Indian President Ramnath Kovind is supposed to fly to Iceland. Kovind denied permission to enter Pakistan airspace

Pakistan denies use of Airspace to Kovind

Pak's Science & Technology Minister leaves no stone unturned to mock at India, Indian scientists. He tweets mocking India.

Pak's Science & Technology Minister leaves no stone unturned to mock at India, Indian scientists

A rescue worker was killed and 10 others were injured after twin IED blasts rocked Quetta`s Khezai Chowk area on Thursday evening, police said.

The first explosion occurred at a transport company office in the area. Later, the second blast took place when rescue workers and journalists gathered at the site, The Dawn reported.

The number of casualties was confirmed by Liaqat Shahwani, the spokesperson for the Balochistan provincial government.

Six policemen, a TV reporter, and a cameraman were among the wounded, said Shahwani.

The injured were rushed to various hospitals in Quetta for treatment. Police have launched an investigation into the incident.&nbsp;

A rescue worker was killed and 10 others were injured after twin IED blasts rocked Quetta`s Khezai Chowk area on Thursday evening, police said. The first explosion occurred at a transport company office in the area.

A rescue worker was killed and 10 others were injured after twin IED blasts rocked Quetta`s Khezai Chowk area on Thursday evening, police said. The first explosion occurred at a transport company office in the area. Later, the second blast took place when rescue workers and journalists gathered at the site, The Dawn reported. The number of casualties was confirmed by Liaqat Shahwani, the spokesperson for the Balochistan provincial government. Six policemen, a TV reporter, and a cameraman were among the wounded, said Shahwani. The injured were rushed to various hospitals in Quetta for treatment. Police have launched an investigation into the incident.

Pakistan: Rescue worker killed, 10 injured in Quetta blasts

Taliban loyalists are cheering the prospect of a deal with the US that after 18 years of gruelling conflict will see "defeated" American "invaders" finally go home.

While details of the deal have not been announced, it is widely expected the Pentagon will slash its troop presence in Afghanistan in return for various Taliban commitments.

AFP spoke to several Taliban fighters and supporters in and around Kandahar&nbsp;the southern Afghan province that is the birthplace of the Islamist movement and a key stronghold.

'Islamic values'

Mohammad Manzoor Hussaini, who previously fought for the Taliban, was until two years ago hiding out in Pakistan but returned to Kandahar as the group's influence strengthened.

All Afghans want is a peace founded on "Islamic values", he said, using the same stock phrase the Taliban has used in talks with the United States.

The term is seen as contentious because it is open to broad interpretation, and the Taliban are known for pushing some of the most extreme views of the Islamic faith, including an almost total denial of all freedoms for women.

"Afghans wish for peace, moreover they want a dignified peace based on Islamic values, and peace among all Afghans," Hussaini said.

"Afghans should trust each other, and should be honest with each other, and should not pay attention to any foreigners".

But if things are handled poorly, the war could go on for another 20 years and spread to other countries too, Hussaini warned.

Leaving with 'shame'

Hafiz Mohammad Wali, a gardener from the Shahjoy District of Zabul province, which neighbours Kandahar, was delighted at the news that a deal is likely to see the US military draw down its forces.

"For nearly 20 years, we have been hoping for this news, to see the Americans leave Afghanistan with shame," he said.

"People now are praying for peace in the country. We have fought a lot, and the fighting still continues today."

Like most of the Taliban supporters AFP spoke to, Wali worried about whether the group would be able to make a separate agreement with the Afghan government.

"Our main concern is how the Taliban and the Afghan government make peace," he said.

"Afghans have been fighting with each other for years in the villages and districts. Will they sit together? This is not just my concern, but other villagers are also worried about it."

Until now, the Taliban have refused to talk to the administration of President Ashraf Ghani, whom they view as a US stooge.

The upcoming withdrawal deal with the Taliban is expected to require "intra-Afghan" talks between the insurgents and Kabul.

'Defeated' America

Mullah Gul Agha, a Taliban commander from the Marja district of Helmand province, another insurgent stronghold, said Afghans would never accept foreigners as their "masters".

"The Afghans have been fighting invaders for decades, once it was the Russians, today it is the Americans and the British," Agha said.

"With the Help of Almighty Allah, we have defeated them again."

The toll the war has taken on the US military more than 2,400 US troops killed in combat and thousands more with horrendous wounds&nbsp;would make America think twice before invading other countries, he said.

"Afghans accept a poor, humble life, but never anybody as their masters," he said.

Both sides 'tired'

Mullah Rauf, who was once a Taliban commander in the central province of Ghazni, was optimistic peace might finally come to Afghanistan after 18 years of conflict.

"Both sides in this war are tired," he said.

"I am very happy America is leaving, because they didn't give Afghans anything but war and destruction, and thousands of Afghans were killed if Afghans join hands, they can prevent more destruction and bloodshed."

Taliban loyalists are cheering the prospect of a deal with the US that after 18 years of gruelling conflict will see "defeated" American "invaders" finally go home.

Taliban loyalists are cheering the prospect of a deal with the US that after 18 years of gruelling conflict will see "defeated" American "invaders" finally go home. While details of the deal have not been announced, it is widely expected the Pentagon will slash its troop presence in Afghanistan in return for various Taliban commitments. AFP spoke to several Taliban fighters and supporters in and around Kandahar the southern Afghan province that is the birthplace of the Islamist movement and a key stronghold. 'Islamic values' Mohammad Manzoor Hussaini, who previously fought for the Taliban, was until two years ago hiding out in Pakistan but returned to Kandahar as the group's influence strengthened. All Afghans want is a peace founded on "Islamic values", he said, using the same stock phrase the Taliban has used in talks with the United States. The term is seen as contentious because it is open to broad interpretation, and the Taliban are known for pushing some of the most extreme views of the Islamic faith, including an almost total denial of all freedoms for women. "Afghans wish for peace, moreover they want a dignified peace based on Islamic values, and peace among all Afghans," Hussaini said. "Afghans should trust each other, and should be honest with each other, and should not pay attention to any foreigners". But if things are handled poorly, the war could go on for another 20 years and spread to other countries too, Hussaini warned. Leaving with 'shame' Hafiz Mohammad Wali, a gardener from the Shahjoy District of Zabul province, which neighbours Kandahar, was delighted at the news that a deal is likely to see the US military draw down its forces. "For nearly 20 years, we have been hoping for this news, to see the Americans leave Afghanistan with shame," he said. "People now are praying for peace in the country. We have fought a lot, and the fighting still continues today." Like most of the Taliban supporters AFP spoke to, Wali worried about whether the group would be able to make a separate agreement with the Afghan government. "Our main concern is how the Taliban and the Afghan government make peace," he said. "Afghans have been fighting with each other for years in the villages and districts. Will they sit together? This is not just my concern, but other villagers are also worried about it." Until now, the Taliban have refused to talk to the administration of President Ashraf Ghani, whom they view as a US stooge. The upcoming withdrawal deal with the Taliban is expected to require "intra-Afghan" talks between the insurgents and Kabul. 'Defeated' America Mullah Gul Agha, a Taliban commander from the Marja district of Helmand province, another insurgent stronghold, said Afghans would never accept foreigners as their "masters". "The Afghans have been fighting invaders for decades, once it was the Russians, today it is the Americans and the British," Agha said. "With the Help of Almighty Allah, we have defeated them again." The toll the war has taken on the US military more than 2,400 US troops killed in combat and thousands more with horrendous wounds would make America think twice before invading other countries, he said. "Afghans accept a poor, humble life, but never anybody as their masters," he said. Both sides 'tired' Mullah Rauf, who was once a Taliban commander in the central province of Ghazni, was optimistic peace might finally come to Afghanistan after 18 years of conflict. "Both sides in this war are tired," he said. "I am very happy America is leaving, because they didn't give Afghans anything but war and destruction, and thousands of Afghans were killed if Afghans join hands, they can prevent more destruction and bloodshed."

Afghanistan: Taliban supporters cheer US withdrawal plans

UAE asked Imran Khan's Pak to back off from Kashmir. UAE told Imran Khan to resolve Kashmir issue bilaterally with India and not make it Internation issue.

UAE asked Imran Khan's Pak to back off from Kashmir

A BJP delegation that visited China recently has conveyed to the Communist Party leaders that trade relations between the two countries may be affected if the neighbouring country does not change its stand on issues "sensitive" to India.

During their visit to various provinces of China, the 10-member delegation of Bharatiya Janata Party had conveyed to the Communist Party leaders the need for checking the narrative that China stands with Pakistan on issues sensitive to India.&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI, Arun Singh, National General Secretary of BJP said that extensive discussions from trade to party ideologies took place.&nbsp;

However, the most vital among them was China`s stated affinity towards Pakistan.

"We told them when we use their products at home we become emotionally attached to them as well. But if the sentiment that you stand with the neighbouring country on issues sensitive to us prevails, then eventually it is bound to hurt the trade relations between two countries. If we see you siding with the neighbouring country, it hurts the sentiment of country and the trade between the two countries." he said.

Besides Singh, the delegation comprised foreign cell in-charge Vijay Chauthaiwale, Gopal Krishan Aggarwal, spokesperson, -Shiv Kumar Udasi, Suresh Pujari, Mahesh Poddar, Ramesh Shejwalkar and Raksha Khadse (all MPs) and some other party members.

They also discussed export of agricultural product especially soya, rice and sugar by China.

The BJP delegation also raised concerns about fiscal deficit and said it is a challenge.

"There are ways to cover this deficit through technology transfer, integrating MSME through the supply chain. FDI, transfer of technology and development of MSME and integrate into Chinese global chain. We raised concerns about visa norms and China`s stand on terrorism. As a political dispensation, we need to raise public concerns as well, " Aggarwal said.&nbsp;

Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had visited China where the concerns about territorial claims of Aksai Chin were addressed.&nbsp;

A BJP delegation that visited China recently has conveyed to the Communist Party leaders that trade relations between the two countries may be affected if the neighbouring country does not change its stand on issues "sensitive" to India.

A BJP delegation that visited China recently has conveyed to the Communist Party leaders that trade relations between the two countries may be affected if the neighbouring country does not change its stand on issues "sensitive" to India. During their visit to various provinces of China, the 10-member delegation of Bharatiya Janata Party had conveyed to the Communist Party leaders the need for checking the narrative that China stands with Pakistan on issues sensitive to India. Speaking to ANI, Arun Singh, National General Secretary of BJP said that extensive discussions from trade to party ideologies took place. However, the most vital among them was China`s stated affinity towards Pakistan. "We told them when we use their products at home we become emotionally attached to them as well. But if the sentiment that you stand with the neighbouring country on issues sensitive to us prevails, then eventually it is bound to hurt the trade relations between two countries. If we see you siding with the neighbouring country, it hurts the sentiment of country and the trade between the two countries." he said. Besides Singh, the delegation comprised foreign cell in-charge Vijay Chauthaiwale, Gopal Krishan Aggarwal, spokesperson, -Shiv Kumar Udasi, Suresh Pujari, Mahesh Poddar, Ramesh Shejwalkar and Raksha Khadse (all MPs) and some other party members. They also discussed export of agricultural product especially soya, rice and sugar by China. The BJP delegation also raised concerns about fiscal deficit and said it is a challenge. "There are ways to cover this deficit through technology transfer, integrating MSME through the supply chain. FDI, transfer of technology and development of MSME and integrate into Chinese global chain. We raised concerns about visa norms and China`s stand on terrorism. As a political dispensation, we need to raise public concerns as well, " Aggarwal said. Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had visited China where the concerns about territorial claims of Aksai Chin were addressed.

China's stand on Pakistan may affect trade relations: BJP tells Chinese leaders

This story must be told to make the point on how governments allowed a lobby supporting Pakistan in Kashmir to grow big at the cost of the common Kashmiri, who were betrayed and pushed to the wall.

In the 1990s, then MOS home, Rajesh Pilot, was projected as the proverbial carrot of the policy as against the stick of an administration led by Governor Girish Chandra Saxena in J&amp;K.&nbsp;

The illusion of the two being at loggerheads was deliberate. Saxena, whose soft-spoken persona bellied the image of a former RAW chief, was left to deal with terrorism, unrest and growing influence of the pro-Pakistanis in the Valley; Pilot, the politician, would listen to public, appease some, help others and carry a big bundle of applications — for jobs, phone connections and release of arrested men — back to Delhi.

During one of his visits, Pilot asked me and my husband George Joseph to meet him in the Guest House No 5 in uptown Srinagar. I worked for the Tribune while George reported for the Indian Express. We were happy at the possibility of getting a scoop!

Pilot ushered us into the bedroom, probably to create an informal setting. He straightaway asked us: What can I do for you? I found his question strange while George, who failed to get the nuances of Hindi language, replied, “Please make sure we get press notes from the (police) control room on time. Just because we are Indians does not mean we should be the last ones to get it.”&nbsp;

Pilot’s bright expression suddenly looked sullen; he probably expected us to value his authority more than just a supplier of police handout on killings and encounters in Kashmir. He promised to do the needful and after a small conversation, the meeting was over.

George’s demand reflected the level of frustration of ‘Indians’ in Kashmir. We were not the only ones to not believe in the supremacy of the Hizbuls, JKLFs and Pakistan. Many Kashmiri Muslims felt betrayed and abandoned by the System, which appeased the rebels and the ever-burgeoning ‘Pakistan lobby’.&nbsp;

People who were Indians by belief, temperament and through professions or by simply being normal, would face smirks, social ostracism and pressure to ‘raliv, galiv ya challiv’ (join, die or simply vanish).&nbsp;

The word Indian was an invective; it was blackened out from the boards of organisations, restaurants and shops in Kashmir; people who could not compromise on their identity were counseled to keep a low profile.&nbsp;

Hizbul Mujahideen issued a threat to George and me in 1992, asking us to leave Kashmir within 48 hours. Our crime was that as journalists we had reported the fact of Hizbul splitting due to financial dispute between its factions.

Issuing the threat to us was part of the plan to banish Indians from Kashmir.&nbsp;

Many Kashmiris were simply left at the mercy of new jihadi commanders and their suit-wearing embedded omnipresent supporters. They were in offices, hospitals, buses, schools, restaurants and places where media persons met informally. They were feared the most for they always behaved more loyal than the king.&nbsp;

A handful of leftists – poets, writers, thinkers and academicians – were targeted by the new defacto oligarchs in Kashmir. A couple of them were killed in cold blood and others subjected to the humiliation of seeking pardon for their lack of belief in Allah (La-deen) inside the local mosques. This made many others retract into silence while some fell in line.

Nothing in Kashmir was spontaneous; a well-organised plot to create chaos and undermine the State of India was unfolding without any resistance as the elected government had fled and small-time leaders had been silenced by the gun – many of them were killed in cold blood, often after Friday congregation as they come out of the mosques.

Today people in Kashmir are genuinely disturbed by the blockade of mobile and internet services. However, may I remind everyone that the Valley had remained incommunicado for six months in the 1991-92 after Hizbul Mujahidden blew up a transmission tower atop Peer Panjal at Banihal.&nbsp;

In comparison, the miseries of common people were manifold then. Journalists like me had to look for friends, acquaintances or even rely on a stranger flying to Jammu to carry our typed news stories to our local offices. The telegraph machine in the Central Telegraph Office was resting without connectivity.

Indians were treated as second-grade citizens often making them wonder why a State would appease those who were working against it. I remember the words of Rammohan Rao, media advisor to JK government and a seasoned bureaucrat, “Well, India is a soft state; can’t be seen as being harsh to those against us.”

A Jordanian envoy visiting Kashmir had rattled Governor `Gary’ Saxena when he said that ‘India is a soft State, you have no guts to take on the enemy within.’ &nbsp;

The envoy was a member of the diplomatic corps invited by the PV Narsimha Rao government to visit Kashmir. He had read local newspapers in his guest house and was aghast to see the anti-India coverage in Urdu and English newspapers. He had thrown the papers at Saxena’s desk and asked him how a government could allow it to happen?

An Israeli high-up on a secret visit to Kashmir in the mid-1990s also told the government that it can never crush terror as long as anti-India supporters were allowed a free run.

Contrary to expectations, the return of an elected government led by Farooq Abdullah was a boon to ‘Pakistanis’; they had turned into power brokers. The new dispensation was too keen to appease them with government bungalows and other largesse.

The man in the street got his clue – it was prudent to be seen on the side of ‘Pakistanis’ for survival. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-how-the-pak-lobby-prospered-2787706">original article</a>) 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

This story must be told to make the point on how governments allowed a lobby supporting Pakistan in Kashmir to grow big at the cost of the common Kashmiri, who were betrayed and pushed to the wall.

This story must be told to make the point on how governments allowed a lobby supporting Pakistan in Kashmir to grow big at the cost of the common Kashmiri, who were betrayed and pushed to the wall. In the 1990s, then MOS home, Rajesh Pilot, was projected as the proverbial carrot of the policy as against the stick of an administration led by Governor Girish Chandra Saxena in J&K. The illusion of the two being at loggerheads was deliberate. Saxena, whose soft-spoken persona bellied the image of a former RAW chief, was left to deal with terrorism, unrest and growing influence of the pro-Pakistanis in the Valley; Pilot, the politician, would listen to public, appease some, help others and carry a big bundle of applications — for jobs, phone connections and release of arrested men — back to Delhi. During one of his visits, Pilot asked me and my husband George Joseph to meet him in the Guest House No 5 in uptown Srinagar. I worked for the Tribune while George reported for the Indian Express. We were happy at the possibility of getting a scoop! Pilot ushered us into the bedroom, probably to create an informal setting. He straightaway asked us: What can I do for you? I found his question strange while George, who failed to get the nuances of Hindi language, replied, “Please make sure we get press notes from the (police) control room on time. Just because we are Indians does not mean we should be the last ones to get it.” Pilot’s bright expression suddenly looked sullen; he probably expected us to value his authority more than just a supplier of police handout on killings and encounters in Kashmir. He promised to do the needful and after a small conversation, the meeting was over. George’s demand reflected the level of frustration of ‘Indians’ in Kashmir. We were not the only ones to not believe in the supremacy of the Hizbuls, JKLFs and Pakistan. Many Kashmiri Muslims felt betrayed and abandoned by the System, which appeased the rebels and the ever-burgeoning ‘Pakistan lobby’. People who were Indians by belief, temperament and through professions or by simply being normal, would face smirks, social ostracism and pressure to ‘raliv, galiv ya challiv’ (join, die or simply vanish). The word Indian was an invective; it was blackened out from the boards of organisations, restaurants and shops in Kashmir; people who could not compromise on their identity were counseled to keep a low profile. Hizbul Mujahideen issued a threat to George and me in 1992, asking us to leave Kashmir within 48 hours. Our crime was that as journalists we had reported the fact of Hizbul splitting due to financial dispute between its factions. Issuing the threat to us was part of the plan to banish Indians from Kashmir. Many Kashmiris were simply left at the mercy of new jihadi commanders and their suit-wearing embedded omnipresent supporters. They were in offices, hospitals, buses, schools, restaurants and places where media persons met informally. They were feared the most for they always behaved more loyal than the king. A handful of leftists – poets, writers, thinkers and academicians – were targeted by the new defacto oligarchs in Kashmir. A couple of them were killed in cold blood and others subjected to the humiliation of seeking pardon for their lack of belief in Allah (La-deen) inside the local mosques. This made many others retract into silence while some fell in line. Nothing in Kashmir was spontaneous; a well-organised plot to create chaos and undermine the State of India was unfolding without any resistance as the elected government had fled and small-time leaders had been silenced by the gun – many of them were killed in cold blood, often after Friday congregation as they come out of the mosques. Today people in Kashmir are genuinely disturbed by the blockade of mobile and internet services. However, may I remind everyone that the Valley had remained incommunicado for six months in the 1991-92 after Hizbul Mujahidden blew up a transmission tower atop Peer Panjal at Banihal. In comparison, the miseries of common people were manifold then. Journalists like me had to look for friends, acquaintances or even rely on a stranger flying to Jammu to carry our typed news stories to our local offices. The telegraph machine in the Central Telegraph Office was resting without connectivity. Indians were treated as second-grade citizens often making them wonder why a State would appease those who were working against it. I remember the words of Rammohan Rao, media advisor to JK government and a seasoned bureaucrat, “Well, India is a soft state; can’t be seen as being harsh to those against us.” A Jordanian envoy visiting Kashmir had rattled Governor `Gary’ Saxena when he said that ‘India is a soft State, you have no guts to take on the enemy within.’ The envoy was a member of the diplomatic corps invited by the PV Narsimha Rao government to visit Kashmir. He had read local newspapers in his guest house and was aghast to see the anti-India coverage in Urdu and English newspapers. He had thrown the papers at Saxena’s desk and asked him how a government could allow it to happen? An Israeli high-up on a secret visit to Kashmir in the mid-1990s also told the government that it can never crush terror as long as anti-India supporters were allowed a free run. Contrary to expectations, the return of an elected government led by Farooq Abdullah was a boon to ‘Pakistanis’; they had turned into power brokers. The new dispensation was too keen to appease them with government bungalows and other largesse. The man in the street got his clue – it was prudent to be seen on the side of ‘Pakistanis’ for survival. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How a lobby supporting Pakistan prospered in Jammu and Kashmir

Gravitas: UAE, Saudi ministers visit Pakistan. Watch video to know more.

Gravitas: UAE, Saudi ministers visit Pakistan

Pakistan has been responding hysterically since the time Indian government scrapped Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir is all Pakistan talks about these days. First, Islamabad downgraded diplomatic ties with India, suspended trade, Samjhauta and Thar Express and then announced that there will be no talks with India till India withdraws its decision of abrogating Article 370 and bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs).&nbsp;

Pakistan tried to portray a manipulated picture with false narratives, however, got no traction from global leaders. It stands isolated. US President Donald Trump, who had earlier offered mediation between the two countries, termed Kashmir a bilateral issue after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the recently held G7 Summit.

Ignoring Khan's appeal, Islamic countries have also maintained that Kashmir is India's integral issue. In fact, UAE honoured Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the 'Order of Zayed', country's highest civilian award.

Moreover, the Taliban has strongly criticised Pakistan for linking the Kashmir issue&nbsp;with the situation in Afghanistan

Pakistan is now&nbsp;making embarrassing statements, organising protests and fighting a war on social media, instead of accepting the reality. Deserted on the global platform, Pakistan Prime Minister even threatened India with a Nuclear war.

Several ministers in the Pakistan government have repeated the war rhetoric of their prime minister. The neighbours also tested nuclear-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missile last week to spread the war hysteria.

It's high time Islamabad wake up and smell the coffee. They need to set their own house in order. &nbsp;

On the economic front, the Asia-Pacific Group (APG) of the global terror financing and money laundering watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has put Pakistan in the Enhanced Expedited Follow Up List for failing to comply with commitments.

The development makes it more difficult for the South Asian country to leave FATF's grey list and can expedite its process of blacklisting in October's FATF plenary.&nbsp;

Imran Khan is also facing the ire of Pakistan's opposition parties for failing to handle the Kasmir situation.

Other than the crippling economy, Pakistan also needs to focus on increasing cases of forced conversions and alleged atrocities on civilians in Balochistan province of Pakistan.

Islamabad must&nbsp;realise that irrational reactions and baseless statements won't get them attention. The global community has understood and supported India's decision and rightly so.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

Pakistan has been responding hysterically since the time Indian government scrapped Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir is all Pakistan talks about these days.

Pakistan has been responding hysterically since the time Indian government scrapped Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir is all Pakistan talks about these days. First, Islamabad downgraded diplomatic ties with India, suspended trade, Samjhauta and Thar Express and then announced that there will be no talks with India till India withdraws its decision of abrogating Article 370 and bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs). Pakistan tried to portray a manipulated picture with false narratives, however, got no traction from global leaders. It stands isolated. US President Donald Trump, who had earlier offered mediation between the two countries, termed Kashmir a bilateral issue after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the recently held G7 Summit. Ignoring Khan's appeal, Islamic countries have also maintained that Kashmir is India's integral issue. In fact, UAE honoured Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the 'Order of Zayed', country's highest civilian award. Moreover, the Taliban has strongly criticised Pakistan for linking the Kashmir issue with the situation in Afghanistan Pakistan is now making embarrassing statements, organising protests and fighting a war on social media, instead of accepting the reality. Deserted on the global platform, Pakistan Prime Minister even threatened India with a Nuclear war. Several ministers in the Pakistan government have repeated the war rhetoric of their prime minister. The neighbours also tested nuclear-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missile last week to spread the war hysteria. It's high time Islamabad wake up and smell the coffee. They need to set their own house in order. On the economic front, the Asia-Pacific Group (APG) of the global terror financing and money laundering watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has put Pakistan in the Enhanced Expedited Follow Up List for failing to comply with commitments. The development makes it more difficult for the South Asian country to leave FATF's grey list and can expedite its process of blacklisting in October's FATF plenary. Imran Khan is also facing the ire of Pakistan's opposition parties for failing to handle the Kasmir situation. Other than the crippling economy, Pakistan also needs to focus on increasing cases of forced conversions and alleged atrocities on civilians in Balochistan province of Pakistan. Islamabad must realise that irrational reactions and baseless statements won't get them attention. The global community has understood and supported India's decision and rightly so. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Pakistan is left with no option on Jammu and Kashmir

India and Pakistan should resolve their disputes on Kashmir through "dialogue and discussion", Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said on Tuesday during a telephonic conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

The call was made by Qureshi as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370.

"The Foreign Minister apprised his Bangladeshi counterpart of the illegal and unilateral actions of India to alter the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir, which was in contravention of the international law and UNSC resolutions," a statement by Pakistan Foreign Ministry read.

"The Bangladeshi Foreign Minister emphasised the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and discussions," it added.

Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France.

Bangladesh Foreign Ministry had earlier made it clear that the Indian government`s move on Kashmir was the country`s internal matter.

A similar stance has been maintained by most of the SAARC countries, including Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.

India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror. 
&nbsp;

India and Pakistan should resolve their disputes on Kashmir through "dialogue and discussion", Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said on Tuesday during a telephonic conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

India and Pakistan should resolve their disputes on Kashmir through "dialogue and discussion", Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said on Tuesday during a telephonic conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. The call was made by Qureshi as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370. "The Foreign Minister apprised his Bangladeshi counterpart of the illegal and unilateral actions of India to alter the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir, which was in contravention of the international law and UNSC resolutions," a statement by Pakistan Foreign Ministry read. "The Bangladeshi Foreign Minister emphasised the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and discussions," it added. Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France. Bangladesh Foreign Ministry had earlier made it clear that the Indian government`s move on Kashmir was the country`s internal matter. A similar stance has been maintained by most of the SAARC countries, including Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror.

Resolve disputes with India through talks: Bangladesh Foreign Minister tells Shah Mehmood Qureshi

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir will arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday to discuss regional developments with top Pakistani leadership, amid the ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad over the Kashmir issue.

During the one-day visit, Al-Jubeir will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, reported The Express Tribune.

The minister had earlier visited Pakistan in March as part of Riyadh's efforts to de-escalate tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad that had emerged in the aftermath of the airstrike conducted by Indian Air Force at Balakot.

The news of the Foreign Minister's visit came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan dialled Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370.

Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France.&nbsp;

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir will arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday to discuss regional developments with top Pakistani leadership, amid the ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad over the Kashmir issue.

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir will arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday to discuss regional developments with top Pakistani leadership, amid the ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad over the Kashmir issue. During the one-day visit, Al-Jubeir will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, reported The Express Tribune. The minister had earlier visited Pakistan in March as part of Riyadh's efforts to de-escalate tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad that had emerged in the aftermath of the airstrike conducted by Indian Air Force at Balakot. The news of the Foreign Minister's visit came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan dialled Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370. Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France.

Saudi Arabia Foreign Minister Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir to visit Pakistan today

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Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir will arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday to discuss regional developments with top Pakistani leadership, amid the ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad over the Kashmir issue. During the one-day visit, Al-Jubeir will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, reported The Express Tribune. The minister had earlier visited Pakistan in March as part of Riyadh`s efforts to de-escalate tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad that had emerged in the aftermath of the airstrike conducted by Indian Air Force at Balakot. The news of the Foreign Minister`s visit came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan dialled Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370. Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France.&nbsp;

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir will arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday to discuss regional developments with top Pakistani leadership, amid the ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad over the Kashmir issue. During the one-day visit, Al-Jubeir will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, reported The Express Tribune. The minister had earlier visited Pakistan in March as part of Riyadh`s efforts to de-escalate tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad that had emerged in the aftermath of the airstrike conducted by Indian Air Force at Balakot. The news of the Foreign Minister`s visit came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan dialled Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370. Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France.

Saudi Arabia Foreign Minister to visit Pakistan today

Two persons were on Wednesday arrested after Pakistani diaspora along with Khalistanis launched a massive protest outside the Indian High Commission in London on Tuesday and broke a window pane, drawing widespread condemnation.

Pakistani protesters vandalise Indian High Commission in London

Debate On Kashmir Between The MPs Of India & Pakistan In Maldives

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Democratic Presidential Frontrunner Bernie Sanders Sides With Pakistan, Slams India.

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Forced Conversions The Norm In Imran Khan's Naya Pakistan

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One again Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan makes Pakistan look like a cavalier. Earlier Imran Khan threatened nuclear war in an article of the New York Times. Now he said in Pakistani Parliament that Pakistan won't use nuclear bomb first.

WION Dispatch: Another flip-flop by Imran Khan, ''Won't use nuclear bomb first''

Pakistan's lawyer at International Court of Justice said during the interview with a Pakistani news channel that Pakistan has no proofs to back it's any claim on Jammu & Kashmir. Watch this video to know more.

Pak's ICJ lawyer said, ''Pakistan has no proofs to back it's any claim on J&K''

Pakistan has restored partial trade with India. It has removed its self-imposed trade bans. Watch this video to know more.

Pakistan restores partial trade with India

In 1947, the population of Hindus and Sikhs in Pakistan was 23 per cent. Now officially, it stands at 1.6 per cent. After incessant attempts at forcible conversions of minorities, it could even be lesser. &nbsp;

It is well-known that the Muslim population in the Indian subcontinent did not migrate from Arab lands; they were converted from local Hindus.

However, with the Partition, old ghosts were laid to rest and it was assumed that both countries would embark upon the journey of development and follow the tenets of peaceful coexistence.

India, on its part, has followed democratic traditions where different religions coexist. But Pakistan has not been able to extricate itself from the kafir-momin phenomenon.

Pakistan’s track record as far as treating its minorities is concerned is abysmal. Hardly a day passes by without its bigots heaping atrocities on small ethnic groups.

The recent incident of abduction, forcible marriage and religious conversion of a Sikh girl of Nankana Sahib is a telling example. Jagjit Kaur is daughter of the Granthi of Nanakana Sahib Gurdwara, the birthplace of Shri Guru Nanak Dev, in Pakistan. She was continuously threatened with abduction by jihadis and so, fearing the worst, her parents had sent her to her sister’s home. From there, the zealots abducted her at gunpoint in the middle of the night. Soon afterwards, she was forcibly converted to Islam and married to a Muslim boy.

The drama followed the same old script, which has been used consistently in the case of forcible conversions. All state and non-state actors joyously came together to indulge in the “pious” act of converting a kafir into momin.

The modus operandi remains the same. Goons abduct and dishonour the girl, clergy renders theological support, police file wrong reports, political establishment joins the farce with false inquiries and judiciary plays its part by declaring that she has converted willingly.

The irony is that this incident has taken place in Nanakana Sahib, as the world celebrates Guru Nanak Dev’s 550th birth year.

Pakistan has been projecting to the world that it is also participating in the celebrations and is expressing keenness to develop Kartarpur Sahib.

The pertinent question is this: When Pakistan is not able to wind up its jihadist agenda and its state institutions collude with fanatics who torment minorities, why is it showing so much interest in developing the Kartarpur Sahib pilgrim corridor linking India?

The answer is not very difficult to find. Pakistan’s notorious spy agency ISI has long backed the Khalistani agenda and falsely entertains pretensions about sympathising with Sikh causes. The reality is that the Pakistani state harbours a deep-rooted hatred for the Sikhs because the latter was historically instrumental in facing and defeating Islamist tirades.

A few years ago, in the Aurkazai area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, threats were issued to some Sikh businessmen to either pay jaziya or get ready to get eliminated.

When the brave Sikhs declined, some of them were shot down in broad daylight. Warnings were issued against lifting the bodies so that the surviving members of the community could be terrorised.

The Hindu and Sikh minorities in that country are engaged in business and hence find it difficult to relocate.

Hindus, concentrated mainly in the Sindh province, have faced jihadist elements for a long time now. According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, at an average, 1,000 Hindu girls are converted to Islam on an annual basis.

Pakistan’s record of treating its Christian and Ahmadiyya population is also unenviable. Blasphemy laws are applied on the slightest pretext to browbeat minorities. The recent incident of persecution of Asia Bibi, a Christian, gained international notoriety.

So long as Pakistan does not rein in its Islamist bigots, it will not be able to put an end to the atrocities committed on minorities by such tanzeems.

The international community has a meaningful role to play in putting an end to such atrocities against minorities at the hands of the Pakistani state.

For its part, India, as per its declared policy, should welcome and settle these persecuted minorities of Pakistan that seek shelter in India.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-pakistan-s-minorities-are-a-diminishing-population-2786993">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

In 1947, the population of Hindus and Sikhs in Pakistan was 23 per cent. Now officially, it stands at 1.6 per cent. After incessant attempts at forcible conversions of minorities, it could even be lesser.

In 1947, the population of Hindus and Sikhs in Pakistan was 23 per cent. Now officially, it stands at 1.6 per cent. After incessant attempts at forcible conversions of minorities, it could even be lesser. It is well-known that the Muslim population in the Indian subcontinent did not migrate from Arab lands; they were converted from local Hindus. However, with the Partition, old ghosts were laid to rest and it was assumed that both countries would embark upon the journey of development and follow the tenets of peaceful coexistence. India, on its part, has followed democratic traditions where different religions coexist. But Pakistan has not been able to extricate itself from the kafir-momin phenomenon. Pakistan’s track record as far as treating its minorities is concerned is abysmal. Hardly a day passes by without its bigots heaping atrocities on small ethnic groups. The recent incident of abduction, forcible marriage and religious conversion of a Sikh girl of Nankana Sahib is a telling example. Jagjit Kaur is daughter of the Granthi of Nanakana Sahib Gurdwara, the birthplace of Shri Guru Nanak Dev, in Pakistan. She was continuously threatened with abduction by jihadis and so, fearing the worst, her parents had sent her to her sister’s home. From there, the zealots abducted her at gunpoint in the middle of the night. Soon afterwards, she was forcibly converted to Islam and married to a Muslim boy. The drama followed the same old script, which has been used consistently in the case of forcible conversions. All state and non-state actors joyously came together to indulge in the “pious” act of converting a kafir into momin. The modus operandi remains the same. Goons abduct and dishonour the girl, clergy renders theological support, police file wrong reports, political establishment joins the farce with false inquiries and judiciary plays its part by declaring that she has converted willingly. The irony is that this incident has taken place in Nanakana Sahib, as the world celebrates Guru Nanak Dev’s 550th birth year. Pakistan has been projecting to the world that it is also participating in the celebrations and is expressing keenness to develop Kartarpur Sahib. The pertinent question is this: When Pakistan is not able to wind up its jihadist agenda and its state institutions collude with fanatics who torment minorities, why is it showing so much interest in developing the Kartarpur Sahib pilgrim corridor linking India? The answer is not very difficult to find. Pakistan’s notorious spy agency ISI has long backed the Khalistani agenda and falsely entertains pretensions about sympathising with Sikh causes. The reality is that the Pakistani state harbours a deep-rooted hatred for the Sikhs because the latter was historically instrumental in facing and defeating Islamist tirades. A few years ago, in the Aurkazai area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, threats were issued to some Sikh businessmen to either pay jaziya or get ready to get eliminated. When the brave Sikhs declined, some of them were shot down in broad daylight. Warnings were issued against lifting the bodies so that the surviving members of the community could be terrorised. The Hindu and Sikh minorities in that country are engaged in business and hence find it difficult to relocate. Hindus, concentrated mainly in the Sindh province, have faced jihadist elements for a long time now. According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, at an average, 1,000 Hindu girls are converted to Islam on an annual basis. Pakistan’s record of treating its Christian and Ahmadiyya population is also unenviable. Blasphemy laws are applied on the slightest pretext to browbeat minorities. The recent incident of persecution of Asia Bibi, a Christian, gained international notoriety. So long as Pakistan does not rein in its Islamist bigots, it will not be able to put an end to the atrocities committed on minorities by such tanzeems. The international community has a meaningful role to play in putting an end to such atrocities against minorities at the hands of the Pakistani state. For its part, India, as per its declared policy, should welcome and settle these persecuted minorities of Pakistan that seek shelter in India. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

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Pakistan has offered consular access to Jadhav for today. Today Indian officials will be meeting Jadhav at 12 noon for 2 hours. Indian Govt has demanded the uninterrupted talks with Jadhav. Watch this video to know more.

Pakistan offers consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav, 2 hrs meeting at 12 noon today

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-preparing-to-call-election-on-eve-of-brexit-showdown-with-parliament-247170">British PM preparing to call election on eve of Brexit showdown with parliament?</a>

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is preparing to call an election, media reported on Monday, on the eve of an historic showdown with parliament over Brexit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-charge-daffaires-ahluwalia-meets-kulbhushan-jadhav-in-pakistan-jail-247139">Indian chargé d'affaires Ahluwalia meets Kulbhushan Jadhav in Pakistan jail&nbsp;</a>

Indian chargé d'affaires Gaurav Ahluwalia held a two-hour meeting with Kulbhushan Jadhav at a sub-jail in Pakistan after the Indian national was granted consular access which has been one of the most prickly issues between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-students-rally-peacefully-after-weekend-of-protest-violence-247151">Hong Kong students rally peacefully after weekend of protest violence</a>

Thousands of Hong Kong university and school students boycotted class and rallied peacefully for democracy on Monday, the latest acts of defiance in an anti-government movement that has plunged the Chinese-ruled city into crisis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vikram-lander-successfully-separated-from-chandrayaan-2-isro-247122">Vikram Lander successfully separated from Chandrayaan-2: ISRO</a>

The Vikram Lander successfully separated from Chandrayaan-2 on Monday, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-ghani-wants-us-to-share-details-of-draft-deal-with-all-leaders-spokesman-247163">Afghan president Ghani wants US to share details of draft deal with all leaders: Spokesman</a>

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Monday told the US envoy for Afghanistan to share details of a draft deal between the US and Taliban with all Afghan leaders, news agency Reuters reported quoting president's spokesman.

British PM preparing to call election on eve of Brexit showdown with parliament? British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is preparing to call an election, media reported on Monday, on the eve of an historic showdown with parliament over Brexit.

British PM preparing to call election on eve of Brexit showdown with parliament? British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is preparing to call an election, media reported on Monday, on the eve of an historic showdown with parliament over Brexit. Indian chargé d'affaires Ahluwalia meets Kulbhushan Jadhav in Pakistan jail Indian chargé d'affaires Gaurav Ahluwalia held a two-hour meeting with Kulbhushan Jadhav at a sub-jail in Pakistan after the Indian national was granted consular access which has been one of the most prickly issues between India and Pakistan. Hong Kong students rally peacefully after weekend of protest violence Thousands of Hong Kong university and school students boycotted class and rallied peacefully for democracy on Monday, the latest acts of defiance in an anti-government movement that has plunged the Chinese-ruled city into crisis. Vikram Lander successfully separated from Chandrayaan-2: ISRO The Vikram Lander successfully separated from Chandrayaan-2 on Monday, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said. Afghan president Ghani wants US to share details of draft deal with all leaders: Spokesman Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Monday told the US envoy for Afghanistan to share details of a draft deal between the US and Taliban with all Afghan leaders, news agency Reuters reported quoting president's spokesman.

News brief: Big stories of the day

India gets consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav for the first time.

WION Dispatch: Anas Mallick and Siddhant Sibbal on consular access to Jadhav

Jadhav-Indian diplomats 2-hour of consular access meet ends; Meet held at a Pak sub-jail.

Kulbhushan Jadhav consular meet ends

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kulbhushan-jadhav-case-what-is-consular-access-that-india-was-denied-16-times-247144">Kulbhushan Jadhav</a>, a retired Indian Navy officer, was sentenced to death by the Pakistan military court on charges of “espionage and terrorism” after a closed trial in April 2017.

In its verdict on July 17, 2019&nbsp;the International Court of Justice stopped his execution and said that Jadhav's trial by a military court in Pakistan was not accepted. The ICJ also gave consular access to Jadhav and upheld India's stand that Pakistan has violated the 1963 Vienna Convention.

India on September 2 accepted Pakistan's offer of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-get-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-today-247059">consular access to&nbsp;Jadhav</a>.&nbsp;

Earlier, Pakistan had offered consular access on August 1, but with conditions - that one Pakistani official would be present alongside. India responded to this and asked Pakistan to provide "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-must-provide-unimpeded-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-india-240164">unimpeded consular access</a>", in an environment "free from the fear of intimidation and reprisal".

The consular access was granted to India after years of denial by Pakistan. India had made 16 such requests to Pakistan seeking consular access for Jadhav in the last 3 years. However, all such requests were denied by Pak.

India first sought consular access from Islamabad on March 29, 2016, within a month of his arrest.&nbsp;

On December 8, 2017, Pakistan had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-tightens-security-ahead-of-jadhavs-meeting-with-family-27648">allowed Jadhav's wife and mother to meet him</a> on December 25 at the Foreign Affairs Ministry in Islamabad for 45 minutes. During the meeting, Pakistan had said that it did not constitute "consular access". During the meeting, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal had said that all decisions on consular access of Jadhav will be taken on the basis of law and interests of Pakistan.

Pakistan has repeatedly denied India consular access to Jadhav on the ground that it was not applicable in cases related to spies.

The verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav's&nbsp;high-profile case of came nearly five months after a 15-member bench of ICJ led by Judge Yusuf had reserved its decision on February 21 after hearing oral submissions by India and Pakistan. The proceedings of the case took two years and two months to complete.

Kulbhushan Jadhav, a retired Indian Navy officer, was sentenced to death by the Pakistan military court on charges of “espionage and terrorism” after a closed trial in April 2017.

Kulbhushan Jadhav, a retired Indian Navy officer, was sentenced to death by the Pakistan military court on charges of “espionage and terrorism” after a closed trial in April 2017. In its verdict on July 17, 2019 the International Court of Justice stopped his execution and said that Jadhav's trial by a military court in Pakistan was not accepted. The ICJ also gave consular access to Jadhav and upheld India's stand that Pakistan has violated the 1963 Vienna Convention. India on September 2 accepted Pakistan's offer of consular access to Jadhav. Earlier, Pakistan had offered consular access on August 1, but with conditions - that one Pakistani official would be present alongside. India responded to this and asked Pakistan to provide "unimpeded consular access", in an environment "free from the fear of intimidation and reprisal". The consular access was granted to India after years of denial by Pakistan. India had made 16 such requests to Pakistan seeking consular access for Jadhav in the last 3 years. However, all such requests were denied by Pak. India first sought consular access from Islamabad on March 29, 2016, within a month of his arrest. On December 8, 2017, Pakistan had allowed Jadhav's wife and mother to meet him on December 25 at the Foreign Affairs Ministry in Islamabad for 45 minutes. During the meeting, Pakistan had said that it did not constitute "consular access". During the meeting, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal had said that all decisions on consular access of Jadhav will be taken on the basis of law and interests of Pakistan. Pakistan has repeatedly denied India consular access to Jadhav on the ground that it was not applicable in cases related to spies. The verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav's high-profile case of came nearly five months after a 15-member bench of ICJ led by Judge Yusuf had reserved its decision on February 21 after hearing oral submissions by India and Pakistan. The proceedings of the case took two years and two months to complete.

After repeated denials, India finally gets consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav

In an exclusive conversation with Gopalaswami Parthasarathy over Kulbhushan Jadhav case. Gopalaswami Parthasarathy is the former Indian Diplomat to Pakistan. Watch this video to listen to his perspective on this case.

In conversation with G. Parthasarathy over Kulbhushan Jadhav case | WION Exclusive

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