The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been instructed by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to abandon plans for a Champions Trophy tour in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The move follows concerns over the region's political sensitivity and international implications. As a result, the planned tour has been officially cancelled, marking a significant setback for the PCB’s ambitions to host the event in the disputed territory.

ICC Forces Cancellation Of Champions Trophy Tour In Pakistan

<p>India strongly denounced the "unwarranted references" to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir made in a joint statement by China and Pakistan stating that both J&amp;K and Ladakh "will remain integral and inalienable parts" of the country.</p>

<p>The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement firmly made it clear that no country possessed the authority to comment on the status of Jammu and Kashmir.</p>

<p>"We have noted unwarranted references to the Union Territory of Jammu &amp; Kashmir in the joint statement between China and Pakistan of 07 June 2024. We categorically reject such references. Our position on the issue is consistent and well-known to the concerned parties. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh have been, are and will always remain integral and inalienable parts of India. No other country has the locus standi to comment on the same," MEA Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in response to media queries on references to Jammu and Kashmir in the China-Pakistan Joint Statement.</p>

<p>MEA's remarks came following a meeting between Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese President Xi Jinping in China where both the leaders also discussed the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which passes through India's sovereign territory in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK).</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-made-items-recovered-from-terrorists-killed-in-kathua-attack-731311">Pakistan-made items recovered from terrorists killed in Kathua attack</a></p>

<p>"The same joint statement also mentions activities and projects under the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), some of which are in India's sovereign territory under forcible and illegal occupation by Pakistan. We resolutely oppose and reject any moves by other countries to reinforce or legitimise Pakistan's illegal occupation of these territories, impinging on India's sovereignty and territorial integrity," Jaiswal's statement adds.</p>

<p>The joint statement was issued after Sharif concluded his four-day visit to China where Pakistan briefed the Chinese side on the latest developments of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir.</p>

<p>"Both sides underscore the importance of maintaining peace and stability in South Asia, the need for resolution of all outstanding disputes, and their opposition to any unilateral action," the joint statement read.</p>

<p>"The Pakistani side briefed the Chinese side on the latest developments of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The Chinese side reiterated that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is left over from history, and should be properly and peacefully resolved in accordance with the UN Charter, relevant UN Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements," it said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India strongly denounced the "unwarranted references" to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir made in a joint statement by China and Pakistan stating that both J&K and Ladakh "will remain integral and inalienable parts" of the country.

India strongly denounced the "unwarranted references" to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir made in a joint statement by China and Pakistan stating that both J&K and Ladakh "will remain integral and inalienable parts" of the country. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement firmly made it clear that no country possessed the authority to comment on the status of Jammu and Kashmir. "We have noted unwarranted references to the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir in the joint statement between China and Pakistan of 07 June 2024. We categorically reject such references. Our position on the issue is consistent and well-known to the concerned parties. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh have been, are and will always remain integral and inalienable parts of India. No other country has the locus standi to comment on the same," MEA Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in response to media queries on references to Jammu and Kashmir in the China-Pakistan Joint Statement. MEA's remarks came following a meeting between Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese President Xi Jinping in China where both the leaders also discussed the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which passes through India's sovereign territory in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK). Also read: Pakistan-made items recovered from terrorists killed in Kathua attack "The same joint statement also mentions activities and projects under the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), some of which are in India's sovereign territory under forcible and illegal occupation by Pakistan. We resolutely oppose and reject any moves by other countries to reinforce or legitimise Pakistan's illegal occupation of these territories, impinging on India's sovereignty and territorial integrity," Jaiswal's statement adds. The joint statement was issued after Sharif concluded his four-day visit to China where Pakistan briefed the Chinese side on the latest developments of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. "Both sides underscore the importance of maintaining peace and stability in South Asia, the need for resolution of all outstanding disputes, and their opposition to any unilateral action," the joint statement read. "The Pakistani side briefed the Chinese side on the latest developments of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The Chinese side reiterated that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is left over from history, and should be properly and peacefully resolved in accordance with the UN Charter, relevant UN Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

India firmly rejects 'unwarranted references' to Jammu and Kashmir in China-Pakistan joint statement

<p>Pakistan's government has acknowledged before the Islamabad High Court that Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is a foreign territory. The rare admission was made on Friday (May 31) during the hearing of the abduction case of local Kashmiri poet and journalist Ahmed Farhad Shah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Pakistan government's lawyer told the Islamabad HC that Farhad is under the custody of police in PoK and cannot be presented because he is on "foreign land". The lawyers said that PoK does not come under the country's jurisdiction.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-mentally-ill-man-killed-as-hospital-staff-forgets-after-locking-him-in-store-room-727533">Pakistan: Mentally ill man killed as hospital staff 'forgets' after locking him in store room</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Farhad was kidnapped from his home in Rawalpindi reportedly by Pakistan's intelligence agencies on May 15. Since then, he has been missing and his wife filed a case in the Islamabad HC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, recently it came to light that two cases were lodged against him by the police in PoK. The Additional Attorney General appeared before IHC judge Mohsin Akhter Kiani on Friday, telling the court that Farhad had at least two legal cases registered against him in Muzaffarabad and Dhirkot in PoK, local reports mentioned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the petition by the poet's wife, IHC judge Kiani asked Farhad Shah to be produced in court.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/iranian-forces-open-fire-in-pakistans-balochistan-killing-four-and-injuring-two-amid-ongoing-border-tensions-727185">Iranian forces open fire in Pakistan's Balochistan, killing four and injuring two amid ongoing border tension</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Advocate Imaan Mazaari, who has been representing the poet, said later that the Additional Attorney General admitted in the court that Farhad was currently present on a "foreign land" and thus could not be produced in the court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by Pakistan Today mentioned that the Additional Attorney General said Kashmir is a foreign territory with its own constitution and its own courts. He further added that the judgements of Pakistani courts in PoK are considered judgements of foreign courts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pakistan Govt's Additional Attorney General (AAG) stated in the Islamabad High Court that Kashmir (POK) is a foreign territory.<br />
<br />
So finally, Pakistan is also accepting the fact that what they call Azad Kashmir is actually Pakistan occupied Kashmir (POK). <a href="https://t.co/cxTGM7xKM0">pic.twitter.com/cxTGM7xKM0</a></p>
— Anshul Saxena (@AskAnshul) <a href="https://twitter.com/AskAnshul/status/1796734034367959330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>AIR reported that Justice Kiani countered that if PoK was a foreign territory as he mentioned then how did the Pakistani military and Pakistani Rangers enter the land?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is an integral part of India. But the region under the illegal occupation of Pakistan since 1947.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has often reiterated the same, with Indian Home Minister Amit Shah recently saying during an election rally that "Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) was ours, is ours and will remain ours… and we will take it… no one can stop us."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "These AAP and Congress leaders say 'don't demand PoK from Pakistan, they have atom bomb', but we will take it as the BJP is not afraid of any bomb."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Pakistan's government has acknowledged before the Islamabad High Court that Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is a foreign territory. The rare admission was made on Friday (May 31) during the hearing of the abduction case of local Kashmiri poet and journalist Ahmed Farhad Shah.

Pakistan's government has acknowledged before the Islamabad High Court that Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is a foreign territory. The rare admission was made on Friday (May 31) during the hearing of the abduction case of local Kashmiri poet and journalist Ahmed Farhad Shah. The Pakistan government's lawyer told the Islamabad HC that Farhad is under the custody of police in PoK and cannot be presented because he is on "foreign land". The lawyers said that PoK does not come under the country's jurisdiction. Also read: Pakistan: Mentally ill man killed as hospital staff 'forgets' after locking him in store room Farhad was kidnapped from his home in Rawalpindi reportedly by Pakistan's intelligence agencies on May 15. Since then, he has been missing and his wife filed a case in the Islamabad HC. However, recently it came to light that two cases were lodged against him by the police in PoK. The Additional Attorney General appeared before IHC judge Mohsin Akhter Kiani on Friday, telling the court that Farhad had at least two legal cases registered against him in Muzaffarabad and Dhirkot in PoK, local reports mentioned. After the petition by the poet's wife, IHC judge Kiani asked Farhad Shah to be produced in court. Also read: Iranian forces open fire in Pakistan's Balochistan, killing four and injuring two amid ongoing border tension Advocate Imaan Mazaari, who has been representing the poet, said later that the Additional Attorney General admitted in the court that Farhad was currently present on a "foreign land" and thus could not be produced in the court. A report by Pakistan Today mentioned that the Additional Attorney General said Kashmir is a foreign territory with its own constitution and its own courts. He further added that the judgements of Pakistani courts in PoK are considered judgements of foreign courts. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Pakistan Govt's Additional Attorney General (AAG) stated in the Islamabad High Court that Kashmir (POK) is a foreign territory. So finally, Pakistan is also accepting the fact that what they call Azad Kashmir is actually Pakistan occupied Kashmir (POK). pic.twitter.com/cxTGM7xKM0 — Anshul Saxena (@AskAnshul) June 1, 2024 × AIR reported that Justice Kiani countered that if PoK was a foreign territory as he mentioned then how did the Pakistani military and Pakistani Rangers enter the land? Notably, the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is an integral part of India. But the region under the illegal occupation of Pakistan since 1947. India has often reiterated the same, with Indian Home Minister Amit Shah recently saying during an election rally that "Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) was ours, is ours and will remain ours… and we will take it… no one can stop us." He said, "These AAP and Congress leaders say 'don't demand PoK from Pakistan, they have atom bomb', but we will take it as the BJP is not afraid of any bomb." (With inputs from agencies)

‘PoK is foreign territory’: Pakistan admits in Islamabad High Court

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidSzRFE0Vouo24" /></p>

<p>During an election&nbsp;rally in Jhansi on Saturday (May 18)&nbsp;Union&nbsp;Home Minister Amit Shah brought up the subject of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.</p>

<p>“Their (Congress) greed for the vote bank has burgeoned to the extent that Mani Shankar Aiyar, one of their&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;has asked us not to talk about the PoK. He is saying that Pakistan has atom bombs&nbsp;and&nbsp;we should not demand our rights over the PoK. I want to tell you that this is the Narendra Modi government&nbsp;and&nbsp;we are not afraid of atom bombs. PoK belongs to India&nbsp;and&nbsp;we will take it back,”&nbsp;he said.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar say?</strong></h2>

<p>His remarks follow Congress leader&nbsp;Mani Shankar&nbsp;Aiyar's&nbsp;April 15 interview, in which he said that if not respected, Pakistan could use bombs against India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/democracy-in-action-in-srinagar-but-pok-calls-for-azadi-heres-what-it-means-720891" hreflang="en">Democracy in action in Srinagar but PoK calls for 'Azadi'. Here's what it means</a></strong></p>

<p>"They are also a sovereign country (Pakistan). They are a respected nation. You can talk tough with them (Pakistan). But start the dialogue. You are walking with a gun&nbsp;which&nbsp;yielded you nothing. Tensions are escalating. And if a mad person comes there, what will happen to the nation? They have an atom bomb. We also possess the atomic bomb. But if a mad person detonates our bomb at Lahore station, so within eight seconds, eight moments, its radioactivity will reach Amritsar,"&nbsp;Aiyar said.</p>

<h2><strong>What else did Amit Shah say during the rally?</strong></h2>

<p>During the rally, the Union Minister asserted that&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on track to win&nbsp;a third term in power. He stated that PM Modi has already&nbsp;won 270 seats in&nbsp;the previous four phases and is on his way to the third century.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shah highlighted PM&nbsp;Modi's&nbsp;humble origins and said that on&nbsp;the one hand, there is Rahul&nbsp; Gandhi&nbsp;born with a silver spoon in his mouth, and&nbsp;on the other hand, there is PM&nbsp;Modi&nbsp;born to the family of a poor tea vendor from the backward class.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


During an election rally in Jhansi on Saturday (May 18) Union Home Minister Amit Shah brought up the subject of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. “Their (Congress) greed for the vote bank has burgeoned to the extent that Mani Shankar Aiyar, one of their leaders has asked us not to talk about the PoK.

During an election rally in Jhansi on Saturday (May 18) Union Home Minister Amit Shah brought up the subject of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. “Their (Congress) greed for the vote bank has burgeoned to the extent that Mani Shankar Aiyar, one of their leaders has asked us not to talk about the PoK. He is saying that Pakistan has atom bombs and we should not demand our rights over the PoK. I want to tell you that this is the Narendra Modi government and we are not afraid of atom bombs. PoK belongs to India and we will take it back,” he said. What did Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar say? His remarks follow Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar's April 15 interview, in which he said that if not respected, Pakistan could use bombs against India. Also read: Democracy in action in Srinagar but PoK calls for 'Azadi'. Here's what it means "They are also a sovereign country (Pakistan). They are a respected nation. You can talk tough with them (Pakistan). But start the dialogue. You are walking with a gun which yielded you nothing. Tensions are escalating. And if a mad person comes there, what will happen to the nation? They have an atom bomb. We also possess the atomic bomb. But if a mad person detonates our bomb at Lahore station, so within eight seconds, eight moments, its radioactivity will reach Amritsar," Aiyar said. What else did Amit Shah say during the rally? During the rally, the Union Minister asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on track to win a third term in power. He stated that PM Modi has already won 270 seats in the previous four phases and is on his way to the third century. Shah highlighted PM Modi's humble origins and said that on the one hand, there is Rahul Gandhi born with a silver spoon in his mouth, and on the other hand, there is PM Modi born to the family of a poor tea vendor from the backward class. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Will take PoK back,’ Amit Shah says Modi govt is not afraid of Pakistan’s atom bomb

As protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) enter their fifth day, tensions rise with no end in sight. The protests have quickly escalated from peaceful demonstrations to violent clashes with law enforcement, resulting in the death of 3 people. Watch in for more details!

PoK on boil as protest enters fifth day, 3 dead

The Awami Action Committe (AAC) on Tuesday called off the protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) after Pakistan government accepted the charter of demands. Watch in for more details!

PoK protests: Awami Action Committee calls off protests in PoK, day after $86 grant

Protesters call of march in PoK after Pakistan govt accepts charter of demands

Pakistan Occupied Kashmir is on the edge. Protests have broken out. Cars are being set on fire, policemen are being chased, beaten up and shot. Protesters have turned towns into battlegrounds. In a first, rangers have been deployed in PoK. Activists want India to intervene.

Gravitas: 'Azadi' chants Pakistan Occupied Kashmir as activists call for India's intervention

Residents of the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) continues to protest against Pakistani government over heavy taxation, high inflation and electricity shortage. Violent clashes occurred between protesters and police in various parts of Muzaffarabad, the capital of PoK. Watch in for more details!

PoK continues to protest inflation, taxation

Protests have gripped Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Residents are clashing with security officials. Activists are up in arms against the Pakistani government. Why is there an uproar in PoK? Is PoK edging towards a merger with India? Watch this video for all details.

Why is there uproar in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK)?

<p>Pakistan's illegal occupation of the territories of India's Jammu and Kashmir has snowballed into a widespread public unrest. Pakistani authorities have launched a massive crackdown to quell the protests that have taken over the occupied region right across Line of Control.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, a police officer has been killed while 90 others are reported injured in the fresh clashes.</p>

<p>"Deeply concerned about the situation in AJK.&nbsp;Unfortunately in situations of chaos and dissent there are always some who rush in to score political points. While debate, discussion and peaceful protests are the beauties of democracy , there should be absolutely no tolerance for taking the law in one's own hands and damaging government properties,"&nbsp;Pakistan PM&nbsp;Shehbaz Sharif wrote on X.</p>

<p>"I have spoken to PM AJK and also directed all PML-N office bearers in AJK to talk to the leaders of the action committee and I urge all parties to resort to peaceful course of action for resolution of their demands. Despite best efforts of detractors, the matter will hopefully be settled soon," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>PoK protests: What triggered it?</strong></h2>

<p>The protests were triggered due to high inflation, heavy taxation and electricity shortage. The disenchantment over Pakistan's inability to provide these basic amenities to people in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir soon shaped into a movement for freedom and rights across the region.</p>

<p>The chants of 'Azadi' (freedom) took over Pakistan Occupied Kashmir as people clashed with police and security personnel in Muzaffarabad and other districts.<strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Massive protests in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir POK</strong></p>

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<p>The protests are reportedly led by Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee.</p>

<p>"There is going to be a complete shutter-down and wheel-jam strike observed across PoK and specifically in Muzaffarabad against the police brutality against our peaceful protesters in Dadyal," said Saukat Nawaz Mir, chairman of the Traders Association Muzaffarabad and member of the Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee, reported news agency IANS.</p>

<p>"I call on everyone to come out today and raise your voice for your rights," he added as videos of locals demanding freedom from the Pakistani establishment went viral.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Situation remains precarious in PoK amid protest over high inflation <a href="https://t.co/njrEy7yPN0">https://t.co/njrEy7yPN0</a> <a href="https://t.co/8MDxW7QaVt">pic.twitter.com/8MDxW7QaVt</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1789500659487609171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Visuals seen by WION journalists showed men being thrown off a hillslope as they struggle to get off the stranglehold of individuals quelling the protests.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> | Protests against taxes and electricity bills in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.<br />
<br />
40 people have been injured and one personnel has been killed.<a href="https://twitter.com/SehgalRahesha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SehgalRahesha</a> talks to WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sidhant</a> for updates.<br />
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Watch more on <a href="https://t.co/AXC5qRugeb">https://t.co/AXC5qRugeb</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/hcdvEdbfgb">pic.twitter.com/hcdvEdbfgb</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1789495259707195805?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Last week, while emphasising that Pakistan Occupied Kashmir has always been a part of India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had said the "very sorry state of affairs" has continued in Pakistan.</p>

<p>"PoK has never been out of this country. It has always been a part of this country. There is a resolution of the Indian parliament that PoK is very much a part of India. Now, how did other people get control? Ab ho jaata hai (it happens) when you have someone who is not a responsible custodian of a house, an outsider will come and steal something," Jaishankar said during an interactive session in Odisha in eastern India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pok-residents-seek-indias-help-raise-slogans-ask-modi-to-get-us-freed-from-pakistan-635006">PoK residents seek India's help, raise slogans 'Ask Modi to get us freed from Pakistan'</a></strong></p>

<p>"Here you have allowed another country... It was because we did not pursue the vacation of Pakistan from these territories in the early years of Independence that this very sorry state of affairs has continued. What will happen in the future is very difficult to tell. But, I always tell people one thing that today PoK is in the consciousness once again of the people of India. We had forgotten about it, we were made to forget about it, but it is back now, definitely," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's illegal occupation of the territories of India's Jammu and Kashmir has snowballed into a widespread public unrest. Pakistani authorities have launched a massive crackdown to quell the protests that have taken over the occupied region right across Line of Control.

Pakistan's illegal occupation of the territories of India's Jammu and Kashmir has snowballed into a widespread public unrest. Pakistani authorities have launched a massive crackdown to quell the protests that have taken over the occupied region right across Line of Control. So far, a police officer has been killed while 90 others are reported injured in the fresh clashes. "Deeply concerned about the situation in AJK. Unfortunately in situations of chaos and dissent there are always some who rush in to score political points. While debate, discussion and peaceful protests are the beauties of democracy , there should be absolutely no tolerance for taking the law in one's own hands and damaging government properties," Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif wrote on X. "I have spoken to PM AJK and also directed all PML-N office bearers in AJK to talk to the leaders of the action committee and I urge all parties to resort to peaceful course of action for resolution of their demands. Despite best efforts of detractors, the matter will hopefully be settled soon," he added. PoK protests: What triggered it? The protests were triggered due to high inflation, heavy taxation and electricity shortage. The disenchantment over Pakistan's inability to provide these basic amenities to people in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir soon shaped into a movement for freedom and rights across the region. The chants of 'Azadi' (freedom) took over Pakistan Occupied Kashmir as people clashed with police and security personnel in Muzaffarabad and other districts.Also watch | Pakistan: Massive protests in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir POK × The protests are reportedly led by Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee. "There is going to be a complete shutter-down and wheel-jam strike observed across PoK and specifically in Muzaffarabad against the police brutality against our peaceful protesters in Dadyal," said Saukat Nawaz Mir, chairman of the Traders Association Muzaffarabad and member of the Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee, reported news agency IANS. "I call on everyone to come out today and raise your voice for your rights," he added as videos of locals demanding freedom from the Pakistani establishment went viral. Situation remains precarious in PoK amid protest over high inflation https://t.co/njrEy7yPN0 pic.twitter.com/8MDxW7QaVt — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 12, 2024 × Visuals seen by WION journalists showed men being thrown off a hillslope as they struggle to get off the stranglehold of individuals quelling the protests. #BREAKING | Protests against taxes and electricity bills in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. 40 people have been injured and one personnel has been killed.@SehgalRahesha talks to WION's @Sidhant for updates. Watch more on https://t.co/AXC5qRugeb#PakistanNews pic.twitter.com/hcdvEdbfgb — WION (@WIONews) May 12, 2024 × Last week, while emphasising that Pakistan Occupied Kashmir has always been a part of India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had said the "very sorry state of affairs" has continued in Pakistan. "PoK has never been out of this country. It has always been a part of this country. There is a resolution of the Indian parliament that PoK is very much a part of India. Now, how did other people get control? Ab ho jaata hai (it happens) when you have someone who is not a responsible custodian of a house, an outsider will come and steal something," Jaishankar said during an interactive session in Odisha in eastern India. Also read | PoK residents seek India's help, raise slogans 'Ask Modi to get us freed from Pakistan' "Here you have allowed another country... It was because we did not pursue the vacation of Pakistan from these territories in the early years of Independence that this very sorry state of affairs has continued. What will happen in the future is very difficult to tell. But, I always tell people one thing that today PoK is in the consciousness once again of the people of India. We had forgotten about it, we were made to forget about it, but it is back now, definitely," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Azadi' chorus takes over PoK amid economic crisis; PM Shehbaz Sharif reacts

<p>In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), tensions flared on Friday (May 10) as locals protested against harsh economic conditions and taxes imposed by Pakistan.</p>

<p>The protests as per news agency ANI were met with severe suppression by Pakistani defence forces.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Protests against inflation</strong></h2>

<p>The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) had called for protests on May 11, yet residents in various cities including Muzafarabad, Kotli, Dadayal, Rawalakot, Hajira, Bhimbar, and Bagh took to the streets a day earlier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Police, as per the Dawn also fired tear-gas shells at the protesting crowd. Some shells landed in a nearby school, injuring young girls.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahmedabad-bomb-threat-hoax-mails-sent-to-schools-traced-to-pakistan-720243">Ahmedabad bomb threat: Hoax mails sent to schools traced to Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>This happened as the Pakistani administration deployed additional forces to crush the planned protests and a long march, announced by the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee. The arrest of 70 activists also angered people, media reports suggest, leading to protests a day earlier.</p>

<p>Inflation, the scarcity of essential commodities like flour and wheat, excessive power cuts, rising unemployment, and chronic infrastructural neglect sparked the protests. Despite longstanding grievances, demonstrators argue that the Pakistani administration remains dismissive of their plight.</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan's violence against the people</strong></h2>

<p>A local leader during a protest voiced the community's frustration, condemning the aggressive tactics used by law enforcement. "The level of violence that the law enforcement agencies have employed in PoK is unacceptable and we are protesting here for the same. But we will always continue our protest peacefully, as we are peace-loving people," the leader stated.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Protests and crackdown continues in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) <a href="https://t.co/yzGoGPV5qo">pic.twitter.com/yzGoGPV5qo</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1789154822748549137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"We peacefully are demanding our basic rights, like subsidies on flour and wheat. However, the protests suppressed by the Pakistani defence personnel resulted in shelling and baton charges. This led to several protestors getting severely injured and harassment of the local people," they added.</p>

<p>In Bagh, another leader criticised the government's decision to deploy defence forces to stifle the protests, leading to a forceful reaction from the community including a long march.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-indian-student-missing-in-us-family-scrambles-to-find-clues-about-rupesh-chintakindis-whereabouts-719662">Another Indian student goes missing in US; family alleges Chicago police 'not responding properly'</a></strong></p>

<p>"The administration of PoJK demanded the deployment of defence personnel to suppress the protest being organised by the general public for resolution of their issues. The people of Bagh retaliated against this act of suppression and organised a long march against it. We express our solidarity with the protest invoked by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) on May 11. We will protest peacefully but the use of defence personnel for suppression is unacceptable."</p>

<p>Prominent Pakistani journalist Hamid Mir highlighted the severity of the protests on X (formerly Twitter), noting that thousands had defied the colonial-era black law, Section 144, to demand tax-free electricity from Mangla Dam and subsidies on wheat flour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is Muzaffarabad today. Thousands of Kashmiris violated the old colonial black law section 144. They came out from their homes on feet. No transport was used due to the wheel jam strike. They are demanding tax-free electricity from Mangla dam and subsidy on wheat flour" Mir posted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is Muzaffarabad today. Thousands of Kashmiris violated the old colonial black law section144. They came out from their homes on feet. No transport was used due to wheel jam strike. They are demanding tax free electricity from Mangla dam and subsidy on wheat flour. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/2aNuSyP9ou">pic.twitter.com/2aNuSyP9ou</a></p>
— Hamid Mir حامد میر (@HamidMirPAK) <a href="https://twitter.com/HamidMirPAK/status/1788901987825713320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, the situation escalated when the Frontier Corps deployed hundreds of troops to PoK, leading to violent clashes that saw 18 protestors detained and several instances of violence, including an attack on the Assistant Commissioner of the Dadyal area. Additionally, a shutter down strike was initiated by local leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir of the JAAC, signifying a further intensification of the civil unrest.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), tensions flared on Friday (May 10) as locals protested against harsh economic conditions and taxes imposed by Pakistan. The protests as per news agency ANI were met with severe suppression by Pakistani defence forces.

In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), tensions flared on Friday (May 10) as locals protested against harsh economic conditions and taxes imposed by Pakistan. The protests as per news agency ANI were met with severe suppression by Pakistani defence forces. Protests against inflation The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) had called for protests on May 11, yet residents in various cities including Muzafarabad, Kotli, Dadayal, Rawalakot, Hajira, Bhimbar, and Bagh took to the streets a day earlier. Police, as per the Dawn also fired tear-gas shells at the protesting crowd. Some shells landed in a nearby school, injuring young girls. Also read | Ahmedabad bomb threat: Hoax mails sent to schools traced to Pakistan This happened as the Pakistani administration deployed additional forces to crush the planned protests and a long march, announced by the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee. The arrest of 70 activists also angered people, media reports suggest, leading to protests a day earlier. Inflation, the scarcity of essential commodities like flour and wheat, excessive power cuts, rising unemployment, and chronic infrastructural neglect sparked the protests. Despite longstanding grievances, demonstrators argue that the Pakistani administration remains dismissive of their plight. Pakistan's violence against the people A local leader during a protest voiced the community's frustration, condemning the aggressive tactics used by law enforcement. "The level of violence that the law enforcement agencies have employed in PoK is unacceptable and we are protesting here for the same. But we will always continue our protest peacefully, as we are peace-loving people," the leader stated. Protests and crackdown continues in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) pic.twitter.com/yzGoGPV5qo — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 11, 2024 × "We peacefully are demanding our basic rights, like subsidies on flour and wheat. However, the protests suppressed by the Pakistani defence personnel resulted in shelling and baton charges. This led to several protestors getting severely injured and harassment of the local people," they added. In Bagh, another leader criticised the government's decision to deploy defence forces to stifle the protests, leading to a forceful reaction from the community including a long march. Also read | Another Indian student goes missing in US; family alleges Chicago police 'not responding properly' "The administration of PoJK demanded the deployment of defence personnel to suppress the protest being organised by the general public for resolution of their issues. The people of Bagh retaliated against this act of suppression and organised a long march against it. We express our solidarity with the protest invoked by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) on May 11. We will protest peacefully but the use of defence personnel for suppression is unacceptable." Prominent Pakistani journalist Hamid Mir highlighted the severity of the protests on X (formerly Twitter), noting that thousands had defied the colonial-era black law, Section 144, to demand tax-free electricity from Mangla Dam and subsidies on wheat flour. "This is Muzaffarabad today. Thousands of Kashmiris violated the old colonial black law section 144. They came out from their homes on feet. No transport was used due to the wheel jam strike. They are demanding tax-free electricity from Mangla dam and subsidy on wheat flour" Mir posted. This is Muzaffarabad today. Thousands of Kashmiris violated the old colonial black law section144. They came out from their homes on feet. No transport was used due to wheel jam strike. They are demanding tax free electricity from Mangla dam and subsidy on wheat flour. #Kashmir pic.twitter.com/2aNuSyP9ou — Hamid Mir حامد میر (@HamidMirPAK) May 10, 2024 × Earlier, the situation escalated when the Frontier Corps deployed hundreds of troops to PoK, leading to violent clashes that saw 18 protestors detained and several instances of violence, including an attack on the Assistant Commissioner of the Dadyal area. Additionally, a shutter down strike was initiated by local leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir of the JAAC, signifying a further intensification of the civil unrest. (With inputs from agencies)

Protests erupt in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir over inflation and other economic hardships

<p>Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (May 8) said that the Narendra Modi administration was committed to bringing Pakistan-occupied Kashmir back to India. He was delivering remarks at Gargi College on Vishwa Bandhu Bharat.&nbsp;India's&nbsp;top diplomat also talked about how the Modi government scrapped Article 370 of the Indian Constitution even as people made starkly different assumptions.</p>

<p>"People just assumed that&nbsp;370 (Article) can not be changed and this is something that we have to accept. Now once we change it, the entire ground situation changes,”&nbsp;he said.</p>

<p>“All I can say with respect to PoK, there is a parliament resolution, and every political party in the country is committed to ensuring that the POK which is part of India returns to India...,”&nbsp;he added.&nbsp;“But I do want to say one thing, I&nbsp;didn’t&nbsp;used to get people to ask us this 10 years ago or even 5 years ago. It is when we put 370 to rest, now people understand PoK is also important,”&nbsp;Jaishankar added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiVrqOszv6FAxWDzTgGHcBrAqkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-have-to-wait-for-indias-jaishankar-reacts-to-arrests-in-nijjar-murder-case-718139" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-have-to-wait-for-indias-jaishankar-reacts-to-arrests-in-nijjar-murder-case-718139&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiVrqOszv6FAxWDzTgGHcBrAqkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Will have to wait for...: India`s foreign minister S Jaishankar reacts to arrests in Nijjar murder case</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier on&nbsp;Sunday (May 5), the foreign minister declared that&nbsp;'PoK'&nbsp;has&nbsp;"never been out"&nbsp;of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While responding to a question at an event in&nbsp;India's&nbsp;Odisha state, Jaishankar said,&nbsp;"PoK has never been out of this country. It is part of this country. There is a resolution of the Indian Parliament that PoK is very much a part of India.”</p>

<h2><strong>India's&nbsp;stance on the Palestine issue</strong></h2>

<p>S Jaishankar also took the opportunity to reiterate&nbsp;India's&nbsp;stance on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and the&nbsp;larger&nbsp;Palestinian issue.</p>

<p>Jaishankar made clear that New Delhi supported a homeland for the Palestinians and has been public about its stand.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiVrqOszv6FAxWDzTgGHcBrAqkQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-foreign-minister-s-jaishankar-dismisses-bidens-xenophobia-comment-717957" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-foreign-minister-s-jaishankar-dismisses-bidens-xenophobia-comment-717957&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiVrqOszv6FAxWDzTgGHcBrAqkQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">India is not xenophobic: Jaishankar dismisses Joe Biden`s comment</a></strong></p>

<p>"We were very clear when Israel was, on October 7, when the terrorists attacked Israel that this was terrorism. We took a clear stance on it. When Israel responded, we also took a position that, whenever any military response takes place, it is very important that civilian lives are protected. And if you are displacing civilians, so they are no longer in their homes, you have to give some kind of humanitarian corridor out there,"&nbsp;Jaishankar said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (May 8) said that the Narendra Modi administration was committed to bringing Pakistan-occupied Kashmir back to India.

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (May 8) said that the Narendra Modi administration was committed to bringing Pakistan-occupied Kashmir back to India. He was delivering remarks at Gargi College on Vishwa Bandhu Bharat. India's top diplomat also talked about how the Modi government scrapped Article 370 of the Indian Constitution even as people made starkly different assumptions. "People just assumed that 370 (Article) can not be changed and this is something that we have to accept. Now once we change it, the entire ground situation changes,” he said. “All I can say with respect to PoK, there is a parliament resolution, and every political party in the country is committed to ensuring that the POK which is part of India returns to India...,” he added. “But I do want to say one thing, I didn’t used to get people to ask us this 10 years ago or even 5 years ago. It is when we put 370 to rest, now people understand PoK is also important,” Jaishankar added. Also read: Will have to wait for...: India`s foreign minister S Jaishankar reacts to arrests in Nijjar murder case Earlier on Sunday (May 5), the foreign minister declared that 'PoK' has "never been out" of India. While responding to a question at an event in India's Odisha state, Jaishankar said, "PoK has never been out of this country. It is part of this country. There is a resolution of the Indian Parliament that PoK is very much a part of India.” India's stance on the Palestine issue S Jaishankar also took the opportunity to reiterate India's stance on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and the larger Palestinian issue. Jaishankar made clear that New Delhi supported a homeland for the Palestinians and has been public about its stand. Also read: India is not xenophobic: Jaishankar dismisses Joe Biden`s comment "We were very clear when Israel was, on October 7, when the terrorists attacked Israel that this was terrorism. We took a clear stance on it. When Israel responded, we also took a position that, whenever any military response takes place, it is very important that civilian lives are protected. And if you are displacing civilians, so they are no longer in their homes, you have to give some kind of humanitarian corridor out there," Jaishankar said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Committed to bringing PoK back to India,’ Jaishankar declares, reiterates stance on Palestine

<p>Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah on Sunday (May 5) lashed out at India's Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh over his remarks that "PoK will be merged with India", stating that "Pakistan is not wearing bangles".</p>

<p>"If the defence minister is saying it, then go ahead. Who are we to stop? But remember, they (Pakistan) are also not wearing bangles. It has atom bombs, and unfortunately, that atom bomb will fall on us," he said.</p>

<p>Last month, Singh asserted that taking into consideration the progress India is making, soon the people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) will express their willingness to be with India.</p>

<p>"Don't worry. PoK was, is and will remain ours," Singh said, addressing a rally at West Bengal's Darjeeling, where the BJP had nominated sitting MP Raju Bista.</p>

<p>"India's power is increasing. India's prestige is increasing around the world, and our economy is fast progressing. Now our brothers and sisters in PoK will themselves demand to come with India," Singh further said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-have-to-wait-for-indias-jaishankar-reacts-to-arrests-in-nijjar-murder-case-718139">Will have to wait for...: India's foreign minister S Jaishankar reacts to arrests in Nijjar murder case</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, on Sunday, said that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is a part of India and that there is a resolution of the Indian Parliament which calls PoK a part of the country.</p>

<p>He underlined that earlier the people were made to forget about PoK, but now the citizens of the country are very much aware of this part of the world.</p>

<p>On being asked about India's plans for PoK during a session in Cuttack, Jaishankar said, "PoK has never been out of this country. It is part of this country. There is a resolution of the Indian Parliament that PoK is very much a part of India. Now, how did PoK, how did other people get control? You know, when you have someone who is not a responsible custodian of a house, someone steals from outside. Now, here you have allowed another country."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah on Sunday (May 5) lashed out at India's Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh over his remarks that "PoK will be merged with India", stating that "Pakistan is not wearing bangles".

Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah on Sunday (May 5) lashed out at India's Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh over his remarks that "PoK will be merged with India", stating that "Pakistan is not wearing bangles". "If the defence minister is saying it, then go ahead. Who are we to stop? But remember, they (Pakistan) are also not wearing bangles. It has atom bombs, and unfortunately, that atom bomb will fall on us," he said. Last month, Singh asserted that taking into consideration the progress India is making, soon the people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) will express their willingness to be with India. "Don't worry. PoK was, is and will remain ours," Singh said, addressing a rally at West Bengal's Darjeeling, where the BJP had nominated sitting MP Raju Bista. "India's power is increasing. India's prestige is increasing around the world, and our economy is fast progressing. Now our brothers and sisters in PoK will themselves demand to come with India," Singh further said. Also read: Will have to wait for...: India's foreign minister S Jaishankar reacts to arrests in Nijjar murder case Meanwhile, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, on Sunday, said that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is a part of India and that there is a resolution of the Indian Parliament which calls PoK a part of the country. He underlined that earlier the people were made to forget about PoK, but now the citizens of the country are very much aware of this part of the world. On being asked about India's plans for PoK during a session in Cuttack, Jaishankar said, "PoK has never been out of this country. It is part of this country. There is a resolution of the Indian Parliament that PoK is very much a part of India. Now, how did PoK, how did other people get control? You know, when you have someone who is not a responsible custodian of a house, someone steals from outside. Now, here you have allowed another country." (With inputs from agencies)

Farooq Abdullah reacts to Rajnath Singh's remark on PoK, says 'Pakistan is not wearing bangles...'

The assault comes days before Pakistan goes to polls. The country has seen dozens of attacks in the last few weeks. Watch to know more!

At least 10 killed in attack on police station in Pakistan

United Kingdom backing anti-India secessionists. British Police are warning Pro Khalistan Sikh individuals in the UK of threats to their lives. This follows the visit of the European nation's High Commissioner to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on January 10th. Watch to know more.

UK backing anti-India secessionist elements?

<p>Indian foreign ministry has lodged a "strong protest" with the British High Commissioner in India over British High Commissioner to Islamabad's visit to Pakistan- occupied Kashmir with another British official. India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that the visit by Jane Marriott, the British High Commissioner was an "infringement" of India's sovereignty and territorial integrity calling the development "unacceptable".</p>

<p>"India has taken a serious note of the highly objectionable visit of the British High Commissioner in Islamabad, along with a UK Foreign Office official, to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on January 10," said India's Ministry of External Affairs.</p>

<p>British envoy Jane Marriott visited Mirpur in Pakistan- occupied Kashmir.</p>

<p>"Such infringement of India's sovereignty and territorial integrity is unacceptable," said the MEA.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India: Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge to lead opposition bloc India</strong></p>

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<p>The Indian ministry made it clear in no uncertain terms that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh "have been and shall always remain an integral part of India."</p>

<p>Marriott, who visited Mirpur, even shared a post about her visit on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) attempting to trace roots of 'British Pakistani' population in the United Kingdom.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Salaam from Mirpur, the heart of the UK and Pakistan’s people to people ties! 70% of British Pakistani roots are from Mirpur, making our work together crucial for diaspora interests. Thank you for your hospitality! <a href="https://t.co/3LyNFQan9H">pic.twitter.com/3LyNFQan9H</a></p>
— Jane Marriott (@JaneMarriottUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/JaneMarriottUK/status/1745078793989956042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>India has expressed its strong displeasure to British High Commissioner in India. Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra conveyed India's objection.</p>

<p><strong>Exclusive | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-ram-temple-ceremony-is-a-global-event-a-second-diwali-mauritius-fm-maneesh-gobin-679644">Ram temple ceremony is a global event, a second Diwali: Mauritius FM Maneesh Gobin</a></strong></p>

<p>This is not the first time senior official of a prominent Western country has chosen to visit Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-two-arrested-after-attack-on-ed-officials-in-west-bengal-679631">India: Two men arrested for attack on ED officials during raid on TMC leader’s house in West Bengal</a></strong></p>

<p>Just last year, in the month of October, the US envoy to Pakistan Donald Blome visited PoK. Even at that time, India conveyed its 'strong objection' to the United States and urged all countries to respect India's "sovereignty and territorial integrity".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian foreign ministry has lodged a "strong protest" with the British High Commissioner in India over British High Commissioner to Islamabad's visit to Pakistan- occupied Kashmir with another British official.

Indian foreign ministry has lodged a "strong protest" with the British High Commissioner in India over British High Commissioner to Islamabad's visit to Pakistan- occupied Kashmir with another British official. India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that the visit by Jane Marriott, the British High Commissioner was an "infringement" of India's sovereignty and territorial integrity calling the development "unacceptable". "India has taken a serious note of the highly objectionable visit of the British High Commissioner in Islamabad, along with a UK Foreign Office official, to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on January 10," said India's Ministry of External Affairs. British envoy Jane Marriott visited Mirpur in Pakistan- occupied Kashmir. "Such infringement of India's sovereignty and territorial integrity is unacceptable," said the MEA. Watch | India: Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge to lead opposition bloc India × The Indian ministry made it clear in no uncertain terms that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh "have been and shall always remain an integral part of India." Marriott, who visited Mirpur, even shared a post about her visit on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) attempting to trace roots of 'British Pakistani' population in the United Kingdom. Salaam from Mirpur, the heart of the UK and Pakistan’s people to people ties! 70% of British Pakistani roots are from Mirpur, making our work together crucial for diaspora interests. Thank you for your hospitality! pic.twitter.com/3LyNFQan9H — Jane Marriott (@JaneMarriottUK) January 10, 2024 × India has expressed its strong displeasure to British High Commissioner in India. Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra conveyed India's objection. Exclusive | Ram temple ceremony is a global event, a second Diwali: Mauritius FM Maneesh Gobin This is not the first time senior official of a prominent Western country has chosen to visit Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Also Read | India: Two men arrested for attack on ED officials during raid on TMC leader’s house in West Bengal Just last year, in the month of October, the US envoy to Pakistan Donald Blome visited PoK. Even at that time, India conveyed its 'strong objection' to the United States and urged all countries to respect India's "sovereignty and territorial integrity". (With inputs from agencies)

India lodges ‘strong protest’ after British envoy visits Pakistan-occupied Kashmir

The Lok Sabha Wednesday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) bill, 2023 as well as the Jammu And Kashmir reorganisation (Amendment) bill, 2023. Following the passage of the bills, the opposition members walked out of the house over Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s remark on former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

Key Jammu and Kashmir bills passed in Lok Sabha| Provision for seats for Kashmiri migrants

A passenger bus was ambushed by terrorists in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir’s Gilgit Baltistan (GB) region, killing nine people and injuring 21.

Nine killed, 21 injured after terrorists ambush passenger bus in Pakistan occupied Kashmir

People across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir are taking to the streets to protest against a wide range of issues they have been grappling with for a very long time. The government response to the agitation was a crackdown including house searches and filing of FIRs against the demonstrators.

Widespread protests rage throughout Pakistan-occupied Kashmir

Pakistanis are against their own country and government. PoK Activists held massive protests against Pakistan. They raised slogans during the 54th Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

PoK activists shout 'Pakistan must leave PoK' in front of the UNHRC in Geneva

<p>Terrorists from India’s Jammu and Kashmir region who have taken shelter in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) will soon see their properties getting seized by the authorities, as per media reports.</p>

<p>The J&amp;K administration has already initiated the process of declaring them “proclaimed offenders" and attaching their properties.</p>

<p>"Traitors to the nation... the people who have taken shelter in Pakistan after being involved in terrorist activities (in India) are now trying to promote terrorism from there," Dilbag Singh, the Director-General of J&amp;K Police was quoted as saying by NDTV. He added that data about these militants was ready.</p>

<h2><strong>Action already started</strong></h2>

<p>Singh further added that the action had already been initiated in the Doda district, where at least 16 people who earlier took refuge in PoK have been declared proclaimed offenders.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Sopore: Hub of India's apple production, main stakeholder in Kashmir's Horticulture business</strong></p>

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<p>"Few days ago in Doda range, action was initiated against such traitors. Their properties have been attached and they have been declared fugitives," Singh said.</p>

<p>Notably, properties of those accused of sheltering terrorists in Kashmir is also being attached, with officials clarifying that those who were forced or threatened to shelter terrorists will be spared from government action.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/asias-second-largest-fruit-mandi-in-kashmir-abuzz-with-buyers-from-across-india-632186"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Asia’s second-largest fruit mandi in Kashmir abuzz with buyers from across India</strong></a></p>

<p>"I hope you will not give protection or support to such elements. The rest of the job will be done by the police and security forces. Don't give shelter. It is because of terrorism that people in J&amp;K have been living in fear for decades," Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Tuesday.</p>

<h2><strong>How many people could be targeted?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the intelligence wing of the J&amp;K police, a list has already been prepared featuring over 4,200 such terrorists living in PoK since 1990. The details of their properties have already been shared with the Inspector-General of Registrations and Revenue.</p>

<h2><strong>Brief history</strong></h2>

<p>In 1990, thousands of youth crossed the Line of Control into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir for arms training. Pakistan trained all of them to later return to India and stage terror attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over the past three decades, over 23,000 terrorists have been neutralised by security forces.</p>

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Terrorists from India’s Jammu and Kashmir region who have taken shelter in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) will soon see their properties getting seized by the authorities, as per media reports.

Terrorists from India’s Jammu and Kashmir region who have taken shelter in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) will soon see their properties getting seized by the authorities, as per media reports. The J&K administration has already initiated the process of declaring them “proclaimed offenders" and attaching their properties. "Traitors to the nation... the people who have taken shelter in Pakistan after being involved in terrorist activities (in India) are now trying to promote terrorism from there," Dilbag Singh, the Director-General of J&K Police was quoted as saying by NDTV. He added that data about these militants was ready. Action already started Singh further added that the action had already been initiated in the Doda district, where at least 16 people who earlier took refuge in PoK have been declared proclaimed offenders. Watch: Sopore: Hub of India's apple production, main stakeholder in Kashmir's Horticulture business × "Few days ago in Doda range, action was initiated against such traitors. Their properties have been attached and they have been declared fugitives," Singh said. Notably, properties of those accused of sheltering terrorists in Kashmir is also being attached, with officials clarifying that those who were forced or threatened to shelter terrorists will be spared from government action. Also read: Asia’s second-largest fruit mandi in Kashmir abuzz with buyers from across India "I hope you will not give protection or support to such elements. The rest of the job will be done by the police and security forces. Don't give shelter. It is because of terrorism that people in J&K have been living in fear for decades," Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Tuesday. How many people could be targeted? According to the intelligence wing of the J&K police, a list has already been prepared featuring over 4,200 such terrorists living in PoK since 1990. The details of their properties have already been shared with the Inspector-General of Registrations and Revenue. Brief history In 1990, thousands of youth crossed the Line of Control into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir for arms training. Pakistan trained all of them to later return to India and stage terror attacks. Over the past three decades, over 23,000 terrorists have been neutralised by security forces. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India to seize properties of terrorists living in Pak-occupied Kashmir

Large-scale protests have erupted in Gilgit-Baltistan after an FIR was filed against a prominent Shia cleric. The protesters are also threatening authorities about a civil war & merging with India if their demands are not met. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas : 'We want to join India': PoK residents clamour after FIR against Shia cleric

<p>Gilgit-Baltistan region in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) is in the news for anti-Pakistan protests. Various news reports referred to a video on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and said that locals gathered in large numbers in Skardu to express their anger against Pakistani government demanding immediate release of their leaders. Protesting locals have reportedly threatened Pakistan government with "civil war" and have even said that they would "merge with India" in case the demands are not met.</p>

<p>The video being referred to reportedly shows a local leader addressing a large crowd gathered near a mosque in the city. The leader can be heard saying that if Pakistan does not release leaders of the region and cease arresting them, the protesters would "smash the doors to Kargil", this us being interpreted as a threat to join India. The protesters blocked Karakoram highway</p>

<p>The video shows slogans being raised and vows of being unafraid being taken.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will go to Kargil and no one will be able to stop us," says the leader as the crowd cheers.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Locals in 𝐆𝐈𝐋𝐆𝐈𝐓 𝐁𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐍 have threatened Pakistan Govt to immediately release their leaders or they will rage a civil war &amp; merge with India<a href="https://t.co/nTftxAj8TH">pic.twitter.com/nTftxAj8TH</a></p>
— Rishi Bagree (@rishibagree) <a href="https://twitter.com/rishibagree/status/1696514837722083444?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Remove these terrorists, I have two FIRs, why are we are being provoked," says the leader in the video.</p>

<p>Media reports suggest that there has been an FIR against a Shia Muslim cleric. People are reportedly are not happy at the development. There is also resentment in Skardu over toughening of blasphemy law.</p>

<p>As per reports an FIR has been filed against Shia cleric Sheikh Bakir al-Husseini according to blasphemy law. It has been alleged that the cleric had made controversial comment against Prophet Mohammed. al-Husseini has denied the claims.</p>

<h2><strong>Is the Pak army escalating tensions?</strong></h2>

<p>The demonstrators also blocked roads and passages, alleging that it was the army and the intelligence agency ISI who were escalating tensions in the region by taking advantage of the sectarian divisions.</p>

<p>Such is the anger against the Pakistani administration and the army that locals are now openly saying what was considered blasphemy just a few months back—Rejoining India.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/from-2800-to-4000-president-of-cash-strapped-pakistan-demands-massive-hike-in-monthly-salary-630580"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;From $2800 to $4000: President of cash-strapped Pakistan demands massive hike in monthly salary</strong></a></p>

<p>“If you give us pain, we will give you double the pain. There is no peace now. Peace will come when our lives will be secured. If we are not safe, no one else will be spared. I am saying this in the open, this place will not be opened for traffic till the time the government officials withdraw the FIR. They took action against our cleric. We want them to come and face us,” said Wazir Hasnain, a social worker in the Gilgit-Baltistan region.</p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

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Gilgit-Baltistan region in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) is in the news for anti-Pakistan protests. Various news reports referred to a video on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and said that locals gathered in large numbers in Skardu to express their anger against Pakistani government demanding immediate release of their leaders.

Gilgit-Baltistan region in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) is in the news for anti-Pakistan protests. Various news reports referred to a video on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and said that locals gathered in large numbers in Skardu to express their anger against Pakistani government demanding immediate release of their leaders. Protesting locals have reportedly threatened Pakistan government with "civil war" and have even said that they would "merge with India" in case the demands are not met. The video being referred to reportedly shows a local leader addressing a large crowd gathered near a mosque in the city. The leader can be heard saying that if Pakistan does not release leaders of the region and cease arresting them, the protesters would "smash the doors to Kargil", this us being interpreted as a threat to join India. The protesters blocked Karakoram highway The video shows slogans being raised and vows of being unafraid being taken. "We will go to Kargil and no one will be able to stop us," says the leader as the crowd cheers. Locals in 𝐆𝐈𝐋𝐆𝐈𝐓 𝐁𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐍 have threatened Pakistan Govt to immediately release their leaders or they will rage a civil war & merge with Indiapic.twitter.com/nTftxAj8TH — Rishi Bagree (@rishibagree) August 29, 2023 × "Remove these terrorists, I have two FIRs, why are we are being provoked," says the leader in the video. Media reports suggest that there has been an FIR against a Shia Muslim cleric. People are reportedly are not happy at the development. There is also resentment in Skardu over toughening of blasphemy law. As per reports an FIR has been filed against Shia cleric Sheikh Bakir al-Husseini according to blasphemy law. It has been alleged that the cleric had made controversial comment against Prophet Mohammed. al-Husseini has denied the claims. Is the Pak army escalating tensions? The demonstrators also blocked roads and passages, alleging that it was the army and the intelligence agency ISI who were escalating tensions in the region by taking advantage of the sectarian divisions. Such is the anger against the Pakistani administration and the army that locals are now openly saying what was considered blasphemy just a few months back—Rejoining India. Also read: From $2800 to $4000: President of cash-strapped Pakistan demands massive hike in monthly salary “If you give us pain, we will give you double the pain. There is no peace now. Peace will come when our lives will be secured. If we are not safe, no one else will be spared. I am saying this in the open, this place will not be opened for traffic till the time the government officials withdraw the FIR. They took action against our cleric. We want them to come and face us,” said Wazir Hasnain, a social worker in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Social media video shows anti-Pakistan protest in PoK, threats of merger with India: Reports

Four terrorists trying to infiltrate from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara. The terrorists were neutralised in a joint operation by police and the Indian Army.

At least four terrorists killed in an encounter in Jammu & Kashmir's Kupwara

The Pakistan Occupied Kashmir's (PoK) assembly has supported the Indian Home Minister Amit Shah's proposal for the opening of Sharda Peeth Corridor. The PoK government has suggested that Kashmiri Pandits and Hindus living in India should be allowed to visit the historic Sharda Peeth temple situated in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.

PoK assembly endorses Amit Shah's statement on opening of Sharda Peeth corridor

Pakistan is grappling with a major economic crisis. Amid this, protests have rocked PoK, as residents of Gilgit Baltistan demand a reunion with Kashmir. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Gilgit Baltistan demands reunion with India

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met in Beijing on Wednesday, where the talks centred around Islamabad’s economic crisis and the need to boost projects under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor, according to the state media.</p>

<p>This is Sharif’s first official visit to China after taking charge earlier this year, and so is the case of Xi after recently concluding its twice-a-decade party congress where he was elected unopposed for third-term.</p>

<p>Both leaders met at the People’s Great Hall of China and discussed moving forward more with the construction of their economic corridor and accelerating the construction of infrastructure for the Gwadar Sea Port, state media reported.</p>

<p>Their conversation ranged on broad-based economic cooperation and investment, besides exchanging views on regional and global developments.</p>

<p>Shehbaz and Xi also discussed the need to further promote the 'all-weather strategic cooperation partnership' between the two nations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif visits China amid domestic, global turmoil</strong></p>

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<p>According to Pakistani media, Sharif, who is on a two-day visit to China, was welcomed with a red carpet and a guard of honour by the Chinese forces.</p>

<p>Notably, ahead of his visit, Sharif hurriedly cleared $12 billion worth of three major projects were cleared under the CPEC, reports Dawn newspaper.</p>

<p>CPEC is the flagship project of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)—a pet project of Xi—which is a collection of infrastructure projects that are under construction throughout Pakistan beginning in 2013.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/was-unaware-of-any-undertaking-replies-imran-khan-in-a-sc-contempt-case-529995" hreflang="en">'Was unaware of any undertaking', replies Imran Khan in a contempt case</a></p>

<p>Originally valued at $47 billion, the value of CPEC projects is worth $62 billion as of 2020.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/isi-chief-makes-surprise-appearance-slams-imran-khan-for-maligning-military-and-iss-529077" hreflang="en">ISI chief makes surprise appearance, slams Imran Khan for 'maligning' military</a></p>

<p>India has repeatedly registered its protests over CPEC, saying that it is in violation of its sovereignty as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met in Beijing on Wednesday, where the talks centred around Islamabad’s economic crisis and the need to boost projects under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor, according to the state media.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met in Beijing on Wednesday, where the talks centred around Islamabad’s economic crisis and the need to boost projects under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor, according to the state media. This is Sharif’s first official visit to China after taking charge earlier this year, and so is the case of Xi after recently concluding its twice-a-decade party congress where he was elected unopposed for third-term. Both leaders met at the People’s Great Hall of China and discussed moving forward more with the construction of their economic corridor and accelerating the construction of infrastructure for the Gwadar Sea Port, state media reported. Their conversation ranged on broad-based economic cooperation and investment, besides exchanging views on regional and global developments. Shehbaz and Xi also discussed the need to further promote the 'all-weather strategic cooperation partnership' between the two nations. Watch | WION Dispatch: Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif visits China amid domestic, global turmoil According to Pakistani media, Sharif, who is on a two-day visit to China, was welcomed with a red carpet and a guard of honour by the Chinese forces. Notably, ahead of his visit, Sharif hurriedly cleared $12 billion worth of three major projects were cleared under the CPEC, reports Dawn newspaper. CPEC is the flagship project of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)—a pet project of Xi—which is a collection of infrastructure projects that are under construction throughout Pakistan beginning in 2013. Also read | 'Was unaware of any undertaking', replies Imran Khan in a contempt case Originally valued at $47 billion, the value of CPEC projects is worth $62 billion as of 2020. Also read | ISI chief makes surprise appearance, slams Imran Khan for 'maligning' military India has repeatedly registered its protests over CPEC, saying that it is in violation of its sovereignty as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China’s Xi Jinping meets Pak’s Shehbaz Sharif, both agree to revitalise CPEC projects

<p>The Defence Minister of India, Rajnath Singh is on a visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. While addressing the Infantry Day function in Srinagar, Rajnath Singh said that people of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir are subjected to human rights violations and Pakistan has to pay a price for it. The defence minister said that the Indian government is committed to implementing the 1994 resolution passed in the Parliament about retrieving the part of Kashmir “under illegal occupation of Pakistan.”</p>

<p>''Our country is watching and feeling the pain of the citizens of PoK, where Pakistan is unleashing torture and harassment. Very soon there will be a rebellion in the PoK by the citizens against the atrocities. Our country is committed to implementing the resolution passed in the Parliament about retrieving Kashmir under illegal occupation of Pakistan,'' said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-foreign-terrorist-killed-during-infiltration-bid-near-loc-in-north-kashmir-528459"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;One foreign terrorist killed during infiltration bid near LoC in North Kashmir</strong></a></p>

<p>The defence minister was in Srinagar to celebrate the Shaurya Diwas. October 27 is observed as Infantry Day (Shaurya Diwas). The army on this day fought Pakistani invaders and pushed them back. While remembering the sacrifices Soldiers have made, he said I bow my head before all the martyrs for their sacrifice for this country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''I bow my head before all the martyrs, who sacrificed their lives to liberate this land from the brutal attack of raiders. Pakistan showed its true colours soon after the partition of India-Pakistan took place. We had not imagined that Pakistan would stoop so low and attack Jammu and Kashmir. When Pakistani infiltrators attacked Jammu and Kashmir altogether from URI to Gurez and Tanghdhar, the main attack took place from Muzaffarabad side, but it was brigadier Rajender Singh who stopped the raiders from proceeding further towards Baramulla by blasting the bridge at URI, '' he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mehbooba-mufti-takes-a-dig-at-the-centre-while-congratulating-rishi-sunak-bjp-hits-back-528233"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Mehbooba Mufti takes a dig at the centre while congratulating Rishi Sunak, BJP hits back</strong></a></p>

<p>While speaking on the full integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the removal of Article 370, the defence minister said Rama Prasad Mukherji had seen the dream of full integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country and the dream was completed on August 05, 2019, when the Modi government integrated Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country completely by erasing two flags and two constitutions.</p>

<p>While taking a dig at the politicians in Kashmir Valley, he&nbsp;said that the Kashmiri people were not getting any benefits due to the self-centric Politics of leaders in the Union Territory. ''Due to the self-centric politics of some leaders here, the people of Jammu and Kashmir couldn't get all the benefits provided by the central government,'' he added.&nbsp;</p>

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The Defence Minister of India, Rajnath Singh is on a visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. While addressing the Infantry Day function in Srinagar, Rajnath Singh said that people of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir are subjected to human rights violations and Pakistan has to pay a price for it.

The Defence Minister of India, Rajnath Singh is on a visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. While addressing the Infantry Day function in Srinagar, Rajnath Singh said that people of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir are subjected to human rights violations and Pakistan has to pay a price for it. The defence minister said that the Indian government is committed to implementing the 1994 resolution passed in the Parliament about retrieving the part of Kashmir “under illegal occupation of Pakistan.” ''Our country is watching and feeling the pain of the citizens of PoK, where Pakistan is unleashing torture and harassment. Very soon there will be a rebellion in the PoK by the citizens against the atrocities. Our country is committed to implementing the resolution passed in the Parliament about retrieving Kashmir under illegal occupation of Pakistan,'' said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Also read | One foreign terrorist killed during infiltration bid near LoC in North Kashmir The defence minister was in Srinagar to celebrate the Shaurya Diwas. October 27 is observed as Infantry Day (Shaurya Diwas). The army on this day fought Pakistani invaders and pushed them back. While remembering the sacrifices Soldiers have made, he said I bow my head before all the martyrs for their sacrifice for this country. ''I bow my head before all the martyrs, who sacrificed their lives to liberate this land from the brutal attack of raiders. Pakistan showed its true colours soon after the partition of India-Pakistan took place. We had not imagined that Pakistan would stoop so low and attack Jammu and Kashmir. When Pakistani infiltrators attacked Jammu and Kashmir altogether from URI to Gurez and Tanghdhar, the main attack took place from Muzaffarabad side, but it was brigadier Rajender Singh who stopped the raiders from proceeding further towards Baramulla by blasting the bridge at URI, '' he said. Also read | Mehbooba Mufti takes a dig at the centre while congratulating Rishi Sunak, BJP hits back While speaking on the full integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the removal of Article 370, the defence minister said Rama Prasad Mukherji had seen the dream of full integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country and the dream was completed on August 05, 2019, when the Modi government integrated Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country completely by erasing two flags and two constitutions. While taking a dig at the politicians in Kashmir Valley, he said that the Kashmiri people were not getting any benefits due to the self-centric Politics of leaders in the Union Territory. ''Due to the self-centric politics of some leaders here, the people of Jammu and Kashmir couldn't get all the benefits provided by the central government,'' he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hints at retrieving PoK under parliament resolution

<p>Donald Blome, the United States' representative to Pakistan, visited Pakistan-occupied Kashmir this past week. What is not believed to sit well with India is that Blome repeatedly referred to PoK as AJK (Azad Kashmir, the contentious term used by Pakistan to refer to the area) during his tour there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India does not appreciate references to the area as Azad Kashmir since it views Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, or PoK, as its own. According to New Delhi, Pakistan forcibly occupied the area in 1947.</p>

<p>The Indian ministry of external affairs&nbsp;criticised US Congresswoman Ilham Omar's trip to PoK in April of this year and referred to her as a proponent of "narrow-minded politics."</p>

<p>Omar attempted to incite India during her visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) by raising the topic of the Narendra Modi administration's repeal of Article 370 and claims of human rights abuses in Jammu and Kashmir.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-top-islamic-state-terrorists-killed-in-us-air-raids-conducted-in-syria-523162">Two top Islamic State terrorists killed in US air raids conducted in Syria</a></p>

<p>It should be mentioned that the US envoy was in PoK on an official visit as part of initiatives to repair the region's historical and cultural landmarks and to draw attention to American aid provided to Pakistan in the wake of the 2005 earthquake and the most recent, devastating floods.</p>

<p>The US envoy's travel to PoK coincides with efforts by the Biden administration to engage <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-ministers-walk-out-during-presidents-speech-523203">Pakistan</a> following the Donald Trump administration's isolation of Islamabad over allegations that it was not sincere in combating terrorism.</p>

<p>In response to the US effort to patch things up with Pakistan, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that "the relationship between the US and Islamabad will neither serve the interests of America nor of Pakistan."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Donald Blome, the United States' representative to Pakistan, visited Pakistan-occupied Kashmir this past week. What is not believed to sit well with India is that Blome repeatedly referred to PoK as AJK (Azad Kashmir, the contentious term used by Pakistan to refer to the area) during his tour there.

Donald Blome, the United States' representative to Pakistan, visited Pakistan-occupied Kashmir this past week. What is not believed to sit well with India is that Blome repeatedly referred to PoK as AJK (Azad Kashmir, the contentious term used by Pakistan to refer to the area) during his tour there. India does not appreciate references to the area as Azad Kashmir since it views Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, or PoK, as its own. According to New Delhi, Pakistan forcibly occupied the area in 1947. The Indian ministry of external affairs criticised US Congresswoman Ilham Omar's trip to PoK in April of this year and referred to her as a proponent of "narrow-minded politics." Omar attempted to incite India during her visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) by raising the topic of the Narendra Modi administration's repeal of Article 370 and claims of human rights abuses in Jammu and Kashmir. Also read | Two top Islamic State terrorists killed in US air raids conducted in Syria It should be mentioned that the US envoy was in PoK on an official visit as part of initiatives to repair the region's historical and cultural landmarks and to draw attention to American aid provided to Pakistan in the wake of the 2005 earthquake and the most recent, devastating floods. The US envoy's travel to PoK coincides with efforts by the Biden administration to engage Pakistan following the Donald Trump administration's isolation of Islamabad over allegations that it was not sincere in combating terrorism. In response to the US effort to patch things up with Pakistan, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that "the relationship between the US and Islamabad will neither serve the interests of America nor of Pakistan." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US envoy, during visit to PoK, refers to the region as ‘Azad Kashmir’, stirs controversy

The US ambassador to Pakistan, Donald Blome visited Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Monday to plant a sapling at the 'University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK)'. During this visit Blome mentioned PoK as 'Azad Jammu and Kashmir' which is anathema to New Delhi as it holds that the region was forcibly occupied by Pakistan in 1947.

WION Dispatch: India raises objection to US envoy's visit to PoK

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