flee the Valley after they were targeted by militant groups during the outbreak of militancy and have been living in Jammu and other parts of the country.

&quot;They should look at those Pandits who never left Kashmir. Who has harassed or killed them?&quot; asked the &quot;successor&quot; of the slain militant Burhan Wani.

Dressed in military camouflage and fiddling with a grenade in the video, Bhat, who dropped out of engineering course from a Punjab college and joined Hizbul Mujahideen some years back, also voiced the&nbsp;conspiracy theory that the&nbsp;Pandits were forced out of the Valley as part of a planned strategy to target Muslims.

He claimed that the government was planning to take action in the Valley in an operation similar to &#39;Operation Blue Star&#39; in Punjab.

Bhat revealed in the 1.38 minute video that the militants were planning to raise an exclusive group of Sikh youths in the outfit.

&quot;Our Sikh brothers are requesting us to join Hizbul Mujahideen...We are with them on every front and God willing, we will try and make an exclusive group for Sikhs in the outfit,&quot; he said.

About the latest trend of weapon snatching in the Valley, especially in south Kashmir districts, he said, &quot;Many youths have taken to Jihad, snatched the weapons and joined our ranks.&quot;

Two green banners with religious slogans and as many weapons on both sides behind him could also been seen in the video which was shot at an unknown location.

South Kashmir witnessed a spurt in weapon snatching incidents over the past three months of unrest which was triggered by the killing of Wani in an encounter with security forces on July 8.

The unrest has so far claimed 84 lives and injured thousands of others. &nbsp;

(PTI)

Thousands of Pandits, who are Hindu, were forced to flee the Kashmir valley in the early 90's after the militancy broke out

Militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen has asked migrant Kashmiri Pandits, who were forced to flee the Jammu and Kashmir Valley in the early 90's after the eruption of militancy, to return to their homes, assuring them of protection, and also said it was planning to raise a Sikh outfit. "We request Kashmiri Pandits to return to their homes. We take responsibility of their safety," Zakir Rashid Bhat alias "Musa", the self-styled commander of the militant outfit, said in a brief video message released yesterday. Thousands of Kashmiri Pandits were forced to flee the Valley after they were targeted by militant groups during the outbreak of militancy and have been living in Jammu and other parts of the country. "They should look at those Pandits who never left Kashmir. Who has harassed or killed them?" asked the "successor" of the slain militant Burhan Wani. Dressed in military camouflage and fiddling with a grenade in the video, Bhat, who dropped out of engineering course from a Punjab college and joined Hizbul Mujahideen some years back, also voiced the conspiracy theory that the Pandits were forced out of the Valley as part of a planned strategy to target Muslims. He claimed that the government was planning to take action in the Valley in an operation similar to 'Operation Blue Star' in Punjab. Bhat revealed in the 1.38 minute video that the militants were planning to raise an exclusive group of Sikh youths in the outfit. "Our Sikh brothers are requesting us to join Hizbul Mujahideen...We are with them on every front and God willing, we will try and make an exclusive group for Sikhs in the outfit," he said. About the latest trend of weapon snatching in the Valley, especially in south Kashmir districts, he said, "Many youths have taken to Jihad, snatched the weapons and joined our ranks." Two green banners with religious slogans and as many weapons on both sides behind him could also been seen in the video which was shot at an unknown location. South Kashmir witnessed a spurt in weapon snatching incidents over the past three months of unrest which was triggered by the killing of Wani in an encounter with security forces on July 8. The unrest has so far claimed 84 lives and injured thousands of others. (PTI)

Kashmir: Burhan Wani's 'successor' asks Pandits to return, says militants planning Sikh outfit

The Pandit community in Kashmir Valley of India staged a protest today demanding a shift to Jammu district till normalcy returns in the violence-hit region. 
 
Attacks on the Kashmiri Pandits, the minority Hindus in the Valley, have increased after armed forces shot to death a top militant commander, Burhan Wani, on July 8.&nbsp; 
 
Many Pandit migrants are posted across the valley under the Prime Minister Special Employment Package. Most of them stay in transit camps. 
 
Post Wani&#39;s death, the Valley has been rocked by violent protests. At least 37 people have been killed and about 1,500, including members of the security forces, have been injured in clashes. Curfew is in force for the sixth day. 
 
Mobs have also taken to pelting stones at migrants living in camps at Vessu and Mattan regions in Anantnag district, among others. 
 
Some Pandits managed to escape and reached Jammu, where they shouted slogans demanding proper security. 
 
&quot;A mob pelted stones at our camp, at our home and other camps as well. Burhan died and the mob pelted stones at us, someone else will die and then again the mob will throw stones at us. So we don&#39;t want to go there and work,&quot; said a protestor, Sulekha Kaul. 
 
Relief Commissioner R.K. Pandita assured them all help possible. 
 
&quot;We have employees posted in different locations in Kashmir Valley who have been appointed under PM&#39;s package. Today these employees, some numbering 400 to 500 employees, they met me in my office and were alleging that there has been stone pelting on their various transit locations and I have asked them to give me a memorandum which I will be forwarding to government for appropriate action,&quot; said Pandita. 
 
According to officials, there are 1,673 migrant Pandit employees in the Valley and 1,040 live in camps. 
 
Violence in Kashmir has spiked against a backdrop of rising social tension and separatist sentiment in the Muslim-majority region, which for decades has been at the centre of a strategic tussle between India and Pakistan. 
 
India and Pakistan have fought two of their three wars since independence in 1947 over Kashmir, which they both claim in full but rule in part. 
 
India accuses Pakistan of training and arming the rebels in the portion it controls and sending them to the Indian side, a claim its neighbour denies. 
 
(Reuters)&nbsp;

Mobs have taken to pelting stones at Pandit migrants living in transit camps in Kashmir

The Pandit community in Kashmir Valley of India staged a protest today demanding a shift to Jammu district till normalcy returns in the violence-hit region. Attacks on the Kashmiri Pandits, the minority Hindus in the Valley, have increased after armed forces shot to death a top militant commander, Burhan Wani, on July 8. Many Pandit migrants are posted across the valley under the Prime Minister Special Employment Package. Most of them stay in transit camps. Post Wani's death, the Valley has been rocked by violent protests. At least 37 people have been killed and about 1,500, including members of the security forces, have been injured in clashes. Curfew is in force for the sixth day. Mobs have also taken to pelting stones at migrants living in camps at Vessu and Mattan regions in Anantnag district, among others. Some Pandits managed to escape and reached Jammu, where they shouted slogans demanding proper security. "A mob pelted stones at our camp, at our home and other camps as well. Burhan died and the mob pelted stones at us, someone else will die and then again the mob will throw stones at us. So we don't want to go there and work," said a protestor, Sulekha Kaul. Relief Commissioner R.K. Pandita assured them all help possible. "We have employees posted in different locations in Kashmir Valley who have been appointed under PM's package. Today these employees, some numbering 400 to 500 employees, they met me in my office and were alleging that there has been stone pelting on their various transit locations and I have asked them to give me a memorandum which I will be forwarding to government for appropriate action," said Pandita. According to officials, there are 1,673 migrant Pandit employees in the Valley and 1,040 live in camps. Violence in Kashmir has spiked against a backdrop of rising social tension and separatist sentiment in the Muslim-majority region, which for decades has been at the centre of a strategic tussle between India and Pakistan. India and Pakistan have fought two of their three wars since independence in 1947 over Kashmir, which they both claim in full but rule in part. India accuses Pakistan of training and arming the rebels in the portion it controls and sending them to the Indian side, a claim its neighbour denies. (Reuters)

Attacks on Kashmiri Pandits increase after killing of Burhan Wani

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