Srinagar: In a significant revelation, Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said that only one listed local terrorist is currently active in the Kashmir Valley, although security agencies suspect the presence of a few foreign terrorists in the higher reaches of the region.&nbsp;Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, Sujit Kumar, made the disclosure while addressing a press conference, identifying the lone active local terrorist as Latief, a resident of South Kashmir, who is affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-handed-trump-political-defeat-after-strategic-ones-security-chief-mohsen-rezaei-1793823533731">Iran handed Trump political defeat after strategic ones,’ says security chief Mohsen Rezaei</a>&nbsp;According to the IGP, the terrorist has been involved in two terror-related incidents in Anantnag and Pulwama districts and is allegedly being supported by a few foreign terrorists.&nbsp;“We have received inputs about the presence of terrorists, and the police are dealing with these inputs on their merit. Yes, there is only one local terrorist active in South Kashmir who committed two acts of terror in Anantnag and Pulwama, and he is being supported by a few foreign terrorists. However, we cannot give a definite number of active terrorists in the Kashmir Valley,” Sujit Kumar said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahadev-app-co-founder-ravi-uppal-arrested-in-dubai-days-after-kingpin-sourabh-chandrakar-s-extradition-1793806681924">Mahadev app co-founder Ravi Uppal arrested in Dubai days after kingpin Sourabh Chandrakar’s extradition</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, security sources indicated that a few foreign terrorists could still be operating in the higher reaches of the Valley, and security agencies are closely monitoring their possible movements.&nbsp;Sources further said that Pakistani handlers are making concerted efforts to revive sleeper cells and re-establish their networks in Kashmir. They are also reportedly attempting to lure local youth into terrorist organisations, but these efforts have received little or no response.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dialled-wrong-number-in-season-of-dharna-go-protest-cji-s-quip-on-plea-seeking-rotation-of-sc-st-reserved-seats-1793802806351">‘Dialled wrong number in season of dharna, go protest’: CJI’s quip on plea seeking rotation of SC-ST reserved seats</a>&nbsp;The lack of local recruitment has reportedly caused frustration among terrorist handlers operating from across the border, security sources said.&nbsp;Security agencies, meanwhile, continue to maintain surveillance and act on intelligence inputs to prevent attempts to revive terrorist networks in the region.

Pakistani handlers are making concerted efforts to revive sleeper cells and re-establish their networks in Kashmir, but these efforts have received little or no response. The lack of local recruitment has caused frustration among terrorist handlers across the border, security sources said.

Srinagar: In a significant revelation, Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said that only one listed local terrorist is currently active in the Kashmir Valley, although security agencies suspect the presence of a few foreign terrorists in the higher reaches of the region. Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, Sujit Kumar, made the disclosure while addressing a press conference, identifying the lone active local terrorist as Latief, a resident of South Kashmir, who is affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Also Read: Iran handed Trump political defeat after strategic ones,’ says security chief Mohsen Rezaei According to the IGP, the terrorist has been involved in two terror-related incidents in Anantnag and Pulwama districts and is allegedly being supported by a few foreign terrorists. “We have received inputs about the presence of terrorists, and the police are dealing with these inputs on their merit. Yes, there is only one local terrorist active in South Kashmir who committed two acts of terror in Anantnag and Pulwama, and he is being supported by a few foreign terrorists. However, we cannot give a definite number of active terrorists in the Kashmir Valley,” Sujit Kumar said. Also Read: Mahadev app co-founder Ravi Uppal arrested in Dubai days after kingpin Sourabh Chandrakar’s extradition Meanwhile, security sources indicated that a few foreign terrorists could still be operating in the higher reaches of the Valley, and security agencies are closely monitoring their possible movements. Sources further said that Pakistani handlers are making concerted efforts to revive sleeper cells and re-establish their networks in Kashmir. They are also reportedly attempting to lure local youth into terrorist organisations, but these efforts have received little or no response. Also Read: ‘Dialled wrong number in season of dharna, go protest’: CJI’s quip on plea seeking rotation of SC-ST reserved seats The lack of local recruitment has reportedly caused frustration among terrorist handlers operating from across the border, security sources said. Security agencies, meanwhile, continue to maintain surveillance and act on intelligence inputs to prevent attempts to revive terrorist networks in the region.

Pakistani handlers are making concerted efforts to revive sleeper cells and re-establish their networks in Kashmir, but these efforts have received little or no response. The lack of local recruitment has caused frustration among terrorist handlers across the border, security sources said.

Only one local terrorist active in Kashmir Valley, says IGP Sujit Kumar

Srinagar: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has attached a residential property in Danihama, Hazratbal, Srinagar, allegedly used to shelter Pakistani terrorists linked to the proscribed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) outfit.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the NIA, the property belongs to the accused, Ghulam Mohammad Mir, alias Mama Gas, and was attached under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, following prior approval from the NIA Director General.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-de-notifies-jantar-mantar-names-3-new-protest-sites-1791793295084">Delhi Police de-notifies Jantar Mantar as protest site, names 3 new venues</a>&nbsp;The case relates to an alleged cross-border terror conspiracy involving local overground workers (OGWs) and Pakistan-based LeT handlers accused of facilitating the infiltration, movement and logistical support of terrorists.&nbsp;&nbsp;During a search of Mir’s residence on April 6, 2026, investigators allegedly detected two suspected Pakistani terrorists, identified as Abu Huraira and Khubaib, and seized an explosive-like substance, digital devices and other incriminating material.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/turn-approver-resign-we-ll-forgive-you-rahul-gandhi-claims-receiving-messages-from-cec-gyanesh-kumar-1791789847072">'Turn approver, resign, we'll forgive you': Rahul Gandhi claims receiving messages from CEC Gyanesh Kumar</a>&nbsp;The case was initially registered at Zakoora Police Station on March 31, 2026, before being taken over by the NIA and re-registered as RC-02/2026/NIA/JMU.&nbsp;&nbsp;The agency said the investigation is ongoing to identify other alleged facilitators, OGWs and individuals linked to the Pakistan-based handlers.&nbsp;

During a search of the residence of Ghulam Mohammad Mir, alias Mama Gas, on April 6, 2026, investigators allegedly found two suspected Pakistani terrorists, identified as Abu Huraira and Khubaib, and seized an explosive-like substance, digital devices and other incriminating material.

Srinagar: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has attached a residential property in Danihama, Hazratbal, Srinagar, allegedly used to shelter Pakistani terrorists linked to the proscribed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) outfit. According to the NIA, the property belongs to the accused, Ghulam Mohammad Mir, alias Mama Gas, and was attached under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, following prior approval from the NIA Director General. Also Read: Delhi Police de-notifies Jantar Mantar as protest site, names 3 new venues The case relates to an alleged cross-border terror conspiracy involving local overground workers (OGWs) and Pakistan-based LeT handlers accused of facilitating the infiltration, movement and logistical support of terrorists. During a search of Mir’s residence on April 6, 2026, investigators allegedly detected two suspected Pakistani terrorists, identified as Abu Huraira and Khubaib, and seized an explosive-like substance, digital devices and other incriminating material. Also Read: 'Turn approver, resign, we'll forgive you': Rahul Gandhi claims receiving messages from CEC Gyanesh Kumar The case was initially registered at Zakoora Police Station on March 31, 2026, before being taken over by the NIA and re-registered as RC-02/2026/NIA/JMU. The agency said the investigation is ongoing to identify other alleged facilitators, OGWs and individuals linked to the Pakistan-based handlers.

During a search of the residence of Ghulam Mohammad Mir, alias Mama Gas, on April 6, 2026, investigators allegedly found two suspected Pakistani terrorists, identified as Abu Huraira and Khubaib, and seized an explosive-like substance, digital devices and other incriminating material.

NIA attaches Srinagar property used to harbour Pakistani LeT terrorists

An encounter between security forces and terrorists has restarted in the Manjkote area of Rajouri district after fresh contact was established with terrorists hiding in the forest region on Monday, according to security sources.&nbsp;Sources said that two to three Pakistani terrorists are believed to be trapped in the dense forest area, where additional deployment of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and paramilitary forces has been rushed in to strengthen the ongoing operation.&nbsp;Residents living near the encounter site reported hearing fresh gunfire from the area as security forces intensified the anti-terror operation.&nbsp;The encounter had initially begun on Saturday after security agencies received specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence and movement of terrorists in the Manjkote sector. Following the information, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shehbaz-sharif-asim-munir-in-china-as-pak-pushes-iran-war-mediation-xi-calls-ties-with-islamabad-unbreakable-1779707982784">Shehbaz Sharif, Asim Munir in China as Pak pushes Iran war mediation; Xi calls ties with Islamabad ‘unbreakable’</a>&nbsp;During the search operation, the hiding terrorists allegedly opened fire on the security personnel, triggering a gun battle. The Indian Army later confirmed that an anti-terror operation had been launched after the intelligence input and that a brief exchange of fire had taken place between terrorists and security forces on Saturday.&nbsp;According to the Army, the coordinated operation was launched at around 11:30 AM on Saturday, following credible inputs about the movement of two to three Pakistani terrorists in the area.&nbsp;Security forces continued extensive searches over the past two days, while additional reinforcements were deployed to strengthen the cordon around the forest belt. Officials said that during the ongoing searches on Monday, security personnel established fresh contact with the terrorists at one of the locations in the Manjkote area, after which firing resumed.&nbsp;The operation is currently underway, and further details are awaited.

Security agencies suspect that a group of two to three Pakistani terrorists remains cornered inside the thick forest terrain, following which more troops from the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and paramilitary forces were sent to reinforce the ongoing counter-terror operation.

An encounter between security forces and terrorists has restarted in the Manjkote area of Rajouri district after fresh contact was established with terrorists hiding in the forest region on Monday, according to security sources. Sources said that two to three Pakistani terrorists are believed to be trapped in the dense forest area, where additional deployment of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and paramilitary forces has been rushed in to strengthen the ongoing operation. Residents living near the encounter site reported hearing fresh gunfire from the area as security forces intensified the anti-terror operation. The encounter had initially begun on Saturday after security agencies received specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence and movement of terrorists in the Manjkote sector. Following the information, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area. Also Read: Shehbaz Sharif, Asim Munir in China as Pak pushes Iran war mediation; Xi calls ties with Islamabad ‘unbreakable’ During the search operation, the hiding terrorists allegedly opened fire on the security personnel, triggering a gun battle. The Indian Army later confirmed that an anti-terror operation had been launched after the intelligence input and that a brief exchange of fire had taken place between terrorists and security forces on Saturday. According to the Army, the coordinated operation was launched at around 11:30 AM on Saturday, following credible inputs about the movement of two to three Pakistani terrorists in the area. Security forces continued extensive searches over the past two days, while additional reinforcements were deployed to strengthen the cordon around the forest belt. Officials said that during the ongoing searches on Monday, security personnel established fresh contact with the terrorists at one of the locations in the Manjkote area, after which firing resumed. The operation is currently underway, and further details are awaited.

Security agencies suspect that a group of two to three Pakistani terrorists remains cornered inside the thick forest terrain, following which more troops from the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and paramilitary forces were sent to reinforce the ongoing counter-terror operation.

Jammu and Kashmir: Gunfire heard again from operation site in Rajouri district

As central agencies dig deeper into the Delhi Red Fort bomb blast case and expose the terror network across the country, Jammu and Kashmir continues to face the problem of foreign and local terrorists. The existing terror infrastructure poses a challenge for the security forces.&nbsp;Currently there are about 131 terrorists active in Jammu and Kashmir, out of which 122 are Pakistani nationals, while nine are locally groomed terrorists, said sources.&nbsp;Security forces have so far this year been successful in eradicating 45 terrorists who were active in the region.&nbsp;The above data where only nine are locally groomed terrorists reveals a shift in the recruitment process. The terrorist organisations are failing to attract local youth and thus have turned towards educated professionals. They are trying to radicalise them and use some as suicide bombers, revealed intelligence sources.&nbsp;Referred to as “white-collar terrorists,” these recruits maintain very low profile work secretly in facilitating logistics, recruitment, or terror-funding.&nbsp;This pattern was clearly evident in the Delhi Red Fort bomb blast case. Professionals like doctors were a part of the dastardly attack that killed several persons and left many injured on November 10.&nbsp;So, for the security forces dismantling the white-collar ecosystem is their utmost priority which is evident in the counter-terror efforts taken by the Centre in the last few years.&nbsp;According to intelligence inputs 61 terrorists were neutralised in 2024, including 45 in the hinterland and 16 near the Line of Control (LoC). Notably, 21 of them were Pakistani nationals.&nbsp;The crackdown against terror operators in Jammu and Kashmir has gained further momentum after the November 10 blast Red Fort in Delhi. Investigations have revealed the involvement of J&amp;K-trained terrorists in the “white-collar” terror module.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For security forces dismantling the white-collar ecosystem is their utmost priority which is evident in the counter-terror efforts taken by the Centre in the last few years.

As central agencies dig deeper into the Delhi Red Fort bomb blast case and expose the terror network across the country, Jammu and Kashmir continues to face the problem of foreign and local terrorists. The existing terror infrastructure poses a challenge for the security forces. Currently there are about 131 terrorists active in Jammu and Kashmir, out of which 122 are Pakistani nationals, while nine are locally groomed terrorists, said sources. Security forces have so far this year been successful in eradicating 45 terrorists who were active in the region. The above data where only nine are locally groomed terrorists reveals a shift in the recruitment process. The terrorist organisations are failing to attract local youth and thus have turned towards educated professionals. They are trying to radicalise them and use some as suicide bombers, revealed intelligence sources. Referred to as “white-collar terrorists,” these recruits maintain very low profile work secretly in facilitating logistics, recruitment, or terror-funding. This pattern was clearly evident in the Delhi Red Fort bomb blast case. Professionals like doctors were a part of the dastardly attack that killed several persons and left many injured on November 10. So, for the security forces dismantling the white-collar ecosystem is their utmost priority which is evident in the counter-terror efforts taken by the Centre in the last few years. According to intelligence inputs 61 terrorists were neutralised in 2024, including 45 in the hinterland and 16 near the Line of Control (LoC). Notably, 21 of them were Pakistani nationals. The crackdown against terror operators in Jammu and Kashmir has gained further momentum after the November 10 blast Red Fort in Delhi. Investigations have revealed the involvement of J&K-trained terrorists in the “white-collar” terror module.

For security forces dismantling the white-collar ecosystem is their utmost priority which is evident in the counter-terror efforts taken by the Centre in the last few years.

Over 100 Pakistani terrorists active in Jammu and Kashmir, 45 eliminated this year

In the aftermath of the Poonch terror attack, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have circulated sketches of two Pakistani terrorists and have announced a cash&nbsp;reward of $24,000 for any details that&nbsp;help&nbsp;in the arrest of the terrorists. These individuals are wanted for their alleged involvement in the attack, which claimed the life of an Indian Air Force personnel.

Corporal Vikky Pahade of the Indian Air Force (IAF) lost his life in an ambush, and four others sustained injuries when terrorists targeted an IAF convoy near Shahsitar in Poonch district on Saturday evening (May 4).

Corporal Pahade had resumed duty just 15 days ago after attending his sister's wedding. He was stationed in Jammu and Kashmir.

Hailing from Nonia Karbal area in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, Pahade enlisted in the Indian Air Force in 2011. He is survived by his wife, Rina, and son, Hardik.

The soldier's sister, Geeta Pahade, expressed her pride in her brother.

Also watch |&nbsp;India: One soldier killed, four injured in terror attack in Poonch, search operations underway

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"I am proud of my brother. I got to know about this (brother's demise) a day before yesterday. I want justice for my brother," she told PTI.

On Sunday (May 5), the Indian Air Force expressed sorrow over the loss of Corporal Vikky Pahade.

"The CAS Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and all personnel of (the) Indian Air Force salute the braveheart Corporal Vikky Pahade, who made the supreme sacrifice in (the) Poonch Sector, in the service of the nation. Our deepest condolences to the bereaved family. We stand firmly by your side in this hour of grief," read a post on the official X handle of the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The Indian Army is looking carefully in the Shahsitar area. They're using bulletproof vehicles and dogs to find the terrorists who attacked.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-and-rjd-leaders-call-jks-poonch-terror-attack-political-stunt-stir-row-718284">Also read |&nbsp;Congress and RJD leaders call J&amp;K's Poonch terror attack 'political stunt', stir row</a>

On Sunday, a number of high-ranking officers went to the site following the attack and supervised the search effort.

"Corps Commander of 16 Corps &amp; ADG Jammu Zone Anand Jain accompanied by GOC Romeo Force, IGP CRPF &amp; DIG RP Range today visited the area &amp; monitored the ongoing massive search operation. Many suspects have been picked up for questioning," said Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Jammu, as quoted by PTI.

Pahade was supposed to be home for his son's birthday on May 7. He was from Nonia-Karbal village in Madhya Pradesh's Chhindwara district.

In a social media post, former MP CM Kamal Nath said: “I salute the martyrdom of Vicky Pahade, a resident of Nonia-Karbal, Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh, and pay my tribute to the immortal martyr.”

(With inputs from agencies)

In the aftermath of the Poonch terror attack, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have circulated sketches of two Pakistani terrorists and have announced a cash reward of $24,000 for any details that help in the arrest of the terrorists.

In the aftermath of the Poonch terror attack, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have circulated sketches of two Pakistani terrorists and have announced a cash reward of $24,000 for any details that help in the arrest of the terrorists. These individuals are wanted for their alleged involvement in the attack, which claimed the life of an Indian Air Force personnel. Corporal Vikky Pahade of the Indian Air Force (IAF) lost his life in an ambush, and four others sustained injuries when terrorists targeted an IAF convoy near Shahsitar in Poonch district on Saturday evening (May 4). Corporal Pahade had resumed duty just 15 days ago after attending his sister's wedding. He was stationed in Jammu and Kashmir. Hailing from Nonia Karbal area in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, Pahade enlisted in the Indian Air Force in 2011. He is survived by his wife, Rina, and son, Hardik. The soldier's sister, Geeta Pahade, expressed her pride in her brother. Also watch | India: One soldier killed, four injured in terror attack in Poonch, search operations underway "I am proud of my brother. I got to know about this (brother's demise) a day before yesterday. I want justice for my brother," she told PTI. On Sunday (May 5), the Indian Air Force expressed sorrow over the loss of Corporal Vikky Pahade. "The CAS Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and all personnel of (the) Indian Air Force salute the braveheart Corporal Vikky Pahade, who made the supreme sacrifice in (the) Poonch Sector, in the service of the nation. Our deepest condolences to the bereaved family. We stand firmly by your side in this hour of grief," read a post on the official X handle of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The Indian Army is looking carefully in the Shahsitar area. They're using bulletproof vehicles and dogs to find the terrorists who attacked. Also read | Congress and RJD leaders call J&K's Poonch terror attack 'political stunt', stir row On Sunday, a number of high-ranking officers went to the site following the attack and supervised the search effort. "Corps Commander of 16 Corps & ADG Jammu Zone Anand Jain accompanied by GOC Romeo Force, IGP CRPF & DIG RP Range today visited the area & monitored the ongoing massive search operation. Many suspects have been picked up for questioning," said Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Jammu, as quoted by PTI. Pahade was supposed to be home for his son's birthday on May 7. He was from Nonia-Karbal village in Madhya Pradesh's Chhindwara district. In a social media post, former MP CM Kamal Nath said: “I salute the martyrdom of Vicky Pahade, a resident of Nonia-Karbal, Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh, and pay my tribute to the immortal martyr.” (With inputs from agencies)

Poonch terror attack: $24K reward declared for arrest of 2 Pakistani terrorists

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in South Kashmir's Anantnag district. The encounter broke out in South Kashmir’s Pushkari Kanilwan village between terrorists and security forces resulting in the killing of two terrorists. The operation is still underway.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Police said that a joint team of Police, the Indian army, and CRPF received a tip-off about the presence of terrorists in the area after which a cordon and search operation was launched. While the forces approached close to the spot where the terrorists were hiding, the terrorists started shooting at the forces resulting in a gun battle.&nbsp;

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-along-with-administration-help-make-gurez-the-best-offbeat-tourist-destination-in-india-513434">&nbsp;Indian army along with administration help make Gurez the best offbeat tourist destination in India</a>

“Anantnag Encounter Update: 02 terrorists killed. Search going on. Further details shall follow." said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnantnagEncounterUpdate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnantnagEncounterUpdate</a>: 02 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/terrorists?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#terrorists</a> killed. Search going on. Further details shall follow.<a href="https://twitter.com/JmuKmrPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JmuKmrPolice</a> <a href="https://t.co/OLDCFGEpCk">https://t.co/OLDCFGEpCk</a>
— Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/KashmirPolice/status/1567093159657881600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The operation is still on as security forces believe there could be more terrorists hiding in the area. Last night terrorists gave slip to security forces in South Kashmir’s Shopian district after the initial exchange of fire.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-has-shifted-terror-launch-pads-close-to-line-of-control-alert-issued-on-the-border-513074">Pakistan has shifted terror launch pads close to Line of Control, alert issued on the border</a>

Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed around 94 encounters this year which have resulted in the killing of 150 terrorists. 38 of the killed terrorists have been identified as Pakistanis. Unfortunately, 21 civilians have also been killed in various terror incidents while security forces have lost 20 soldiers in various attacks and encounters.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in South Kashmir's Anantnag district. The encounter broke out in South Kashmir’s Pushkari Kanilwan village between terrorists and security forces resulting in the killing of two terrorists.

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in South Kashmir's Anantnag district. The encounter broke out in South Kashmir’s Pushkari Kanilwan village between terrorists and security forces resulting in the killing of two terrorists. The operation is still underway. Jammu and Kashmir Police said that a joint team of Police, the Indian army, and CRPF received a tip-off about the presence of terrorists in the area after which a cordon and search operation was launched. While the forces approached close to the spot where the terrorists were hiding, the terrorists started shooting at the forces resulting in a gun battle. Read more: Indian army along with administration help make Gurez the best offbeat tourist destination in India “Anantnag Encounter Update: 02 terrorists killed. Search going on. Further details shall follow." said Jammu and Kashmir Police. #AnantnagEncounterUpdate: 02 #terrorists killed. Search going on. Further details shall follow.@JmuKmrPolice https://t.co/OLDCFGEpCk — Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) September 6, 2022 × The operation is still on as security forces believe there could be more terrorists hiding in the area. Last night terrorists gave slip to security forces in South Kashmir’s Shopian district after the initial exchange of fire. Read more: Pakistan has shifted terror launch pads close to Line of Control, alert issued on the border Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed around 94 encounters this year which have resulted in the killing of 150 terrorists. 38 of the killed terrorists have been identified as Pakistanis. Unfortunately, 21 civilians have also been killed in various terror incidents while security forces have lost 20 soldiers in various attacks and encounters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Two terrorists killed in ongoing Anantnag encounter in Jammu & Kashmir

Indian Army foiled two major infiltration bids along the Line of Control in Naushera Sector, District Rajouri in Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;A Pakistani terrorist was caught alive by the Indian army near the fence of the LoC. Alert soldiers deployed in the Jhangar sector of Naushera spotted the movement of two to three terrorists near the Line of Control.&nbsp;

One terrorist came close to the Indian post and tried cutting the fence when he was challenged by alert soldiers. The terrorist tried to flee, however, was brought down by the force's fire. Two terrorists who were hiding behind fled the area by taking cover of dense jungle and broken ground. The injured Pakistani terrorist was captured alive and provided with immediate medical aid and lifesaving surgery was carried out.&nbsp;

“The captured terrorist has revealed his identity as Tabarak Hussain, resident of Sabzkot village, district Kotli of Pakistan occupied Kashmir. On further interrogation, the terrorist confessed to their plan to attack the Indian Army Post. Tabarak Hussain stated that he was sent by a Colonel of Pakistan Intelligence Agency named Col Yunus Chaudhry who had paid him 30,000 Pakistani Rupees. Tabarak also revealed that he along with other terrorists had carried two/ three close recces of Indian forward posts with an aim to target them at an opportune time. The go-ahead to target the Indian post was given by Col Yunus Chaudhry on 21 Aug 2022. Incidentally, the individual was earlier captured by the Indian Army from the same sector in 2016 along with his brother Haroon Ali, and was repatriated on humanitarian grounds in November 2017., “ said Lt Col Devender Anand, PRO (Defence) Indian army.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-organises-artificial-limp-camp-near-loc-509702" hreflang="en">Indian Army holds camp near LoC, gives artificial limbs, hearing aids to ceasefire violation victims</a>

There was one more operation where a group of two to three terrorists tried to infiltrate in Lam sector of Naushera(J&amp;K).&nbsp;

The Indian Army troops were able to observe the terrorists as they crossed the Line of Control and continuously monitored this movement. As they moved ahead into our minefields a series of mines got activated and two terrorists got eliminated on the spot. The search for the third terrorist continues.&nbsp;

“In the morning of 23 Aug 2022, a quadcopter was flown over the area and bodies of the two dead terrorists were observed. A deliberate operation was launched through the heavily mined area and the bodies of the two terrorists have been recovered along with one AK-56, three Magazines and a large quantity of ammunition and&nbsp;war-like stores. As the area is heavily mined, the search operation is being carried out carefully and is still in progress. More recoveries in the area are expected.,” said Lt Col Devender Anand, PRO (Defence) Indian army.&nbsp;

The security across the Line of Control has been increased and put on high alert after these infiltration bids.&nbsp;

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Indian Army foiled two major infiltration bids along the Line of Control in Naushera Sector, District Rajouri in Jammu and Kashmir. A Pakistani terrorist was caught alive by the Indian army near the fence of the LoC.

Indian Army foiled two major infiltration bids along the Line of Control in Naushera Sector, District Rajouri in Jammu and Kashmir. A Pakistani terrorist was caught alive by the Indian army near the fence of the LoC. Alert soldiers deployed in the Jhangar sector of Naushera spotted the movement of two to three terrorists near the Line of Control. One terrorist came close to the Indian post and tried cutting the fence when he was challenged by alert soldiers. The terrorist tried to flee, however, was brought down by the force's fire. Two terrorists who were hiding behind fled the area by taking cover of dense jungle and broken ground. The injured Pakistani terrorist was captured alive and provided with immediate medical aid and lifesaving surgery was carried out. “The captured terrorist has revealed his identity as Tabarak Hussain, resident of Sabzkot village, district Kotli of Pakistan occupied Kashmir. On further interrogation, the terrorist confessed to their plan to attack the Indian Army Post. Tabarak Hussain stated that he was sent by a Colonel of Pakistan Intelligence Agency named Col Yunus Chaudhry who had paid him 30,000 Pakistani Rupees. Tabarak also revealed that he along with other terrorists had carried two/ three close recces of Indian forward posts with an aim to target them at an opportune time. The go-ahead to target the Indian post was given by Col Yunus Chaudhry on 21 Aug 2022. Incidentally, the individual was earlier captured by the Indian Army from the same sector in 2016 along with his brother Haroon Ali, and was repatriated on humanitarian grounds in November 2017., “ said Lt Col Devender Anand, PRO (Defence) Indian army. Also read | Indian Army holds camp near LoC, gives artificial limbs, hearing aids to ceasefire violation victims There was one more operation where a group of two to three terrorists tried to infiltrate in Lam sector of Naushera(J&K). The Indian Army troops were able to observe the terrorists as they crossed the Line of Control and continuously monitored this movement. As they moved ahead into our minefields a series of mines got activated and two terrorists got eliminated on the spot. The search for the third terrorist continues. “In the morning of 23 Aug 2022, a quadcopter was flown over the area and bodies of the two dead terrorists were observed. A deliberate operation was launched through the heavily mined area and the bodies of the two terrorists have been recovered along with one AK-56, three Magazines and a large quantity of ammunition and war-like stores. As the area is heavily mined, the search operation is being carried out carefully and is still in progress. More recoveries in the area are expected.,” said Lt Col Devender Anand, PRO (Defence) Indian army. The security across the Line of Control has been increased and put on high alert after these infiltration bids. Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Two infiltration bids foiled in Rajouri, two terrorists killed, one Pakistani terrorist captured alive

Indian security forces have averted a terror attack on the Amarnath Yatra. Reports say Pakistani terrorists from Jaish-e-Mohammad dug up an underground tunnel to infiltrate into India. The terrorists were gunned down last month. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Amarnath Yatra terror plot busted

The Pakistani nationals affiliated with al Qaeda were killed in airstrikes on the outskirts of Lashkargah city in Helmand province, according to Afghanistan’s defence ministry.

The Afghan defence ministry on Saturday said that thirty Pakistani citizens were among the 112 Taliban terrorists killed in airstrikes in Helmand province.

All 30 Pakistani nationals were members of terrorist Islamist multi-national organization al-Qaeda.

“112 #Taliban terrorists including 30 #Pakistani affiliated to Al-Qaeda terrorist network for the Indian subcontinent, were killed and 31 others wounded in #airstrikes conducted by #AAF at the outskirts of #Lashkargah city, #Helmand provincial centre, yesterday,” the Afghan ministry of defence tweeted.

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112 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> terrorists including 30 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistani</a> affiliated to Al-Qaeda terrorist network for indian subcontinent, were killed and 31 others wounded in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/airstrikes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#airstrikes</a> conducted by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAF</a> at the outskirts of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lashkargah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lashkargah</a> city, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Helmand?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Helmand</a> provincial center, yesterday. <a href="https://t.co/zEOmhHoZZI">pic.twitter.com/zEOmhHoZZI</a>
— Ministry of Defense, Afghanistan (@MoDAfghanistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoDAfghanistan/status/1423937201985961986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Afghanistan has accused Pakistan of harbouring terrorists on its soil and assisting the Taliban's onslaught against Afghan government forces on several occasions.

The airstrikes came a day after the Afghan Ambassador to the United Nations Ghulam Isaczai stated that Afghanistan is willing to give substantial proof to the UN Security Council in support of its assertion that Pakistan is maintaining a Taliban supply chain.

"Should members of the Security Council want that evidence, we are ready to provide them," Ghulam said. He added that the Afghan government has been in constant contact with the Pakistani government about the matter and has provided Islamabad with the evidence.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Pakistani nationals affiliated with al Qaeda were killed in airstrikes on the outskirts of Lashkargah city in Helmand province, according to Afghanistan’s defence ministry.

The Pakistani nationals affiliated with al Qaeda were killed in airstrikes on the outskirts of Lashkargah city in Helmand province, according to Afghanistan’s defence ministry. The Afghan defence ministry on Saturday said that thirty Pakistani citizens were among the 112 Taliban terrorists killed in airstrikes in Helmand province. All 30 Pakistani nationals were members of terrorist Islamist multi-national organization al-Qaeda. “112 #Taliban terrorists including 30 #Pakistani affiliated to Al-Qaeda terrorist network for the Indian subcontinent, were killed and 31 others wounded in #airstrikes conducted by #AAF at the outskirts of #Lashkargah city, #Helmand provincial centre, yesterday,” the Afghan ministry of defence tweeted. 112 #Taliban terrorists including 30 #Pakistani affiliated to Al-Qaeda terrorist network for indian subcontinent, were killed and 31 others wounded in #airstrikes conducted by #AAF at the outskirts of #Lashkargah city, #Helmand provincial center, yesterday. pic.twitter.com/zEOmhHoZZI — Ministry of Defense, Afghanistan (@MoDAfghanistan) August 7, 2021 × Afghanistan has accused Pakistan of harbouring terrorists on its soil and assisting the Taliban's onslaught against Afghan government forces on several occasions. The airstrikes came a day after the Afghan Ambassador to the United Nations Ghulam Isaczai stated that Afghanistan is willing to give substantial proof to the UN Security Council in support of its assertion that Pakistan is maintaining a Taliban supply chain. "Should members of the Security Council want that evidence, we are ready to provide them," Ghulam said. He added that the Afghan government has been in constant contact with the Pakistani government about the matter and has provided Islamabad with the evidence. (With inputs from agencies)

30 Pakistani terrorists among 112 Taliban killed in airstrikes in Helmand: Afghan govt

Mumbai on Thursday paid homage to the victims felled by bullets and brave-hearts who helped save and secure the city from the assault by 10 Pakistani terrorists. Marking the 12th anniversary of the dastardly terror strikes on November&nbsp;26, 2008

Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray led the state by solemnly laying wreaths at the new Martyrs` Memorial erected inside the Mumbai Police Commissionerate premises near Crawford Market in south Mumbai.

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Mumbai: Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray pay homage to victims of the 26/11 terror attack on its 12th anniversary 
 
Visuals from the Mumbai Police Commissionerate Office premises <a href="https://t.co/LUC2L7ljtr">pic.twitter.com/LUC2L7ljtr</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1331806843417489408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The other dignitaries included Home Minister Anil Deshmukh, Tourism Minister Aditya Thackeray, Chief Secretary Sanjay Kumar, Director-General of Police Subodh Jaiswal, Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir Singh and other officers.

A large number of Police personnel also paid homage to their colleagues who had been martyred in the terror attacks carried out at key locations in south Mumbai, with a special thought for Tukaram G. Omble, who sacrificed his life in nabbing the sole terrorist Ajmal Amir Kasab alive early on Nov. 27, 2008.

Later, the relatives of the martyrs and several brave-hearts also turned up to pay homage to their departed kin as the Governor, Chief Minister and other top officials waited and acknowledged them with folded hands.

The relatives including widows, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers or sisters stepped up to the memorial and offered their own personal tributes with flowers or tears for their near and dear ones.

Several other relatives of victims felled during the terrorists` mayhem at various locations in a tiny area of south Mumbai also paid homage at the Martyrs Memorial and other locations.

Other in memoriams were held at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Hotel Taj Mahal Palace, Hotel Oberoi, the Chabad House, Cama Hospital, and the Leopold Cafe, all among the sites brutally targeted by the attackers who left a total 166 dead and over 300 injured.

Ratan Tata, chairman of Tata Trusts, tweeted: "The wanton destruction that took place 12 years ago today will never be forgotten..."

The traditional and social media featured many remembrance ads, touching tributes and messages of the 60-hours that shook the world before the security forces won over the terrorists, killing 9 and taking one alive to face the Indian law in an unprecedented `open trial`.

For the first time in 12 years, the memorial function was held at the new Martyrs Memorial built recently at the Mumbai Police Commissionerate premises after it was shifted from the Mumbai Police Gymkhana at Marine Drive, where tunnelling work of the ongoing coastal road project is underway.

(With inputs from IANS)

Mumbai on Thursday paid homage to the victims felled by bullets and brave-hearts who helped save and secure the city from the assault by 10 Pakistani terrorists.

Mumbai on Thursday paid homage to the victims felled by bullets and brave-hearts who helped save and secure the city from the assault by 10 Pakistani terrorists. Marking the 12th anniversary of the dastardly terror strikes on November 26, 2008 Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray led the state by solemnly laying wreaths at the new Martyrs` Memorial erected inside the Mumbai Police Commissionerate premises near Crawford Market in south Mumbai. Mumbai: Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray pay homage to victims of the 26/11 terror attack on its 12th anniversary Visuals from the Mumbai Police Commissionerate Office premises pic.twitter.com/LUC2L7ljtr — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2020 × The other dignitaries included Home Minister Anil Deshmukh, Tourism Minister Aditya Thackeray, Chief Secretary Sanjay Kumar, Director-General of Police Subodh Jaiswal, Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir Singh and other officers. A large number of Police personnel also paid homage to their colleagues who had been martyred in the terror attacks carried out at key locations in south Mumbai, with a special thought for Tukaram G. Omble, who sacrificed his life in nabbing the sole terrorist Ajmal Amir Kasab alive early on Nov. 27, 2008. Later, the relatives of the martyrs and several brave-hearts also turned up to pay homage to their departed kin as the Governor, Chief Minister and other top officials waited and acknowledged them with folded hands. The relatives including widows, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers or sisters stepped up to the memorial and offered their own personal tributes with flowers or tears for their near and dear ones. Several other relatives of victims felled during the terrorists` mayhem at various locations in a tiny area of south Mumbai also paid homage at the Martyrs Memorial and other locations. Other in memoriams were held at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Hotel Taj Mahal Palace, Hotel Oberoi, the Chabad House, Cama Hospital, and the Leopold Cafe, all among the sites brutally targeted by the attackers who left a total 166 dead and over 300 injured. Ratan Tata, chairman of Tata Trusts, tweeted: "The wanton destruction that took place 12 years ago today will never be forgotten..." The traditional and social media featured many remembrance ads, touching tributes and messages of the 60-hours that shook the world before the security forces won over the terrorists, killing 9 and taking one alive to face the Indian law in an unprecedented `open trial`. For the first time in 12 years, the memorial function was held at the new Martyrs Memorial built recently at the Mumbai Police Commissionerate premises after it was shifted from the Mumbai Police Gymkhana at Marine Drive, where tunnelling work of the ongoing coastal road project is underway. (With inputs from IANS)

12th anniversary of 26/11: Mumbai remembers martyrs, victims with flowers & tears

Asserting that their stand against Pakistan sponsored terrorism, two prominent Members of European Parliament (MEP) wrote to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, condemning Islamabad for not yet having brought to justice those who orchestrated the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2611-us-says-it-stands-with-india-and-remains-resolute-in-the-fight-against-terrorism-345464">Also read: US says it stands with India and remains resolute in the fight against terrorism</a> 
 
In a letter to Khan on November 24, Polish MEP Ryszard Czarnecki and Italian MEP Fulvio Martusciello requested to know what action has Pakistan "taken against Lashkar-e-Taiba, the terrorist organisation, based in Pakistan, known to have carried out the multiple shooting and bombing attacks that happened in Mumbai in 2008?” 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/12th-anniversary-of-2611-mumbai-remembers-martyrs-victims-with-flowers-tears-345470">Also read: 12th anniversary of 26/11 — Mumbai remembers martyrs, victims with flowers &amp; tears</a> 
 
They further asked, "What action has, and is, Pakistan taking against terrorist groups operating within the country in general?"

On November 26, 2008, ten terrorists trained by the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) carried out a series of coordinated attacks against multiple targets in Mumbai including the Taj Mahal hotel, the Oberoi hotel, the Leopold Cafe, the Nariman (Chabad) House, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus train station, killing 166 people.

In these gruesome attacks, nine terrorists were killed and the lone survivor, Ajmal Amir Kasab, was caught and was sentenced to death at Yerwada Central Jail in Pune in 2012. On November 11, 2012, Kasab was hanged in Yerawada Jail in Pune.

Pakistani authorities continue to deny culpability and are yet to take action on the multiple dossiers shared by India. A trial underway in a Pakistani anti-terrorism court against seven suspects has made little headway in more than a decade, as Pakistani officials serially question the sufficiency and legitimacy of evidence against them.

In a reminder to Khan, a Prime Minister who delivered a eulogy to Osama Bin Laden, hailing him as a "martyr" in May this year, the two MEPs said: "Terrorism is the unlawful use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, often in pursuit of political or ideological aims," EU Chronicle reported.

They added that as "European politicians, we are committed to fighting against terrorism and extremist violence. We all have a responsibility to condemn terrorism and bring to justice those who perpetrate such actions."

Czarnecki and Martusciello highlighted in their letter to Khan: "On 26 November 2008, an extremist terrorist organisation, Lashkar-e-Taiba, based in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, claimed responsibility for the Mumbai bombings in which 166 innocent people were murdered, nine attackers killed, and more than 300 individuals sustained injuries."

"Subsequent documented evidence from United States intelligence reports, from India's intelligence services including DNA, photographs and identification of the origins of the attackers; and an admission by Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's of the country's involvement in the crimes; highlight the engagement of accomplishes in Pakistan. However, to date, the senior coordinators and promoters who orchestrated the attacks remain at large," he added.

As Europe also suffers from the impacts of horrific acts of increasingly radical and extremist jihadi attacks, the politicians said it was "essential that justice is served on those who have carried out, instructed or supported such terrorist activities. It is equally important that leaders of countries publicly condemn these acts of violence and proceed to ensure justice is done for the victims, by apprehending and sentencing the perpetrators."&nbsp; 
 
Here is the full letter to Pakistan PM Imran Khan by European Parliament members 
 
<img alt="letter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="76daa8c3-b4ef-4f03-87c6-24f430c4328e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-11-26%20at%202.23.58%20PM.jpeg" /> 
<img alt="letter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d95b3c6-22c9-4448-b761-756f0e34dc5e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-11-26%20at%202.23.58%20PM%20%281%29.jpeg" />

(With inputs from agencies)

Asserting that their stand against Pakistan sponsored terrorism, two prominent Members of European Parliament (MEP) wrote to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, condemning Islamabad for not yet having brought to justice those who orchestrated the 2008 Mumbai terror attack.

Asserting that their stand against Pakistan sponsored terrorism, two prominent Members of European Parliament (MEP) wrote to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, condemning Islamabad for not yet having brought to justice those who orchestrated the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. Also read: US says it stands with India and remains resolute in the fight against terrorism In a letter to Khan on November 24, Polish MEP Ryszard Czarnecki and Italian MEP Fulvio Martusciello requested to know what action has Pakistan "taken against Lashkar-e-Taiba, the terrorist organisation, based in Pakistan, known to have carried out the multiple shooting and bombing attacks that happened in Mumbai in 2008?” Also read: 12th anniversary of 26/11 — Mumbai remembers martyrs, victims with flowers & tears They further asked, "What action has, and is, Pakistan taking against terrorist groups operating within the country in general?" On November 26, 2008, ten terrorists trained by the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) carried out a series of coordinated attacks against multiple targets in Mumbai including the Taj Mahal hotel, the Oberoi hotel, the Leopold Cafe, the Nariman (Chabad) House, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus train station, killing 166 people. In these gruesome attacks, nine terrorists were killed and the lone survivor, Ajmal Amir Kasab, was caught and was sentenced to death at Yerwada Central Jail in Pune in 2012. On November 11, 2012, Kasab was hanged in Yerawada Jail in Pune. Pakistani authorities continue to deny culpability and are yet to take action on the multiple dossiers shared by India. A trial underway in a Pakistani anti-terrorism court against seven suspects has made little headway in more than a decade, as Pakistani officials serially question the sufficiency and legitimacy of evidence against them. In a reminder to Khan, a Prime Minister who delivered a eulogy to Osama Bin Laden, hailing him as a "martyr" in May this year, the two MEPs said: "Terrorism is the unlawful use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, often in pursuit of political or ideological aims," EU Chronicle reported. They added that as "European politicians, we are committed to fighting against terrorism and extremist violence. We all have a responsibility to condemn terrorism and bring to justice those who perpetrate such actions." Czarnecki and Martusciello highlighted in their letter to Khan: "On 26 November 2008, an extremist terrorist organisation, Lashkar-e-Taiba, based in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, claimed responsibility for the Mumbai bombings in which 166 innocent people were murdered, nine attackers killed, and more than 300 individuals sustained injuries." "Subsequent documented evidence from United States intelligence reports, from India's intelligence services including DNA, photographs and identification of the origins of the attackers; and an admission by Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's of the country's involvement in the crimes; highlight the engagement of accomplishes in Pakistan. However, to date, the senior coordinators and promoters who orchestrated the attacks remain at large," he added. As Europe also suffers from the impacts of horrific acts of increasingly radical and extremist jihadi attacks, the politicians said it was "essential that justice is served on those who have carried out, instructed or supported such terrorist activities. It is equally important that leaders of countries publicly condemn these acts of violence and proceed to ensure justice is done for the victims, by apprehending and sentencing the perpetrators." Here is the full letter to Pakistan PM Imran Khan by European Parliament members (With inputs from agencies)

What Pakistan has done against 26/11 perpetrators: EU parliamentarians ask Imran Khan

Indian security forces gunned down 4 Pakistani terrorists in an encounter in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The gunbattle broke out near the toll plaza in Nagrota near Jammu.

WION Dispatch: India: 4 Pakistani terrorists killed in encounter near Jammu

The Indian army has foiled an attempt by Pakistan to smuggle weapons into Jammu and Kashmir, the second attempt in the last five days.

According to Army sources, Indian troops deployed at the Tangdhar sector of North Kashmir thwarted an attempt by the Pakistan Army to smuggle weapons from Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir on Monday.

At 6:30 pm on Monday, a joint search operation was launched along with Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army sources said."The joint team recovered a bag containing five pistols, ten magazines,138 rounds of ammunition recovered from a location close to Line of Control," sources said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hires-top-lobbying-firm-for-a-us-bailout-from-fatf-grey-list-regional-group-highlights-meagre-progress-334628" hreflang="en">Pakistan hires top lobbying firm for a US bailout from FATF grey list</a>

While the Global Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has begun deliberations on Pakistan`s compliance with international anti-terrorist financing norms, Pakistan continues to support terrorism by abetting the smuggling of weapons across the Line of Control.

It may be recalled that on October 9, alert Indian troops deployed at the neighbouring Keran Sector of North Kashmir had recovered four AK 74 Rifles, eight Magazines and 240 AK Rifle ammunition.

The Indian army has foiled an attempt by Pakistan to smuggle weapons into Jammu and Kashmir, the second attempt in the last five days. According to Army sources, Indian troops deployed at the Tangdhar sector of North Kashmir thwarted an attempt by the Pakistan Army to smuggle weapons from Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir on Monday.

The Indian army has foiled an attempt by Pakistan to smuggle weapons into Jammu and Kashmir, the second attempt in the last five days. According to Army sources, Indian troops deployed at the Tangdhar sector of North Kashmir thwarted an attempt by the Pakistan Army to smuggle weapons from Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir on Monday. At 6:30 pm on Monday, a joint search operation was launched along with Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army sources said."The joint team recovered a bag containing five pistols, ten magazines,138 rounds of ammunition recovered from a location close to Line of Control," sources said. Also read: Pakistan hires top lobbying firm for a US bailout from FATF grey list While the Global Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has begun deliberations on Pakistan`s compliance with international anti-terrorist financing norms, Pakistan continues to support terrorism by abetting the smuggling of weapons across the Line of Control. It may be recalled that on October 9, alert Indian troops deployed at the neighbouring Keran Sector of North Kashmir had recovered four AK 74 Rifles, eight Magazines and 240 AK Rifle ammunition.

Indian Army foils Pak-backed terrorists' bid to smuggle weapons into Jammu and Kashmir

An estimated 6,000-6,500 Pakistani terrorists are in neighbouring Afghanistan, most of them with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, posing a threat to both the countries, a UN report has said.

The 26th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team concerning ISIS, al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities said that the terror group al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) operates under the Taliban umbrella from Nimruz, Helmand and Kandahar provinces of Afghanistan.

The group reportedly has between 150 and 200 members from Bangladesh, India, Myanmar and Pakistan. The current leader of AQIS is Osama Mahmood, who succeeded the late Asim Umar.

"AQIS is reportedly planning retaliation operations in the region to avenge the death of its former leader," it said.

The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a "large terrorist group present in Afghanistan", has claimed responsibility for various high-profile attacks in Pakistan and has facilitated others by Jamaat-ul-Ahrar and Lahskhar-e-Islam, the report said.

It said that many former TTP militants have joined Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant - Khorasan (ISIL-K) and member states expect that the group and its various splinter groups will align themselves with ISIL-K.

"The total number of Pakistani foreign terrorist fighters in Afghanistan, posing a threat to both countries, is estimated at between 6,000 and 6,500, most of them with TTP," it said, adding that a number of other terrorist groups are active in Afghanistan, most operating under the umbrella of the Taliban but some aligned with ISIL-K.

According to the member states, al-Qaida is covertly active in 12 Afghan provinces and its leader Aiman al-Zawahiri remains based in the country.

The monitoring team estimates the total number of al-Qaida fighters in Afghanistan at between 400 and 600.

"The leadership maintains a close contact with the Haqqani Network. In February 2020, al-Zawahiri met with Yahya Haqqani, the primary Haqqani Network contact with al-Qaida since mid-2009, to discuss the ongoing cooperation," it said.

The monitoring team also estimates the current ISIL-K membership in Afghanistan at 2,200. The leader is sheikh Matiullah Kamahwal, previously the head of ISIL-K in Kunar. The leadership also includes Syrian national Abu Said Mohammad al-Khorasani and sheikh Abdul Tahir.

The team was informed that two senior ISIL commanders, Abu Qutaibah and Abu Hajar al-Iraqi, have arrived in Afghanistan from the Middle East.

The report said that ISIL-K continues to suffer losses in Kunar province, to where it moved from Nangarhar at the end of 2019.

In April and May, the Afghan special forces conducted a series of countrywide operations that led to the arrest of the group's leaders, including Aslam Farooqi (also known as Abdullah Orokzai), the head of ISIL-K, his predecessor Zia ul-Haq (also known as Abu Omar Khorasani) and other senior members.

According to some member states, ISIL-K is seeking to pursue "a global agenda" by implementing the ISIL core's leadership approach, which considers Afghan territory a base for spreading terrorist influence across the wider region.

"Although in territorial retreat, ISIL-K remains capable of carrying out high-profile attacks in various parts of the country, including Kabul," the report said, adding that the group also aims to attract Taliban fighters who oppose the agreement with the US.

In case of further military pressure on ISIL-K in Kunar, the group is expected to retreat to Badakhshan and other northern provinces, it said.

The monitoring team was informed that ISIL-K also works with networks of supporters in the Maldives.

On April, 15 2020, five government speedboats were damaged in an arson attack at Mahibadhoo Harbour on Ariatholhu Dhekunuburi, which ISIL claimed as its first attack in the Maldives.

According to the member state information, the attack was a retaliation against the government investigations into extremism and drug trafficking.

"The attack was covered extensively in ISIL media networks in South Asia, with the al-Naba claim of responsibility also translated into Dhivehi. Member states remain concerned about the radicalisation and recruitment in the Maldives," the report added.

An estimated 6,000-6,500 Pakistani terrorists are in neighbouring Afghanistan, most of them with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, posing a threat to both the countries, a UN report has said.

An estimated 6,000-6,500 Pakistani terrorists are in neighbouring Afghanistan, most of them with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, posing a threat to both the countries, a UN report has said. The 26th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team concerning ISIS, al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities said that the terror group al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) operates under the Taliban umbrella from Nimruz, Helmand and Kandahar provinces of Afghanistan. The group reportedly has between 150 and 200 members from Bangladesh, India, Myanmar and Pakistan. The current leader of AQIS is Osama Mahmood, who succeeded the late Asim Umar. "AQIS is reportedly planning retaliation operations in the region to avenge the death of its former leader," it said. The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a "large terrorist group present in Afghanistan", has claimed responsibility for various high-profile attacks in Pakistan and has facilitated others by Jamaat-ul-Ahrar and Lahskhar-e-Islam, the report said. It said that many former TTP militants have joined Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant - Khorasan (ISIL-K) and member states expect that the group and its various splinter groups will align themselves with ISIL-K. "The total number of Pakistani foreign terrorist fighters in Afghanistan, posing a threat to both countries, is estimated at between 6,000 and 6,500, most of them with TTP," it said, adding that a number of other terrorist groups are active in Afghanistan, most operating under the umbrella of the Taliban but some aligned with ISIL-K. According to the member states, al-Qaida is covertly active in 12 Afghan provinces and its leader Aiman al-Zawahiri remains based in the country. The monitoring team estimates the total number of al-Qaida fighters in Afghanistan at between 400 and 600. "The leadership maintains a close contact with the Haqqani Network. In February 2020, al-Zawahiri met with Yahya Haqqani, the primary Haqqani Network contact with al-Qaida since mid-2009, to discuss the ongoing cooperation," it said. The monitoring team also estimates the current ISIL-K membership in Afghanistan at 2,200. The leader is sheikh Matiullah Kamahwal, previously the head of ISIL-K in Kunar. The leadership also includes Syrian national Abu Said Mohammad al-Khorasani and sheikh Abdul Tahir. The team was informed that two senior ISIL commanders, Abu Qutaibah and Abu Hajar al-Iraqi, have arrived in Afghanistan from the Middle East. The report said that ISIL-K continues to suffer losses in Kunar province, to where it moved from Nangarhar at the end of 2019. In April and May, the Afghan special forces conducted a series of countrywide operations that led to the arrest of the group's leaders, including Aslam Farooqi (also known as Abdullah Orokzai), the head of ISIL-K, his predecessor Zia ul-Haq (also known as Abu Omar Khorasani) and other senior members. According to some member states, ISIL-K is seeking to pursue "a global agenda" by implementing the ISIL core's leadership approach, which considers Afghan territory a base for spreading terrorist influence across the wider region. "Although in territorial retreat, ISIL-K remains capable of carrying out high-profile attacks in various parts of the country, including Kabul," the report said, adding that the group also aims to attract Taliban fighters who oppose the agreement with the US. In case of further military pressure on ISIL-K in Kunar, the group is expected to retreat to Badakhshan and other northern provinces, it said. The monitoring team was informed that ISIL-K also works with networks of supporters in the Maldives. On April, 15 2020, five government speedboats were damaged in an arson attack at Mahibadhoo Harbour on Ariatholhu Dhekunuburi, which ISIL claimed as its first attack in the Maldives. According to the member state information, the attack was a retaliation against the government investigations into extremism and drug trafficking. "The attack was covered extensively in ISIL media networks in South Asia, with the al-Naba claim of responsibility also translated into Dhivehi. Member states remain concerned about the radicalisation and recruitment in the Maldives," the report added.

Between 6,000-6,500 Pakistani terrorists in Afghanistan: UN report

Sometime in 1997, the Jammu and Kashmir government had invited journalists to visit the Kot Balwal jail on the outskirts of Jammu city, which houses dreaded terrorists.

While walking through the pathways, a bearded and overweight Moulvi with a limp tried his best to attract the attention of the visiting media persons. From behind the grills, he tried telling the scribes that he was one of them — a writer.

The visitors, more eager to see Afghan war veterans and highly placed Harkat-ul-Ansar commanders, Nasrullah Mansoor Khan Langrial and Sajjad Khan Afghani, declined. 
 
The Moulvi - none other than Maulana Masood Azhar - is currently the most wanted man in India.

Azhar had come to discipline Afghani

Ironically, it was not just the media which was taken in by the looks of a short squat man who was dismissed as no more than a harmless terrorist sympathiser. The investigating agencies thought the same! They neither filed a case against him nor began prosecution till they were forced to release him in exchange of passengers of the IC814 plane hijacked in December 1999.

Azhar had been sent to Kashmir to discipline Afghani, who had gone berserk after security forces had captured his colleague, Langrial, in January 1994.

An enraged Afghani attacked an Army camp at Elahi Bagh in Srinagar on January 16, but was pushed back. He later kidnapped Major Bhupinder Singh to negotiate Langrial’s release. When authorities refused to negotiate, he executed the officer. Afghani’s actions were creating concern back in Pakistan, where Harkat had planned to lie low and seek entrenchment in South Kashmir.

The problem was - who would bell the errant commander? The planners zeroed in on the innocuous-looking general secretary of the dreaded organisation, Maulana Masood Azhar.

With Portuguese passport in hand, he arrived at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) at New Delhi on January 29, 1994, on a Bangladesh Biman flight from Dhaka. Attired in a western suit, with a trimmed beard, he looked every inch an executive, but the immigration officer checked his passport several times. According to Azhar’s own confession, he was sweating down his trousers. But he was allowed to go and he headed for Ashoka Hotel at Chanakyapuri.

Before boarding for Srinagar on February 9, he visited Deoband, getting rid of his western dress. He arrived in Srinagar wearing a skull cap and kurta-pajama to pass off as someone returning from Mecca after performing the pilgrimage.

How Azhar was accidentally captured in 1994

After meeting his contacts in Srinagar, he summoned all commanders who were busy setting embryonic cells for the Harkat in the region. After lecturing the terrorists, urging them not to deviate from the plan, Afghani suggested him to deliver the Friday sermon at the Jamia mosque in Anantnag, to make a defiant statement. Leaving the guards behind, Afghani and South Kashmir local commander, Sikandar’s deputy, Raees, walked to the car.

Interrogation reports later suggested that the car broke down midway and they took an auto-rickshaw. But short of reaching Anantnag, they were encircled by a posse of BSF, who had somehow tracked Raees. The latter opened fire and lobbed grenades, before melting into the forest.

Masood and Afghani were taken to the Khundroo Army camp. Nobody recognised the catch. Intelligence records suggest that at the camp, Afghani, in order to save Azhar, revealed his identity, but not of the short portly man by his side. He told interrogators that this Moulvi has nothing to do with him: “I had kidnapped him. He was arrested when you arrested me.”

Authorities almost caved in, but before releasing, called Azhar into the interrogation room, where he broke down within 30 minutes and blurted out the truth, state intelligence records.

Several attempts were made to free Azhar

Despite several audacious attempts to free Masood, no effort was made to try him in a court of law. The first attempt came in early summer of 1994, when Harkat district commander Sikandar kidnapped two British citizens Kim Housego and producer David Mackie, but had to release them after Housego’s father, a former British journalist based in New Delhi, launched a public campaign.

The same year in October 1994, British Pakistani Omar Sheikh Sayeed lured three British and one American backpacker away from their guest houses in Paharganj and held them hostage at a remote house in a Ghaziabad village. The next day, Sayeed delivered a note at Delhi’s BBC office, demanding the release of Masood Azhar and his two associates, along with passport details of hostages. The BBC office passed on the documents to the Ministry of External Affairs, who sought information from Ministry of Home Affairs and the Delhi Police.

Upon confirmation that foreigners had been kidnapped, intelligence and security officials went into a tizzy. Nobody had a clue about the kidnappers, but good luck came their way when two UP police constables chased a petty thief, who had taken refuge in the same house where Sheikh, who had just returned from Delhi after delivering the note, was stationed. The British Pakistani took it as a police raid and started firing from an AK-47 rifle. Puzzled, the UP policemen called for reinforcements and found a few western hostages, all tied and trussed up. While other terrorists escaped, Omar Sheikh was arrested.

Another bid to release him again came on July 4, 1995, when a little known terrorist group, Al-Faran, kidnapped six western tourists in the Pahalgam mountains. Author Adrian Levy says the incident changed the face of modern terrorism. Finally, in December 1999, the biggest plan to secure Azhar’s release was sought in exchange of passengers of the hijacked IC814 flight. Along with Omar Sheikh Sayeed and Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar, Azhar was transported to Kandahar.

Just a month ago, Sajjad Afghani was killed during an unsuccessful attempt at escape from the Kot Balwal Jail. Curiously, plane hijackers didn’t demand the release of Langrial, whose arrest had triggered the entire chain of events. He, after spending 18 years in jail, was finally repatriated in 2011.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-maulana-masood-azhar-the-moulvi-with-a-limp-who-became-india-s-most-wanted-man-2725831">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Sometime in 1997, the Jammu and Kashmir government had invited journalists to visit the Kot Balwal jail on the outskirts of Jammu city, which houses dreaded terrorists.

Sometime in 1997, the Jammu and Kashmir government had invited journalists to visit the Kot Balwal jail on the outskirts of Jammu city, which houses dreaded terrorists. While walking through the pathways, a bearded and overweight Moulvi with a limp tried his best to attract the attention of the visiting media persons. From behind the grills, he tried telling the scribes that he was one of them — a writer. The visitors, more eager to see Afghan war veterans and highly placed Harkat-ul-Ansar commanders, Nasrullah Mansoor Khan Langrial and Sajjad Khan Afghani, declined. The Moulvi - none other than Maulana Masood Azhar - is currently the most wanted man in India. Azhar had come to discipline Afghani Ironically, it was not just the media which was taken in by the looks of a short squat man who was dismissed as no more than a harmless terrorist sympathiser. The investigating agencies thought the same! They neither filed a case against him nor began prosecution till they were forced to release him in exchange of passengers of the IC814 plane hijacked in December 1999. Azhar had been sent to Kashmir to discipline Afghani, who had gone berserk after security forces had captured his colleague, Langrial, in January 1994. An enraged Afghani attacked an Army camp at Elahi Bagh in Srinagar on January 16, but was pushed back. He later kidnapped Major Bhupinder Singh to negotiate Langrial’s release. When authorities refused to negotiate, he executed the officer. Afghani’s actions were creating concern back in Pakistan, where Harkat had planned to lie low and seek entrenchment in South Kashmir. The problem was - who would bell the errant commander? The planners zeroed in on the innocuous-looking general secretary of the dreaded organisation, Maulana Masood Azhar. With Portuguese passport in hand, he arrived at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) at New Delhi on January 29, 1994, on a Bangladesh Biman flight from Dhaka. Attired in a western suit, with a trimmed beard, he looked every inch an executive, but the immigration officer checked his passport several times. According to Azhar’s own confession, he was sweating down his trousers. But he was allowed to go and he headed for Ashoka Hotel at Chanakyapuri. Before boarding for Srinagar on February 9, he visited Deoband, getting rid of his western dress. He arrived in Srinagar wearing a skull cap and kurta-pajama to pass off as someone returning from Mecca after performing the pilgrimage. How Azhar was accidentally captured in 1994 After meeting his contacts in Srinagar, he summoned all commanders who were busy setting embryonic cells for the Harkat in the region. After lecturing the terrorists, urging them not to deviate from the plan, Afghani suggested him to deliver the Friday sermon at the Jamia mosque in Anantnag, to make a defiant statement. Leaving the guards behind, Afghani and South Kashmir local commander, Sikandar’s deputy, Raees, walked to the car. Interrogation reports later suggested that the car broke down midway and they took an auto-rickshaw. But short of reaching Anantnag, they were encircled by a posse of BSF, who had somehow tracked Raees. The latter opened fire and lobbed grenades, before melting into the forest. Masood and Afghani were taken to the Khundroo Army camp. Nobody recognised the catch. Intelligence records suggest that at the camp, Afghani, in order to save Azhar, revealed his identity, but not of the short portly man by his side. He told interrogators that this Moulvi has nothing to do with him: “I had kidnapped him. He was arrested when you arrested me.” Authorities almost caved in, but before releasing, called Azhar into the interrogation room, where he broke down within 30 minutes and blurted out the truth, state intelligence records. Several attempts were made to free Azhar Despite several audacious attempts to free Masood, no effort was made to try him in a court of law. The first attempt came in early summer of 1994, when Harkat district commander Sikandar kidnapped two British citizens Kim Housego and producer David Mackie, but had to release them after Housego’s father, a former British journalist based in New Delhi, launched a public campaign. The same year in October 1994, British Pakistani Omar Sheikh Sayeed lured three British and one American backpacker away from their guest houses in Paharganj and held them hostage at a remote house in a Ghaziabad village. The next day, Sayeed delivered a note at Delhi’s BBC office, demanding the release of Masood Azhar and his two associates, along with passport details of hostages. The BBC office passed on the documents to the Ministry of External Affairs, who sought information from Ministry of Home Affairs and the Delhi Police. Upon confirmation that foreigners had been kidnapped, intelligence and security officials went into a tizzy. Nobody had a clue about the kidnappers, but good luck came their way when two UP police constables chased a petty thief, who had taken refuge in the same house where Sheikh, who had just returned from Delhi after delivering the note, was stationed. The British Pakistani took it as a police raid and started firing from an AK-47 rifle. Puzzled, the UP policemen called for reinforcements and found a few western hostages, all tied and trussed up. While other terrorists escaped, Omar Sheikh was arrested. Another bid to release him again came on July 4, 1995, when a little known terrorist group, Al-Faran, kidnapped six western tourists in the Pahalgam mountains. Author Adrian Levy says the incident changed the face of modern terrorism. Finally, in December 1999, the biggest plan to secure Azhar’s release was sought in exchange of passengers of the hijacked IC814 flight. Along with Omar Sheikh Sayeed and Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar, Azhar was transported to Kandahar. Just a month ago, Sajjad Afghani was killed during an unsuccessful attempt at escape from the Kot Balwal Jail. Curiously, plane hijackers didn’t demand the release of Langrial, whose arrest had triggered the entire chain of events. He, after spending 18 years in jail, was finally repatriated in 2011. (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.)

Masood Azhar: 'The Moulvi with a limp' who became India's most wanted man

After India successfully conducted air strikes on terror camps operated by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) inside Pakistan, experts observed that New Delhi had ‘crossed the Rubicon’ this time around. It’s a good time to recall that, within Pakistan too, the Rubicon had been crossed in different ways on a few occasions in the recent past by intrepid people, but the outcome had been less than fortunate for the initiators. The Pakistani deep state had prevailed.&nbsp; 
 
Pakistani journalist Syed Saleem Shahzad had dared to explore the complex links between religiously fanatic elements within the Pakistan army and outside. He relied on inside information to report on the continuing infiltration of extremists into the Army and the Jihadi connect. But when he put out a story on the Mehran naval base attack in 2011, saying that it had been an insider job, he had crossed the line as far as the deep state was concerned. In the last week of May, Shahzad was kidnapped, tortured and killed, and his body was left in a drain as a grim reminder to anyone who may have harboured thoughts challenging the status quo. &nbsp; 
 
The heavily protected Mehran naval base, situated near Karachi, had been attacked by a handful of Pakistani Jihadists, and several names complicit in the incident, including retired defence personnel, came to light. The audacious attempt was eventually contained, but not before severe damage was done to some of the navy's expensive assets and the Pakistani defence force’s image. Predictably, in the hysteria that erupted, two things happened. First, denial. And second, approving blame to the US, India and Israel. The second was not bought by the world community, and the first had no leg to stand on after the Pakistani establishment led by General Pervez Musharraf had to crack down on the local perpetrators and weed out radical elements from within the ranks of its Armed Forces.&nbsp;

Shahzad’s Mehran report was the last major one that he would file. He not only wrote that the Mehran attack was an insider job, but also reported that a purge had been in progress which had divided security personnel as well as the rogue elements outside along ethnic and religious lines. But he was not the only journalist to be punished thus. There was the American Daniel Pearl, who too had crossed the Rubicon almost a decade before Shahzad did.&nbsp;

Pearl, who was primarily based in Mumbai while reporting on the south Asian region for The Wall Street Journal, had visited Pakistan as part of an investigative report he was working on, with a view to unravel links involving the Al Qaeda and a British citizen, better known as the ‘Shoe Bomber’. In February 2002, he was kidnapped, tortured and executed by his captors. His decomposed body and the severed head were discovered a few months later. He had entered dangerous territory, one that could expose the complicity of the deep state.&nbsp; 
 
The group that claimed ‘credit’ for the kidnapping and subsequent action was the National Movement for the Restoration of Pakistani Sovereignty. This outfit accused Pearl of being an American spy. It demanded the release of all Pakistani terror detainees as well as lifting of the embargo on the US shipment of F-16 fighter planes to Pakistan, as some of the conditions for Pearl’s release. It is inconceivable that an outfit could so brazenly function right inside Pakistan without some sort of official ‘turning the blind eye’ at the least.&nbsp;

It’s not only journalists in Pakistan, whether Pakistani or otherwise, who have paid with their lives for crossing the Rubicon. Even high-profile politicians who summoned the courage to challenge extremist elements, either inside or out of the system, fell to radical elements while the official establishment remained inactive — or implicitly supportive of the fanatics. Salman Taseer is a case in point. A liberal politician associated with the Pakistan Peoples Party of Benazir Bhutto, he was assassinated in January 2011 in Islamabad by his bodyguard, who shot him with an assault rifle 27 times hear his home. Taseer’s crime was that he had vehemently and publicly opposed his country’s blasphemy law, which had the backing of not just extremist groups but also influential sections of the Pakistani Deep State. A show of state mourning was thereafter organised but it deceived none. &nbsp;

Radical elements, both outside the political system and within, had been enraged by his public pronouncements in support of one Asia Bibi, who had been sentenced to death by a court of law for having ‘blasphemed’ Islam. After the assassination, hundreds of prominent Pakistan clerics had lent support to the assassin and urged the people to boycott Taseer’s funeral. &nbsp; 
 
The connect between extremist elements and the Pakistani state has been often commented upon by one of the country’s most prominent former envoy, Husain Haqqani, in his books and public discourses. Haqqani is now located outside Pakistan and has many times quipped that terrorists are more secure in Pakistan than he would be if he were to return to his country. He too crossed the Rubicon many times, but fortunately, he remains safe for now.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

After India successfully conducted air strikes on terror camps operated by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) inside Pakistan, experts observed that New Delhi had ‘crossed the Rubicon’ this time around.

After India successfully conducted air strikes on terror camps operated by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) inside Pakistan, experts observed that New Delhi had ‘crossed the Rubicon’ this time around. It’s a good time to recall that, within Pakistan too, the Rubicon had been crossed in different ways on a few occasions in the recent past by intrepid people, but the outcome had been less than fortunate for the initiators. The Pakistani deep state had prevailed. Pakistani journalist Syed Saleem Shahzad had dared to explore the complex links between religiously fanatic elements within the Pakistan army and outside. He relied on inside information to report on the continuing infiltration of extremists into the Army and the Jihadi connect. But when he put out a story on the Mehran naval base attack in 2011, saying that it had been an insider job, he had crossed the line as far as the deep state was concerned. In the last week of May, Shahzad was kidnapped, tortured and killed, and his body was left in a drain as a grim reminder to anyone who may have harboured thoughts challenging the status quo. The heavily protected Mehran naval base, situated near Karachi, had been attacked by a handful of Pakistani Jihadists, and several names complicit in the incident, including retired defence personnel, came to light. The audacious attempt was eventually contained, but not before severe damage was done to some of the navy's expensive assets and the Pakistani defence force’s image. Predictably, in the hysteria that erupted, two things happened. First, denial. And second, approving blame to the US, India and Israel. The second was not bought by the world community, and the first had no leg to stand on after the Pakistani establishment led by General Pervez Musharraf had to crack down on the local perpetrators and weed out radical elements from within the ranks of its Armed Forces. Shahzad’s Mehran report was the last major one that he would file. He not only wrote that the Mehran attack was an insider job, but also reported that a purge had been in progress which had divided security personnel as well as the rogue elements outside along ethnic and religious lines. But he was not the only journalist to be punished thus. There was the American Daniel Pearl, who too had crossed the Rubicon almost a decade before Shahzad did. Pearl, who was primarily based in Mumbai while reporting on the south Asian region for The Wall Street Journal, had visited Pakistan as part of an investigative report he was working on, with a view to unravel links involving the Al Qaeda and a British citizen, better known as the ‘Shoe Bomber’. In February 2002, he was kidnapped, tortured and executed by his captors. His decomposed body and the severed head were discovered a few months later. He had entered dangerous territory, one that could expose the complicity of the deep state. The group that claimed ‘credit’ for the kidnapping and subsequent action was the National Movement for the Restoration of Pakistani Sovereignty. This outfit accused Pearl of being an American spy. It demanded the release of all Pakistani terror detainees as well as lifting of the embargo on the US shipment of F-16 fighter planes to Pakistan, as some of the conditions for Pearl’s release. It is inconceivable that an outfit could so brazenly function right inside Pakistan without some sort of official ‘turning the blind eye’ at the least. It’s not only journalists in Pakistan, whether Pakistani or otherwise, who have paid with their lives for crossing the Rubicon. Even high-profile politicians who summoned the courage to challenge extremist elements, either inside or out of the system, fell to radical elements while the official establishment remained inactive — or implicitly supportive of the fanatics. Salman Taseer is a case in point. A liberal politician associated with the Pakistan Peoples Party of Benazir Bhutto, he was assassinated in January 2011 in Islamabad by his bodyguard, who shot him with an assault rifle 27 times hear his home. Taseer’s crime was that he had vehemently and publicly opposed his country’s blasphemy law, which had the backing of not just extremist groups but also influential sections of the Pakistani Deep State. A show of state mourning was thereafter organised but it deceived none. Radical elements, both outside the political system and within, had been enraged by his public pronouncements in support of one Asia Bibi, who had been sentenced to death by a court of law for having ‘blasphemed’ Islam. After the assassination, hundreds of prominent Pakistan clerics had lent support to the assassin and urged the people to boycott Taseer’s funeral. The connect between extremist elements and the Pakistani state has been often commented upon by one of the country’s most prominent former envoy, Husain Haqqani, in his books and public discourses. Haqqani is now located outside Pakistan and has many times quipped that terrorists are more secure in Pakistan than he would be if he were to return to his country. He too crossed the Rubicon many times, but fortunately, he remains safe for now. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Crossing the Rubicon: Many Pakistani nationals have paid a heavy price for exposing army and jihadi connect

A plea by the Jammu and Kashmir government in the Supreme Court Friday sought transfer of seven Pakistani terrorists from Jammu jail to Tihar in the national capital, alleging they were 'indoctrinating' local prisoners.

The seven terrorists are: Waqas Manzoor alias Qazir, Mohd Abdullah alias Abu Tallah and Zaffar Iqbal of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT); Zubair Talha Zarror alias Talha (LeT) from Multan in Pakistan and arrested in 2013; Mohd Ali Hussain (LeT) arrested in 2014; Hafeez Ahmed Baloch of terrorist group Al-Badr arrested in 2006 and Zia Mustafa accused of killing of 24 Kashmiri pandits at Nadimarg area of Shopian district in South Kashmir in 2003.

A bench of Justices L N Rao and M R Shah sought a response from Centre and the Delhi government on the plea and issue notice.

The bench tagged the pleas along with the earlier petition filed by the state government for shifting of one Pakistani terrorist Zahid Farooq, who was affiliated to LeT, and said it will hear all the petitions together.

The state's standing counsel Shoeb Alam said terrorists belonging to various organisations need to be shifted out of Jammu jail as they were involved in the indoctrination of local prisoners and pose a security threat to the people and security personnel.

The bench asked Alam as how many terrorists needs to be moved out to which he replied that pleas for shifting of seven Pakistani terrorists is listed today.&nbsp;

If not Tihar, they can also be shifted to other high-security prisons in Haryana and Punjab, he said.

To this, the bench said it will hear the matter and asked Alam to ensure that a copy of the notice is served to the seven terrorists also.

A day after the Pulwama attack on February 14 in which 40 CRPF personnel were martyred, the Jammu and Kashmir government had moved the apex court to shift Farooq, out of Jammu jail.

Farooq was arrested by security forces while trying to cross the border security fence on May 19, 2016.

The state government had said intelligence inputs received indicated that militants belonging to terror outfits like Jaish-e-Muhammad and LeT are indoctrinating the minds of other inmates lodged in the prison.

It was reliably learnt that the prisoner and other individuals have considerable local support and it cannot be ruled out that they may be receiving information, resources as well as other help to carry out terrorist-related activities, the state government added.

The state also sought shifting of the trial to Delhi saying it apprehends that transporting the militant to court and back to prison poses a threat to escorting policemen and common public.

A plea by the Jammu and Kashmir government in the Supreme Court Friday sought transfer of seven Pakistani terrorists from Jammu jail to Tihar in the national capital, alleging they were 'indoctrinating' local prisoners.

A plea by the Jammu and Kashmir government in the Supreme Court Friday sought transfer of seven Pakistani terrorists from Jammu jail to Tihar in the national capital, alleging they were 'indoctrinating' local prisoners. The seven terrorists are: Waqas Manzoor alias Qazir, Mohd Abdullah alias Abu Tallah and Zaffar Iqbal of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT); Zubair Talha Zarror alias Talha (LeT) from Multan in Pakistan and arrested in 2013; Mohd Ali Hussain (LeT) arrested in 2014; Hafeez Ahmed Baloch of terrorist group Al-Badr arrested in 2006 and Zia Mustafa accused of killing of 24 Kashmiri pandits at Nadimarg area of Shopian district in South Kashmir in 2003. A bench of Justices L N Rao and M R Shah sought a response from Centre and the Delhi government on the plea and issue notice. The bench tagged the pleas along with the earlier petition filed by the state government for shifting of one Pakistani terrorist Zahid Farooq, who was affiliated to LeT, and said it will hear all the petitions together. The state's standing counsel Shoeb Alam said terrorists belonging to various organisations need to be shifted out of Jammu jail as they were involved in the indoctrination of local prisoners and pose a security threat to the people and security personnel. The bench asked Alam as how many terrorists needs to be moved out to which he replied that pleas for shifting of seven Pakistani terrorists is listed today. If not Tihar, they can also be shifted to other high-security prisons in Haryana and Punjab, he said. To this, the bench said it will hear the matter and asked Alam to ensure that a copy of the notice is served to the seven terrorists also. A day after the Pulwama attack on February 14 in which 40 CRPF personnel were martyred, the Jammu and Kashmir government had moved the apex court to shift Farooq, out of Jammu jail. Farooq was arrested by security forces while trying to cross the border security fence on May 19, 2016. The state government had said intelligence inputs received indicated that militants belonging to terror outfits like Jaish-e-Muhammad and LeT are indoctrinating the minds of other inmates lodged in the prison. It was reliably learnt that the prisoner and other individuals have considerable local support and it cannot be ruled out that they may be receiving information, resources as well as other help to carry out terrorist-related activities, the state government added. The state also sought shifting of the trial to Delhi saying it apprehends that transporting the militant to court and back to prison poses a threat to escorting policemen and common public.

J&K govt moves SC for transfer of 7 Pakistani terrorists out of Jammu jail