Pakistan's Attempts To Internationalise Kashmir Issue Fails In Spectacular Fashion

Gravitas: Pakistan's Kashmir Defeat

Indian Military 4th most powerful in the world. Watch this video to know more.

WION Fineprint: Indian Military 4th most powerful in the world

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-airport-resumes-flights-after-clashes-mass-protests-242850">Hong Kong airport resumes flights after clashes, mass protests</a>

Hong Kong's airport resumed operations on Wednesday, rescheduling hundreds of flights that had been disrupted over the past two days as protesters clashed with riot police in a deepening crisis in the Chinese-controlled city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/facebook-paid-contractors-to-transcribe-users-audio-report-242853">Facebook paid contractors to transcribe users' audio: Report</a>

Facebook Inc&nbsp;has been paying outside contractors to transcribe audio clips from users of its services, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. The company confirmed that it had been transcribing users' audio and said it was no longer doing so, Bloomberg reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-asks-un-security-council-to-meet-over-india-moves-in-kashmir-242852">Pakistan asks UN Security Council to meet over India moves in Kashmir</a>

Pakistan&nbsp;on Tuesday asked the&nbsp;United Nations Security Council&nbsp;to meet over India's decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, the Himalayan region that has long been a flashpoint in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/free-balochistan-movement-marks-independence-day-of-balochistan-242873">Free Balochistan movement marks Independence Day of Balochistan</a>

Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) organised a seminar in London to mark the Independence Day of Baloch. It was attended by members of several Baloch and non-Baloch political parties including Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Balochistan National Movement (Zrombesh), Balochistan People Party, Nation without States, Arab Front for The liberation of ALahwaz, Campaign against Criminalizing Communities and 15 April Movement for Liberation of Al- Ahwaz.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-2-successfully-enters-lunar-transfer-trajectory-242851">Chandrayaan-2 successfully enters Lunar Transfer Trajectory</a>

Chandrayaan-2 headed onwards on its path to the moon after the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) early Wednesday successfully carried out a crucial process to manoeuvre India's second lunar probe out of the earth's orbit.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Hong Kong airport resumes flights after clashes, mass protests Hong Kong's airport resumed operations on Wednesday, rescheduling hundreds of flights that had been disrupted over the past two days as protesters clashed with riot police in a deepening crisis in the Chinese-controlled city.

Hong Kong airport resumes flights after clashes, mass protests Hong Kong's airport resumed operations on Wednesday, rescheduling hundreds of flights that had been disrupted over the past two days as protesters clashed with riot police in a deepening crisis in the Chinese-controlled city. Facebook paid contractors to transcribe users' audio: Report Facebook Inc has been paying outside contractors to transcribe audio clips from users of its services, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. The company confirmed that it had been transcribing users' audio and said it was no longer doing so, Bloomberg reported. Pakistan asks UN Security Council to meet over India moves in Kashmir Pakistan on Tuesday asked the United Nations Security Council to meet over India's decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, the Himalayan region that has long been a flashpoint in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours. Free Balochistan movement marks Independence Day of Balochistan Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) organised a seminar in London to mark the Independence Day of Baloch. It was attended by members of several Baloch and non-Baloch political parties including Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Balochistan National Movement (Zrombesh), Balochistan People Party, Nation without States, Arab Front for The liberation of ALahwaz, Campaign against Criminalizing Communities and 15 April Movement for Liberation of Al- Ahwaz. Chandrayaan-2 successfully enters Lunar Transfer Trajectory Chandrayaan-2 headed onwards on its path to the moon after the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) early Wednesday successfully carried out a crucial process to manoeuvre India's second lunar probe out of the earth's orbit.

News brief: Big stories of the day

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

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

In this segment of WION, know about how India is way ahead than Pakistan in terms of GDP per capita, human capital ranking and so on.

WION Dispatch: India surges ahead, Pakistan lags behind

Jammu and Kashmir is now preparing for the Independence day. Security has been tightened in Srinagar to avert any attack. I n this video watch WION's ground report from Srinagar.

Kashmir gears up for Independence day 2019

Since its&nbsp;accession, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-special-terror-and-bloodshed-in-balochistan-whos-to-blame-4279">Balochistan</a>&nbsp;has witnessed years of brutal crackdown and faced&nbsp;genocidal policies from Pakistan&nbsp;due to the&nbsp;rich resources.

Mass graves were found in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/balochistans-struggle-inside-pakistans-secret-war-2592">Balochistan</a> for the first time in 2014 in Turbat, and since then, every year the people of the region discovered similar graves in different areas, a report stated.

Independent investigations and international humanitarian organisations' access to the areas in question has been banned for 'security reasons'.

The enforced disappearances are an urgent issue in Balochistan. The Pakistani army and security forces have abducted and disappeared, at least 20,000 Baloch political and human rights activists since 2000. So far mutilated bodies of about 6000 of these victims have been discovered in different parts of Balochistan.

For several years political activists have accused Pakistan of taking away the resources and eliminating the people of Balochistan, the province with immense geo-strategic importance and huge untapped natural resource reserves.

Here's a brief history on the accession of Balochistan--

The Khan of Kalat, Mir Ahmad Yar Khan, declared the independence of Balochistan from Britain on August 12, 1947.

The newly independent region was again annexed by Pakistan in 1948. After the accession, the Pak army entered Balochistan on April 15.

Before joining with Pakistan on March 27, 1948, &nbsp;the Balochistan Parliament had rejected several proposals of merging with Pak between December 14, 1947 and February 25, 1948.&nbsp;

The Pak army attacked the residence of the Khan of Kalat on October 6, 1958. In the same month, several political leaders of the province were arrested including the Khan of Kalat.&nbsp; 
Pakistan had also imposed Martial law in Balochistan in October 1958.

During the 1960s, protests led by Nawab and tribesmen erupted against the government in several parts of the region. Students also formed organisation and joined the protest movement against the Pakistan establishment by 1967.

The Balochi protest groups fought with the Pakistan government in 1967 and 1968. The clashes led to widespread oppression and fall of the Balochi rebels in 1969.

The government announced the formation of the province of Balochistan in July 1971 after elections. The region was later declared as a province with Mir Ghaus Bakhsh Bizenjo as the Governor.

With assistance from Iraq and Afghanistan, the rebels continued their fight against the Pakistan government which was being provided military support from the US, France and China.

The then prime minister Benazir Bhutto dismissed Governor Bizenjo and Provincial Assembly of Balochistan on February 12, 1973, and appointed a new governor Sardar Akbar Khan Bugti.&nbsp;

The clashes in the region led to the death of around 1,000 people.

(With inputs from agencies)

Since its accession, Balochistan has witnessed years of brutal crackdown and faced genocidal policies from Pakistan due to the rich resources. Mass graves were found in Balochistan for the first time in 2014 in Turbat, and since then, every year the people of the region discovered similar graves in different areas, a report stated.

Since its accession, Balochistan has witnessed years of brutal crackdown and faced genocidal policies from Pakistan due to the rich resources. Mass graves were found in Balochistan for the first time in 2014 in Turbat, and since then, every year the people of the region discovered similar graves in different areas, a report stated. Independent investigations and international humanitarian organisations' access to the areas in question has been banned for 'security reasons'. The enforced disappearances are an urgent issue in Balochistan. The Pakistani army and security forces have abducted and disappeared, at least 20,000 Baloch political and human rights activists since 2000. So far mutilated bodies of about 6000 of these victims have been discovered in different parts of Balochistan. For several years political activists have accused Pakistan of taking away the resources and eliminating the people of Balochistan, the province with immense geo-strategic importance and huge untapped natural resource reserves. Here's a brief history on the accession of Balochistan-- The Khan of Kalat, Mir Ahmad Yar Khan, declared the independence of Balochistan from Britain on August 12, 1947. The newly independent region was again annexed by Pakistan in 1948. After the accession, the Pak army entered Balochistan on April 15. Before joining with Pakistan on March 27, 1948, the Balochistan Parliament had rejected several proposals of merging with Pak between December 14, 1947 and February 25, 1948. The Pak army attacked the residence of the Khan of Kalat on October 6, 1958. In the same month, several political leaders of the province were arrested including the Khan of Kalat. Pakistan had also imposed Martial law in Balochistan in October 1958. During the 1960s, protests led by Nawab and tribesmen erupted against the government in several parts of the region. Students also formed organisation and joined the protest movement against the Pakistan establishment by 1967. The Balochi protest groups fought with the Pakistan government in 1967 and 1968. The clashes led to widespread oppression and fall of the Balochi rebels in 1969. The government announced the formation of the province of Balochistan in July 1971 after elections. The region was later declared as a province with Mir Ghaus Bakhsh Bizenjo as the Governor. With assistance from Iraq and Afghanistan, the rebels continued their fight against the Pakistan government which was being provided military support from the US, France and China. The then prime minister Benazir Bhutto dismissed Governor Bizenjo and Provincial Assembly of Balochistan on February 12, 1973, and appointed a new governor Sardar Akbar Khan Bugti. The clashes in the region led to the death of around 1,000 people. (With inputs from agencies)

History of the war in Balochistan

Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was captured by Pakistan for almost 60 hours after Balakot airstrike in February, will be conferred with Vir Chakra on the 73rd Independence Day

Abhinandan Varthaman to be awarded with Vir Chakra on Independence Day

J&K: Security tightened on the eve of Independence Day

Pakistan has now approached the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) over Jammu & Kashmir. Meanwhile, Poland has made it clear that Delhi and Islamabad should find a solution “bilaterally”.

Pakistan's desperation grows, Poland backs bilateral solution on J&K

Pakistan goes to UNSC, Poland backs bilateral solution on J&K

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Columnist Shobhaa De on Monday rubbished the claims made by former Pakistan envoy to India Abdul Basit that he had influenced her to write the 2016 article where she "advocated plebiscite" in Kashmir in the aftermath of Burhan Wani's death.

Speaking to ANI, De said that the only time she ever met Basit was during the Jaipur Literature Festival in January 2019, when the former envoy attempted to make a conversation at a "publishing party" but was "almost as good as asked to leave".

"The only time I met him, or rather he came and imposed himself and intruded into a small group was in January of this year at the Jaipur lit fest at a publishing party. He came and joined a small group, attempted a conversation, was snubbed and almost as good as asked to leave," said De.

"In those three minutes, yes, he tried to bring in various issues but the only issue that actually chased him away was China. That was the first and last time I ever encountered this man," she added.

In an interview with a Pakistani blogger Farhan Virk, Basit had said that he had managed to influence "prominent" columnist Shobhaa De to write the 2016 article titled "Burhan Wani is dead but he'll live on till we find out what Kashmir really wants".

Watch video

Abdul Basit: Influenced Shobhaa de to write against India

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De called Basit's statement "dangerous, malicious, and unfair to anybody who believes in the truth", adding that she is "deeply insulted and upset that he could dare to say something like that about a person who has built her career on credibility and positive good journalism for over 40 years."&nbsp;
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Columnist Shobhaa De on Monday rubbished the claims made by former Pakistan envoy to India Abdul Basit that he had influenced her to write the 2016 article where she "advocated plebiscite" in Kashmir in the aftermath of Burhan Wani's death.

Columnist Shobhaa De on Monday rubbished the claims made by former Pakistan envoy to India Abdul Basit that he had influenced her to write the 2016 article where she "advocated plebiscite" in Kashmir in the aftermath of Burhan Wani's death. Speaking to ANI, De said that the only time she ever met Basit was during the Jaipur Literature Festival in January 2019, when the former envoy attempted to make a conversation at a "publishing party" but was "almost as good as asked to leave". "The only time I met him, or rather he came and imposed himself and intruded into a small group was in January of this year at the Jaipur lit fest at a publishing party. He came and joined a small group, attempted a conversation, was snubbed and almost as good as asked to leave," said De. "In those three minutes, yes, he tried to bring in various issues but the only issue that actually chased him away was China. That was the first and last time I ever encountered this man," she added. In an interview with a Pakistani blogger Farhan Virk, Basit had said that he had managed to influence "prominent" columnist Shobhaa De to write the 2016 article titled "Burhan Wani is dead but he'll live on till we find out what Kashmir really wants". Watch video Abdul Basit: Influenced Shobhaa de to write against India × De called Basit's statement "dangerous, malicious, and unfair to anybody who believes in the truth", adding that she is "deeply insulted and upset that he could dare to say something like that about a person who has built her career on credibility and positive good journalism for over 40 years."

Shobhaa De rubbishes Basit's claims that he influenced her to write Kashmir article

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

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-check-ins-suspended-at-hong-kong-airport-as-protests-escalate-242706">All check-ins suspended at Hong Kong airport as protests escalate</a>

Authorities at Hong Kong airport on Tuesday suspended all departure check-ins after protesters blocked the facility for a second day, but some flights were still arriving and taking off.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/concerned-poland-says-india-pakistan-must-resolve-kashmir-issue-through-dialogue-242711">'Concerned’ Poland hopes India, Pakistan resolve Kashmir issue through dialogue</a>

Poland's ambassador to India Adam Burakowski on Tuesday said that India and Pakistan have to resolve the Kashmir issue bilaterally.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-britain-might-free-oil-tanker-soon-irna-242778">Iran says Britain might free oil tanker soon; Gibraltar government source denies claim</a>

Iran said on Tuesday that Britain might free its oil tanker Grace 1 soon in a maritime saga that has exacerbated frictions between Tehran and the West.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-knife-attack-currently-not-classed-as-a-terrorist-incident-police-242764">Sydney knife attack currently not classed as a terrorist incident: Police</a>

After a man went on a stabbing attack in downtown Sydney killing one woman and wounding another, police said he was carrying a knife and a computer thumb drive containing information about deadly attacks in North America and New Zealand when he went on the frenzy as a "lone actor".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-everything-stays-normal-we-will-meet-people-of-jammu-and-kashmir-without-guns-says-army-chief-general-bipin-rawat-242769">If everything stays normal, we will meet people of Jammu and Kashmir without guns, says Army Chief General Bipin Rawat</a>

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Tuesday downplayed Pakistan ramping up troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of abrogation of Article 370.

All check-ins suspended at Hong Kong airport as protests escalate Authorities at Hong Kong airport on Tuesday suspended all departure check-ins after protesters blocked the facility for a second day, but some flights were still arriving and taking off.

All check-ins suspended at Hong Kong airport as protests escalate Authorities at Hong Kong airport on Tuesday suspended all departure check-ins after protesters blocked the facility for a second day, but some flights were still arriving and taking off. 'Concerned’ Poland hopes India, Pakistan resolve Kashmir issue through dialogue Poland's ambassador to India Adam Burakowski on Tuesday said that India and Pakistan have to resolve the Kashmir issue bilaterally. Iran says Britain might free oil tanker soon; Gibraltar government source denies claim Iran said on Tuesday that Britain might free its oil tanker Grace 1 soon in a maritime saga that has exacerbated frictions between Tehran and the West. Sydney knife attack currently not classed as a terrorist incident: Police After a man went on a stabbing attack in downtown Sydney killing one woman and wounding another, police said he was carrying a knife and a computer thumb drive containing information about deadly attacks in North America and New Zealand when he went on the frenzy as a "lone actor". If everything stays normal, we will meet people of Jammu and Kashmir without guns, says Army Chief General Bipin Rawat Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Tuesday downplayed Pakistan ramping up troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of abrogation of Article 370.

Pakistan goes to UNSC on Jammu & Kashmir and Poland has made it clear that Delhi and Islamabad should solve this issue bilaterally. To know more watch the video

Adam Burakowski, Poland's envoy to India speaks to Wion

Indian Army Chief Bipin Rawat has once again warned Pakistan and expressed confidence that the forces are ever vigilant and always prepared to deal with any situation.

J&K gears up for Independence Day celebrations

Pakistan's outcry over the developments in Kashmir and its advocacy for the human rights of Kashmiris shows the height of hypocrisy and shamelessness when compared to the 72 years of their illegal occupation of Balochistan, said Hammal Haider, foreign spokesman of the Baloch National Movement.

The spokesman's remarks came in the wake of heightened tension between India and Pakistan following New Delhi's historic decision of the changing the status of Jammu and Kashmir and transforming it into a union territory, with effect from October 31.

Rattled by India's move, Pakistan requested the international community to intervene in the matter and call for restraint against the so-called "illegal aggression" in the region.

Haider said that Pakistan has been "illegally occupying" Balochistan since 72 years and has extra-judicially abducted and killed thousands of Baloch political activists throughout the years.

Balochistan was once an independent country like many others, he added.

On August 11, 1947, the province, which is currently under the dominance of Pakistan, gained independence from the British colonisers just three days before the creation of Pakistan.

"But six months later, we lost our freedom. A proposal was presented by the then ruler of Balochistan, Mir Ahmad Yar Khan, to the upper and lower house of the parliament at Mohammad Ali Jinnah's request to join Pakistan. But both houses unanimously rejected his proposal and refused to join Pakistan," he stated.

"After failing to convince the Baloch people in the name of Islam and focal two-nation theory, Pakistan resorted to military forces and invaded Balochistan on March 27, 1948, and annexed it against the will of the Baloch people," the activist added.

Since then, Haider said, the same military has killed hundreds and thousands of people who asked for the rights of self-determination.

"It also is the same army that is currently involved in the killings of not only Baloch people but also Sindhis and Pashotoon political activists, teachers, lawyers, and human rights campaigners," he added.&nbsp;

Pakistan's outcry over the developments in Kashmir and its advocacy for the human rights of Kashmiris shows the height of hypocrisy and shamelessness when compared to the 72 years of their illegal occupation of Balochistan, said Hammal Haider, foreign spokesman of the Baloch National Movement.

Pakistan's outcry over the developments in Kashmir and its advocacy for the human rights of Kashmiris shows the height of hypocrisy and shamelessness when compared to the 72 years of their illegal occupation of Balochistan, said Hammal Haider, foreign spokesman of the Baloch National Movement. The spokesman's remarks came in the wake of heightened tension between India and Pakistan following New Delhi's historic decision of the changing the status of Jammu and Kashmir and transforming it into a union territory, with effect from October 31. Rattled by India's move, Pakistan requested the international community to intervene in the matter and call for restraint against the so-called "illegal aggression" in the region. Haider said that Pakistan has been "illegally occupying" Balochistan since 72 years and has extra-judicially abducted and killed thousands of Baloch political activists throughout the years. Balochistan was once an independent country like many others, he added. On August 11, 1947, the province, which is currently under the dominance of Pakistan, gained independence from the British colonisers just three days before the creation of Pakistan. "But six months later, we lost our freedom. A proposal was presented by the then ruler of Balochistan, Mir Ahmad Yar Khan, to the upper and lower house of the parliament at Mohammad Ali Jinnah's request to join Pakistan. But both houses unanimously rejected his proposal and refused to join Pakistan," he stated. "After failing to convince the Baloch people in the name of Islam and focal two-nation theory, Pakistan resorted to military forces and invaded Balochistan on March 27, 1948, and annexed it against the will of the Baloch people," the activist added. Since then, Haider said, the same military has killed hundreds and thousands of people who asked for the rights of self-determination. "It also is the same army that is currently involved in the killings of not only Baloch people but also Sindhis and Pashotoon political activists, teachers, lawyers, and human rights campaigners," he added.

Pakistan's outcry over Kashmir height of hypocrisy, shamelessness, says Baloch activist

While relations between India and Pakistan continue to remain tense, relations with India's friendly foreign nation Bangladesh continues to flourish.

On Monday, on the occasion of Eid-Al-Adah, officers of Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-scrapped-no-exchange-of-sweets-at-attari-wagah-border-on-eid-al-adha-242360">exchanged sweets on the Indo-Bangladesh border</a>.

''The cordial relation existing between Border Security Force, India and Border Guards Bangladesh was again reflected on the occasion of Eid-Al-Adah. The commanders and troops of both the border guarding forces exchanged best wishes and presented sweets to each other, on the occasion of Eid-Ul-Adah, at various locations on the International Border between India and Bangladesh,” read a release from the South Bengal Frontier of BSF.

Senior officers and soldiers&nbsp;along the border greeted each other, exchanged pleasantries and sweets reflecting the bond between the two nations.

''Border Security Force is maintaining alertness and strict vigilance along the border&nbsp;area during the festive season. Keeping in view importance of this week which is witnessing important festival Eid-Al-Adha and Independence Day, BSF is making all efforts for security in the border area near the International Boundary,'' added the release.

While relations between India and Pakistan continue to remain tense, relations with India's friendly foreign nation Bangladesh continues to flourish. On Monday, on the occasion of Eid-Al-Adah, officers of Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) exchanged sweets on the Indo-Bangladesh border.

While relations between India and Pakistan continue to remain tense, relations with India's friendly foreign nation Bangladesh continues to flourish. On Monday, on the occasion of Eid-Al-Adah, officers of Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) exchanged sweets on the Indo-Bangladesh border. ''The cordial relation existing between Border Security Force, India and Border Guards Bangladesh was again reflected on the occasion of Eid-Al-Adah. The commanders and troops of both the border guarding forces exchanged best wishes and presented sweets to each other, on the occasion of Eid-Ul-Adah, at various locations on the International Border between India and Bangladesh,” read a release from the South Bengal Frontier of BSF. Senior officers and soldiers along the border greeted each other, exchanged pleasantries and sweets reflecting the bond between the two nations. ''Border Security Force is maintaining alertness and strict vigilance along the border area during the festive season. Keeping in view importance of this week which is witnessing important festival Eid-Al-Adha and Independence Day, BSF is making all efforts for security in the border area near the International Boundary,'' added the release.

BSF, Bangladesh border guards exchange sweets on Eid

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 12th, 2019

The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-bill-will-be-a-reality-soon-says-kiren-rijiju-242202">Kiren Rijiju has said</a> that an isolated stand cannot be taken when it comes to multilateral events organised by international bodies.

His remarks came after All India Tennis Association's (AITA) decision to travel to Pakistan to take part in the upcoming Davis Cup.

"I have already made it clear. Any bilateral match with Pakistan will have to get clearance from the government but if it is a multilateral event organised by international bodies then we cannot take our own isolated stand. We have to be very clear," Rijiju told reporters at an event.

However, Rijiju also remarked that any bilateral event between the two countries will require a political sanction.

"Any bilateral match with Pakistan must have a political sanction, otherwise I just cannot go on commenting on every match. The security issue is completely different from the issue of the game," Rijiju said.

On August 5, India abrogated Article 370 which accorded a special status to Jammu and Kashmir after a resolution regarding the same was passed in both houses of the Parliament.

The Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill 2019 was also passed which converted Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature) and after this decision, Pakistan decided to downgrade diplomatic ties with India.

Seeing the downgrading of diplomatic ties, AITA Secretary-General Hironmoy Chatterjee had said that the International Tennis Federation (ITF) will decide whether India plays against Pakistan or not.

"Idea is, for ITF to see the situation is conducive or not. Let the ITF decide on the situation primarily, if they find the situation is very sensitive as Pakistan have severed all diplomatic ties with India, then they will not issue a visa. If they do not issue the visa, so how would we go there. In that case, Pakistan will get penalised and the tie will get shifted to a neutral venue," Chatterjee had told ANI.

The Indian team is scheduled to travel Pakistan for the first time in 55 years to participate in the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group-1 tie at Islamabad on September 14 and 15.

Chatterjee said that if India opts out of playing against Pakistan, it will invite penalty. He added that if Pakistan does not issue visas to the players they will be unable to travel.

"We don't want to be in a situation where we will say that we don't want to go. It is too early to say anything, the situation has become a bit tense after the scrapping of Article 370. We are going to go through the process," Chatterjee had said.

Chatterjee had added that the AITA is also gathering information from the players for the visa application of Pakistan.

"Regarding this, we did not have any meeting, we need to put in an application and we are gathering the information for the application of visa as the players are playing in different competitions around the world," Chatterjee had said.

AITA on August 5 had announced Mahesh Bhupathi as the skipper for the India-Pakistan Davis Cup tie on September 14 and 15 in Islamabad.

Six players were named by the association, who will be taking part in Davis Cup. Prajnesh Gunneswaran, Ramkumar Ramanathan, Saketh Myneni, Rohan Bopanna, Divij Sharan and Sasi Kumar Mukund were all named in the lineup.

Mukund was named as the reserve and Zeeshan Ali was announced as the coach of the team.

The Davis Cup draw was rolled out in February this year, but after the Pulwama attack on February 14, chances of the Indian tennis team touring Pakistan looked bleak.

The Indian cricket team had last toured Pakistan in 2007, and after that, no team across any sport has toured Pakistan.

India last played Pakistan in the Davis Cup in 2006 at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai, in which the hosts managed to register a 3-2 win to take India's head-to-head tally against Pakistan to 6-0.

The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju has said that an isolated stand cannot be taken when it comes to multilateral events organised by international bodies.

The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju has said that an isolated stand cannot be taken when it comes to multilateral events organised by international bodies. His remarks came after All India Tennis Association's (AITA) decision to travel to Pakistan to take part in the upcoming Davis Cup. "I have already made it clear. Any bilateral match with Pakistan will have to get clearance from the government but if it is a multilateral event organised by international bodies then we cannot take our own isolated stand. We have to be very clear," Rijiju told reporters at an event. However, Rijiju also remarked that any bilateral event between the two countries will require a political sanction. "Any bilateral match with Pakistan must have a political sanction, otherwise I just cannot go on commenting on every match. The security issue is completely different from the issue of the game," Rijiju said. On August 5, India abrogated Article 370 which accorded a special status to Jammu and Kashmir after a resolution regarding the same was passed in both houses of the Parliament. The Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill 2019 was also passed which converted Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature) and after this decision, Pakistan decided to downgrade diplomatic ties with India. Seeing the downgrading of diplomatic ties, AITA Secretary-General Hironmoy Chatterjee had said that the International Tennis Federation (ITF) will decide whether India plays against Pakistan or not. "Idea is, for ITF to see the situation is conducive or not. Let the ITF decide on the situation primarily, if they find the situation is very sensitive as Pakistan have severed all diplomatic ties with India, then they will not issue a visa. If they do not issue the visa, so how would we go there. In that case, Pakistan will get penalised and the tie will get shifted to a neutral venue," Chatterjee had told ANI. The Indian team is scheduled to travel Pakistan for the first time in 55 years to participate in the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group-1 tie at Islamabad on September 14 and 15. Chatterjee said that if India opts out of playing against Pakistan, it will invite penalty. He added that if Pakistan does not issue visas to the players they will be unable to travel. "We don't want to be in a situation where we will say that we don't want to go. It is too early to say anything, the situation has become a bit tense after the scrapping of Article 370. We are going to go through the process," Chatterjee had said. Chatterjee had added that the AITA is also gathering information from the players for the visa application of Pakistan. "Regarding this, we did not have any meeting, we need to put in an application and we are gathering the information for the application of visa as the players are playing in different competitions around the world," Chatterjee had said. AITA on August 5 had announced Mahesh Bhupathi as the skipper for the India-Pakistan Davis Cup tie on September 14 and 15 in Islamabad. Six players were named by the association, who will be taking part in Davis Cup. Prajnesh Gunneswaran, Ramkumar Ramanathan, Saketh Myneni, Rohan Bopanna, Divij Sharan and Sasi Kumar Mukund were all named in the lineup. Mukund was named as the reserve and Zeeshan Ali was announced as the coach of the team. The Davis Cup draw was rolled out in February this year, but after the Pulwama attack on February 14, chances of the Indian tennis team touring Pakistan looked bleak. The Indian cricket team had last toured Pakistan in 2007, and after that, no team across any sport has toured Pakistan. India last played Pakistan in the Davis Cup in 2006 at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai, in which the hosts managed to register a 3-2 win to take India's head-to-head tally against Pakistan to 6-0.

Cannot take isolated stand in multilateral events: Sports minister Kiren Rijiju

Heavy monsoon rains in Pakistan have killed at least 161 people while 137 people sustained injuries in the country last month alone, according to the country's National Disaster Management Authority.

The authority's media official, Saqib Mumtaz, told Xinhua that the rains are expected to subside in Karachi on Monday.

Majority of the deceased lost their lives after being electrocuted or due to roof collapse.

Water inundated low-lying areas, leaving several stranded inside their homes.

Road and railway traffic have also been disrupted, as per reports in local media.

Makeshift tents have been arranged to house people who were displaced due to the heavy rains, according to Sindh's Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.

The army and paramilitary troops have stepped in to help in rescue efforts in a few parts in Sindh.&nbsp;

Heavy monsoon rains in Pakistan have killed at least 161 people while 137 people sustained injuries in the country last month alone, according to the country's National Disaster Management Authority.

Heavy monsoon rains in Pakistan have killed at least 161 people while 137 people sustained injuries in the country last month alone, according to the country's National Disaster Management Authority. The authority's media official, Saqib Mumtaz, told Xinhua that the rains are expected to subside in Karachi on Monday. Majority of the deceased lost their lives after being electrocuted or due to roof collapse. Water inundated low-lying areas, leaving several stranded inside their homes. Road and railway traffic have also been disrupted, as per reports in local media. Makeshift tents have been arranged to house people who were displaced due to the heavy rains, according to Sindh's Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. The army and paramilitary troops have stepped in to help in rescue efforts in a few parts in Sindh.

Pakistan: At least 161 people killed in heavy rains in last one month, 137 injured

Indian Railways on Sunday announced the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samjhauta-express-arrives-in-delhi-after-pakistan-announces-suspension-241637">cancellation of Samjhauta Express</a> between Delhi and Atari following Pakistan's decision to suspend the train's operation on its side.

"In consequence to Pakistan's decision to cancel the Samjhauta Express 14607/14608 running between Lahore and Atari... the Samjhauta link Express train number 14001/14002 running between Delhi and Atari also stands cancelled," said Deepak Kumar, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), Northern Railways.

The development comes after Pakistan Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad on Saturday rejected India's request to review the decision of closing down the operations of the Samjhauta and Thar Express trains, saying that the services will not resume till the time he holds the post.

"Though a final decision will be taken by the Foreign Office over the request to review the closure of the trains, I reject India's request. And till the time I remain the minister for railways, there would be no operation of the Samjhauta and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-samjhauta-pakistan-shuts-down-thar-link-express-241745">Thar Express trains</a>," he said at a press conference at the Pakistan Railways headquarters here.

The Samjhauta Express has been a bi-weekly train between Delhi via Attari border to Lahore in Pakistan since 1976 after the Simla Agreement between the two countries was signed in 1972.

The last time the operation of the Samjhauta Express was suspended was on February 28 following the Pulwama terror attack by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed killing 40 CRPF jawans on February 14. But it was resumed shortly thereafter.

Indian Railways on Sunday announced the cancellation of Samjhauta Express between Delhi and Atari following Pakistan's decision to suspend the train's operation on its side.

Indian Railways on Sunday announced the cancellation of Samjhauta Express between Delhi and Atari following Pakistan's decision to suspend the train's operation on its side. "In consequence to Pakistan's decision to cancel the Samjhauta Express 14607/14608 running between Lahore and Atari... the Samjhauta link Express train number 14001/14002 running between Delhi and Atari also stands cancelled," said Deepak Kumar, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), Northern Railways. The development comes after Pakistan Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad on Saturday rejected India's request to review the decision of closing down the operations of the Samjhauta and Thar Express trains, saying that the services will not resume till the time he holds the post. "Though a final decision will be taken by the Foreign Office over the request to review the closure of the trains, I reject India's request. And till the time I remain the minister for railways, there would be no operation of the Samjhauta and Thar Express trains," he said at a press conference at the Pakistan Railways headquarters here. The Samjhauta Express has been a bi-weekly train between Delhi via Attari border to Lahore in Pakistan since 1976 after the Simla Agreement between the two countries was signed in 1972. The last time the operation of the Samjhauta Express was suspended was on February 28 following the Pulwama terror attack by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed killing 40 CRPF jawans on February 14. But it was resumed shortly thereafter.

India announces cancellation of Samjhauta Express to Pakistan

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday urged Pakistan not to back out from its commitment to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-yet-to-respond-to-indias-request-for-another-round-of-talks-on-kartarpur-corridor-242049">building the Kartarpur corridor</a>, a long-pending demand of Indian Sikhs.

"With the momentous 550th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji just three months away, any slowdown in the project will lead to its non-completion in time for the historic event," said Singh in a statement.

The Chief Minister's statement comes in the backdrop of reports that India was forced to send a reminder to Islamabad to hold technical level meetings to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-welcomes-construction-of-kartarpur-corridor-236559">finalise the key decisions</a> about the Kartarpur corridor.

"Such a move would serve a big blow to the desires and aspirations of the Sikh community, who are hungry for 'darshan' of the 'asthan' of the place where their first Guru had spent many years of his early life," added Singh.

On the issue of stoppage of trade at Attari-Wagah border by Pakistan in the wake of its decision to downgrade diplomatic and trade ties with India, the Chief Minister said, "Political concerns should not be allowed to be clouded by any decision that was detrimental to the interests of the people on both sides."

"The stoppage would, in particular, inflict heavy avoidable economic losses for the poor in Pakistan, as the goods would now have to take the long sea route through Iran or Dubai. The trade suspension would also lead to serious loss of jobs and livelihood for thousands of porters, truck/train drivers, staff, etc, who are deployed as part of the trade Infrastructure on both sides," he said.

He also urged Islamabad to revoke the trade suspension in the interest of the people on both sides of the border. "India wanted peace, communal harmony, and development on the Indo-Pak border, people on both sides of which had suffered immensely due to the continued violence and hostilities," he said.

Reiterating that Kashmir was an internal matter of India, the Chief Minister said Pakistan should not link it with diplomatic or trade ties between the two nations.

The Punjab Chief Minister also called upon the Indian government to open diplomatic channels to press Pakistan to resume trade ties.

Urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to announce a special economic package for the development of Punjab and Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir to create better job opportunities for their youth, he said,&nbsp;"The Centre should also raise additional battalions in the Army, para-military forces and the State Police for all the border states.''

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday urged Pakistan not to back out from its commitment to building the Kartarpur corridor, a long-pending demand of Indian Sikhs.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday urged Pakistan not to back out from its commitment to building the Kartarpur corridor, a long-pending demand of Indian Sikhs. "With the momentous 550th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji just three months away, any slowdown in the project will lead to its non-completion in time for the historic event," said Singh in a statement. The Chief Minister's statement comes in the backdrop of reports that India was forced to send a reminder to Islamabad to hold technical level meetings to finalise the key decisions about the Kartarpur corridor. "Such a move would serve a big blow to the desires and aspirations of the Sikh community, who are hungry for 'darshan' of the 'asthan' of the place where their first Guru had spent many years of his early life," added Singh. On the issue of stoppage of trade at Attari-Wagah border by Pakistan in the wake of its decision to downgrade diplomatic and trade ties with India, the Chief Minister said, "Political concerns should not be allowed to be clouded by any decision that was detrimental to the interests of the people on both sides." "The stoppage would, in particular, inflict heavy avoidable economic losses for the poor in Pakistan, as the goods would now have to take the long sea route through Iran or Dubai. The trade suspension would also lead to serious loss of jobs and livelihood for thousands of porters, truck/train drivers, staff, etc, who are deployed as part of the trade Infrastructure on both sides," he said. He also urged Islamabad to revoke the trade suspension in the interest of the people on both sides of the border. "India wanted peace, communal harmony, and development on the Indo-Pak border, people on both sides of which had suffered immensely due to the continued violence and hostilities," he said. Reiterating that Kashmir was an internal matter of India, the Chief Minister said Pakistan should not link it with diplomatic or trade ties between the two nations. The Punjab Chief Minister also called upon the Indian government to open diplomatic channels to press Pakistan to resume trade ties. Urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to announce a special economic package for the development of Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir to create better job opportunities for their youth, he said, "The Centre should also raise additional battalions in the Army, para-military forces and the State Police for all the border states.''

Punjab CM Amarinder Singh urges Pakistan not to back out from Kartarpur corridor commitment

India have asked the International Tennis Federation to shift their upcoming Davis Cup tie from Pakistan to a neutral venue due to escalating political tensions between the two nations.

India have asked the International Tennis Federation to shift their upcoming Davis Cup tie from Pakistan to a neutral venue due to escalating political tensions between the two nations. The Indian team are scheduled to tour Pakistan's capital Islamabad for the Asia/Oceania Group 1 tie to be held on September 14 and 15. But relations between the neighbours are badly strained after India revoked the special autonomy status of Jammu and Kashmir. "We have asked ITF for a neutral venue because the situation is a bit unpredictable," All India Tennis Association (AITA) president Praveen Mahajan told AFP on Sunday. "I believe it is a reasonable request because of the current state of affairs." The AITA was preparing to send its team to Pakistan despite suspended sporting ties between the two countries but the Kashmir situation has raised fresh doubts. An Indian tennis team last toured Pakistan in 1964 for the Davis Cup, where they defeated the hosts 4-0. Pakistan lost 3-2 when they toured Mumbai in 2006. Until a few years ago, Pakistan were forced to host home Davis Cup ties at neutral venues as teams refused to travel to the South Asian nation over security concerns. "I am hopeful they will shift the tie because Pakistan is used to playing in neutral venues," Mahajan said. "ITF will respond to our request shortly, sometime this week." Pakistan Tennis Federation president Salim Saifullah Khan had earlier said they would honour the decision of the ITF if the AITA sought a neutral venue. India named a full strength squad for the crucial tie with the country's highest-ranked players in Prajnesh Gunneswaran (90) and Ramkumar Ramanathan (184) to play the four singles matches.

Davis Cup: All India Tennis Association ask for neutral venue

At least eight people were killed and 14 others were injured when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-3-people-killed-in-landslides-in-abbottabad-240646">heavy rains lashed a large part of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province </a>on Saturday night.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority on Sunday confirmed six deaths and 14 injuries in rain-related incidents in various districts of the province, Dawn News reported.

The rains, which hit the province on Friday evening, caused flash floods, road blockades and causalities in several areas, including Bajaur, Lower Dir, Shangla, Chitral, Shangla, Buner and Mardan districts.

The Karakoram Highway, which was blocked at many places due to heavy landslides on Friday night in Dasu area of Upper Kohistan, was reopened to traffic after many hours.

However, the passengers travelling between Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remained stranded for many hours.

The Pakistan Metrological Department recorded 131mm rain in Malam Jabba, 50mm in Balakot, 48mm in Besham, 31mm in Bannu, 30mm in Saidu Sharif, 27mm in Kakul, 21mm in Dir Upper, 12mm in Parachinar and 12mm in Dera Ismail Khan.

Meanwhile, at least six people were electrocuted in Karachi as heavy rains lashed parts of the metropolis and Sindh on Sunday.

At least eight people were killed and 14 others were injured when heavy rains lashed a large part of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Saturday night. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority on Sunday confirmed six deaths and 14 injuries in rain-related incidents in various districts of the province, Dawn News reported.

At least eight people were killed and 14 others were injured when heavy rains lashed a large part of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Saturday night. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority on Sunday confirmed six deaths and 14 injuries in rain-related incidents in various districts of the province, Dawn News reported. The rains, which hit the province on Friday evening, caused flash floods, road blockades and causalities in several areas, including Bajaur, Lower Dir, Shangla, Chitral, Shangla, Buner and Mardan districts. The Karakoram Highway, which was blocked at many places due to heavy landslides on Friday night in Dasu area of Upper Kohistan, was reopened to traffic after many hours. However, the passengers travelling between Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remained stranded for many hours. The Pakistan Metrological Department recorded 131mm rain in Malam Jabba, 50mm in Balakot, 48mm in Besham, 31mm in Bannu, 30mm in Saidu Sharif, 27mm in Kakul, 21mm in Dir Upper, 12mm in Parachinar and 12mm in Dera Ismail Khan. Meanwhile, at least six people were electrocuted in Karachi as heavy rains lashed parts of the metropolis and Sindh on Sunday.

8 dead as rains wreak havoc in northwest Pakistan

Russia supported abrogation of Article 370, 35A in J&K. Russia said J&K decision is within the framework of India's Constitution. No nation has supported Pakistan on the J&K so far.

Russia supported India on J&K, said, ''India's decision is Constitutional''

In a big snub to Pakistan, the United Nations Security Council did not take up Islamabad's letter of August 6 at several meetings it held this week, in the aftermath of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi in a letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres tried to rake up Kashmir issue at the top United Nations body on August 6. Pakistani ambassador to UN Maleeha Lodhi briefed UN Security Council President Joanna Wronecka in this regard but the matter seems not to have found any traction.

Answering a question on if UNSC will take up the matter on Thursday, the UNSC president responded saying "no comments".

This even as Russia, one of the Permanent five members of the UNSC has come out openly in support of India on it abrogating article 370.

The Russia Foreign Ministry said changes in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its bifurcation is "carried out within the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India". &nbsp;

Echoing New Delhi on Shimla agreement, Moscow said, "We hope that the differences between them(India and Pakistan) will be resolved by political and diplomatic means on a bilateral basis by following the provisions of the Simla Agreement of 1972 and the Lahore Declaration of 1999." 
&nbsp; 
US State Department last week in a statement said it has "taken note" of Indian government saying development on changing the special status of Jammu and Kashmir is its internal matter. &nbsp;

China, on the other hand, reacted negatively calling India's move as "unacceptable". &nbsp;India responded to it asking Bejing "not to comment on the internal affairs of other countries". So far no statement was issued by France or UK on the development.

The United Nations also last week reacted to the developments in the Indian subcontinent.&nbsp; 
Recalling the Shimla agreement, the UN urged restraint by all sides. Interestingly, it did not offer its "good offices" for mediation between India and Pakistan.

In a big snub to Pakistan, the United Nations Security Council did not take up Islamabad's letter of August 6 at several meetings it held this week, in the aftermath of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

In a big snub to Pakistan, the United Nations Security Council did not take up Islamabad's letter of August 6 at several meetings it held this week, in the aftermath of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi in a letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres tried to rake up Kashmir issue at the top United Nations body on August 6. Pakistani ambassador to UN Maleeha Lodhi briefed UN Security Council President Joanna Wronecka in this regard but the matter seems not to have found any traction. Answering a question on if UNSC will take up the matter on Thursday, the UNSC president responded saying "no comments". This even as Russia, one of the Permanent five members of the UNSC has come out openly in support of India on it abrogating article 370. The Russia Foreign Ministry said changes in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its bifurcation is "carried out within the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India". Echoing New Delhi on Shimla agreement, Moscow said, "We hope that the differences between them(India and Pakistan) will be resolved by political and diplomatic means on a bilateral basis by following the provisions of the Simla Agreement of 1972 and the Lahore Declaration of 1999." US State Department last week in a statement said it has "taken note" of Indian government saying development on changing the special status of Jammu and Kashmir is its internal matter. China, on the other hand, reacted negatively calling India's move as "unacceptable". India responded to it asking Bejing "not to comment on the internal affairs of other countries". So far no statement was issued by France or UK on the development. The United Nations also last week reacted to the developments in the Indian subcontinent. Recalling the Shimla agreement, the UN urged restraint by all sides. Interestingly, it did not offer its "good offices" for mediation between India and Pakistan.

United Nations Security Council snubs Pakistan, does not discuss its letter on Kashmir

Despite <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-samjhauta-pakistan-shuts-down-thar-link-express-241745">Pakistan's announcement of suspension</a>&nbsp;of Thar Express, the train, which plies every week between Jodhpur and Karachi, is running as per schedule on both sides of the international border on Saturday.

A Railways official told ANI that the train, with 165 passengers including 84 Pakistanis on board, was undergoing customs check at Munabao railway station, the last station in India on the route, and later crossed the border for Zero Point, the last railway station on the Pakistani side.

"The train embarked on its journey at 1 am from Jodhpur and reached Munabao railway station at 6:55 am. It is going through the customs check and will depart for Zero Point. Operations are running normal," CPRO North Western Railway told ANI.

In India, the train originates at Bhagat Ki Kothi railway station in Jodhpur and goes up to Zero Point railway station near the border in Pakistan after undergoing mandatory customs check at Munabao railway station.

In Pakistan, it starts at Karachi Cantonment railway station and stops at Zero Point railway station where passengers undergo customs check. Passengers from both sides change trains, that is, those travelling to Pakistan board a Karachi-bound train while those travelling to India take a Jodhpur-bound train.

The future of the train seems to be in limbo as Pakistan on Friday announced to stop the weekly train after the government scrapped special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan has also suspended the operation of Samjhauta Express, which runs between Delhi and Attari in India and Lahore in Pakistan since 1976 after the Simla Accord between the two countries.

According to DND News Agency, Pakistan Railways Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad announced that Thar Express will be shut down at 12:00 am (midnight) Friday while Samjhauta Express will cease to run from Saturday.

The decision to suspend the two trains is in line with Islamabad's other moves to remonstrate against Indian move, including suspending bilateral trade and downgrading of diplomatic relations.

Indian Railways on Thursday had clarified that the Samjhauta Express has not yet been suspended but Pakistan authorities refused to send their crew to India citing security concern. The train stood in the Wagah side of the border in Pakistan with around 110 passengers yesterday. An Indian engine brought the train from Wagah to Attari.

Calling its steps in Jammu and Kashmir an "entirely internal affair", India has time and again rejected Pakistan's unilateral move to downgrade diplomatic ties and asked Islamabad to review them so that normal channels for diplomatic communications are preserved.

Despite Pakistan's announcement of suspension of Thar Express, the train, which plies every week between Jodhpur and Karachi, is running as per schedule on both sides of the international border on Saturday.

Despite Pakistan's announcement of suspension of Thar Express, the train, which plies every week between Jodhpur and Karachi, is running as per schedule on both sides of the international border on Saturday. A Railways official told ANI that the train, with 165 passengers including 84 Pakistanis on board, was undergoing customs check at Munabao railway station, the last station in India on the route, and later crossed the border for Zero Point, the last railway station on the Pakistani side. "The train embarked on its journey at 1 am from Jodhpur and reached Munabao railway station at 6:55 am. It is going through the customs check and will depart for Zero Point. Operations are running normal," CPRO North Western Railway told ANI. In India, the train originates at Bhagat Ki Kothi railway station in Jodhpur and goes up to Zero Point railway station near the border in Pakistan after undergoing mandatory customs check at Munabao railway station. In Pakistan, it starts at Karachi Cantonment railway station and stops at Zero Point railway station where passengers undergo customs check. Passengers from both sides change trains, that is, those travelling to Pakistan board a Karachi-bound train while those travelling to India take a Jodhpur-bound train. The future of the train seems to be in limbo as Pakistan on Friday announced to stop the weekly train after the government scrapped special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has also suspended the operation of Samjhauta Express, which runs between Delhi and Attari in India and Lahore in Pakistan since 1976 after the Simla Accord between the two countries. According to DND News Agency, Pakistan Railways Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad announced that Thar Express will be shut down at 12:00 am (midnight) Friday while Samjhauta Express will cease to run from Saturday. The decision to suspend the two trains is in line with Islamabad's other moves to remonstrate against Indian move, including suspending bilateral trade and downgrading of diplomatic relations. Indian Railways on Thursday had clarified that the Samjhauta Express has not yet been suspended but Pakistan authorities refused to send their crew to India citing security concern. The train stood in the Wagah side of the border in Pakistan with around 110 passengers yesterday. An Indian engine brought the train from Wagah to Attari. Calling its steps in Jammu and Kashmir an "entirely internal affair", India has time and again rejected Pakistan's unilateral move to downgrade diplomatic ties and asked Islamabad to review them so that normal channels for diplomatic communications are preserved.

Despite Pakistan's suspension Thar Express operating on schedule: Railway

Section 144 to be eased in parts of Kashmir for the Friday Eid prayers. However, restrictions will remain in some sensitive areas. Watch this video to know more.

Breaking News: Section 144 to be eased in Kashmir for Friday prayers

The United Nations has rejected Pakistan's request for intervention in the Kashmir issue after India abrogated the special status for Jammu & Kashmir. UN chief Antonio Guterres urged India and Pakistan to exercise “maximum restraint” and refrain from taking steps that could affect the status of Jammu and Kashmir, as he highlighted the Shimla Agreement which rejects any third-party mediation on the issue.

Antonio Guterres urges India, Pakistan to exercise ‘Maximum Restraint’ on Kashmir Issue

UN Chief urges India, Pakistan for ‘Maximum Restraint’ on Kashmir Issue, refers to Shimla Agreement

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