India-Pak standoff: A look at how India's Air Force compares with Pakistan's

Indian intelligence sources have told the Zee group that Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed have been told to lie low after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">the Pulwama attack</a>.&nbsp;

At least 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives in the Pulwama attack after a local youth, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">Adil Ahmad Dar</a>, rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus carrying the Central Reserve Police Force men.&nbsp;

The attack was later claimed by the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed which is headed by Azhar.&nbsp;

Saeed is a co-founder of the terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba. India says he is the mastermind of the Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks, in which over 165 civilians were killed.&nbsp;

According to the sources, about 80 kilograms of RDX were used in the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

They sources added that the RDX used in the attack was procured by the Pakistani Army in Rawalpindi and handed over to JeM operatives. The process of collecting the RDX reportedly began in March 2018 and the explosive smuggled in backpacks, cylinders and coal bags to Pulwama's Tral village.&nbsp;

Tensions between India and Pakistan have been running high since the attack.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said India was blaming Pakistan for the attack "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-india-blaming-pakistan-without-evidence-says-imran-khan-198266">without any evidence</a>".&nbsp;

He asked why Pakistan would help carry out such an attack when it was heading towards "stability".&nbsp;

He also added that Pakistan would be forced to retaliate should India attack it.&nbsp;

Both Azhar and Saeed are Pakistani nationals. Azhar has been living in Pakistan — as does Saeed — since he was released by India after the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC 814 in December 1999.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Indian intelligence sources have told the Zee group that Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed have been told to lie low after the Pulwama attack. At least 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives in the Pulwama attack after a local youth, Adil Ahmad Dar, rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus carrying the Central Reserve Police Force men.

Indian intelligence sources have told the Zee group that Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed have been told to lie low after the Pulwama attack. At least 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives in the Pulwama attack after a local youth, Adil Ahmad Dar, rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus carrying the Central Reserve Police Force men. The attack was later claimed by the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed which is headed by Azhar. Saeed is a co-founder of the terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba. India says he is the mastermind of the Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks, in which over 165 civilians were killed. According to the sources, about 80 kilograms of RDX were used in the Pulwama attack. They sources added that the RDX used in the attack was procured by the Pakistani Army in Rawalpindi and handed over to JeM operatives. The process of collecting the RDX reportedly began in March 2018 and the explosive smuggled in backpacks, cylinders and coal bags to Pulwama's Tral village. Tensions between India and Pakistan have been running high since the attack. On Tuesday, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said India was blaming Pakistan for the attack "without any evidence". He asked why Pakistan would help carry out such an attack when it was heading towards "stability". He also added that Pakistan would be forced to retaliate should India attack it. Both Azhar and Saeed are Pakistani nationals. Azhar has been living in Pakistan — as does Saeed — since he was released by India after the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC 814 in December 1999.

After Pulwama attack, Pak tells Masood Azhar, Hafiz Sayeed to lie low: Sources

KJS Dhillon, Corps Commander of Chinar Corps: 'Pak army involved in CRPF attack'

Yet another tragic terror incident in Kashmir! It’s so serious that it has shaken the soul of the nation once again.&nbsp;

There is no change in Pakistan-sponsored terrorists’ strategy. But the methodology adopted this time is new. A bus carrying CRPF personnel was attacked by a suicide bomber driving an explosive-laden car alongside the running convoy in Pulwama. More than 40 CRPF personnel were killed and many others were critically injured. Pakistan based Jaish-e-Mohammed, ready with a video of the local suicide bomber Adil Ahmad Dar, has promptly claimed credit for organising this terror attack. Its new tactics, and likely repetition in J&amp;K, will definitely cause more challenges for the security forces and the government.

How did they manage to organise such a planned attack? This and related investigations are in progress by the J&amp;K Police and the National Investigation Agency. These are being reported every minute in the media. My comments are on more fundamental issues.

Terrorism in J&amp;K has two dimensions: Internal and external. The latter is related to Pakistan with which India has a running territorial dispute and a violence-prone boundary or Line of Control. Both dimensions, though linked, require integrated and well-coordinated policies and a comprehensive grand strategy. Unfortunately, there has been a lack of focus on our policies/grand strategy, if there were any.

Internal dimension

In J&amp;K, we have had several political failures. The last one was the PDP-BJP coalition, formed on March 1, 2015. We forgot that PDP rose to power with solid support of Jamaat-e-Islami elements in South Kashmir. Its ideology would not gel with that of BJP. The resultant coalition failure, rise of radicalisation, and further deterioration of law-and-order situation was no surprise. It also gave large space to the separatists; so much that even mainstream politicians felt compelled to tow their line and often coerce security forces to dilute safety and security measures.&nbsp;

These failures and the deteriorating situation have led to an approach that has put the security forces on the forefront. A hard military strategy without a proper political strategy does not succeed. They now have to take the flak from the local population and from those in the government if there is any mistake or collateral damage. The political and social aspects — contact with local communities and local development initiatives — have been lost.

Terrorism is not just a military problem. It is primarily a major socio-political-economic problem. A pure military approach, given the lack or fragility of the institutional framework in operational areas, can worsen the situation.

Security forces are meant to handle terrorists and violence, not the rise of radicalisation, or the separatists’ calls for hartals and marshalling of stone-pelters.&nbsp;

Worldwide, counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations have not succeeded unless the ideologues have been neutralised. In India, we not only give them more outreach space but also state security, communication and other facilities. We claim that they are being funded by the ISI and yet do not block their bank accounts. We also allow them to take telephone calls from Pakistani ministers.&nbsp;

Now that we have Governor’s rule in J&amp;K, here are a few suggestions:

The Governor should reactivate the United Headquarter (UHQ) and meet regularly to ensure better civil-military coordination and its effectiveness.

Take immediate steps to isolate and neutralise Hurriyat leaders and other separatists and withdraw all their government-funded facilities.

The Governor should hold separate regular meetings with political leaders, civil society leaders, educational networks, youth organisations, NGOs, business leaders and local professionals. Local development initiatives should play a role with government as a supportive partner.

Arrest radicalisation attempts in schools, colleges and religious institutes.

Security grid in South Kashmir, lifeline to Srinagar, should be further strengthened to deal with the current terrorist situation.

External dimension

Causing terrorism in India is a decades-old Pakistani state policy, sponsored and controlled by Pakistani Army. Terror outfits like Lashkar and Jaish are only cheap tools. For justice, it is necessary to book or neutralise their leaders like Hafiz Saeed and Maulana Masood Azhar. However, that is unlikely to deter Pakistani Army from changing its policy. Pakistan can find many more such already trained terror leaders. In fact, even if J&amp;K issue is somehow resolved, its anti-India policy is unlikely to change. In its present polity, Pakistan does not believe in sub-continental geo-political stability and co-existence.

Pakistan’s quest to destabilise India and keep the pot boiling in J&amp;K will not change. Another surgical strike on terrorists’ camps will not lead to deterrence or dissuasion. In any case, it has already lost its surprise element and political or strategic impact. The government could consider taking covert action in Pakistan. A major military option requires not only capacity assessment but also its build-up, if necessary. More importantly, it cannot be left to the armed forces alone as has been stated in public by some of our political leaders. A major strike or a limited war option is a national issue. It requires political will, diplomatic push, economic sustenance, and advanced preparations. We should prepare our grounds well. A half-hearted or a divided national power should never be employed in a conflict, without adequate escalation control politico-military ability.&nbsp;

I am happy that despite forthcoming elections, all opposition parties have extended full support to the government at this juncture. It is now up to the government to keep them adequately briefed and take their views and suggestions. We had an almost similar political climate during the Kargil war. India’s national security should always take precedence over our political ideologies and interests.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-pakistan-s-thirst-for-violence-2720901">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Yet another tragic terror incident in Kashmir! It’s so serious that it has shaken the soul of the nation once again. There is no change in Pakistan-sponsored terrorists’ strategy.

Yet another tragic terror incident in Kashmir! It’s so serious that it has shaken the soul of the nation once again. There is no change in Pakistan-sponsored terrorists’ strategy. But the methodology adopted this time is new. A bus carrying CRPF personnel was attacked by a suicide bomber driving an explosive-laden car alongside the running convoy in Pulwama. More than 40 CRPF personnel were killed and many others were critically injured. Pakistan based Jaish-e-Mohammed, ready with a video of the local suicide bomber Adil Ahmad Dar, has promptly claimed credit for organising this terror attack. Its new tactics, and likely repetition in J&K, will definitely cause more challenges for the security forces and the government. How did they manage to organise such a planned attack? This and related investigations are in progress by the J&K Police and the National Investigation Agency. These are being reported every minute in the media. My comments are on more fundamental issues. Terrorism in J&K has two dimensions: Internal and external. The latter is related to Pakistan with which India has a running territorial dispute and a violence-prone boundary or Line of Control. Both dimensions, though linked, require integrated and well-coordinated policies and a comprehensive grand strategy. Unfortunately, there has been a lack of focus on our policies/grand strategy, if there were any. Internal dimension In J&K, we have had several political failures. The last one was the PDP-BJP coalition, formed on March 1, 2015. We forgot that PDP rose to power with solid support of Jamaat-e-Islami elements in South Kashmir. Its ideology would not gel with that of BJP. The resultant coalition failure, rise of radicalisation, and further deterioration of law-and-order situation was no surprise. It also gave large space to the separatists; so much that even mainstream politicians felt compelled to tow their line and often coerce security forces to dilute safety and security measures. These failures and the deteriorating situation have led to an approach that has put the security forces on the forefront. A hard military strategy without a proper political strategy does not succeed. They now have to take the flak from the local population and from those in the government if there is any mistake or collateral damage. The political and social aspects — contact with local communities and local development initiatives — have been lost. Terrorism is not just a military problem. It is primarily a major socio-political-economic problem. A pure military approach, given the lack or fragility of the institutional framework in operational areas, can worsen the situation. Security forces are meant to handle terrorists and violence, not the rise of radicalisation, or the separatists’ calls for hartals and marshalling of stone-pelters. Worldwide, counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations have not succeeded unless the ideologues have been neutralised. In India, we not only give them more outreach space but also state security, communication and other facilities. We claim that they are being funded by the ISI and yet do not block their bank accounts. We also allow them to take telephone calls from Pakistani ministers. Now that we have Governor’s rule in J&K, here are a few suggestions: The Governor should reactivate the United Headquarter (UHQ) and meet regularly to ensure better civil-military coordination and its effectiveness. Take immediate steps to isolate and neutralise Hurriyat leaders and other separatists and withdraw all their government-funded facilities. The Governor should hold separate regular meetings with political leaders, civil society leaders, educational networks, youth organisations, NGOs, business leaders and local professionals. Local development initiatives should play a role with government as a supportive partner. Arrest radicalisation attempts in schools, colleges and religious institutes. Security grid in South Kashmir, lifeline to Srinagar, should be further strengthened to deal with the current terrorist situation. External dimension Causing terrorism in India is a decades-old Pakistani state policy, sponsored and controlled by Pakistani Army. Terror outfits like Lashkar and Jaish are only cheap tools. For justice, it is necessary to book or neutralise their leaders like Hafiz Saeed and Maulana Masood Azhar. However, that is unlikely to deter Pakistani Army from changing its policy. Pakistan can find many more such already trained terror leaders. In fact, even if J&K issue is somehow resolved, its anti-India policy is unlikely to change. In its present polity, Pakistan does not believe in sub-continental geo-political stability and co-existence. Pakistan’s quest to destabilise India and keep the pot boiling in J&K will not change. Another surgical strike on terrorists’ camps will not lead to deterrence or dissuasion. In any case, it has already lost its surprise element and political or strategic impact. The government could consider taking covert action in Pakistan. A major military option requires not only capacity assessment but also its build-up, if necessary. More importantly, it cannot be left to the armed forces alone as has been stated in public by some of our political leaders. A major strike or a limited war option is a national issue. It requires political will, diplomatic push, economic sustenance, and advanced preparations. We should prepare our grounds well. A half-hearted or a divided national power should never be employed in a conflict, without adequate escalation control politico-military ability. I am happy that despite forthcoming elections, all opposition parties have extended full support to the government at this juncture. It is now up to the government to keep them adequately briefed and take their views and suggestions. We had an almost similar political climate during the Kargil war. India’s national security should always take precedence over our political ideologies and interests. (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.)

Pakistan’s quest to keep the pot boiling in J&K will not change

The Pakistani Supreme Court cited, among other texts, the Indian constitution and Indian cases in its judgement Wednesday that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-top-court-tells-army-to-stay-out-of-politics-media-195566">slammed the Pakistani Army and the notorious spy agency the Inter-Services Intelligence</a> (ISI) for the Islamabad-Rawalpindi protests of 2017.

The 2017 sit-in had seen anti-blasphemy protests by the little-known group Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan which were later resolved by the powerful Pakistani Army but led to the resignation of the country's law minister.

The court, in its judgement, while elaborating on the "right to assemble peacefully", stated that "the rights to free movement, peaceful assembly and freedom of speech and expression (respectively Articles 15, 16 and 19 of the Constitution) are provided in Article 19 of the Indian Constitution" but in "India too such rights are not absolute".&nbsp;

It also cited two Indian cases in its judgement.

It used the Indian Supreme Court's judgement in "Bimal Gurung v Union of India" which said, "Demonstrations whether political, religious or social or other demonstrations which create public disturbances or operate as nuisances, or create or manifestly threaten some tangible public or private mischief, are not covered by protection under Article 19(1)."

The other case Pakistan's Supreme Court cited was "Re Ramlila Maidan Incident" in which the Indian Supreme Court observed, "To maintain and preserve public peace, and public order is unequivocal duty of the State and its organs… There can be no social order or proper State governance without the State performing this function and duty in all its spheres."

The Pakistani SC also used history to elaborate on "the right to protest", saying the Muslim League and the Congress protested peacefully and "as a consequence of which two independent countries, Pakistan and India, emerged".

The Pakistani Supreme Court in its judgement Wednesday asked intelligence agencies not to exceed their mandate and told the Pakistani Army not to engage in political activity since the Pakistani "Constitution emphatically prohibits" that.

The Pakistani Supreme Court cited, among other texts, the Indian constitution and Indian cases in its judgement Wednesday that slammed the Pakistani Army and the notorious spy agency the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) for the Islamabad-Rawalpindi protests of 2017.

The Pakistani Supreme Court cited, among other texts, the Indian constitution and Indian cases in its judgement Wednesday that slammed the Pakistani Army and the notorious spy agency the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) for the Islamabad-Rawalpindi protests of 2017. The 2017 sit-in had seen anti-blasphemy protests by the little-known group Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan which were later resolved by the powerful Pakistani Army but led to the resignation of the country's law minister. The court, in its judgement, while elaborating on the "right to assemble peacefully", stated that "the rights to free movement, peaceful assembly and freedom of speech and expression (respectively Articles 15, 16 and 19 of the Constitution) are provided in Article 19 of the Indian Constitution" but in "India too such rights are not absolute". It also cited two Indian cases in its judgement. It used the Indian Supreme Court's judgement in "Bimal Gurung v Union of India" which said, "Demonstrations whether political, religious or social or other demonstrations which create public disturbances or operate as nuisances, or create or manifestly threaten some tangible public or private mischief, are not covered by protection under Article 19(1)." The other case Pakistan's Supreme Court cited was "Re Ramlila Maidan Incident" in which the Indian Supreme Court observed, "To maintain and preserve public peace, and public order is unequivocal duty of the State and its organs… There can be no social order or proper State governance without the State performing this function and duty in all its spheres." The Pakistani SC also used history to elaborate on "the right to protest", saying the Muslim League and the Congress protested peacefully and "as a consequence of which two independent countries, Pakistan and India, emerged". The Pakistani Supreme Court in its judgement Wednesday asked intelligence agencies not to exceed their mandate and told the Pakistani Army not to engage in political activity since the Pakistani "Constitution emphatically prohibits" that.

Pakistan Supreme Court cites Indian cases, constitution in judgement that slams Pak Army, ISI

Pakistan Army on Thursday test-fired the recently inducted long-range air defence weapon system, LY-80.&nbsp;

The firing by the air defence weapon system was displayed during the concluding day of the two-week event of Exercise Al Bayza-2019, an army spokesman said.

Pakistani Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan witnessed the display by the army of its firepower capability at air defence firing ranges near Karachi.

"Hallmark of the event was first-ever fire by recently inducted Long Range Air Defence Weapon System LY-80. Induction of LY-80 has realized the concept of a comprehensive, layered and integrated air defence capability with enhanced lethality," the spokesman said.

Interacting with the officers and troops, Bajwa said LY 80 has greatly enhanced air defence capability of the Army's air defence, while strengthening it at the&nbsp;national level along with Pakistan Air Force, the overall custodian of the defence of country's air space.

Pakistan Army on Thursday test-fired the recently inducted long-range air defence weapon system, LY-80. The firing by the air defence weapon system was displayed during the concluding day of the two-week event of Exercise Al Bayza-2019, an army spokesman said.

Pakistan Army on Thursday test-fired the recently inducted long-range air defence weapon system, LY-80. The firing by the air defence weapon system was displayed during the concluding day of the two-week event of Exercise Al Bayza-2019, an army spokesman said. Pakistani Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan witnessed the display by the army of its firepower capability at air defence firing ranges near Karachi. "Hallmark of the event was first-ever fire by recently inducted Long Range Air Defence Weapon System LY-80. Induction of LY-80 has realized the concept of a comprehensive, layered and integrated air defence capability with enhanced lethality," the spokesman said. Interacting with the officers and troops, Bajwa said LY 80 has greatly enhanced air defence capability of the Army's air defence, while strengthening it at the national level along with Pakistan Air Force, the overall custodian of the defence of country's air space.

Pak Army test-fires long range air defence weapon system

The Pakistani army fired on forward posts along the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-along-loc-in-poonch-188363"> LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district</a> on Tuesday, the fifth ceasefire violation in a week, officials said.

Pakistani troops resorted to small arms firing on the forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch sector's Gulpur and Khadi Karmara areas, they said.

Indian troops have retaliated strongly, the officials said.

On Saturday, Pakistan resorted to heavy shelling and firing along the LoC in the Mankote, Khadi Karmara, and Gulpur areas.&nbsp;

Ceasefire violations were also reported on Thursday, Wednesday and Tuesday from the Poonch sector.

Last year saw the highest number of ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops in the last 15 years. In total, 2,936 incidents were reported.

Ceasefire violations were also reported on Thursday, Wednesday and Tuesday from the Poonch sector.

The Pakistani army fired on forward posts along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Tuesday, the fifth ceasefire violation in a week, officials said. Pakistani troops resorted to small arms firing on the forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch sector's Gulpur and Khadi Karmara areas, they said. Indian troops have retaliated strongly, the officials said. On Saturday, Pakistan resorted to heavy shelling and firing along the LoC in the Mankote, Khadi Karmara, and Gulpur areas. Ceasefire violations were also reported on Thursday, Wednesday and Tuesday from the Poonch sector. Last year saw the highest number of ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops in the last 15 years. In total, 2,936 incidents were reported.

Pakistan violates ceasefire for fifth time in 1 week, fires on J&K border posts

The Indian Army has dismissed the claims of the Pakistan Army that it had shot down an Indian quadcopter in the Bagh sector along the Line of Control.

"They keep lying on these issues. No such incident has taken place," Army sources said here.

The claim was made by Pakistan Army's Inter-Services Public Relations in-charge Major General Asif Ghafoor from his official Twitter handle.

"Pakistan army troops shot down Indian spy quadcopter in Bagh sector area along the line of control. Not even a quadcopter will be allowed to cross LOC, in Sha Allah," he tweeted on Tuesday.

Interestingly, the Pakistan side has been stressing that it did not even allow a quadcopter to cross over the LoC on a day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for the first time, discussed in detail about the surgical strike operations of September 2016 when Indian troops launched multiple attacks on terror launch pads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Pakistan has been denying that surgical strikes ever took place but it is believed that around 50 terrorists along with Pakistan Army regular troops were killed in these operations.&nbsp;

The Indian Army has dismissed the claims of the Pakistan Army that it had shot down an Indian quadcopter in the Bagh sector along the Line of Control. "They keep lying on these issues.

The Indian Army has dismissed the claims of the Pakistan Army that it had shot down an Indian quadcopter in the Bagh sector along the Line of Control. "They keep lying on these issues. No such incident has taken place," Army sources said here. The claim was made by Pakistan Army's Inter-Services Public Relations in-charge Major General Asif Ghafoor from his official Twitter handle. "Pakistan army troops shot down Indian spy quadcopter in Bagh sector area along the line of control. Not even a quadcopter will be allowed to cross LOC, in Sha Allah," he tweeted on Tuesday. Interestingly, the Pakistan side has been stressing that it did not even allow a quadcopter to cross over the LoC on a day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for the first time, discussed in detail about the surgical strike operations of September 2016 when Indian troops launched multiple attacks on terror launch pads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan has been denying that surgical strikes ever took place but it is believed that around 50 terrorists along with Pakistan Army regular troops were killed in these operations.

Indian Army dismisses Pakistan's claim of shooting down its quadcopter

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-exchange-list-of-prisoners-nuclear-installations-187690">Pakistan Army </a>Tuesday opened fire on forward areas along the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

The firing took place in Khari Karmara and Gulpur forward areas along the LoC, they said.

Indian troops guarding the borderline retaliated.&nbsp;

No casualty has been reported.

Despite repeated calls for restraint and adherence to the ceasefire understanding of 2003, there have been 1,600 incidents of ceasefire violations by Pakistan last year till October 2018.

The firing took place in Khari Karmara and Gulpur forward areas along the LoC, officials said.

Pakistan Army Tuesday opened fire on forward areas along the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. The firing took place in Khari Karmara and Gulpur forward areas along the LoC, they said. Indian troops guarding the borderline retaliated. No casualty has been reported. Despite repeated calls for restraint and adherence to the ceasefire understanding of 2003, there have been 1,600 incidents of ceasefire violations by Pakistan last year till October 2018.

Pakistan targets Indian posts in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir

At a time when modernisation of the Army's armoured corp is moving at a "snail's pace", Pakistan has drawn up an ambitious plan to procure close to 600 battle tanks including T-90 tanks from Russia, primarily to bolster its combat prowess along the border with India, military and intelligence sources said Sunday.

Most of the tanks Pakistan was procuring will be able to hit targets at a range of 3 to 4 km and they are set to deploy some of the tanks along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, the sources told PTI.

Apart from battle tanks, Pakistan Army is also procuring 245 150mm SP Mike-10 guns from Italy out of which it has already received 120 guns.

The sources said Pakistan was eyeing to buy from Russia a batch of T-90 battle tanks- the mainstays of the armoured regiments of the Indian Army, and that the move reflects Islamabad's intent to forge a deeper defence engagement with Moscow which has been India's largest and most trusted defence supplier post Independence.

Pakistan has been holding joint military drills with Russia in the last couple of years besides going for defence purchases from it, triggering some concerns in New Delhi.&nbsp;

The sources said as part of the mega plan to significantly revamp its armoured fleet by 2025, Pakistan has decided to procure at least 360 battle tanks globally besides producing 220 tanks indigenously with help from China.

Pakistan Army's move to enhance its armoured corps comes at a time when the Line of Actual Control in Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed growing hostilities in the last year. The Indian Army has been strongly retaliating to every unprovoked firing by Pakistani side.

But, when the Indian Army is focused on counter-terror operations, the Pakistan Army was fast reducing its gap with Indian forces in fighting a conventional war, the intelligence sources said.

Military sources said modernisation of the Indian Army's armoured regiments were moving at a "snail's pace" due to procedural delays and the issue is being examined at a very high level of the government.

The Indian Army had drawn up a mega plan to modernise its infantry and armoured corps. However, almost all the procurement projects including the Rs 60,000 crore Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) programme are stuck due to a variety of reasons.&nbsp;

At present, India's armoured regiments, comprising mainly T-90, T-72 and Arjuna tanks, have much more superiority over Pakistan, but sources said Islamabad was seriously planning to bridge the gap at the earliest.

As against around 67 armoured regiments of Indian Army, the number of similar regiments in Pakistan Army is around 51, the sources said.

At present, over 70 per cent of the tanks in Pakistan's armoury has the capability to operate during the night which, they said, was a matter of concern.

Besides eyeing to procure T-90 tanks, Pakistan Army is also in the process of inducting Chinese VT-4 tanks as well as Oplod-P tanks from Ukrain, the sources said. Trials for both Oplod and VT-4 tanks have already been conducted by the Pakistan Army.

At present, Pakistan is learnt to have around 17 units of Chinese origin T-59 and T69 tanks, which comprise 30 per cent of its total tank strength, the sources said.&nbsp;

It also has 12 regiments of Al-Zarar tanks, which makes 20 per cent of the tank fleet while Ukrain origin T-80-UD and T-85-UD, as well as upgraded version of T-59 tanks, comprise the rest 50 per cent tank fleet, they said.

"The Pakistan Army is carrying out modernisation of its armoured regiments in a calibrated and time-bound manner which is not the case in India," said an expert, who wished not to be named.

He said it was a matter of concern the way Pakistan was modernising its tank fleet.

The Indian Army has also raised an independent tank brigade which is stationed in Ladakh but it is not enough, the expert said.

At a time when modernisation of the Army's armoured corp is moving at a "snail's pace", Pakistan has drawn up an ambitious plan to procure close to 600 battle tanks including T-90 tanks from Russia, primarily to bolster its combat prowess along the border with India, military and intelligence sources said Sunday.

At a time when modernisation of the Army's armoured corp is moving at a "snail's pace", Pakistan has drawn up an ambitious plan to procure close to 600 battle tanks including T-90 tanks from Russia, primarily to bolster its combat prowess along the border with India, military and intelligence sources said Sunday. Most of the tanks Pakistan was procuring will be able to hit targets at a range of 3 to 4 km and they are set to deploy some of the tanks along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, the sources told PTI. Apart from battle tanks, Pakistan Army is also procuring 245 150mm SP Mike-10 guns from Italy out of which it has already received 120 guns. The sources said Pakistan was eyeing to buy from Russia a batch of T-90 battle tanks- the mainstays of the armoured regiments of the Indian Army, and that the move reflects Islamabad's intent to forge a deeper defence engagement with Moscow which has been India's largest and most trusted defence supplier post Independence. Pakistan has been holding joint military drills with Russia in the last couple of years besides going for defence purchases from it, triggering some concerns in New Delhi. The sources said as part of the mega plan to significantly revamp its armoured fleet by 2025, Pakistan has decided to procure at least 360 battle tanks globally besides producing 220 tanks indigenously with help from China. Pakistan Army's move to enhance its armoured corps comes at a time when the Line of Actual Control in Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed growing hostilities in the last year. The Indian Army has been strongly retaliating to every unprovoked firing by Pakistani side. But, when the Indian Army is focused on counter-terror operations, the Pakistan Army was fast reducing its gap with Indian forces in fighting a conventional war, the intelligence sources said. Military sources said modernisation of the Indian Army's armoured regiments were moving at a "snail's pace" due to procedural delays and the issue is being examined at a very high level of the government. The Indian Army had drawn up a mega plan to modernise its infantry and armoured corps. However, almost all the procurement projects including the Rs 60,000 crore Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) programme are stuck due to a variety of reasons. At present, India's armoured regiments, comprising mainly T-90, T-72 and Arjuna tanks, have much more superiority over Pakistan, but sources said Islamabad was seriously planning to bridge the gap at the earliest. As against around 67 armoured regiments of Indian Army, the number of similar regiments in Pakistan Army is around 51, the sources said. At present, over 70 per cent of the tanks in Pakistan's armoury has the capability to operate during the night which, they said, was a matter of concern. Besides eyeing to procure T-90 tanks, Pakistan Army is also in the process of inducting Chinese VT-4 tanks as well as Oplod-P tanks from Ukrain, the sources said. Trials for both Oplod and VT-4 tanks have already been conducted by the Pakistan Army. At present, Pakistan is learnt to have around 17 units of Chinese origin T-59 and T69 tanks, which comprise 30 per cent of its total tank strength, the sources said. It also has 12 regiments of Al-Zarar tanks, which makes 20 per cent of the tank fleet while Ukrain origin T-80-UD and T-85-UD, as well as upgraded version of T-59 tanks, comprise the rest 50 per cent tank fleet, they said. "The Pakistan Army is carrying out modernisation of its armoured regiments in a calibrated and time-bound manner which is not the case in India," said an expert, who wished not to be named. He said it was a matter of concern the way Pakistan was modernising its tank fleet. The Indian Army has also raised an independent tank brigade which is stationed in Ladakh but it is not enough, the expert said.

Pakistan procuring 600 tanks to strengthen capability along border with India: Intelligence Sources

Cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan became the prime minister of Pakistan after being on the periphery of political power circles for 20-odd years.

The firebrand nationalist promised radical change, saying he would redistribute wealth, hold the country’s political elite accountable, make more people pay taxes, improve the lives of the poor, bring Pakistan out of its debt burden and improve ties with neighbours and strategically reposition his country.

So has Imran Khan delivered on his promises or buckled under pressure from the army and the deep state?

Shortly after coming to power, Imran wrote a letter to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting a meeting of the foreign ministers on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly elections.

But a day later, Pakistan terrorists killed an Indian soldier and three policemen, while the Imran Khan government released stamps glorifying terrorist Burhan Wani.

India rejected the offer of talks with foreign minister Sushma Swaraj clearly saying talks and terror cannot go together, and that India needed action before any meeting could take place.

Snubbed by India, Imran lashed out, tweeting, "Disappointed at the arrogant and negative response by India to my call for resumption of the peace dialogue. However, all my life I have come across small men occupying big offices who do not have the vision to see the larger picture.”

This time too, Imran Khan later retracted clarifying he never meant this for the Indian PM.

But there's been a pattern to his public posturing, denials and doublespeak. In December this year, Pakistan, under its new prime minister, did it again. After the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur Corridor in Pakistan, which was attended by Indian ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri, Pakistan’s foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi controversially said, "Imran Khan delivered a googly and India sent two ministers to Pakistan."

Qureshi's remark came after India refused to attend the next SAARC summit, citing cross-border terrorism. 
While Imran extended a hand of friendship with the opening of the corridor for Sikh pilgrims from India, he insulted India with the presence of pro-Khalistan activist Gopal Singh Chawla at the ceremony - a man believed to be close to terrorist Hafiz Saeed, the 26/11 mastermind.

Not to forget, the ceremony was also attended by Pakistan's army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa who was also seen greeting Chawla warmly on the sidelines of the function.

Soon after coming to power, Imran promised on national television that his government will grant citizenship to the Pakistani-born children of the country’s roughly 2.5 million Afghan refugees.

But after strong push-back by nationalists, the military and his own coalition partners, the prime minister did a U-turn saying there was no decision yet.

The celebrity cricketer began his term by shunning the trappings of state, promising to turn opulence into austerity. It started with trimming the PM's motorcade, to selling buffaloes at his residence.

It was clear that personal austerity was going to feature high on Khan’s agenda.

But there seemed little logic then in his refusal to live in Islamabad - if his daily helicopter rides from a personal hill estate would cost even more.

His government's argument that it cost just about the same as a cab drive drew further flak.

With the economy in shambles, Imran vowed to set it right. He was also seen as vociferously against another IMF bailout - the 12th for Pakistan. Initial brainstorming sessions, however, have done little more than planning loans from friendly nations such as China, Saudi Arabia.

But he has constantly flip-flopped on the IMF deal as well.

While he started his tenure on a stream of promises, deliverables have been limited.

Imran's bravest appointment has also been reversed under pressure from the Islamists.

Two days after Fawad Chaudhry announced the appointment of Atif Mian, an Ahmadi Muslim and Princeton professor named by the IMF as one of the top 25 young economists in the world as an economic advisor, Imran’s party asked Mian to step down.

Then came the much-publicised case of Asia Bibi - a Christian woman accused of blasphemy under the country's stringent laws. She was finally allowed by the courts to be free, but it was done under immense international pressure.

The Imran Khan government first welcomed the decision, promised protection to her, and agreed to send her out of the country. But after widespread protests from hardliners, he buckled under pressure. Asia Bibi would not be allowed the leave the country and the Pakistan government would appeal against the case.

But what has been clear from the beginning is that Imran Khan is the choice of the army.

Even before the elections, there were wide-scale allegations of rigging in the elections that delivered Imran victory and sent his predecessor Nawaz Sharif, a popular politician, to jail.

Imran has been seen cozying up to the Pakistan military on several occasions. However, his popularity with the army doesn't do him any good with the US.

The Trump administration has drastically scaled down on aide and this year confirmed it will cut $300 million in aid to Pakistan over its failure to tackle terror groups.

So, while Imran Khan will have to shape a new trajectory in his relationship with the US, it remains to be seen if he can change the narrative in Pakistan’s ties with India.

Cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan became the prime minister of Pakistan after being on the periphery of political power circles for 20-odd years. The firebrand nationalist promised radical change, saying he would redistribute wealth, hold the country’s political elite accountable, make more people pay taxes, improve the lives of the poor, bring Pakistan out of its debt burden and improve ties with neighbours and strategically reposition his country.

Cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan became the prime minister of Pakistan after being on the periphery of political power circles for 20-odd years. The firebrand nationalist promised radical change, saying he would redistribute wealth, hold the country’s political elite accountable, make more people pay taxes, improve the lives of the poor, bring Pakistan out of its debt burden and improve ties with neighbours and strategically reposition his country. So has Imran Khan delivered on his promises or buckled under pressure from the army and the deep state? Shortly after coming to power, Imran wrote a letter to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting a meeting of the foreign ministers on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly elections. But a day later, Pakistan terrorists killed an Indian soldier and three policemen, while the Imran Khan government released stamps glorifying terrorist Burhan Wani. India rejected the offer of talks with foreign minister Sushma Swaraj clearly saying talks and terror cannot go together, and that India needed action before any meeting could take place. Snubbed by India, Imran lashed out, tweeting, "Disappointed at the arrogant and negative response by India to my call for resumption of the peace dialogue. However, all my life I have come across small men occupying big offices who do not have the vision to see the larger picture.” This time too, Imran Khan later retracted clarifying he never meant this for the Indian PM. But there's been a pattern to his public posturing, denials and doublespeak. In December this year, Pakistan, under its new prime minister, did it again. After the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur Corridor in Pakistan, which was attended by Indian ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri, Pakistan’s foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi controversially said, "Imran Khan delivered a googly and India sent two ministers to Pakistan." Qureshi's remark came after India refused to attend the next SAARC summit, citing cross-border terrorism. While Imran extended a hand of friendship with the opening of the corridor for Sikh pilgrims from India, he insulted India with the presence of pro-Khalistan activist Gopal Singh Chawla at the ceremony - a man believed to be close to terrorist Hafiz Saeed, the 26/11 mastermind. Not to forget, the ceremony was also attended by Pakistan's army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa who was also seen greeting Chawla warmly on the sidelines of the function. Soon after coming to power, Imran promised on national television that his government will grant citizenship to the Pakistani-born children of the country’s roughly 2.5 million Afghan refugees. But after strong push-back by nationalists, the military and his own coalition partners, the prime minister did a U-turn saying there was no decision yet. The celebrity cricketer began his term by shunning the trappings of state, promising to turn opulence into austerity. It started with trimming the PM's motorcade, to selling buffaloes at his residence. It was clear that personal austerity was going to feature high on Khan’s agenda. But there seemed little logic then in his refusal to live in Islamabad - if his daily helicopter rides from a personal hill estate would cost even more. His government's argument that it cost just about the same as a cab drive drew further flak. With the economy in shambles, Imran vowed to set it right. He was also seen as vociferously against another IMF bailout - the 12th for Pakistan. Initial brainstorming sessions, however, have done little more than planning loans from friendly nations such as China, Saudi Arabia. But he has constantly flip-flopped on the IMF deal as well. While he started his tenure on a stream of promises, deliverables have been limited. Imran's bravest appointment has also been reversed under pressure from the Islamists. Two days after Fawad Chaudhry announced the appointment of Atif Mian, an Ahmadi Muslim and Princeton professor named by the IMF as one of the top 25 young economists in the world as an economic advisor, Imran’s party asked Mian to step down. Then came the much-publicised case of Asia Bibi - a Christian woman accused of blasphemy under the country's stringent laws. She was finally allowed by the courts to be free, but it was done under immense international pressure. The Imran Khan government first welcomed the decision, promised protection to her, and agreed to send her out of the country. But after widespread protests from hardliners, he buckled under pressure. Asia Bibi would not be allowed the leave the country and the Pakistan government would appeal against the case. But what has been clear from the beginning is that Imran Khan is the choice of the army. Even before the elections, there were wide-scale allegations of rigging in the elections that delivered Imran victory and sent his predecessor Nawaz Sharif, a popular politician, to jail. Imran has been seen cozying up to the Pakistan military on several occasions. However, his popularity with the army doesn't do him any good with the US. The Trump administration has drastically scaled down on aide and this year confirmed it will cut $300 million in aid to Pakistan over its failure to tackle terror groups. So, while Imran Khan will have to shape a new trajectory in his relationship with the US, it remains to be seen if he can change the narrative in Pakistan’s ties with India.

Imran Khan, Pakistan army's new pawn

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday said it was the “best time” for India to hold talks with Pakistan as the neighbouring country’s new Prime Minister Imran Khan is being touted as a “proxy” for their army.

If initiated now, she said, the talks between the two neighbours at this time could prove “beneficial”.

“If Imran is a proxy of the Pak army then this is the best time to talk. When Imran Khan says he is ready to talk, to open corridors, then I think army is also on the same page...,” Mufti said at the ‘Agenda Aaj Tak’ event in New Delhi.

She said the “best bargain” for India, vis-a-vis the Kashmir issue, was during the time when Pervez Musharraf was the President of Pakistan as during that time ceasefire was initiated at the border and the Muzaffarabad route was opened up.

“The talks could be beneficial now....why should we not talk?” she asked.

The PDP leader also said her party will “join hands” with any political party that will support the “resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue.” “If we can join hands with the BJP, we can do so with anyone for resolution of the J-K issue,” she said.

Mufti said her Peoples Democratic Party (PDS) going with the BJP, during the last political regime in the state, was “suicidal” and that she was “disappointed” that this experiment to begin the political process in the state did not work.

Asked if she had any lessons to learn, Mufti replied in the negative.

“They (the BJP) didn’t teach me any lesson. I stood my ground...(in taking decisions). We experimented (through the PDP-BJP alliance) for the people of Kashmir but that did not work,” she said.

She said there was a huge difference between former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s regime and the current one under PM Narendra Modi.

“Vajpayee was spontaneous and down to earth...he never looked back or over his shoulder. He was a statesman. Today’s NDA is more focussed in winning elections,” Mufti said. “God save! they have not given voting rights to cows,” she said in an apparent dig on the BJP.&nbsp;

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday said it was the “best time” for India to hold talks with Pakistan as the neighbouring country’s new Prime Minister Imran Khan is being touted as a “proxy” for their army.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday said it was the “best time” for India to hold talks with Pakistan as the neighbouring country’s new Prime Minister Imran Khan is being touted as a “proxy” for their army. If initiated now, she said, the talks between the two neighbours at this time could prove “beneficial”. “If Imran is a proxy of the Pak army then this is the best time to talk. When Imran Khan says he is ready to talk, to open corridors, then I think army is also on the same page...,” Mufti said at the ‘Agenda Aaj Tak’ event in New Delhi. She said the “best bargain” for India, vis-a-vis the Kashmir issue, was during the time when Pervez Musharraf was the President of Pakistan as during that time ceasefire was initiated at the border and the Muzaffarabad route was opened up. “The talks could be beneficial now....why should we not talk?” she asked. The PDP leader also said her party will “join hands” with any political party that will support the “resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue.” “If we can join hands with the BJP, we can do so with anyone for resolution of the J-K issue,” she said. Mufti said her Peoples Democratic Party (PDS) going with the BJP, during the last political regime in the state, was “suicidal” and that she was “disappointed” that this experiment to begin the political process in the state did not work. Asked if she had any lessons to learn, Mufti replied in the negative. “They (the BJP) didn’t teach me any lesson. I stood my ground...(in taking decisions). We experimented (through the PDP-BJP alliance) for the people of Kashmir but that did not work,” she said. She said there was a huge difference between former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s regime and the current one under PM Narendra Modi. “Vajpayee was spontaneous and down to earth...he never looked back or over his shoulder. He was a statesman. Today’s NDA is more focussed in winning elections,” Mufti said. “God save! they have not given voting rights to cows,” she said in an apparent dig on the BJP.

Best time to talk as Pakistan army’s proxy Imran Khan in power: Mehbooba Mufti

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-orders-release-of-indian-national-hamid-nehal-ansari-183735">Pakistan's Army </a>Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and other top military officers on Thursday pledged to support all stakeholders for bringing Afghan war to a logical and peaceful conclusion.

The 216th Corps Commanders' Conference, which was presided over by Gen Bajwa, also reviewed geo-strategic environment with special focus on regional security and situation on Pakistan's eastern and western borders, including the Line of Control (LoC), the army said in a statement.

The commanders also highlighted the importance of regional approach to eliminate roots of terrorism, they said.

The forum hoped "for success of ongoing Afghan reconciliation process while supporting all stakeholders to bring Afghan war to a peaceful logical conclusion", the statement said.

The military brass also pledged to safeguard against all external threats while consolidating gains of counter-terrorism military operations, which have put security situation of the country on positive trajectory for socio-economic progress and development, it said.

They also expressed support for the national institutions.

"We shall continue to support all state institutions for peace, stability and progress of the country in best interest of the people of Pakistan," the army chief said.

Pakistan's Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and other top military officers on Thursday pledged to support all stakeholders for bringing Afghan war to a logical and peaceful conclusion.

Pakistan's Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and other top military officers on Thursday pledged to support all stakeholders for bringing Afghan war to a logical and peaceful conclusion. The 216th Corps Commanders' Conference, which was presided over by Gen Bajwa, also reviewed geo-strategic environment with special focus on regional security and situation on Pakistan's eastern and western borders, including the Line of Control (LoC), the army said in a statement. The commanders also highlighted the importance of regional approach to eliminate roots of terrorism, they said. The forum hoped "for success of ongoing Afghan reconciliation process while supporting all stakeholders to bring Afghan war to a peaceful logical conclusion", the statement said. The military brass also pledged to safeguard against all external threats while consolidating gains of counter-terrorism military operations, which have put security situation of the country on positive trajectory for socio-economic progress and development, it said. They also expressed support for the national institutions. "We shall continue to support all state institutions for peace, stability and progress of the country in best interest of the people of Pakistan," the army chief said.

Pakistan Army pledges to support stakeholders to bring Afghan war to peaceful conclusion 

Pakistan <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-gets-slammed-on-twitter-for-his-controversial-remarks-about-jesus-christ-178625">Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> has dismissed reports of any civil-military friction unlike previous regimes, saying his government enjoyed unwavering support of the armed forces, a key player in the country's politics.

The government of the cricketer-turned-politician, which completed the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-pm-imran-khan-led-government-unveils-first-100-days-performance-report-180299">first 100 days</a> last Friday, said all ministers have reported their achievements to him and that he will review their performance.&nbsp;

"We might change some ministers," he said on Monday while answering questions by a panel of journalists representing various Pakistani media organisations.

"There is not a single decision that I haven't taken on my own, and there's not a single decision that doesn't have the support of the army," Khan said while responding to a question on cooperation among state institutions.&nbsp;

"Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa stands right beside my decisions," he added.

Khan said the Pakistan Army "is currently totally standing by his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party's manifesto".

Pakistan's Opposition parties have alleged that the military tacitly backed Khan in the general elections in July.

"We have no problems at the present," he said, adding that his government also hasn't faced issues of "civil-military discord" as seen during past governments. He was apparently referring to the tension between the previous government of Nawaz Sharif and the military over a number of issues.

Coup-prone Pakistan has been under military rule for almost half of its existence, with many governments deposed before completing its term, mostly at the behest of the country's powerful armed forces.

Khan defended his close relations with the military, saying leaders around the world seek the opinion of their military establishment "since they are equipped with the means to brief us on security issues".&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has dismissed reports of any civil-military friction unlike previous regimes, saying his government enjoyed unwavering support of the armed forces, a key player in the country's politics.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has dismissed reports of any civil-military friction unlike previous regimes, saying his government enjoyed unwavering support of the armed forces, a key player in the country's politics. The government of the cricketer-turned-politician, which completed the first 100 days last Friday, said all ministers have reported their achievements to him and that he will review their performance. "We might change some ministers," he said on Monday while answering questions by a panel of journalists representing various Pakistani media organisations. "There is not a single decision that I haven't taken on my own, and there's not a single decision that doesn't have the support of the army," Khan said while responding to a question on cooperation among state institutions. "Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa stands right beside my decisions," he added. Khan said the Pakistan Army "is currently totally standing by his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party's manifesto". Pakistan's Opposition parties have alleged that the military tacitly backed Khan in the general elections in July. "We have no problems at the present," he said, adding that his government also hasn't faced issues of "civil-military discord" as seen during past governments. He was apparently referring to the tension between the previous government of Nawaz Sharif and the military over a number of issues. Coup-prone Pakistan has been under military rule for almost half of its existence, with many governments deposed before completing its term, mostly at the behest of the country's powerful armed forces. Khan defended his close relations with the military, saying leaders around the world seek the opinion of their military establishment "since they are equipped with the means to brief us on security issues".

Pakistan government and military on same page: PM Imran Khan

Pakistan army curtails free speech; Two lawmakers barred from leaving Pakistan

The Vice-Chancellor of a leading university in Pakistan has come under fire for allegedly making controversial remarks against the country's powerful army saying that terrorists were making up to its top ranks.

A petition was filed Saturday with the Punjab province Governor and Chancellor of the University of Punjab Chaudhary Muhammad Sarwar, seeking the removal of the varsity's VC Niaz Ahmed for the remarks.

In the petition filed by one Muhammad Ali said that Ahmed, in a speech on campus, had claimed that the Pakistan Army was facing the challenge of terrorists making up to its top ranks.

"A terrorist had made up to high rank in the Pakistan Army. In fact, he was working for the Taliban and had killed many of soldiers during the Swat Operation (in 2009)," Ali alleged.

He also said that the VC further claimed that "in Swat, there was an army major, who went on leave three-to-four times and every time he told his subordinate soldiers not to retaliate to the Taliban's firing as per an understanding (undercover deal) between Taliban and the Army.

The petitioner said the VC instead of narrating stories of valour of the Pakistan Army martyrs, mentioned an incident which has no relevance.

He also said that slogans against the Pakistan Army were written on one of the underpasses at the varsity's campus but the VC did not take any action and alleged that he patronises activists of Islami Jamiat Tulaba.

PU spokesperson Khurram Shahzad told PTI that the Vice Chancellor "did not mean anything that could harm repute of the institution of the army which is defending the boundaries of Pakistan".&nbsp;

He said in the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor highlighted the sacrifices of the Pakistan Army in 1965 War and his speech was taken out of context as all allegations against him are "baseless".

The Vice-Chancellor of a leading university in Pakistan has come under fire for allegedly making controversial remarks against the country's powerful army saying that terrorists were making up to its top ranks.

The Vice-Chancellor of a leading university in Pakistan has come under fire for allegedly making controversial remarks against the country's powerful army saying that terrorists were making up to its top ranks. A petition was filed Saturday with the Punjab province Governor and Chancellor of the University of Punjab Chaudhary Muhammad Sarwar, seeking the removal of the varsity's VC Niaz Ahmed for the remarks. In the petition filed by one Muhammad Ali said that Ahmed, in a speech on campus, had claimed that the Pakistan Army was facing the challenge of terrorists making up to its top ranks. "A terrorist had made up to high rank in the Pakistan Army. In fact, he was working for the Taliban and had killed many of soldiers during the Swat Operation (in 2009)," Ali alleged. He also said that the VC further claimed that "in Swat, there was an army major, who went on leave three-to-four times and every time he told his subordinate soldiers not to retaliate to the Taliban's firing as per an understanding (undercover deal) between Taliban and the Army. The petitioner said the VC instead of narrating stories of valour of the Pakistan Army martyrs, mentioned an incident which has no relevance. He also said that slogans against the Pakistan Army were written on one of the underpasses at the varsity's campus but the VC did not take any action and alleged that he patronises activists of Islami Jamiat Tulaba. PU spokesperson Khurram Shahzad told PTI that the Vice Chancellor "did not mean anything that could harm repute of the institution of the army which is defending the boundaries of Pakistan". He said in the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor highlighted the sacrifices of the Pakistan Army in 1965 War and his speech was taken out of context as all allegations against him are "baseless".

Pak university Vice Chancellor comes under fire for his remarks against powerful army 

Pakistan Army said on Monday that despite restricted liberty of action due to presence of "our Kashmiri brethren" on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC), Indian fire is always "effectively responded".

Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor made the comments while talking to a group of journalists from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Hazara Division of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

Ghafoor apprised them about the situation along the LoC and said that army operated in a restricted environment due to the presence of "our Kashmiri brethren" on the other side of the LoC, the Inter Services Public Relations, the media wing of the military, said in a statement.

"Despite restricted liberty of action for response to Indian fire due to presence of our Kashmiri brethren on both sides of LOC, Indian fire is always effectively responded focusing on Indian posts," he said.&nbsp;

He went on to say that Pakistan looks for peace yet any misadventure shall be responded befittingly.

Pakistan Army said on Monday that despite restricted liberty of action due to presence of "our Kashmiri brethren" on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC), Indian fire is always "effectively responded".

Pakistan Army said on Monday that despite restricted liberty of action due to presence of "our Kashmiri brethren" on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC), Indian fire is always "effectively responded". Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor made the comments while talking to a group of journalists from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Hazara Division of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Ghafoor apprised them about the situation along the LoC and said that army operated in a restricted environment due to the presence of "our Kashmiri brethren" on the other side of the LoC, the Inter Services Public Relations, the media wing of the military, said in a statement. "Despite restricted liberty of action for response to Indian fire due to presence of our Kashmiri brethren on both sides of LOC, Indian fire is always effectively responded focusing on Indian posts," he said. He went on to say that Pakistan looks for peace yet any misadventure shall be responded befittingly.

Indian fire 'effectively responded' despite restricted liberty of action along LoC: Pak Army

Protests erupted against Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Pak Army for brutal killing of Pashtun police officer, Tahir Dawar. Pashtuns in Pakistan chanted slogans against the Pakistan Army and ISI for brutally killing Dawar.

A large number of people came out on the streets at various cities and towns, including capital Peshawar, to condemn kidnapping and target killing of a Pashtun.

Tahir was gone missing in Islamabad about two weeks ago and his dead body was found in Afghanistan at the international border.

Taliban denied any role in the killing. Pashtoons believe that ISI kidnapped Tahir and killed him because he eliminated Taliban operatives during operations against terrorism and was sympathetic to the demands for return of thousands of missing Pashtuns.

Superintendent Tahir Dawar was head of Peshawar Police's rural area circle.

He survived two suicide attacks by terrorists. Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) chief Manzoor Pansteen met the brother of the slain police officer in Peshawar and expended full support to the grieved family to raise voice against the brutal murder.

Protests erupted against Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Pak Army for brutal killing of Pashtun police officer, Tahir Dawar. Pashtuns in Pakistan chanted slogans against the Pakistan Army and ISI for brutally killing Dawar.

Protests erupted against Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Pak Army for brutal killing of Pashtun police officer, Tahir Dawar. Pashtuns in Pakistan chanted slogans against the Pakistan Army and ISI for brutally killing Dawar. A large number of people came out on the streets at various cities and towns, including capital Peshawar, to condemn kidnapping and target killing of a Pashtun. Tahir was gone missing in Islamabad about two weeks ago and his dead body was found in Afghanistan at the international border. Taliban denied any role in the killing. Pashtoons believe that ISI kidnapped Tahir and killed him because he eliminated Taliban operatives during operations against terrorism and was sympathetic to the demands for return of thousands of missing Pashtuns. Superintendent Tahir Dawar was head of Peshawar Police's rural area circle. He survived two suicide attacks by terrorists. Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) chief Manzoor Pansteen met the brother of the slain police officer in Peshawar and expended full support to the grieved family to raise voice against the brutal murder.

Protests erupt against ISI, Pakistan Army for killing Pashtun police officer

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

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

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

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

The Pakistan Army on Monday handed over the administrative control of the restive Swat district to the civil authorities, ending its decade-long military operation to flush out the Pakistani Taliban militants and restore peace in the hometown of Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai.

The Army was first sent to the picturesque Swat district of the Khyber-Pakthunkhwa province in 2007 when a local cleric and chief of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Maulana Fazlullah challenged the writ of the state and set up his Sharia courts.

Taliban later launched an organised movement and extended its network to the adjoining districts. They imposed several restrictions, including banning girls' education, making mandatory wearing of burqa for women and keeping beard for men, among others.

In 2009, the government launched a major military operation against the TTP, during a large number of people were forced to abandon their homes in Swat, Buner and other districts.

Malala, who shared the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize with Indian children's rights activist Kailash Satyarthi, was shot at by Taliban in 2012 for advocating for girls' education, which was forbidden under the militants' rule over Swat. The 15-year-old was flown to Britain for better treatment and further education. In March, she visited her hometown for the first time after being shot at.

The Army handed over the symbol of authority to the Commissioner, Malakand Division and Regional Police Officer (RPO) at a ceremony, which was attended by Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mehmood Khan, Corps Commander Peshawar, Lieutenant General Nazir Ahmed Bhut, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Salahuddin, General-Officer-in-Command Swat Major General Khalid Saeed, officials said.

The elders' of the area and other civil and military officers also attended the function, during which a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of administrative authority was handed over the Chief Minister, they said.

Hailing the Army for successfully launching the operation against terrorism and restoring peace in Swat, Khan said, the military has made a history by transferring the administrative powers back to the civil authorities.

The Chief Minister, who hails from Matta tehsil of Swat district, said that terrorists wrecked havoc with lives of innocent people.

He said he himself was an eyewitness to the Taliban's barbaric acts in 2009. He recalled that terrorists did not spare even the educational institutions and destroyed their buildings.

Khan said that the cowardly and gruesome acts of the terrorists could not deter the resilient people of Swat and they were subsequently defeated by the Army, police force and other law enforcement forces and lasting peace was achieved.

Addressing the gathering, Lt Gen Ahmed said that 3.5 million people were dislocated in Swat district when militants tried to take control of the administrative affairs of Swat district.&nbsp;

The Army, he said, launched successful operations and eliminated terrorists in four month from the district and other areas of Malakand Division and rehabilitated the displaced people.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Pakistan Army on Monday handed over the administrative control of the restive Swat district to the civil authorities, ending its decade-long military operation to flush out the Pakistani Taliban militants and restore peace in the hometown of Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai.

The Pakistan Army on Monday handed over the administrative control of the restive Swat district to the civil authorities, ending its decade-long military operation to flush out the Pakistani Taliban militants and restore peace in the hometown of Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai. The Army was first sent to the picturesque Swat district of the Khyber-Pakthunkhwa province in 2007 when a local cleric and chief of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Maulana Fazlullah challenged the writ of the state and set up his Sharia courts. Taliban later launched an organised movement and extended its network to the adjoining districts. They imposed several restrictions, including banning girls' education, making mandatory wearing of burqa for women and keeping beard for men, among others. In 2009, the government launched a major military operation against the TTP, during a large number of people were forced to abandon their homes in Swat, Buner and other districts. Malala, who shared the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize with Indian children's rights activist Kailash Satyarthi, was shot at by Taliban in 2012 for advocating for girls' education, which was forbidden under the militants' rule over Swat. The 15-year-old was flown to Britain for better treatment and further education. In March, she visited her hometown for the first time after being shot at. The Army handed over the symbol of authority to the Commissioner, Malakand Division and Regional Police Officer (RPO) at a ceremony, which was attended by Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mehmood Khan, Corps Commander Peshawar, Lieutenant General Nazir Ahmed Bhut, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Salahuddin, General-Officer-in-Command Swat Major General Khalid Saeed, officials said. The elders' of the area and other civil and military officers also attended the function, during which a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of administrative authority was handed over the Chief Minister, they said. Hailing the Army for successfully launching the operation against terrorism and restoring peace in Swat, Khan said, the military has made a history by transferring the administrative powers back to the civil authorities. The Chief Minister, who hails from Matta tehsil of Swat district, said that terrorists wrecked havoc with lives of innocent people. He said he himself was an eyewitness to the Taliban's barbaric acts in 2009. He recalled that terrorists did not spare even the educational institutions and destroyed their buildings. Khan said that the cowardly and gruesome acts of the terrorists could not deter the resilient people of Swat and they were subsequently defeated by the Army, police force and other law enforcement forces and lasting peace was achieved. Addressing the gathering, Lt Gen Ahmed said that 3.5 million people were dislocated in Swat district when militants tried to take control of the administrative affairs of Swat district. The Army, he said, launched successful operations and eliminated terrorists in four month from the district and other areas of Malakand Division and rehabilitated the displaced people.

Pakistan Army hands over administrative control of Swat district to civil authorities

Pakistan on Saturday warned of "10 surgical strikes" against India in response to a single such attack, in the latest war of words between the two estranged nuclear-armed neighbours.

Major General Asif Ghafoor, spokesperson of the military's Inter-Services Public Relations, issued the warning while talking to the media in London, where he is accompanying Pakistan Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa on a visit.

"If India dares to launch a surgical strike inside Pakistan, it will face 10 surgical strikes in response," Ghafoor was quoted as saying by Radio Pakistan.

He also said "those who think of any misadventure against us should have no doubt in their minds on Pakistan's capabilities".

The military spokesman said the Pakistan Army was the custodian of the USD 50 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and that the mega project will strengthen the economy of the country.

Ghafoor said the army wanted strengthening of democracy in Pakistan, and claimed that the general election in July was the most transparent in the history of the country.

"If anyone has evidence of rigging then it should be brought forward," he remarked.

He also rejected reports of restriction on the media and said there was "complete freedom of expression" in the country.

He said there were more good developments in Pakistan than bad and that the international media should also highlight the good things.

Pakistan on Saturday warned of "10 surgical strikes" against India in response to a single such attack, in the latest war of words between the two estranged nuclear-armed neighbours.

Pakistan on Saturday warned of "10 surgical strikes" against India in response to a single such attack, in the latest war of words between the two estranged nuclear-armed neighbours. Major General Asif Ghafoor, spokesperson of the military's Inter-Services Public Relations, issued the warning while talking to the media in London, where he is accompanying Pakistan Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa on a visit. "If India dares to launch a surgical strike inside Pakistan, it will face 10 surgical strikes in response," Ghafoor was quoted as saying by Radio Pakistan. He also said "those who think of any misadventure against us should have no doubt in their minds on Pakistan's capabilities". The military spokesman said the Pakistan Army was the custodian of the USD 50 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and that the mega project will strengthen the economy of the country. Ghafoor said the army wanted strengthening of democracy in Pakistan, and claimed that the general election in July was the most transparent in the history of the country. "If anyone has evidence of rigging then it should be brought forward," he remarked. He also rejected reports of restriction on the media and said there was "complete freedom of expression" in the country. He said there were more good developments in Pakistan than bad and that the international media should also highlight the good things.

Launch surgical strike and we will retaliate with 10, Pakistan warns India

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-opposition-holds-imran-khan-responsible-diplomatic-debacle-india-167264">Pak opposition holds Imran Khan responsible for 'diplomatic debacle' with India</a>

Pakistan's two major opposition parties have questioned the "haste" shown by Prime Minister Imran Khan in making efforts to mend ties with India and held him responsible for the "diplomatic debacle", saying he should have done his "homework" before approaching India for a meeting.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-has-taken-right-decision-army-chief-bipin-rawat-india-cancelling-indo-pak-talks">Govt has taken right decision: Army Chief Bipin Rawat on India cancelling Indo-Pak talks</a>

Indian Army Chief Bipin Rawat has said the "government has taken the right decision" in cancelling the meeting between the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-votes-incumbent-yameen-expected-cement-grip-power-167251">Maldives votes, incumbent Yameen expected to cement grip on power</a>

The Maldives voted on Sunday in an election in which hardline President Abdulla Yameen is expected to cement his grip on power but which opposition and international groups have criticised for a lack of transparency and suppression of dissent.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ready-war-choose-walk-path-peace-pakistan-army-167221">'Ready for war' but choose to walk </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ready-war-choose-walk-path-peace-pakistan-army-167221">path</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ready-war-choose-walk-path-peace-pakistan-army-167221"> of peace: Pakistan Army</a>

The Pakistan Army on Saturday said it is "ready for war" but chooses to walk the path of peace in the interest of its people, comments which came in response to Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat's remark that "stern action" is needed to "avenge" the brutal killing of Indian soldiers.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-accuses-us-backed-gulf-arab-states-carrying-out-attack-military-parade-167253">Iran's Khamenei accuses US-backed Gulf Arab states of carrying out attack on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-accuses-us-backed-gulf-arab-states-carrying-out-attack-military-parade-167253">military</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-accuses-us-backed-gulf-arab-states-carrying-out-attack-military-parade-167253"> parade</a>

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused US-backed Gulf Arab states of carrying out a shooting attack on a military parade that killed 25 people, almost half of them members of the country's elite Revolutionary Guards.

Pak opposition holds Imran Khan responsible for 'diplomatic debacle' with India Pakistan's two major opposition parties have questioned the "haste" shown by Prime Minister Imran Khan in making efforts to mend ties with India and held him responsible for the "diplomatic debacle", saying he should have done his "homework" before approaching India for a meeting.

Pak opposition holds Imran Khan responsible for 'diplomatic debacle' with India Pakistan's two major opposition parties have questioned the "haste" shown by Prime Minister Imran Khan in making efforts to mend ties with India and held him responsible for the "diplomatic debacle", saying he should have done his "homework" before approaching India for a meeting. Govt has taken right decision: Army Chief Bipin Rawat on India cancelling Indo-Pak talks Indian Army Chief Bipin Rawat has said the "government has taken the right decision" in cancelling the meeting between the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan. Maldives votes, incumbent Yameen expected to cement grip on power The Maldives voted on Sunday in an election in which hardline President Abdulla Yameen is expected to cement his grip on power but which opposition and international groups have criticised for a lack of transparency and suppression of dissent. 'Ready for war' but choose to walk path of peace: Pakistan Army The Pakistan Army on Saturday said it is "ready for war" but chooses to walk the path of peace in the interest of its people, comments which came in response to Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat's remark that "stern action" is needed to "avenge" the brutal killing of Indian soldiers. Iran's Khamenei accuses US-backed Gulf Arab states of carrying out attack on military parade Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused US-backed Gulf Arab states of carrying out a shooting attack on a military parade that killed 25 people, almost half of them members of the country's elite Revolutionary Guards.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Locals of Kotli district of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have accused Pakistani security forces of illegal encroachment.

The residents also launched agitation against the illegal encroachment of their land by the Pakistan Army.

Since past few years there has been a growing resentment against Pakistan among the residents of the illegally-occupied region.

United Kashmir People's National Party Chairman Shaukat Ali Kashmiri said, "the army encroaches farmers' land which is fertile and ideally located. Land grabbing is being done by implementing Army Act. Now, the army has begun encroaching private land and houses allotted to them as per new housing scheme. Cases have been reported in Kotli, Neelam Valley, Muzaffarabad, Poonch and Bagh. Land grabbing incidents are happening across PoK."

He further said that the ruling governments, be it PML (N), PPP or PTI, all have maintained silence on these incidents.

"They have failed to raise any issued concerning the people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir. Only, the local political parties have been raising the issues and the people are protesting against the forceful encroachment by the Army on people's private lands," he added.

Meanwhile, a member of United Kashmir People's National Party Jamil Maqsood also accused Pakistan military of occupying lands illegally, saying, before this the military of Pakistan had already occupied one playground in district Kotli.

"They are occupying all the important places, business areas, business places, commercial land," Maqsood added.

Locals in illegally-occupied PoK and Gilgit Baltistan often stage protests against Pakistan's ill treatment.

The residents blame Pakistan for exploiting their resources and for being responsible for the poverty and underdevelopment in the region.

Various leaders and activists also accuse the Pakistani Army and intelligence agencies of enforced disappearances and extra-judicial killings in the region.

The residents also launched agitation against the illegal encroachment of their land by the Pakistan Army

Locals of Kotli district of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have accused Pakistani security forces of illegal encroachment. The residents also launched agitation against the illegal encroachment of their land by the Pakistan Army. Since past few years there has been a growing resentment against Pakistan among the residents of the illegally-occupied region. United Kashmir People's National Party Chairman Shaukat Ali Kashmiri said, "the army encroaches farmers' land which is fertile and ideally located. Land grabbing is being done by implementing Army Act. Now, the army has begun encroaching private land and houses allotted to them as per new housing scheme. Cases have been reported in Kotli, Neelam Valley, Muzaffarabad, Poonch and Bagh. Land grabbing incidents are happening across PoK." He further said that the ruling governments, be it PML (N), PPP or PTI, all have maintained silence on these incidents. "They have failed to raise any issued concerning the people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir. Only, the local political parties have been raising the issues and the people are protesting against the forceful encroachment by the Army on people's private lands," he added. Meanwhile, a member of United Kashmir People's National Party Jamil Maqsood also accused Pakistan military of occupying lands illegally, saying, before this the military of Pakistan had already occupied one playground in district Kotli. "They are occupying all the important places, business areas, business places, commercial land," Maqsood added. Locals in illegally-occupied PoK and Gilgit Baltistan often stage protests against Pakistan's ill treatment. The residents blame Pakistan for exploiting their resources and for being responsible for the poverty and underdevelopment in the region. Various leaders and activists also accuse the Pakistani Army and intelligence agencies of enforced disappearances and extra-judicial killings in the region.

Locals accuse Pakistan army of illegal encroachment in PoK

The Baloch Liberation Army has said its fighters had damaged the Pakistan Army helicopter, which crashed near Quetta, in the mountain range of Sibi Balochistan on Thursday.

"Our fighters have targeted and damaged the military helicopters with sniper rifles and other automatic weapons in Sathak Bun area of district Sibbi Balochistan which later crashed on the outskirts of Quetta," BLA`s spokesperson Azad Baloch informed media sources in Balochistan.

He claimed from the past many days, Pakistan army have been carrying military offensives against innocent Baloch villagers and nomads in different areas of Kahan town in Balochistan.

Azad Baloch added that Pakistan military`s ground forces backed by helicopters have conducted offensives in Kahan`s Sohrod, Shameni, Hathpod and other surrounding areas.

"Several Baloch women and children have been wounded because of indiscriminate bombardment and military offensives. The Pakistan army during their aggressions has harassed and terrorised Baloch women and children. Women were pulled out of their houses and made to stand outside in the scorching heat for several hours to teach them a lesson in the words of Pakistani troops," he further said.

On June 3, in a gun battle between BLA fighters and Pakistan army, seven Pakistani soldiers were killed and several others injured whereas three BLA fighters also lost their lives.

In retaliation, on June 7, the BLA fighters attacked a convoy of Pakistan military with IED, completely destroying the vehicles and killing and wounding personnel on board.

Azad Baloch said, "The army helicopter was transferring the wounded soldiers to Quetta when our fighters attacked and damaged it near Sibbi.

"The Pakistan military media wing spokesperson also confirmed the attack and told media, "The helicopter, on a medical evacuation sortie, was en-route to Quetta from Kohlu. A BLA fighter was injured and was being evacuated by the Army helicopter."

Azad Baloch further said, "Since the `occupation of Balochistan` in 1948, Pakistan Army has been trying to extract oil and other natural resources in Kohistan Marri region but due to the strong resistance of Baloch fighters the state's (Pakistan)&nbspprevious attempts failed."

He asserted that natural resources of Balochistan are considered a national wealth for Balochs and "our fighters are paying the price of their lives to protect these resources from Pakistani state exploitation".

The spokesperson of Baloch resistance group added that some local notables are collaborating with Pakistan Army and assisting Pakistani forces to exploit the natural resources."We urge these people (local notables) to refrain from becoming part of Pakistan`s exploitative policies in Balochistan because such actions are not in the national interest of the Baloch nation,"&nbspAzad Baloch further said.&nbsp

The BLA is a militant group. The chopper had crashed on the outskirts of Quetta on Thursday

The Baloch Liberation Army has said its fighters had damaged the Pakistan Army helicopter, which crashed near Quetta, in the mountain range of Sibi Balochistan on Thursday. "Our fighters have targeted and damaged the military helicopters with sniper rifles and other automatic weapons in Sathak Bun area of district Sibbi Balochistan which later crashed on the outskirts of Quetta," BLA`s spokesperson Azad Baloch informed media sources in Balochistan. He claimed from the past many days, Pakistan army have been carrying military offensives against innocent Baloch villagers and nomads in different areas of Kahan town in Balochistan. Azad Baloch added that Pakistan military`s ground forces backed by helicopters have conducted offensives in Kahan`s Sohrod, Shameni, Hathpod and other surrounding areas. "Several Baloch women and children have been wounded because of indiscriminate bombardment and military offensives. The Pakistan army during their aggressions has harassed and terrorised Baloch women and children. Women were pulled out of their houses and made to stand outside in the scorching heat for several hours to teach them a lesson in the words of Pakistani troops," he further said. On June 3, in a gun battle between BLA fighters and Pakistan army, seven Pakistani soldiers were killed and several others injured whereas three BLA fighters also lost their lives. In retaliation, on June 7, the BLA fighters attacked a convoy of Pakistan military with IED, completely destroying the vehicles and killing and wounding personnel on board. Azad Baloch said, "The army helicopter was transferring the wounded soldiers to Quetta when our fighters attacked and damaged it near Sibbi. "The Pakistan military media wing spokesperson also confirmed the attack and told media, "The helicopter, on a medical evacuation sortie, was en-route to Quetta from Kohlu. A BLA fighter was injured and was being evacuated by the Army helicopter." Azad Baloch further said, "Since the `occupation of Balochistan` in 1948, Pakistan Army has been trying to extract oil and other natural resources in Kohistan Marri region but due to the strong resistance of Baloch fighters the state's (Pakistan)&nbspprevious attempts failed." He asserted that natural resources of Balochistan are considered a national wealth for Balochs and "our fighters are paying the price of their lives to protect these resources from Pakistani state exploitation". The spokesperson of Baloch resistance group added that some local notables are collaborating with Pakistan Army and assisting Pakistani forces to exploit the natural resources."We urge these people (local notables) to refrain from becoming part of Pakistan`s exploitative policies in Balochistan because such actions are not in the national interest of the Baloch nation,"&nbspAzad Baloch further said.

Baloch Liberation Army says it brought down Pakistan military chopper

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