The CBI has refused to disclose records pertaining to dilution of a lookout circular against fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya, accused of loan default of over Rs 9,000 crore, citing ongoing investigation.

In response to an RTI application filed by Pune-based Vihar Durve, the agency has cited section 8(1)(h) of the act to deny the information.

The section exempts from disclosure the information which would impede the process of investigation or apprehension or prosecution of offenders.

The Delhi High Court, however, has clarified that when a public authority invokes this clause, it has to provide detailed reasoning how disclosure will impede the process as disclosure is norm and exemption is an exception.

The CBI had issued LOC against Mallya calling for his detention if he intends to leave the country or arrive here from abroad but in a surprise move, it was diluted asking the immigration authorities to merely inform the agency in case of his travel.

Mallya appeared before the agency for questioning after the dilution and even travelled abroad and returned.

However, in March 2016 he left the country for England but did not return since and is contesting a case of extradition there.

The then CBI director Anil Sinha was not kept in the loop about the change in the nature of LoC which was done by an SP-ranked officer on the verbal instructions of a joint director officer of the agency, according to government sources.

Sinha after coming to know about the change and Mallya's escape had made detailed notings on the file admonishing the officer concerned, they had said.

While refusing the information, the CBI has also cited on the exemption given to it from the RTI Act which gives it immunity from any provision of the RTI Act.

The exemption, however, does not apply when the information sought pertains to allegations of corruption which was a case against Mallya.&nbsp;

The CBI has refused to disclose records pertaining to dilution of a lookout circular against fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya, accused of loan default of over Rs 9,000 crore, citing ongoing investigation.

The CBI has refused to disclose records pertaining to dilution of a lookout circular against fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya, accused of loan default of over Rs 9,000 crore, citing ongoing investigation. In response to an RTI application filed by Pune-based Vihar Durve, the agency has cited section 8(1)(h) of the act to deny the information. The section exempts from disclosure the information which would impede the process of investigation or apprehension or prosecution of offenders. The Delhi High Court, however, has clarified that when a public authority invokes this clause, it has to provide detailed reasoning how disclosure will impede the process as disclosure is norm and exemption is an exception. The CBI had issued LOC against Mallya calling for his detention if he intends to leave the country or arrive here from abroad but in a surprise move, it was diluted asking the immigration authorities to merely inform the agency in case of his travel. Mallya appeared before the agency for questioning after the dilution and even travelled abroad and returned. However, in March 2016 he left the country for England but did not return since and is contesting a case of extradition there. The then CBI director Anil Sinha was not kept in the loop about the change in the nature of LoC which was done by an SP-ranked officer on the verbal instructions of a joint director officer of the agency, according to government sources. Sinha after coming to know about the change and Mallya's escape had made detailed notings on the file admonishing the officer concerned, they had said. While refusing the information, the CBI has also cited on the exemption given to it from the RTI Act which gives it immunity from any provision of the RTI Act. The exemption, however, does not apply when the information sought pertains to allegations of corruption which was a case against Mallya.

CBI refuses to disclose records on how lookout circular against Mallya was changed

The Indian Army has targeted Pakistani military administrative headquarters across the Line of Control in retaliation to the recent shelling in Poonch and Jhallas, security officials said Monday.

The Army retaliated in the Khuiratta and Samani areas of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), they said.

The Pakistani army had shelled the brigade headquarters and other Indian military formations in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch on October 23.

"In response to Pakistani army's firing of stray shells on Poonch and Jhallas on October 23, 2018, the Indian Army has sent a strong signal by firing at Pakistani army administrative headquarters... and the residents of border villages also reported that they could see smoke emanating," the officials said.

Following the shelling in Poonch, the Indian Army has in its "strong signal" to Pakistan, fired on its army administrative headquarters in PoK, they said.

Quoting information received from across the border, the officials claimed that several photographs "stood testimony" to the reports of border villagers that they had seen smoke emanating from the Pakistani headquarters after the Indian military's retaliatory action.

They said the Indian Army has exercised maximum restraint, despite continuous provocation by the Pakistani army.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Pakistan army administrative HQ targeted along LoC near Poonch by Indian Army in retaliation to Pakistan’s mortar shelling of Poonch and Jhallas on October 23 <a href="https://t.co/o0C6UJQqcr">pic.twitter.com/o0C6UJQqcr</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1056871597615788032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Army has avoided targeting civilian population living in the close proximity of the Line of Control (LoC) in PoK areas such as Hajira, BandiGopalpur, Nikial, Samani and Khuiratta, the officials said.

Following the 2016 surgical strikes, the pressure on the Pakistani army was kept across the LoC through "proactive and precise targeting" by the Indian Army, they said

The officials claimed that against the more than 138 fatal casualties suffered by the Pakistani army in the area in 2017, the numbers reduced to half till May 2018 after the neighbouring nation was forced to request for a ceasefire in the face of mounting deaths and injuries.

They also highlighted the recent killing of two Pakistan Border Action Team personnel in the Sunderbani sector on October 21 and the country's refusal to accept their bodies.

"Deprivation and penury of locals of PoK suit the Pakistan army that while ensconced in the safety of their posts, use these unwitting and brainwashed youths as cannon fodder for actions along the LoC, a cowardly and unprofessional modus operandi for any self-respecting army," the officials said.

"These acts of the Pakistan army are accentuated by their propensity in refusing to acknowledge and accept the dead bodies of their soldiers as also of terrorists, each time the terrorists are neutralised in operations along the LoC or the hinterland," they said.

The Indian Army has targeted Pakistani military administrative headquarters across the Line of Control in retaliation to the recent shelling in Poonch and Jhallas, security officials said Monday.

The Indian Army has targeted Pakistani military administrative headquarters across the Line of Control in retaliation to the recent shelling in Poonch and Jhallas, security officials said Monday. The Army retaliated in the Khuiratta and Samani areas of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), they said. The Pakistani army had shelled the brigade headquarters and other Indian military formations in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch on October 23. "In response to Pakistani army's firing of stray shells on Poonch and Jhallas on October 23, 2018, the Indian Army has sent a strong signal by firing at Pakistani army administrative headquarters... and the residents of border villages also reported that they could see smoke emanating," the officials said. Following the shelling in Poonch, the Indian Army has in its "strong signal" to Pakistan, fired on its army administrative headquarters in PoK, they said. Quoting information received from across the border, the officials claimed that several photographs "stood testimony" to the reports of border villagers that they had seen smoke emanating from the Pakistani headquarters after the Indian military's retaliatory action. They said the Indian Army has exercised maximum restraint, despite continuous provocation by the Pakistani army. #WATCH: Pakistan army administrative HQ targeted along LoC near Poonch by Indian Army in retaliation to Pakistan’s mortar shelling of Poonch and Jhallas on October 23 pic.twitter.com/o0C6UJQqcr — ANI (@ANI) October 29, 2018 × The Army has avoided targeting civilian population living in the close proximity of the Line of Control (LoC) in PoK areas such as Hajira, BandiGopalpur, Nikial, Samani and Khuiratta, the officials said. Following the 2016 surgical strikes, the pressure on the Pakistani army was kept across the LoC through "proactive and precise targeting" by the Indian Army, they said The officials claimed that against the more than 138 fatal casualties suffered by the Pakistani army in the area in 2017, the numbers reduced to half till May 2018 after the neighbouring nation was forced to request for a ceasefire in the face of mounting deaths and injuries. They also highlighted the recent killing of two Pakistan Border Action Team personnel in the Sunderbani sector on October 21 and the country's refusal to accept their bodies. "Deprivation and penury of locals of PoK suit the Pakistan army that while ensconced in the safety of their posts, use these unwitting and brainwashed youths as cannon fodder for actions along the LoC, a cowardly and unprofessional modus operandi for any self-respecting army," the officials said. "These acts of the Pakistan army are accentuated by their propensity in refusing to acknowledge and accept the dead bodies of their soldiers as also of terrorists, each time the terrorists are neutralised in operations along the LoC or the hinterland," they said.

Watch: Indian Army targets Pakistan Army installation along LoC in retaliation to shelling

The Indian Navy has planned a two-day event starting September 29 in Mumbai and Goa to commemorate the second anniversary of the surgical strike carried out by the defence forces in 2016 to destroy terror launch pads across the Line of Control or LoC, an official said today.

The event, which will take place in the Ballard Pier Cruiser Wharf at Naval Dockyard in Mumbai under the Western Naval Command, will have exhibition stalls and video walls, the navy official said. The entry for the event venue will be from Tiger Gate, the official informed.

"The events will showcase the gallant action of the army in carrying out the surgical strike on September 29, 2016, and will also remember the sacrifice of Indian soldiers during the Uri incident," the official said.

The various events that have been planned include an exhibition showcasing the valour of armed forces, display of ships, submarines, aircraft, arms and equipment models etc, he said.

Ships will be open to public and visits by schoolchildren as well as NCC cadets to ships, submarines and air stations are being planned, he added.

Schoolchildren will be encouraged to participate in letter-writing and card and poster competitions to honour valiant soldiers, he said.

The army had carried out surgical strikes across the LoC to eliminate terrorists and destroy terror launch pads on the night of September 28-29, 2016.

The Indian Navy has planned a two-day event starting September 29 in Mumbai and Goa to commemorate the second anniversary of the surgical strike carried out by the defence forces in 2016 to destroy terror launch pads across the Line of Control or LoC, an official said today.

The Indian Navy has planned a two-day event starting September 29 in Mumbai and Goa to commemorate the second anniversary of the surgical strike carried out by the defence forces in 2016 to destroy terror launch pads across the Line of Control or LoC, an official said today. The event, which will take place in the Ballard Pier Cruiser Wharf at Naval Dockyard in Mumbai under the Western Naval Command, will have exhibition stalls and video walls, the navy official said. The entry for the event venue will be from Tiger Gate, the official informed. "The events will showcase the gallant action of the army in carrying out the surgical strike on September 29, 2016, and will also remember the sacrifice of Indian soldiers during the Uri incident," the official said. The various events that have been planned include an exhibition showcasing the valour of armed forces, display of ships, submarines, aircraft, arms and equipment models etc, he said. Ships will be open to public and visits by schoolchildren as well as NCC cadets to ships, submarines and air stations are being planned, he added. Schoolchildren will be encouraged to participate in letter-writing and card and poster competitions to honour valiant soldiers, he said. The army had carried out surgical strikes across the LoC to eliminate terrorists and destroy terror launch pads on the night of September 28-29, 2016.

Indian Navy plans 2-day event to commemorate surgical strike across LoC

Pakistan today summoned <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-4-bsf-personnel-killed-in-ceasefire-violation-by-pakistan-143986">India's Acting Deputy High Commissioner</a> alleging ceasefire violation by India along the Line of Control(LoC).

At least 4 BSF personnel were killed as Pakistan opened fire in the Chambliyal sector of Samba on Wednesday morning. Three other soldiers were injured during the unprovoked firing on the border.

BSF's Kamal Nath Choubey said ceasefire is always a bilateral decision, we have always maintained the sanctity of ceasefire but Pakistan has violated it.&nbsp;

"We are always prepared, ceasefire or no ceasefire there is no let up in border surveillance," Choubey added.

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Jammu: Wreath laying ceremony of BSF's Assistant Commandant Jitendra Singh, Sub Inspector Rajneesh Kumar, ASI Ramniwas and Constable Hansraj Gurjar who lost their lives today in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Chambliyal sector of Samba. <a href="https://t.co/RCUPHxtnEL">pic.twitter.com/RCUPHxtnEL</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1006795904895127552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India and Pakistan DGMOs had agreed to stick to the 2003 ceasefire agreement between the two countries three weeks ago, despite that firing along the border has continued unabated.

Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid expressed his condolence over the incident.

During the firing on Wednesday, &nbsp;two BSF soldiers, one assistant commandant and one sub-inspector were killed.

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Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police SP Vaid expressed his condolence over the incident.

Pakistan today summoned India's Acting Deputy High Commissioner alleging ceasefire violation by India along the Line of Control(LoC). At least 4 BSF personnel were killed as Pakistan opened fire in the Chambliyal sector of Samba on Wednesday morning. Three other soldiers were injured during the unprovoked firing on the border. BSF's Kamal Nath Choubey said ceasefire is always a bilateral decision, we have always maintained the sanctity of ceasefire but Pakistan has violated it. "We are always prepared, ceasefire or no ceasefire there is no let up in border surveillance," Choubey added. Jammu: Wreath laying ceremony of BSF's Assistant Commandant Jitendra Singh, Sub Inspector Rajneesh Kumar, ASI Ramniwas and Constable Hansraj Gurjar who lost their lives today in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Chambliyal sector of Samba. pic.twitter.com/RCUPHxtnEL — ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2018 × India and Pakistan DGMOs had agreed to stick to the 2003 ceasefire agreement between the two countries three weeks ago, despite that firing along the border has continued unabated. Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid expressed his condolence over the incident. During the firing on Wednesday, two BSF soldiers, one assistant commandant and one sub-inspector were killed.

Pakistan summons India's Deputy High Commissioner after firing along LoC

In another move to resume ties with India, <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/as-rajnath-singh-visits-jk-terrorists-attack-army-patrol-in-kupwara-twice-in-24-hours-142979">Pakistan said "uninterrupted dialogue"</a> was the only way forward for resolution of all disputes with India.

In a weekly briefing, Pakistan's foreign office spokesman<a href="http://wionews.com/videos/deal-with-terrorists-without-distinction-us-tells-pakistan-142923"> said Pakistan was in favour </a>of dialogue with India.

Echoing foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's feelings, India defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman had told reporters on Monday that "talks and terror can't go together", in reference to cross-border terror attacks.

Recently India and Pakistan DGMOs had decided to implement a &nbsp;2003 ceasefire agreement, however, Pakistan troops have been firing on Indian posts along the Line of Control(LoC) in the past week leading the government to rethink its stand on the ceasefire agreement.

Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K on a two-day visit to review the security situation in the state where he will also talk with people in the border areas who have faced the brunt of Pakistani fire from across the LoC.

Even as India's home minister arrived in the state, terrorists ambushed an Army patrol in Kupwara and repeated it again on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Pakistan High Commissioner has decided to host an Iftar party in Delhi in which several separatists, lawyers and journalists from the Valley have been invited, raising eyebrows in the government.

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Recently India and Pakistan DGMOs had decided to implement a 2003 ceasefire agreement

In another move to resume ties with India, Pakistan said "uninterrupted dialogue" was the only way forward for resolution of all disputes with India. In a weekly briefing, Pakistan's foreign office spokesman said Pakistan was in favour of dialogue with India. Echoing foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's feelings, India defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman had told reporters on Monday that "talks and terror can't go together", in reference to cross-border terror attacks. Recently India and Pakistan DGMOs had decided to implement a 2003 ceasefire agreement, however, Pakistan troops have been firing on Indian posts along the Line of Control(LoC) in the past week leading the government to rethink its stand on the ceasefire agreement. Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K on a two-day visit to review the security situation in the state where he will also talk with people in the border areas who have faced the brunt of Pakistani fire from across the LoC. Even as India's home minister arrived in the state, terrorists ambushed an Army patrol in Kupwara and repeated it again on Thursday. Meanwhile, Pakistan High Commissioner has decided to host an Iftar party in Delhi in which several separatists, lawyers and journalists from the Valley have been invited, raising eyebrows in the government.

Uninterrupted dialogue with India only way to resolve all disputes: Pakistan

A day after home minister arrived in<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-rajnath-singh-lands-in-jk-terrorists-ambush-army-patrol-in-kupwara-142769"> Jammu and Kashmir(J&K)&nbsp;terrorists</a> attacked an army patrol in Haril area of Kupwara district.

On Thursday, terrorists had ambushed the Army's patrol party in the Keran sector in Kupwara. Two soldiers were injured in the attack.

Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K to review the security situation in the state and meet people in the border area.

During a function in Sher-e-Kashmir Indoor Stadium in J&K, India's home minister said the Centre had decided to withdraw cases against stone-pelters.

"We believe that children anywhere are the same. We understand that some youth were misled into stone pelting."

"Children can make mistakes... That is why we decided to withdraw the cases against those children who were involved in stone pelting," he said.

Rajnath appealed to the youth in J&K to take the "path of development and not destruction." The home minister asserted that the state's sports infrastructure would be improved which he said "will change the face and destiny of the state."

Sing also facilitated several sportsperson from the state, including Parvez Rasool, Mehrajuddin, Rajinder Singh, Manzoor Dar and Tajjammul Islam.

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Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K to review the security situation in the state and meet people in the border area.

A day after home minister arrived in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) terrorists attacked an army patrol in Haril area of Kupwara district. On Thursday, terrorists had ambushed the Army's patrol party in the Keran sector in Kupwara. Two soldiers were injured in the attack. Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K to review the security situation in the state and meet people in the border area. During a function in Sher-e-Kashmir Indoor Stadium in J&K, India's home minister said the Centre had decided to withdraw cases against stone-pelters. "We believe that children anywhere are the same. We understand that some youth were misled into stone pelting." "Children can make mistakes... That is why we decided to withdraw the cases against those children who were involved in stone pelting," he said. Rajnath appealed to the youth in J&K to take the "path of development and not destruction." The home minister asserted that the state's sports infrastructure would be improved which he said "will change the face and destiny of the state." Sing also facilitated several sportsperson from the state, including Parvez Rasool, Mehrajuddin, Rajinder Singh, Manzoor Dar and Tajjammul Islam.

As Rajnath Singh visits J&K, terrorists attack Army patrol in Kupwara twice in 24 hours

As home minister <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/ceasefire-review-rajnath-singh-to-visit-jk-again-to-meet-people-living-in-border-areas-142741">Rajnath Singh landed in Jammu</a> and Kashmir(J&K), terrorists attacked an army patrol in the Keran sector of Kupwara.

The terrorists ambushed the patrolling party. Two soldiers were critically injured in the attack.

Sources said the attack was carried out by Pakistan's border action team(BAT).

Meanwhile, Rajnath Singh reached Srinagar on Thursday morning to review the security situation in the state after Pakistan repeatedly opened fire along the Line of Control(LoC).

India's home minister will be meeting people in the border areas and will meet J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti during his two-day visit to the state.

 
&nbsp

Rajnath Singh reached Srinagar on Thursday morning to review the security situation in the state

As home minister Rajnath Singh landed in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), terrorists attacked an army patrol in the Keran sector of Kupwara. The terrorists ambushed the patrolling party. Two soldiers were critically injured in the attack. Sources said the attack was carried out by Pakistan's border action team(BAT). Meanwhile, Rajnath Singh reached Srinagar on Thursday morning to review the security situation in the state after Pakistan repeatedly opened fire along the Line of Control(LoC). India's home minister will be meeting people in the border areas and will meet J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti during his two-day visit to the state.

As Rajnath Singh lands in J&K, terrorists ambush Army patrol in Kupwara

Home Minister <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/after-cross-border-firing-rajnath-singh-to-visit-jk-to-review-security-142058">Rajnath Singh will be visiting</a> Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) just days after his previous visit as the government keeps a close eye on the security situation in the state.

The home minister will be accompanied by Union home secretary, joint secretary(J&K) and Minister of State(MoS) in Prime Minister's Office(PMO) Jitendra Singh.

The minister will also meet J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti and review security arrangements for the Amarnath Yatra.

Rajnath Singh will stay in J&K for two days as he reviews the situation in the state.

India's home minister said he was "looking forward to interact with the youth and people living in border areas" including other sections of the society.

Last week the home minister had visited J&K as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors.

Although India and Pakistan DGMOs had agreed on the 2003 ceasefire agreement but there has been incessant firing along the Line of Control(LoC). The firing had led to the death of 2 BSF personnel.

Last week the home minister had visited J&K as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh will be visiting Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) just days after his previous visit as the government keeps a close eye on the security situation in the state. The home minister will be accompanied by Union home secretary, joint secretary(J&K) and Minister of State(MoS) in Prime Minister's Office(PMO) Jitendra Singh. The minister will also meet J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti and review security arrangements for the Amarnath Yatra. Rajnath Singh will stay in J&K for two days as he reviews the situation in the state. India's home minister said he was "looking forward to interact with the youth and people living in border areas" including other sections of the society. Last week the home minister had visited J&K as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors. Although India and Pakistan DGMOs had agreed on the 2003 ceasefire agreement but there has been incessant firing along the Line of Control(LoC). The firing had led to the death of 2 BSF personnel.

Ceasefire review: Rajnath Singh to visit J&K again to meet people living in border areas

Just hours after terrorists attacked an army camp in Bandipora in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), the Army foiled an infiltration bid in Machhal sector.

Three terrorists were killed during the encounter with security forces. The Army has launched a search operation in the area.

On Tuesday night, terrorists opened fire in Hajin in north Kashmir's Bandipora district.

Troops noticed suspicious movement along the LoC in Macchil sector in Kupwara district and challenged the infiltrators, an Army official told PTI.

Reports said 4-6 terrorists approached the 13 Rashtriya Rifles camp and lauched a grenade attack.

Security forces retaliated "heavily and effectively", a senior police officer said, adding that it was not a suicide attack.

The area has been cordoned off and combing operations have been started, the officer said.

Three terrorists were killed during the encounter with security forces.

Just hours after terrorists attacked an army camp in Bandipora in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), the Army foiled an infiltration bid in Machhal sector. Three terrorists were killed during the encounter with security forces. The Army has launched a search operation in the area. On Tuesday night, terrorists opened fire in Hajin in north Kashmir's Bandipora district. Troops noticed suspicious movement along the LoC in Macchil sector in Kupwara district and challenged the infiltrators, an Army official told PTI. Reports said 4-6 terrorists approached the 13 Rashtriya Rifles camp and lauched a grenade attack. Security forces retaliated "heavily and effectively", a senior police officer said, adding that it was not a suicide attack. The area has been cordoned off and combing operations have been started, the officer said.

After Bandipora terror attack, infiltration bid foiled in J&K; 3 terrorists killed

Reiterating&nbsp;foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's view, defence minister <a href="Commanders of BSF, Pakistan Rangers meet, say peace along border 'likely'">Nirmala Sitharaman said today</a> that talks and terror can't go together, in reference to cross-border terror attacks.

Addressing a press conference, Sitharam said the government had consulted with the Indian Army about the ceasefire.

India had announced a ceasefire in J&K over Ramzan, a move which was applauded by the Mehbooba government.

"We respect the ceasefire," Sitharaman said, adding that India "won't stop if provoked."

India and Pakistan troops exchanged fire on Sunday leading to the death of 2 BSF soldiers on Sunday after agreeing to the 2003 ceasefire agreement.

"We will respond if Pakistan does not honour the ceasefire," the defence minister&nbsp;added.

On the state of India's defence forces,&nbsp;Sitharaman said maximum defence spending in a decade had happened last year.

"There is no real cash crush for the forces," she said.

India had announced a ceasefire in J&K over Ramzan

Reiterating foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's view, defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman said today that talks and terror can't go together, in reference to cross-border terror attacks. Addressing a press conference, Sitharam said the government had consulted with the Indian Army about the ceasefire. India had announced a ceasefire in J&K over Ramzan, a move which was applauded by the Mehbooba government. "We respect the ceasefire," Sitharaman said, adding that India "won't stop if provoked." India and Pakistan troops exchanged fire on Sunday leading to the death of 2 BSF soldiers on Sunday after agreeing to the 2003 ceasefire agreement. "We will respond if Pakistan does not honour the ceasefire," the defence minister added. On the state of India's defence forces, Sitharaman said maximum defence spending in a decade had happened last year. "There is no real cash crush for the forces," she said.

Talks and terror can't go together: Defence minister Sitharaman to Pakistan

Home Minister Rajnath Singh will visit <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/no-respite-in-cross-border-firing-will-be-constrained-to-revoke-ceasefire-agreement-mos-hansraj-ahir-142002">Jammu and Kashmir this week </a>to review the security situation after India and Pakistan Director General Of Military Operations(DGMOs) concluded a ceasefire agreement last week.

Tension on the border increased over the <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/ceasefire-dialogue-offer-opportunity-to-save-jk-from-bloodshed-mehbooba-141939">weekend after Pakistan troops</a> opened fire in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district.

India's home minister will also meet J&K chief minister Mahbooba Mufti on the security situation in the state and efforts to engage the youth in development projects.

Rajnath Singh is due to visit the state either on Wednesday or Thursday. Last week India and Pakistan DGMs troops had concluded a 2003 ceasefire agreement according to the two sides decided not to engage in cross-border firing.

However, on Sunday Pakistan troops opened fire on Indian troops along the LoC leading to the death of 2 BSF personnel.&nbsp

J&K power minister Sunil Sharma lashed out at Pakistan declaring that time the central government is very "determined to send a message to Pakistan". 
&nbsp 
"Though it is the domain of the centre, defence ministry and defence strategists, we understand that we are not going to tolerate the killings anymore. We are making our efforts to normalise the situation but they(Pakistan) are showing desperation and hurling grenades and firing on the borders," the state power minister said.

Following Sunil Sharma's comment, Minister of State for Home Affairs Hansraj Ahir said the Centre had decided to suspend operations in view of Ramzan. However, since there is no respite in cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations on the part of Pakistan, the government "may be constrained to revoke" the agreement.

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On Sunday Pakistan troops opened fire on Indian troops along the LoC leading to the death of 2 BSF personnel.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Jammu and Kashmir this week to review the security situation after India and Pakistan Director General Of Military Operations(DGMOs) concluded a ceasefire agreement last week. Tension on the border increased over the weekend after Pakistan troops opened fire in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district. India's home minister will also meet J&K chief minister Mahbooba Mufti on the security situation in the state and efforts to engage the youth in development projects. Rajnath Singh is due to visit the state either on Wednesday or Thursday. Last week India and Pakistan DGMs troops had concluded a 2003 ceasefire agreement according to the two sides decided not to engage in cross-border firing. However, on Sunday Pakistan troops opened fire on Indian troops along the LoC leading to the death of 2 BSF personnel. J&K power minister Sunil Sharma lashed out at Pakistan declaring that time the central government is very "determined to send a message to Pakistan". "Though it is the domain of the centre, defence ministry and defence strategists, we understand that we are not going to tolerate the killings anymore. We are making our efforts to normalise the situation but they(Pakistan) are showing desperation and hurling grenades and firing on the borders," the state power minister said. Following Sunil Sharma's comment, Minister of State for Home Affairs Hansraj Ahir said the Centre had decided to suspend operations in view of Ramzan. However, since there is no respite in cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations on the part of Pakistan, the government "may be constrained to revoke" the agreement.

After cross-border firing, Rajnath Singh to visit J&K to review security

After India and Pakistan <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/ceasefire-dialogue-offer-opportunity-to-save-jk-from-bloodshed-mehbooba-141939">DGMS announced a ceasefire </a>agreement last week, minister of state for home affairs(MoS) Hansraj Ahir said the government will be "constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement" in view of cross-border firing.

In the latest incident, two BSF personnel were <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/two-bsf-personnel-killed-as-pak-violates-ceasefire-in-jk-141850">killed after Pakistani troops opened fire in Akhnoor</a>, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district on Sunday. The sudden firing led to the death of Assistant Sub-inspector Satya Narayan Yadav and Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey. At least 13 people were injured during the cross-border firing.

Speaking about the incident, Ahir said: &nbsp;"We had decided to suspend operations in view of Ramzan. However, there is no respite in cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations on the part of Pakistan," adding,"we will be constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement."

MoS Ahir added that India will continue to follow the &nbsp;"no-first-strike" policy.

Meanwhile, BSF's Jammu frontier IG Ram Awtar said &nbsp;Islamabad says one thing and does another.

India and Pakistan DGMOs last week had agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit".&nbsp;

"Suddenly, Pakistan started firing around 1.15 am, injuring two of our personnel who later succumbed,"BSF IG Awtar said. Indian troops stationed at the border returned fire, he informed.

"After every incident, we do a detailed study and accordingly take precautionary measures for the future. This incident of cross-border firing will be probed as well," the BSF IG said.

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BSF's Jammu frontier IG Ram Awtar said Islamabad says one thing and does another.

After India and Pakistan DGMS announced a ceasefire agreement last week, minister of state for home affairs(MoS) Hansraj Ahir said the government will be "constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement" in view of cross-border firing. In the latest incident, two BSF personnel were killed after Pakistani troops opened fire in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district on Sunday. The sudden firing led to the death of Assistant Sub-inspector Satya Narayan Yadav and Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey. At least 13 people were injured during the cross-border firing. Speaking about the incident, Ahir said: "We had decided to suspend operations in view of Ramzan. However, there is no respite in cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations on the part of Pakistan," adding,"we will be constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement." MoS Ahir added that India will continue to follow the "no-first-strike" policy. Meanwhile, BSF's Jammu frontier IG Ram Awtar said Islamabad says one thing and does another. India and Pakistan DGMOs last week had agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit". "Suddenly, Pakistan started firing around 1.15 am, injuring two of our personnel who later succumbed,"BSF IG Awtar said. Indian troops stationed at the border returned fire, he informed. "After every incident, we do a detailed study and accordingly take precautionary measures for the future. This incident of cross-border firing will be probed as well," the BSF IG said.

No respite in border firing, will be constrained to revoke ceasefire: MoS Home Hansraj Ahir

Amid firing along<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/after-cross-border-firing-rajnath-singh-to-visit-jk-to-review-security-142058"> LoC, Pakistan today asked</a> for a sector commander-level meeting reports said.

Two BSF personnel died on Sunday as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district.

Reports said the meeting will be held today at Octroi in Jammu at 5 pm.

Home minister Rajnath Singh is due to visit Jammu and Kashmir this week to review the ceasefire which came into effect last week after DGMOs of India and Pakistan decided to implement the 2003 ceasefire agreement.

However, after Sunday's firing, the government ministers including MoS Home Hansraj Ahir said the government will be "constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement" in view of cross-border firing.

Two BSF personnel died on Sunday as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour.

Amid firing along LoC, Pakistan today asked for a sector commander-level meeting reports said. Two BSF personnel died on Sunday as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district. Reports said the meeting will be held today at Octroi in Jammu at 5 pm. Home minister Rajnath Singh is due to visit Jammu and Kashmir this week to review the ceasefire which came into effect last week after DGMOs of India and Pakistan decided to implement the 2003 ceasefire agreement. However, after Sunday's firing, the government ministers including MoS Home Hansraj Ahir said the government will be "constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement" in view of cross-border firing.

After firing along LoC, Pakistan asks for commander-level meeting

The newsbreak of Indian and Pakistani Director General Military Operations (DGMOs) agreeing to "fully implement the 2003 ceasefire understanding in letter and spirit", through a special hotline talk comes as a pleasant surprise to affected population, more so after Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj indicated that dialogue and terror cannot go together a day earlier.

The idea of resolving issues through hotline and flag meeting is not new and has failed many times in past, however, it may give a temporary relief to the affected innocent people on the borders/Line of Control, till Pakistan releases the existing temporary international pressure on it, to abrogate ceasefire again.

Why is Pakistan talking about peace?

It was well known to the entire global community that most of the terrorist organisations are based in Pakistan, and several reports have claimed that they are sponsored by Pakistani Army and ISI. The pressure, however, started building on them only after it fell out of step with US for not taking adequate actions against the Haqqani network and al-Qaeda. The list of UN declared global terrorists expanded, and US President Donald Trump declared new South Asia policy putting them under financial and diplomatic pressure.

Pakistan temporarily sought China's help in withstanding the US pressure, but Beijing too not very happy with refueling of ETIM operating in Xinjiang by Pakistani militants, is carrying on with them due to heavy investment in CPEC, and with a condition that their men working on the project will be protected. During the BRICS Summit, China too reluctantly agreed to name LeT and JeM as terror groups. China, under international pressure of supporting radicalised Pakistan, felt the heat when the threat of Financial action Task Force (FATF) declaring it grey/black became evident. China has understood that CPEC cannot progress unless Pakistan sees some sense in peace and takes some concrete measures to showcase it. The biggest problem is that if Pakistan is declared grey/black by FATF in June then most of the investors for CPEC, including Chinese enterprises, may back out of the project. Despite Chinese denial, a possibility of them having advised Pakistan army to see sense is a reasonable possibility, otherwise expecting Pakistan army chief indicating to talk peace, and rumors of Chinese advice to move Hafiz Saeed to West Asia, cannot be without a pressure. Pakistan on the other hand finds the political cost of shifting Saeed too heavy and continues to try to give him back door entry into politics with LeT fully aligned to Pakistan Army and ISI.

Why Pakistan's adherence to ceasefire and peace is 'too good to be true'?

The peace between India and Pakistan is unfortunately marred with an inseparable historic baggage of animosity, military coups and resultant instability which continues even now. The 1971 war, besides dividing Pakistan and leading to creation of Bangladesh, resulted in 90,000 prisoners of war for the victorious Indian Army. Pakistan army could never forget it, and keeps trying to wipe this scar. Today the same generation of military is not in power, but the thought to avenge professional shame is alive with their military.

President Zia's 'Islamic Republic of Pakistan' became breeding ground for Islamic terrorism. With Taliban and Wahhabism on the rise, Pakistan witnessed a change in psyche and ideology through madrassas. Kashmir is an obvious target to avenge. The ethnic cleansing of people of Balochistan and Pashtuns makes Pakistan further unstable. Due to internal instability, Pakistan army could project itself as the only option available to protect their country against India hence they justify holding the reins of power. Their influence and relevance is due to 'Indian threat' and a 'boiling Kashmir valley'.

Pakkistan's former President Pervez Musharraf further nurtured militants, used them in proxy wars as 'strategic assets' and this reality has not changed. In this backdrop, every effort for peace is expected to fail. With Pakistan giving a ruling about Gilgit-Baltistan which is a sovereign territory of India, I do not see any peacefulness in Indo-Pak relations in near future.

Did Non Initiation of Combat Operations (NICO) have any impact on ceasefire?

The ideas like ceasefire and declaration of NICO were tried earlier in the year 2000, but failed. Pakistan neither reciprocated the gesture nor promised to hold fire. In fact they started the trans-border firing on the first day of Ramzan. It was expected that with development and 'Embracing Kashmiris' by suspending combat operations during Ramzan will alienate the population against militants trying to disturb peace. In the present declaration, the deployment and intelligence grid of security forces is not being disturbed, but they can take retaliatory action, only if militants fire at them. The fact that declaration was rejected by terrorist groups, who intend to continue their actions during the holy month of Ramzan, as well as separatist groups enjoying state protection, means that it is waiting to fail, as their narrative has been written by Pakistan. Let me analyse the possibilities under the present model of NICO:

<ul>
	<li>The expectation of peace through NICO is a misconception, because the militants, especially Pakistanis cause innumerable atrocities on innocent people of Kashmir, but no one lodges complaint/FIR against them, as they know that the entire family will be wiped out. Abu Dujana is a case in point.</li>
	<li>The militants can move freely, kill some informers and terrorise the rest, as they know that security forces cannot do anything till they actually fire at them. Terrorists are free to extort, launder money and muster enough funds for subsequent operations. They can carry out recruitment of young boys into their outfit by luring them or terrorising their parents.</li>
</ul>

How should India respond to changing realities?

As there are no easy answers for a lasting peace between India and Pakistan, India cannot afford to put its guard down on account of ceasefire. India should not be talking to Pakistan unless it shuns proxy war. India needs to declare a well thought state policy on the subject, because any wavering of stance can be construed as a weakness. War with Pakistan is not a worthwhile economical option, but India can look at overt and covert options against militants. While India expects the entire world to declare Pakistan a terror state, it is yet to scrap the 'Most Favored Nation' status accorded to it. India should also take up the issue of Balochistan in all world forums along with terrorism brewing in Pakistan. India needs to use the leverage of water sharing also with Pakistan. Internally, the decision makers need to have an honest intention to resolve it. The allurement of vote bank politics has to be subordinated to national interest.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The peace between India and Pakistan is unfortunately marred with an inseparable historic baggage of animosity, military coups and resultant instability which continues even now.

The newsbreak of Indian and Pakistani Director General Military Operations (DGMOs) agreeing to "fully implement the 2003 ceasefire understanding in letter and spirit", through a special hotline talk comes as a pleasant surprise to affected population, more so after Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj indicated that dialogue and terror cannot go together a day earlier. The idea of resolving issues through hotline and flag meeting is not new and has failed many times in past, however, it may give a temporary relief to the affected innocent people on the borders/Line of Control, till Pakistan releases the existing temporary international pressure on it, to abrogate ceasefire again. Why is Pakistan talking about peace? It was well known to the entire global community that most of the terrorist organisations are based in Pakistan, and several reports have claimed that they are sponsored by Pakistani Army and ISI. The pressure, however, started building on them only after it fell out of step with US for not taking adequate actions against the Haqqani network and al-Qaeda. The list of UN declared global terrorists expanded, and US President Donald Trump declared new South Asia policy putting them under financial and diplomatic pressure. Pakistan temporarily sought China's help in withstanding the US pressure, but Beijing too not very happy with refueling of ETIM operating in Xinjiang by Pakistani militants, is carrying on with them due to heavy investment in CPEC, and with a condition that their men working on the project will be protected. During the BRICS Summit, China too reluctantly agreed to name LeT and JeM as terror groups. China, under international pressure of supporting radicalised Pakistan, felt the heat when the threat of Financial action Task Force (FATF) declaring it grey/black became evident. China has understood that CPEC cannot progress unless Pakistan sees some sense in peace and takes some concrete measures to showcase it. The biggest problem is that if Pakistan is declared grey/black by FATF in June then most of the investors for CPEC, including Chinese enterprises, may back out of the project. Despite Chinese denial, a possibility of them having advised Pakistan army to see sense is a reasonable possibility, otherwise expecting Pakistan army chief indicating to talk peace, and rumors of Chinese advice to move Hafiz Saeed to West Asia, cannot be without a pressure. Pakistan on the other hand finds the political cost of shifting Saeed too heavy and continues to try to give him back door entry into politics with LeT fully aligned to Pakistan Army and ISI. Why Pakistan's adherence to ceasefire and peace is 'too good to be true'? The peace between India and Pakistan is unfortunately marred with an inseparable historic baggage of animosity, military coups and resultant instability which continues even now. The 1971 war, besides dividing Pakistan and leading to creation of Bangladesh, resulted in 90,000 prisoners of war for the victorious Indian Army. Pakistan army could never forget it, and keeps trying to wipe this scar. Today the same generation of military is not in power, but the thought to avenge professional shame is alive with their military. President Zia's 'Islamic Republic of Pakistan' became breeding ground for Islamic terrorism. With Taliban and Wahhabism on the rise, Pakistan witnessed a change in psyche and ideology through madrassas. Kashmir is an obvious target to avenge. The ethnic cleansing of people of Balochistan and Pashtuns makes Pakistan further unstable. Due to internal instability, Pakistan army could project itself as the only option available to protect their country against India hence they justify holding the reins of power. Their influence and relevance is due to 'Indian threat' and a 'boiling Kashmir valley'. Pakkistan's former President Pervez Musharraf further nurtured militants, used them in proxy wars as 'strategic assets' and this reality has not changed. In this backdrop, every effort for peace is expected to fail. With Pakistan giving a ruling about Gilgit-Baltistan which is a sovereign territory of India, I do not see any peacefulness in Indo-Pak relations in near future. Did Non Initiation of Combat Operations (NICO) have any impact on ceasefire? The ideas like ceasefire and declaration of NICO were tried earlier in the year 2000, but failed. Pakistan neither reciprocated the gesture nor promised to hold fire. In fact they started the trans-border firing on the first day of Ramzan. It was expected that with development and 'Embracing Kashmiris' by suspending combat operations during Ramzan will alienate the population against militants trying to disturb peace. In the present declaration, the deployment and intelligence grid of security forces is not being disturbed, but they can take retaliatory action, only if militants fire at them. The fact that declaration was rejected by terrorist groups, who intend to continue their actions during the holy month of Ramzan, as well as separatist groups enjoying state protection, means that it is waiting to fail, as their narrative has been written by Pakistan. Let me analyse the possibilities under the present model of NICO: The expectation of peace through NICO is a misconception, because the militants, especially Pakistanis cause innumerable atrocities on innocent people of Kashmir, but no one lodges complaint/FIR against them, as they know that the entire family will be wiped out. Abu Dujana is a case in point. The militants can move freely, kill some informers and terrorise the rest, as they know that security forces cannot do anything till they actually fire at them. Terrorists are free to extort, launder money and muster enough funds for subsequent operations. They can carry out recruitment of young boys into their outfit by luring them or terrorising their parents. How should India respond to changing realities? As there are no easy answers for a lasting peace between India and Pakistan, India cannot afford to put its guard down on account of ceasefire. India should not be talking to Pakistan unless it shuns proxy war. India needs to declare a well thought state policy on the subject, because any wavering of stance can be construed as a weakness. War with Pakistan is not a worthwhile economical option, but India can look at overt and covert options against militants. While India expects the entire world to declare Pakistan a terror state, it is yet to scrap the 'Most Favored Nation' status accorded to it. India should also take up the issue of Balochistan in all world forums along with terrorism brewing in Pakistan. India needs to use the leverage of water sharing also with Pakistan. Internally, the decision makers need to have an honest intention to resolve it. The allurement of vote bank politics has to be subordinated to national interest. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Pakistan agreeing to ceasefire is a ploy to release international pressure

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kim-trump-summit-entirely-up-to-us-we-will-not-beg-north-korea-139284">Kim-Trump summit 'entirely' up to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kim-trump-summit-entirely-up-to-us-we-will-not-beg-north-korea-139284">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kim-trump-summit-entirely-up-to-us-we-will-not-beg-north-korea-139284">, we will not beg: North Korea</a>

North Korea's vice foreign minister said the future of the summit between Pyongyang and Washington is "entirely" up to the United States and condemned a media interview by US Vice President Mike Pence in which he compared the North to Libya.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-sterlite-protests-police-chief-district-collector-transferred-amid-fresh-clashes-139280">Anti-Sterlite protests: Internet suspended, top cop, DC transferred</a>

Internet services in Tuticorin have been temporarily suspended from 9 pm on Wednesday until further instruction by the administration.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/petrol-diesel-prices-continue-to-soar-hit-new-high-in-last-four-days-139288">Petrol, diesel prices continue to soar, hit another new high</a>

Petrol prices were recorded at Rs 77.47/litre in Delhi on Thursday morning while for Mumbai it stood at Rs 85.29/litre. In Delhi, the price of diesel was registered at Rs 68.53/litre and at Rs 72.96/litre for Mumbai.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-fires-automatic-weapons-and-mortars-along-loc-in-baramulla-district-139281">Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Baramulla district</a>

According to reports, Pakistan violated ceasefire early Thursday morning along the Line of Control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla District.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/heavy-floods-landslides-in-sri-lanka-at-least-9-killed-139219">Heavy floods, landslides in Sri Lanka at least 9 killed</a>

Heavy monsoon rains in Sri Lanka have killed at least nine people as the monsoon season kicked off in the emerald country. Reports said at least 38,000 people have been affected by the rains and storms which have lashed central and south Sri Lanka.

Kim-Trump summit 'entirely' up to US, we will not beg: North Korea North Korea's vice foreign minister said the future of the summit between Pyongyang and Washington is "entirely" up to the United States and condemned a media interview by US Vice President Mike Pence in which he compared the North to Libya. Anti-Sterlite protests: Internet suspended, top cop, DC transferred Internet services in Tuticorin have been temporarily suspended from 9 pm on Wednesday until further instruction by the administration. Petrol, diesel prices continue to soar, hit another new high Petrol prices were recorded at Rs 77.47/litre in Delhi on Thursday morning while for Mumbai it stood at Rs 85.29/litre. In Delhi, the price of diesel was registered at Rs 68.53/litre and at Rs 72.96/litre for Mumbai. Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Baramulla district According to reports, Pakistan violated ceasefire early Thursday morning along the Line of Control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla District. Heavy floods, landslides in Sri Lanka at least 9 killed Heavy monsoon rains in Sri Lanka have killed at least nine people as the monsoon season kicked off in the emerald country. Reports said at least 38,000 people have been affected by the rains and storms which have lashed central and south Sri Lanka.

News brief: Big stories of the day

According to reports, Pakistan violated ceasefire early Thursday morning along the Line of Control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla District.

The Pakistan army violated ceasefire by firing automatic weapons and shelling mortars along the Line of Control.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Pakistan army violates ceasefire by firing from automatic weapons & shelling mortars along the line of control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Baramulla District. More details awaited. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/E5GrOxXfLx">pic.twitter.com/E5GrOxXfLx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999412736261066754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Another ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Wednesday killed three civilians in Samba sector. Many were reported injured, a number of houses were damaged.

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Houses damaged in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Samba. Locals take shelter in bunkers, say, 'cannot even go back to see the situation of our houses. Don't know when will we be able to go home' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/kV8khndUd9">pic.twitter.com/kV8khndUd9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999263189404659712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier on Wednesday, Pakistan continued with heavy shelling in Jammu and Kashmir's Hiranagar sector killing one and injuring two.&nbsp;

Ceasefire violation by Pakistan continued in Jammu's RS Pora district on Wednesday morning.

One more civilian was reported injured in Tuesday's ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Arnia sector.&nbsp;

At least six civilians were injured in a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-grenade-attack-injures-6-area-cordoned-off-139122">grenade attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag's Bijbehara</a> area on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Another ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Wednesday killed three civilians in Samba sector.

According to reports, Pakistan violated ceasefire early Thursday morning along the Line of Control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla District. The Pakistan army violated ceasefire by firing automatic weapons and shelling mortars along the Line of Control. Pakistan army violates ceasefire by firing from automatic weapons & shelling mortars along the line of control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Baramulla District. More details awaited. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/E5GrOxXfLx — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2018 × Another ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Wednesday killed three civilians in Samba sector. Many were reported injured, a number of houses were damaged. Houses damaged in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Samba. Locals take shelter in bunkers, say, 'cannot even go back to see the situation of our houses. Don't know when will we be able to go home' #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/kV8khndUd9 — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2018 × Earlier on Wednesday, Pakistan continued with heavy shelling in Jammu and Kashmir's Hiranagar sector killing one and injuring two. Ceasefire violation by Pakistan continued in Jammu's RS Pora district on Wednesday morning. One more civilian was reported injured in Tuesday's ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Arnia sector. At least six civilians were injured in a grenade attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag's Bijbehara area on Wednesday.

Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Baramulla district

According to the Indo-Pak Conflict Monitor, which tracks ceasefire violations on both sides of the border, India has already reported — till February 2018 — 633 ceasefire violations this year.&nbsp

Pakistan on the other hand has reported — till March 22, 2018 — 690 ceasefire violations.&nbsp

To put that in perspective, in 2017, India reported 771 ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, the International Border, and the Actual Ground Position Line in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp

And only 228 in 2016.&nbsp

But that of course was the year of the "surgical strikes", when Indian soldiers crossed the border and hit what the army referred to as a "terror launchpad".&nbsp

Ever since then, there has been a massive surge in ceasefire violations along the border.&nbsp

The ceasefire between India and Pakistan was signed in 2003. The nitty gritty of the agreement was worked out by the DGMOs (Director General of Military Operations) of the two armies.&nbsp

Some of the reasons stated for the accord at the time sound rather prosaic now — it would for example allow the two armies to move stores. (There was of course also the fact that it would allow them to evacuate their wounded.)&nbsp

But the accord itself was pretty significant considering the two countries had come close to war in 2001 after the terror attack on the Indian Parliament, which the country alleged was launched from Pakistan.&nbsp

The ceasefire held for 10 years.&nbsp

Then in January 2013 India alleged that a Pakistani Border Action Team crossed over, ambushed an Indian Army patrol, and killed two soldiers.&nbsp

One of the two soldiers was beheaded.&nbsp

Pakistan denied the claim but the allegation caused massive outrage in India.&nbsp

Salman Khurshid, the then minister for External Affairs, vowed a “proportionate” response.&nbsp

The never-ending cycle of tit-for-tat that ensued has never stopped.&nbsp

And by now of course, with a ceasefire violation reported virtually every day along the border, it is fair to say that the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan exists only on paper. For all practical purposes, the agreement is as good as dead.&nbsp

 
&nbsp

2018 is already well on its to witnessing the highest number of ceasefire violations along the India-Pakistan border. The agreement, signed in 2003, exists only on paper

According to the Indo-Pak Conflict Monitor, which tracks ceasefire violations on both sides of the border, India has already reported — till February 2018 — 633 ceasefire violations this year. Pakistan on the other hand has reported — till March 22, 2018 — 690 ceasefire violations. To put that in perspective, in 2017, India reported 771 ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, the International Border, and the Actual Ground Position Line in Jammu and Kashmir. And only 228 in 2016. But that of course was the year of the "surgical strikes", when Indian soldiers crossed the border and hit what the army referred to as a "terror launchpad". Ever since then, there has been a massive surge in ceasefire violations along the border. The ceasefire between India and Pakistan was signed in 2003. The nitty gritty of the agreement was worked out by the DGMOs (Director General of Military Operations) of the two armies. Some of the reasons stated for the accord at the time sound rather prosaic now — it would for example allow the two armies to move stores. (There was of course also the fact that it would allow them to evacuate their wounded.) But the accord itself was pretty significant considering the two countries had come close to war in 2001 after the terror attack on the Indian Parliament, which the country alleged was launched from Pakistan. The ceasefire held for 10 years. Then in January 2013 India alleged that a Pakistani Border Action Team crossed over, ambushed an Indian Army patrol, and killed two soldiers. One of the two soldiers was beheaded. Pakistan denied the claim but the allegation caused massive outrage in India. Salman Khurshid, the then minister for External Affairs, vowed a “proportionate” response. The never-ending cycle of tit-for-tat that ensued has never stopped. And by now of course, with a ceasefire violation reported virtually every day along the border, it is fair to say that the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan exists only on paper. For all practical purposes, the agreement is as good as dead.

Analysis: Ceasefire Agreement between India and Pakistan is as good as dead

India today summoned deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan, Syed Haider Shah &nbsp;and lodged a strong protest over the loss of life of a seven month old infant in unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan forces on Tuesday.

The firing had occurred in the Bhimber sector across the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu & Kashmir.

India said the Pakistan forces deliberately targeting of innocent civilians who were located away from the forward line of defences.

The Pakistan Army used small and high caliber weapons which is highly deplorable, Indian officials told Shah.

Targeting of innocent civilians including young children is against all established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct, India told the Pakistan deputy High Commissioner.

India asked Pakistan to investigate the killing of innocent civilians and instructed it to desist from such acts. The Indian side also conveyed its displeasure at the &nbsp;continued unprovoked firing and ceasefire violations across the LoC and the International boundary.

More than 1,088 violations have been carried out by Pakistan forces at LoC and the International Boundary so far this year which has led 36 people being killed and injured at least 127 others, the government said.

In 2018, Indian security forces thwarted attempts by 53 terrorists to infiltrate and neutralized 5 terrorists as they tried to cross the LoC.

The Pakistan Army used small and high caliber weapons which is highly deplorable, Indian officials told Shah.

India today summoned deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan, Syed Haider Shah and lodged a strong protest over the loss of life of a seven month old infant in unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan forces on Tuesday. The firing had occurred in the Bhimber sector across the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu & Kashmir. India said the Pakistan forces deliberately targeting of innocent civilians who were located away from the forward line of defences. The Pakistan Army used small and high caliber weapons which is highly deplorable, Indian officials told Shah. Targeting of innocent civilians including young children is against all established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct, India told the Pakistan deputy High Commissioner. India asked Pakistan to investigate the killing of innocent civilians and instructed it to desist from such acts. The Indian side also conveyed its displeasure at the continued unprovoked firing and ceasefire violations across the LoC and the International boundary. More than 1,088 violations have been carried out by Pakistan forces at LoC and the International Boundary so far this year which has led 36 people being killed and injured at least 127 others, the government said. In 2018, Indian security forces thwarted attempts by 53 terrorists to infiltrate and neutralized 5 terrorists as they tried to cross the LoC.

India summons Pak deputy High Commissioner over firing along LoC

Home minister Rajnath <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-will-have-to-give-up-someday-due-to-international-pressure-rajnath-singh-131826">Singh speaking at the Border </a>Security Forces function declared that despite India wanting peace with its neigbour,&nbsp;a particular country, meaning Pakistan, was not "mending its ways."

As the minister was delivering&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-violates-ceasefire-in-jammu-and-kashmir-138496">his speech, Pakistan opened fire along </a>the Line of Control(LoC) in Arnia and RS Pura today injuring seven people including two BSF soldiers. An infant reportedly died during the firing.

Without naming Pakistan outright, the home minister said: "This (Pakistan's acts) can be a subject of research and these activities of the neighbour are hard to understand."

"If you (the BSF) are fired upon, then you have to decide what is the best course of reaction or action. You have done this with remarkable responsibility in the past," Rajnath said, adding that although the government had directed the forces not to fire first but he told the BSF that &nbsp;"no one will ask them how they chose to retaliate".

The home minister said the government intended to seal the Pakistan and Bangladesh with 'smart fences'. He added that&nbsp;work was in progress to seal the border.

"In few months, the work should get completed," Rajnath Singh added.

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The home minister said the government intended to seal the Pakistan and Bangladesh with 'smart fences'.

Home minister Rajnath Singh speaking at the Border Security Forces function declared that despite India wanting peace with its neigbour, a particular country, meaning Pakistan, was not "mending its ways." As the minister was delivering his speech, Pakistan opened fire along the Line of Control(LoC) in Arnia and RS Pura today injuring seven people including two BSF soldiers. An infant reportedly died during the firing. Without naming Pakistan outright, the home minister said: "This (Pakistan's acts) can be a subject of research and these activities of the neighbour are hard to understand." "If you (the BSF) are fired upon, then you have to decide what is the best course of reaction or action. You have done this with remarkable responsibility in the past," Rajnath said, adding that although the government had directed the forces not to fire first but he told the BSF that "no one will ask them how they chose to retaliate". The home minister said the government intended to seal the Pakistan and Bangladesh with 'smart fences'. He added that work was in progress to seal the border. "In few months, the work should get completed," Rajnath Singh added.

We won't fire the first bullet, but BSF free to retaliate if Pakistan opens fire: Rajnath Singh

Pakistan has squandered the economic growth opportunity in the past because of political instability, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal has said, asserting that "tanks and missiles" alone cannot save a country.

Iqbal, who is also the Minister for Planning and Development, claimed that during the 90s then Indian finance minister Manmohan Singh borrowed economic reforms strategies from his Pakistani counterpart Sartaj Aziz and successfully implemented them in India, the Express Tribune Reported.

He said Bangladesh also successfully used the same strategies but Pakistan could not put its own plans to use as the decade was lost to political instability.

He was speaking at the inauguration of Pakistan National Centre for Cyber Security here yesterday.

"The first opportunity for Pakistan's economy to take off came in the 60s, the second in the 90s, and the third opportunity is knocking at the doors now, which must not be lost to instability like in the past. Enough is enough," he was quoted as saying by the daily.

He described peace, stability and continuity as critical for economic progress.

"We will have to think why many countries which were behind us are now far ahead. China's per capita income was far below Pakistan's but is now much higher. Similarly, Bangladesh's foreign reserves have reached $33 billion while we are at $18 billion. For how long, we will watch other countries overtake us,"&nbspthe minister said.

He said "tanks and missiles" alone could not save a country if it's not strong economically.&nbsp

He said while the Pakistani armed forces had "rendered great sacrifices, the successful fight against terrorism was possible also because of the availability of funds from the national budget."

"There was a time when terrorists had surrounded us but today the state has cornered them. If we squander this opportunity, the history and future generations will not forgive us,"&nbspAhsan added.

He said in 2013 Pakistan was using 2G wireless technology but the country would now be among the first users of the 5G technology in the world.

He said "tanks and missiles" alone could not save a country if it's not strong economically.

Pakistan has squandered the economic growth opportunity in the past because of political instability, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal has said, asserting that "tanks and missiles" alone cannot save a country. Iqbal, who is also the Minister for Planning and Development, claimed that during the 90s then Indian finance minister Manmohan Singh borrowed economic reforms strategies from his Pakistani counterpart Sartaj Aziz and successfully implemented them in India, the Express Tribune Reported. He said Bangladesh also successfully used the same strategies but Pakistan could not put its own plans to use as the decade was lost to political instability. He was speaking at the inauguration of Pakistan National Centre for Cyber Security here yesterday. "The first opportunity for Pakistan's economy to take off came in the 60s, the second in the 90s, and the third opportunity is knocking at the doors now, which must not be lost to instability like in the past. Enough is enough," he was quoted as saying by the daily. He described peace, stability and continuity as critical for economic progress. "We will have to think why many countries which were behind us are now far ahead. China's per capita income was far below Pakistan's but is now much higher. Similarly, Bangladesh's foreign reserves have reached $33 billion while we are at $18 billion. For how long, we will watch other countries overtake us,"&nbspthe minister said. He said "tanks and missiles" alone could not save a country if it's not strong economically. He said while the Pakistani armed forces had "rendered great sacrifices, the successful fight against terrorism was possible also because of the availability of funds from the national budget." "There was a time when terrorists had surrounded us but today the state has cornered them. If we squander this opportunity, the history and future generations will not forgive us,"&nbspAhsan added. He said in 2013 Pakistan was using 2G wireless technology but the country would now be among the first users of the 5G technology in the world.

Tanks and missiles alone can't save a country: Pakistan interior minister Ahsan Iqbal

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-to-challenge-the-appointment-of-kg-bopaiah-as-pro-tem-speaker-in-the-sc-137972">Karnataka crisis: Congress to challenge KG Bopaiah's appointment as pro-tem Speaker in Supreme Court</a>

Congress to challenge the appointment of KG Bopaiah as pro-tem Speaker in the Supreme Court on Friday. According to television reports, Congress is moving Supreme Court to challenge the Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala's decision to appoint KG Bopiah as pro-tem speaker ahead of the floor test on Saturday 4 pm.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-pm-modis-visit-to-jk-pakistan-summons-indian-high-commissioner-over-unprovoked-ceasefire-violations-along-loc-137934">Pakistan summons Indian High Commissioner over 'unprovoked ceasefire violations' along LoC</a>

As PM Modi prepares to visit J&K on Saturday, Pakistan today summoned Indian High Commissioner over "unprovoked ceasefire violations" allegedly carried out by Indian forces along the Line of Control(LoC).

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-allows-karti-chidambaram-to-travel-abroad-137929">Supreme Court allows Karti Chidambaram to travel abroad</a>

The Supreme Court on Friday allowed Karti Chidambaram, son of senior Congress leader P Chidambaram, to travel to offshore locations in United Kingdom, Germany and Spain with certain conditions, including that he would not open or close a bank account abroad.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-denies-offering-200-billion-package-to-slash-us-trade-gap-137953">China denies offering $200 billion </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-denies-offering-200-billion-package-to-slash-us-trade-gap-137953">package</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-denies-offering-200-billion-package-to-slash-us-trade-gap-137953"> to slash US trade gap</a>

China denied on Friday that it had offered a package to slash the US trade deficit by up to $200 billion, hours after it dropped an anti-dumping probe into US sorghum imports in a conciliatory gesture as top negotiators meet in Washington.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/congo-faces-very-high-risk-from-ebola-outbreak-who--137926">Congo faces 'very high' risk from Ebola outbreak: WHO</a>

Democratic Republic of Congo faces a "very high" public health risk from Ebola because the disease has been confirmed in a patient in a big city, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday, raising its assessment from "high" previously.

&nbsp

Karnataka crisis: Congress to challenge KG Bopaiah's appointment as pro-tem Speaker in Supreme Court Congress to challenge the appointment of KG Bopaiah as pro-tem Speaker in the Supreme Court on Friday. According to television reports, Congress is moving Supreme Court to challenge the Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala's decision to appoint KG Bopiah as pro-tem speaker ahead of the floor test on Saturday 4 pm. Pakistan summons Indian High Commissioner over 'unprovoked ceasefire violations' along LoC As PM Modi prepares to visit J&K on Saturday, Pakistan today summoned Indian High Commissioner over "unprovoked ceasefire violations" allegedly carried out by Indian forces along the Line of Control(LoC). Supreme Court allows Karti Chidambaram to travel abroad The Supreme Court on Friday allowed Karti Chidambaram, son of senior Congress leader P Chidambaram, to travel to offshore locations in United Kingdom, Germany and Spain with certain conditions, including that he would not open or close a bank account abroad. China denies offering $200 billion package to slash US trade gap China denied on Friday that it had offered a package to slash the US trade deficit by up to $200 billion, hours after it dropped an anti-dumping probe into US sorghum imports in a conciliatory gesture as top negotiators meet in Washington. Congo faces 'very high' risk from Ebola outbreak: WHO Democratic Republic of Congo faces a "very high" public health risk from Ebola because the disease has been confirmed in a patient in a big city, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday, raising its assessment from "high" previously.

As PM Modi prepares to visit J&K on Saturday, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-1-bsf-soldier-killed-in-ceasefire-violation-by-">Pakistan today summoned Indian High Commissioner </a>&nbsp;over "unprovoked ceasefire violations" allegedly carried out by Indian forces along the Line of Control(LoC).

Pakistan's Foreign Office said its acting foreign secretary summoned High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria and "condemned" the firing in Pukhlian, Cahprar, Harpal, Charwah and Shakargarh sectors across LoC.

Pakistan said the firing had led to the death of four family members in Khanoor village and had injured 10 due to &nbsp;"unprovoked ceasefire violations".

The Indian side was still firing at Pakistani positions, it said.

Indian officials told PTI that 4 civilians and a BSF soldier was killed and 12 injured as Pakistani Rangers opened fire on villages in Jammu area today.

Earlier on Friday, a BSF soldier and four civilians lost their lives during firing along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir. Pak troops had opened fire in RS Pura and Arnia sectors. &nbsp;

The soldier killed in the violation hailed from Jharkhand.

Pakistan said the Indian envoy was informed that the "deliberate targeting of civilian populated areas is indeed deplorable and contrary to human dignity, international human rights and humanitarian laws".&nbsp;

"The ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation," Pakistan's foreign office added. &nbsp;

Pakistan said in 2018, Indian security forces had carried out more than 1,050 ceasefire violations along the LoC resulting in the deaths of 28 civilians, and injuring 117 others.&nbsp;

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The Indian side was still firing at Pakistani positions, it said.

As PM Modi prepares to visit J&K on Saturday, Pakistan today summoned Indian High Commissioner over "unprovoked ceasefire violations" allegedly carried out by Indian forces along the Line of Control(LoC). Pakistan's Foreign Office said its acting foreign secretary summoned High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria and "condemned" the firing in Pukhlian, Cahprar, Harpal, Charwah and Shakargarh sectors across LoC. Pakistan said the firing had led to the death of four family members in Khanoor village and had injured 10 due to "unprovoked ceasefire violations". The Indian side was still firing at Pakistani positions, it said. Indian officials told PTI that 4 civilians and a BSF soldier was killed and 12 injured as Pakistani Rangers opened fire on villages in Jammu area today. Earlier on Friday, a BSF soldier and four civilians lost their lives during firing along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir. Pak troops had opened fire in RS Pura and Arnia sectors. The soldier killed in the violation hailed from Jharkhand. Pakistan said the Indian envoy was informed that the "deliberate targeting of civilian populated areas is indeed deplorable and contrary to human dignity, international human rights and humanitarian laws". "The ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation," Pakistan's foreign office added. Pakistan said in 2018, Indian security forces had carried out more than 1,050 ceasefire violations along the LoC resulting in the deaths of 28 civilians, and injuring 117 others.

Pakistan summons Indian High Commissioner over 'unprovoked ceasefire violations' along LoC

Pakistan troops opened fire in Poonch on Thursday night leading to the death of a civilian.

Mohd Iqhlaq Sadeeq, 20, belonging to Bagial Dara Kalsan died during the shelling.

Pakistan troops opened fire in Poonch again

Pakistan troops opened fire in Poonch on Thursday night leading to the death of a civilian. Mohd Iqhlaq Sadeeq, 20, belonging to Bagial Dara Kalsan died during the shelling.

J&K: Pak troops open fire in Poonch, 1 civilian killed

Pakistan troops opened <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-pakistan-troops-target-villages-forward-posts-in-poonch--132042?first_load=no">fire in the Krishna Ghati sector</a> along Line of Control(LoC) today.

Indian Army personnel retaliated almost immediately, reports said.

On Sunday, Pakistan troops had opened fire in the Poonch sector shelling the area indiscriminately in the morning.

The firing was mainly directed at Indian forward troops and villages along the border, reports said.

No casualties were reported in the firing on Sunday.

On Sunday, Pakistan troops had opened fire in the Poonch sector shelling the area indiscriminately in the morning.

Pakistan troops opened fire in the Krishna Ghati sector along Line of Control(LoC) today. Indian Army personnel retaliated almost immediately, reports said. On Sunday, Pakistan troops had opened fire in the Poonch sector shelling the area indiscriminately in the morning. The firing was mainly directed at Indian forward troops and villages along the border, reports said. No casualties were reported in the firing on Sunday.

Pak troops open fire along LoC, Indian army retaliates

After PM Modi said the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-armys-surgical-strike-across-the-line-of-control-10-key-points-6938"> surgical strikes against Pakistan</a> in September 2016 were a 100 per cent success, the Pakistan foreign office said today that "by continuously repeating a lie, it doesn't turn into the truth."

Speaking at Westminster Central Hall on Wednesday evening PM Modi had said that India waited to inform Pakistan about the operation before disclosing it to the media and the people.

"I said before India gets to know, we should call Pakistan and tell them. We were calling them since 11am but they were scared to come on phone, at 12 we spoke to them and then told the Indian media," Modi had said.

Pakistan foreign office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said India's claims about&nbsp;"surgical strikes were false and baseless".

"Repeating a lie doesn't turn it into the truth," the spokesperson was quoted as saying by Pakistan's Dawn newspaper.

"These statements are nothing but a figment of imagination," the foreign office spokesman added.

Faisal,&nbsp;in fact, hit back at India saying that it was quite the other way around, &nbsp;accusing India of backing terrorists in Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav is proof of Indian state-sponsored terrorism," he said.

Jadhav was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage and terrorism last year however India moved the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against the verdict.&nbsp;

In response, the ICJ halted his execution on India's appeal pending the final verdict.

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PM Modi had said that India waited to inform Pakistan about the surgical strikes before disclosing it to the media and the people.

After PM Modi said the surgical strikes against Pakistan in September 2016 were a 100 per cent success, the Pakistan foreign office said today that "by continuously repeating a lie, it doesn't turn into the truth." Speaking at Westminster Central Hall on Wednesday evening PM Modi had said that India waited to inform Pakistan about the operation before disclosing it to the media and the people. "I said before India gets to know, we should call Pakistan and tell them. We were calling them since 11am but they were scared to come on phone, at 12 we spoke to them and then told the Indian media," Modi had said. Pakistan foreign office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said India's claims about "surgical strikes were false and baseless". "Repeating a lie doesn't turn it into the truth," the spokesperson was quoted as saying by Pakistan's Dawn newspaper. "These statements are nothing but a figment of imagination," the foreign office spokesman added. Faisal, in fact, hit back at India saying that it was quite the other way around, accusing India of backing terrorists in Pakistan. "Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav is proof of Indian state-sponsored terrorism," he said. Jadhav was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage and terrorism last year however India moved the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against the verdict. In response, the ICJ halted his execution on India's appeal pending the final verdict.

'Repeating a lie doesn't turn it into the truth,' says Pak on PM Modi's surgical strike statement

An army porter was killed Monday in a ceasefire violation Jammu and Kashmir's Uri.&nbsp;

The news agency ANI said Pakistan had been responsible for the ceasefire violation.&nbsp;

Last week, two Indian soldiers were killed in firing by Pakistani troops in Jammu and Kashmir's Sunderbani sector along the Line of Control (LOC).

Cross-border clashes between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan in Kashmir have reached the highest levels in 15 years, figures from both sides show, with hundreds killed or wounded and no solution in sight.

The LoC remains extremely volatile, with ceasefire violations already jumping to over 400 in the first two months of this year.

The LoC remains extremely volatile, with ceasefire violations already jumping to over 400 in the first two months of this year

An army porter was killed Monday in a ceasefire violation Jammu and Kashmir's Uri. The news agency ANI said Pakistan had been responsible for the ceasefire violation. Last week, two Indian soldiers were killed in firing by Pakistani troops in Jammu and Kashmir's Sunderbani sector along the Line of Control (LOC). Cross-border clashes between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan in Kashmir have reached the highest levels in 15 years, figures from both sides show, with hundreds killed or wounded and no solution in sight. The LoC remains extremely volatile, with ceasefire violations already jumping to over 400 in the first two months of this year.

Army porter killed in ceasefire violation in J&K's Uri

One soldier and two civilians were&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-underway-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-kulgam-129707">killed after an encounter that broke out </a>between security forces and terrorists at Kulgam in south Kashmir on Wednesday.

Two other soldiers were injured including 35 other civilians in the firing between the security forces and the terrorists.

The encounter started at 11:45pm on Tuesday at Khudwani area of Kulgam when the joint forces received intelligence inputs of terrorists in the area.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>: Encounter underway between terrorists & security forces in Khudwani area of Kulgam District in South Kashmir. 6 additional coys of CRPF moved to the spot. 2-3 terrorists have been trapped. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/hmDRMrgDEg">pic.twitter.com/hmDRMrgDEg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/983899623772311552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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At around 1 pm terrorists fired at the search party with Indian security forces putting up searchlights to comb the area, however, due to darkness and harsh weather conditions, the operation had to be suspended.

During the morning, the encounter started once again leading to the death of one soldier with 2 more being injured.

Reports say 2-3 terrorists are trapped inside the area with Indian security forces engaged in combined operation consisting of the 18th battalion of the CRPF, SOG and 1 RR army carrying out the operation.

There were reports of locals resorting to stone-pelting as the encounter continued in the area. During the clash, at least one civilian was critically injured with a few more receiving minor injuries.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The encounter started at 11:45pm on Tuesday at Khudwani area of Kulgam when the joint forces received intelligence inputs of terrorists in the area.

One soldier and two civilians were killed after an encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists at Kulgam in south Kashmir on Wednesday. Two other soldiers were injured including 35 other civilians in the firing between the security forces and the terrorists. The encounter started at 11:45pm on Tuesday at Khudwani area of Kulgam when the joint forces received intelligence inputs of terrorists in the area. #Visuals from #JammuAndKashmir: Encounter underway between terrorists & security forces in Khudwani area of Kulgam District in South Kashmir. 6 additional coys of CRPF moved to the spot. 2-3 terrorists have been trapped. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/hmDRMrgDEg — ANI (@ANI) April 11, 2018 × At around 1 pm terrorists fired at the search party with Indian security forces putting up searchlights to comb the area, however, due to darkness and harsh weather conditions, the operation had to be suspended. During the morning, the encounter started once again leading to the death of one soldier with 2 more being injured. Reports say 2-3 terrorists are trapped inside the area with Indian security forces engaged in combined operation consisting of the 18th battalion of the CRPF, SOG and 1 RR army carrying out the operation. There were reports of locals resorting to stone-pelting as the encounter continued in the area. During the clash, at least one civilian was critically injured with a few more receiving minor injuries.

Watch: Terrorists, security forces clash in J&K's Kulgam, 1 soldier killed

Two Indian army soldiers were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district during a shelling by Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) on Monday.&nbsp 
&nbsp 
"Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked and indiscriminate firing of small arms, automatics and mortars from 1715 hours in Sunderbanisector along the Line of Control (LoC) last night," a defence spokesman said.

The soldiers, Rifleman Vinod Singh and Rifleman Jaki Sharma, &nbspwere critically injured after which both of them succumbed to their injuries, the spokesperson informed.&nbsp

Singh, 24, belonged to Danapur village of Akhnoor district in Jammu and Kashmir. He is survived by his father, Ajit Singh. 
Sharma, 30, was from Sanhail village of Hiranagar district in Jammu. He is survived by his wife, Rajni Devi.

"Rifleman Vinod Singh and Rifleman Jaki Sharma were brave and sincere soldiers. The nation will always remain indebted to the brave hearts for their supreme sacrifice and devotion to duty," the defence spokesperson said.&nbsp

The fresh ceasefire violation comes four days after an army officer was injured when Pakistan Army violated ceasefire on Line of Control (LoC) in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district.&nbsp

(With inputs from PTI)

The soldiers, Rifleman Vinod Singh and Rifleman Jaki Sharma, were critically injured after which both of them succumbed to their injuries, the spokesperson informed

Two Indian army soldiers were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district during a shelling by Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) on Monday. "Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked and indiscriminate firing of small arms, automatics and mortars from 1715 hours in Sunderbanisector along the Line of Control (LoC) last night," a defence spokesman said. The soldiers, Rifleman Vinod Singh and Rifleman Jaki Sharma, &nbspwere critically injured after which both of them succumbed to their injuries, the spokesperson informed. Singh, 24, belonged to Danapur village of Akhnoor district in Jammu and Kashmir. He is survived by his father, Ajit Singh. Sharma, 30, was from Sanhail village of Hiranagar district in Jammu. He is survived by his wife, Rajni Devi. "Rifleman Vinod Singh and Rifleman Jaki Sharma were brave and sincere soldiers. The nation will always remain indebted to the brave hearts for their supreme sacrifice and devotion to duty," the defence spokesperson said. The fresh ceasefire violation comes four days after an army officer was injured when Pakistan Army violated ceasefire on Line of Control (LoC) in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district. (With inputs from PTI)

2 Indian army soldiers dead after unprovoked shelling by Pakistan

The 20-year-old army jawan had told his parents that he will be coming home in two days. Tomorrow, they will receive the body of Sepoy Shubham Suryakant Mustapure at his village Konerwadi in Parbhani district of Maharashtra, for last rites.

Mustapure, who joined the Army two years ago, was killed as Pakistani troops fired mortar bombs at forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir today.

A pall of gloom has descended on the village as people await the arrival of his body, for the last rites to be performed tomorrow.

Mustapure will be cremated with military honours at 4 pm tomorrow, an official said. The soldier’s body is expected to land at Aurangabad airport at 11 am and will be taken to Konerwadi by road, he added.

“Shubham recently called his parents and informed them he will be coming home in two days. Now, his body, wrapped in tricolour, will reach here,” a relative of the soldier said.

The jawan, who was a bachelor, is survived by parents and grandparents and two younger brothers. While one brother studies in Gangakhed in Parbhani district, another studies at Ahmedpur in Latur district, the kin said.

The soldier’s father owns one and a half acres of farm and also supplements his income through tailoring.

When Shubham was recruited in the Army two years ago, after completing his 12th class, he had treated the entire village to a grand feast, the relative said.

Sepoy Shubham Suryakant Mustapure, who joined the Army two years ago, was killed as Pakistani troops fired mortar bombs at forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir today.

The 20-year-old army jawan had told his parents that he will be coming home in two days. Tomorrow, they will receive the body of Sepoy Shubham Suryakant Mustapure at his village Konerwadi in Parbhani district of Maharashtra, for last rites. Mustapure, who joined the Army two years ago, was killed as Pakistani troops fired mortar bombs at forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir today. A pall of gloom has descended on the village as people await the arrival of his body, for the last rites to be performed tomorrow. Mustapure will be cremated with military honours at 4 pm tomorrow, an official said. The soldier’s body is expected to land at Aurangabad airport at 11 am and will be taken to Konerwadi by road, he added. “Shubham recently called his parents and informed them he will be coming home in two days. Now, his body, wrapped in tricolour, will reach here,” a relative of the soldier said. The jawan, who was a bachelor, is survived by parents and grandparents and two younger brothers. While one brother studies in Gangakhed in Parbhani district, another studies at Ahmedpur in Latur district, the kin said. The soldier’s father owns one and a half acres of farm and also supplements his income through tailoring. When Shubham was recruited in the Army two years ago, after completing his 12th class, he had treated the entire village to a grand feast, the relative said.

Soldier killed in Pakistan shelling had told parents he would return

The Pakistan Army today targeted forward posts along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district with mortar shells.

The Indian Army retaliated immediately.

An Army officer said, "Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked and indiscriminate firing from 0700 hours along the Line of Control (LoC) in Krishna Ghati sector using small arms, automatics and mortars".&nbsp

The Indian Army retaliated strongly, effectively and proportionately to the unprovoked ceasefire violation, the spokesman&nbspsaid.

Pakistani troops have violated the ceasefire along the LoC and the IB over 650 times this year, according to a report.

The Indian Army retaliated strongly, effectively and proportionately to the unprovoked ceasefire violation, an army spokesperson said.

The Pakistan Army today targeted forward posts along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district with mortar shells. The Indian Army retaliated immediately. An Army officer said, "Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked and indiscriminate firing from 0700 hours along the Line of Control (LoC) in Krishna Ghati sector using small arms, automatics and mortars". The Indian Army retaliated strongly, effectively and proportionately to the unprovoked ceasefire violation, the spokesman&nbspsaid. Pakistani troops have violated the ceasefire along the LoC and the IB over 650 times this year, according to a report.

Pak troops open fire in Poonch again, India retaliates

The Mughal road was opened to the public over the weekend after being closed for four months due to heavy snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir.

Traders in Rajouri and Poonch began their business operations in earnest as the road which connects J&K with Shopian and Poonch and Rajouri districts was thrown open to one-way traffic on Saturday.

The Srinagar-Leh national highway was closed in December last year due to heavy snowfall.

The Mughal Road which is the main artery of trade and commerce in the region connects remote areas in J&K with those in Line of Control(LoC), including Gurez and Bandipora.

However, only one-way traffic has been allowed with light vehicles given the green light on the Rajouri-Poonch-Shopian section. The service was possible after heavy snowfall was cleared.

Traffic on the national highway, connecting Ladakh region with Kashmir, remained suspended.

Traffic on the national highway, connecting Ladakh region with Kashmir, remained suspended.

The Mughal road was opened to the public over the weekend after being closed for four months due to heavy snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir. Traders in Rajouri and Poonch began their business operations in earnest as the road which connects J&K with Shopian and Poonch and Rajouri districts was thrown open to one-way traffic on Saturday. The Srinagar-Leh national highway was closed in December last year due to heavy snowfall. The Mughal Road which is the main artery of trade and commerce in the region connects remote areas in J&K with those in Line of Control(LoC), including Gurez and Bandipora. However, only one-way traffic has been allowed with light vehicles given the green light on the Rajouri-Poonch-Shopian section. The service was possible after heavy snowfall was cleared. Traffic on the national highway, connecting Ladakh region with Kashmir, remained suspended.

Mughal road reopened after snow clears in J&K

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