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.

US envoy to Pak Donald Blome calls PoK 'Azad Jammu & Kashmir'

Pakistan has taken another loan from China. Islamabad owes over $14 billion to Beijing. How will it repay the loans? A report claims that locals in Gilgit Baltistan are afraid. They fear parts of PoK could be leased out to settle Chinese debts. Palki Sharma has more

Gravitas: Will China make Pakistan lease parts of PoK?

Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has clarified that the Padma Bridge— multipurpose road-rail bridge across the Padma River, the main distributary of the Ganges—is not part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), putting rest to speculations on&nbsp;Beijing’s presence in the Indian neighbourhood.

BRI or the “One Belt, One Road” initiative is a flagship programme of President Xi Jinping for trade and connectivity. India has often raised concerns over the BRI projects because of a key part– the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) – passing&nbsp;through Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

In a statement, Bangladesh MoFA said, “Ministry of Foreign Affairs categorically asserts that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge has been entirely funded by the Government of Bangladesh and no foreign funds from any bilateral or multilateral funding agency have financially contributed to its construction.”

The response came amid reports that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge has been constructed under the Chinese BRI and foreign funds.

According to the foreign ministry, the completion of the bridge— which is scheduled to open on June 25—will fulfil the dream of Bangladesh of connecting the 19 south-western districts to the rest of the country resulting in collective prosperity, socio-economic development of the country as well as enhanced regional connectivity.

The 6-km bridge, which is located about 40 kilometres south of Dhaka, is expected to boost trade and commerce in Bangladesh's southwest region and, according to official estimates, increase the country's GDP by 1.2 per cent.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the main construction work of the bridge in 2015. When completed it will be the largest bridge in Bangladesh and the first fixed river crossing for road traffic.

It will connect Louhajong, Munshiganj to Shariatpur and Madaripur, linking the south-west of the country, to northern and eastern regions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has clarified that the Padma Bridge— multipurpose road-rail bridge across the Padma River, the main distributary of the Ganges—is not part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), putting rest to speculations on Beijing’s presence in the Indian neighbourhood.

Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has clarified that the Padma Bridge— multipurpose road-rail bridge across the Padma River, the main distributary of the Ganges—is not part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), putting rest to speculations on Beijing’s presence in the Indian neighbourhood. BRI or the “One Belt, One Road” initiative is a flagship programme of President Xi Jinping for trade and connectivity. India has often raised concerns over the BRI projects because of a key part– the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) – passing through Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). In a statement, Bangladesh MoFA said, “Ministry of Foreign Affairs categorically asserts that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge has been entirely funded by the Government of Bangladesh and no foreign funds from any bilateral or multilateral funding agency have financially contributed to its construction.” The response came amid reports that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge has been constructed under the Chinese BRI and foreign funds. According to the foreign ministry, the completion of the bridge— which is scheduled to open on June 25—will fulfil the dream of Bangladesh of connecting the 19 south-western districts to the rest of the country resulting in collective prosperity, socio-economic development of the country as well as enhanced regional connectivity. The 6-km bridge, which is located about 40 kilometres south of Dhaka, is expected to boost trade and commerce in Bangladesh's southwest region and, according to official estimates, increase the country's GDP by 1.2 per cent. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the main construction work of the bridge in 2015. When completed it will be the largest bridge in Bangladesh and the first fixed river crossing for road traffic. It will connect Louhajong, Munshiganj to Shariatpur and Madaripur, linking the south-west of the country, to northern and eastern regions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bangladesh denies Padma Bridge project being part of China’s Belt and Road Imitative

With the change of guard in Pakistan, sources in Intelligence say that five to six terrorist launch pads have become active in PoK near the Line of Control. As the snow melts on these higher reaches, the terrorists are waiting for an opportunity to Infiltrate into Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

Security forces have dual challenges at hand as the infiltration routes have cleared of the snow, especially in the Neelam Valley of PoK. Sources say that there are three launch pads in the Neelam area and in each launch pad there are 100-150 terrorists.&nbsp;

The whole Line of Control has been put on high alert and forces have increased the vigil along the border. The vigil has been increased in the hills as well as the forest area of the border. &nbsp;The Indian army says that every year the vigil is increased during this period.&nbsp;

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"The challenges increase after the snow melts. Because with the melting of the snow, the infiltration attempts increase, but we will respond to their nefarious designs accordingly. We increase our readiness. We increase the fence patrolling as well as the night patrolling. Whoever tries to infiltrate, we make sure to foil those bids." said Havildar Amit Kumar, an Army jawan posted along the Line of Control in Keran Sector 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Security forces say that Lashkar and Jaish terror outfits have been asked to intensify and carry out attacks. One of the reasons being increase in the anti-terrorist operations of the security forces in the Kashmir valley. Security forces say that these operations have weakened their roots and that's why Pakistan will push more terrorists into the Valley. However, the Indian Army has completely sealed the borders leaving no scope for Infiltration.

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The counter-infiltration grid is prepared by the Indian Army. Apart from physical surveillance, latest equipment is also used to keep track of the LoC. These include thermal imagers, P2G cameras, night vision devices, etc.&nbsp;

''We are using the latest technology and equipment to keep a vigil on the LoC. The vigil is kept day and night. Patrolling keeps happening all through the border and we make sure no intruder succeeds in crossing the LoC. We want to tell everyone in the country to not worry about the borders, as long as we are guarding these borders, people can sleep peacefully. '' said Havildar Umesh, Indian Army.

According to the latest data, Kashmir valley witnessed the lowest number of active terrorists in the last 30 years. The number was recorded below 200. In 2021, Security forces killed 184 terrorists. And since January this year, the forces have killed 59 terrorists in 40 encounters. Around 30 terrorists have been arrested while 169 OGW's have been apprehended as well.&nbsp;

With the change of guard in Pakistan, sources in Intelligence say that five to six terrorist launch pads have become active in PoK near the Line of Control. As the snow melts on these higher reaches, the terrorists are waiting for an opportunity to Infiltrate into Kashmir Valley.

With the change of guard in Pakistan, sources in Intelligence say that five to six terrorist launch pads have become active in PoK near the Line of Control. As the snow melts on these higher reaches, the terrorists are waiting for an opportunity to Infiltrate into Kashmir Valley. Security forces have dual challenges at hand as the infiltration routes have cleared of the snow, especially in the Neelam Valley of PoK. Sources say that there are three launch pads in the Neelam area and in each launch pad there are 100-150 terrorists. The whole Line of Control has been put on high alert and forces have increased the vigil along the border. The vigil has been increased in the hills as well as the forest area of the border. The Indian army says that every year the vigil is increased during this period. "The challenges increase after the snow melts. Because with the melting of the snow, the infiltration attempts increase, but we will respond to their nefarious designs accordingly. We increase our readiness. We increase the fence patrolling as well as the night patrolling. Whoever tries to infiltrate, we make sure to foil those bids." said Havildar Amit Kumar, an Army jawan posted along the Line of Control in Keran Sector Security forces say that Lashkar and Jaish terror outfits have been asked to intensify and carry out attacks. One of the reasons being increase in the anti-terrorist operations of the security forces in the Kashmir valley. Security forces say that these operations have weakened their roots and that's why Pakistan will push more terrorists into the Valley. However, the Indian Army has completely sealed the borders leaving no scope for Infiltration. Watch WION's live TV here: The counter-infiltration grid is prepared by the Indian Army. Apart from physical surveillance, latest equipment is also used to keep track of the LoC. These include thermal imagers, P2G cameras, night vision devices, etc. ''We are using the latest technology and equipment to keep a vigil on the LoC. The vigil is kept day and night. Patrolling keeps happening all through the border and we make sure no intruder succeeds in crossing the LoC. We want to tell everyone in the country to not worry about the borders, as long as we are guarding these borders, people can sleep peacefully. '' said Havildar Umesh, Indian Army. According to the latest data, Kashmir valley witnessed the lowest number of active terrorists in the last 30 years. The number was recorded below 200. In 2021, Security forces killed 184 terrorists. And since January this year, the forces have killed 59 terrorists in 40 encounters. Around 30 terrorists have been arrested while 169 OGW's have been apprehended as well.

Terrorist launch pads have become active in PoK near the Line of Control

West Pakistan refugees Thursday danced to the beats of dholak to celebrate the second anniversary of the abrogation of articles 370 and 35-A which resulted in them gaining citizenship rights in Jammu and Kashmir.

Led by Pakistan Refugees Action Committee president Laba Ram Gandhi, the men, women and children from the community converged in the border area and danced amid slogans of Bharat Mata Ki Jai.

"We are celebrating it as our Independence Day by unfurling the Tricolour because real independence in Jammu and Kashmir came to us on August 5, 2019," Ram Gandhi told reporters here, referring to the day the Centre announced the abrogation of Article 370 and 35-A and its decision to divide the erstwhile state into two union territories.

Watch | Second anniversary of revocation of Article 370 in Jammu &amp; Kashmir

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The refugees, who now enjoy the rights of a bonafide citizen, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

"We were living as unwanted citizens of Jammu and Kashmir. We had no rights, from voting to getting jobs. Now we are proud citizens of Jammu and Kashmir. Now our children will get all the rights," Ram Gandhi said.

Till August 5, 2019, the refugees were barred from voting in all elections except for parliamentary polls.

The refugees, who migrated from parts of West Punjab and Gujarat that are now in Pakistan, were also barred from government jobs, scholarships and admission in colleges, welfare schemes, and the right to own land.

The youths from the community are mostly illiterate and earn their livelihoods by working as labourers in agriculture fields in border belts of R S Pura, Samba, Hiranagar and Jammu, while the elderly work as domestic help.

After the scrapping of Article 370 on this day in 2019, West Pakistan refugees gained citizenship rights and can not only vote in local elections but also contest polls and enjoy all benefits as a citizen.

Like them, Valmikis also celebrated the day with joy and happiness.

They converged on the Valmiki temple complex and celebrated by raising pro-India slogans and thanked the prime minister for the decision.

Radical Gill, a Valmiki Samaj activist, said the abrogation of Article 370 came as a new lease of life to them. "We have got justice after many decades of the fight. We thank PM for this big decision. We can now become who we want to."

Another youth, Anadi Bhatti, said now he can become an advocate as article 370 is gone forever. "My dream will be fulfilled," he said.

West Pakistan refugees Thursday danced to the beats of dholak to celebrate the second anniversary of the abrogation of articles 370 and 35-A which resulted in them gaining citizenship rights in Jammu and Kashmir.

West Pakistan refugees Thursday danced to the beats of dholak to celebrate the second anniversary of the abrogation of articles 370 and 35-A which resulted in them gaining citizenship rights in Jammu and Kashmir. Led by Pakistan Refugees Action Committee president Laba Ram Gandhi, the men, women and children from the community converged in the border area and danced amid slogans of Bharat Mata Ki Jai. "We are celebrating it as our Independence Day by unfurling the Tricolour because real independence in Jammu and Kashmir came to us on August 5, 2019," Ram Gandhi told reporters here, referring to the day the Centre announced the abrogation of Article 370 and 35-A and its decision to divide the erstwhile state into two union territories. Watch | Second anniversary of revocation of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir The refugees, who now enjoy the rights of a bonafide citizen, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. "We were living as unwanted citizens of Jammu and Kashmir. We had no rights, from voting to getting jobs. Now we are proud citizens of Jammu and Kashmir. Now our children will get all the rights," Ram Gandhi said. Till August 5, 2019, the refugees were barred from voting in all elections except for parliamentary polls. The refugees, who migrated from parts of West Punjab and Gujarat that are now in Pakistan, were also barred from government jobs, scholarships and admission in colleges, welfare schemes, and the right to own land. The youths from the community are mostly illiterate and earn their livelihoods by working as labourers in agriculture fields in border belts of R S Pura, Samba, Hiranagar and Jammu, while the elderly work as domestic help. After the scrapping of Article 370 on this day in 2019, West Pakistan refugees gained citizenship rights and can not only vote in local elections but also contest polls and enjoy all benefits as a citizen. Like them, Valmikis also celebrated the day with joy and happiness. They converged on the Valmiki temple complex and celebrated by raising pro-India slogans and thanked the prime minister for the decision. Radical Gill, a Valmiki Samaj activist, said the abrogation of Article 370 came as a new lease of life to them. "We have got justice after many decades of the fight. We thank PM for this big decision. We can now become who we want to." Another youth, Anadi Bhatti, said now he can become an advocate as article 370 is gone forever. "My dream will be fulfilled," he said.

With beats of dholak, West Pakistan refugees celebrate the 2nd anniversary of Article 370 abrogation

India's envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti called on Pakistan to vacate Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and reminded Islamabad the onus is on them to create an atmosphere free from terror for talks. At a presser on the August agenda of the United Nations Security Council, Tirumurti said, "Jammu and Kashmir is an integral and inalienable part of India. If there needs to be a change in status, it is the vacation of Pakistan occupied Kashmir".&nbsp;

He was responding to a Pakistani journalist, who persistently raised Kashmir and India's abrogation of special status for the erstwhile state. As a custom, every UNSC president holds a presser on the first working day of the presidency. India, which is a non-permanent member of the UNSC for two years, holds the presidency this month.&nbsp;

The Indian envoy reminded the Pakistani journalist, "These are constitutional changes and these changes are within our constitution and these changes are entirely the prerogative of the Parliament of India. I don't think that at this point of time, we are discussing anything else. It is absolutely legitimate on our parliament to pass, rules and regulations relating to Jammu and Kashmir."&nbsp;

India as the president of the council will hold three signature events, one on August 9 on Maritime Security, which will see an address by PM Modi and two others on Peacekeeping (August 18) and Counter-terror (August 19) to be chaired by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. &nbsp;

When asked about India and Pakistan ties, the envoy said, "India desires normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan" and "if there are issues between India and Pakistan it should be resolved bilaterally and peacefully" reminding of the Shimla agreement, which "provides for a bilateral discussion and resolution of issues".&nbsp;

He highlighted that these issues should be resolved in an atmosphere "free from terror and hostility and violence" and "the onus is on Pakistan to create such a conducive atmosphere including by taking credible and verifiable action not to allow any territory under its control to be used for cross border terrorism against India".&nbsp;

India will be president of the UNSC next in December 2022. India has been president of the body in June 1950, September 1967, December 1972, October 1977, February 1985, October 1991, December 1992, August 2011, November 2012. The president decides the agenda for the month, coordinates important meetings and other related issues, and is an influential position.&nbsp;

India's envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti called on Pakistan to vacate Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and reminded Islamabad the onus is on them to create an atmosphere free from terror for talks.

India's envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti called on Pakistan to vacate Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and reminded Islamabad the onus is on them to create an atmosphere free from terror for talks. At a presser on the August agenda of the United Nations Security Council, Tirumurti said, "Jammu and Kashmir is an integral and inalienable part of India. If there needs to be a change in status, it is the vacation of Pakistan occupied Kashmir". He was responding to a Pakistani journalist, who persistently raised Kashmir and India's abrogation of special status for the erstwhile state. As a custom, every UNSC president holds a presser on the first working day of the presidency. India, which is a non-permanent member of the UNSC for two years, holds the presidency this month. The Indian envoy reminded the Pakistani journalist, "These are constitutional changes and these changes are within our constitution and these changes are entirely the prerogative of the Parliament of India. I don't think that at this point of time, we are discussing anything else. It is absolutely legitimate on our parliament to pass, rules and regulations relating to Jammu and Kashmir." India as the president of the council will hold three signature events, one on August 9 on Maritime Security, which will see an address by PM Modi and two others on Peacekeeping (August 18) and Counter-terror (August 19) to be chaired by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. When asked about India and Pakistan ties, the envoy said, "India desires normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan" and "if there are issues between India and Pakistan it should be resolved bilaterally and peacefully" reminding of the Shimla agreement, which "provides for a bilateral discussion and resolution of issues". He highlighted that these issues should be resolved in an atmosphere "free from terror and hostility and violence" and "the onus is on Pakistan to create such a conducive atmosphere including by taking credible and verifiable action not to allow any territory under its control to be used for cross border terrorism against India". India will be president of the UNSC next in December 2022. India has been president of the body in June 1950, September 1967, December 1972, October 1977, February 1985, October 1991, December 1992, August 2011, November 2012. The president decides the agenda for the month, coordinates important meetings and other related issues, and is an influential position.

'Pakistan needs to vacate PoK', says Indian Envoy to UN Tirumurti 

A protest erupted in Muzaffarabad city in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) against a "discriminatory and suppressive" legislation, which regularise an unspecified number of ad hoc, temporary and contractual employees.

Protestors hit the road and accused the government of nepotism, corruption, and working to further oppress the people of PoK.

The government in the region had earlier come up with the law addressing the years-long demands of regularisation of the contractual workers' jobs but the protestors said that only those who had allegiance or any other form of connection with the ruling party got the job.

The legislation by the occupied region "legislative assembly" was brought to regularise an unspecified number of ad hoc, temporary and contractual employees in the name of "humanity".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-dismisses-reports-of-army-strikes-in-pok-344156">Also Read |&nbsp;Indian government dismisses reports of Army strikes in PoK</a>

A petition has also been filed in the High Court of the region challenging the law.

The petitioners, who included five youth and two prominent civil society activists, said that the law was "inconsistent and in contravention" with the occupied region's 'Constitution' and had been passed in derogation of the UN Charter of Human Rights, Dawn reported.

Youth in Pakistan occupied Kashmir has been denied employment systematically over the years.

Even Pakistan's National Testing Service, which administers academic performance evaluation tests in Pakistan doesn't consider the youth of the region.

The protesters have vowed to continue their demonstrations until the law is rolled back by the government or is annulled by the court.

The unemployment rate in Pakistan occupied Kashmir is amongst the worst among the regions controlled by Islamabad.

A protest erupted in Muzaffarabad city in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) against a "discriminatory and suppressive" legislation, which regularise an unspecified number of ad hoc, temporary and contractual employees.

A protest erupted in Muzaffarabad city in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) against a "discriminatory and suppressive" legislation, which regularise an unspecified number of ad hoc, temporary and contractual employees. Protestors hit the road and accused the government of nepotism, corruption, and working to further oppress the people of PoK. The government in the region had earlier come up with the law addressing the years-long demands of regularisation of the contractual workers' jobs but the protestors said that only those who had allegiance or any other form of connection with the ruling party got the job. The legislation by the occupied region "legislative assembly" was brought to regularise an unspecified number of ad hoc, temporary and contractual employees in the name of "humanity". Also Read | Indian government dismisses reports of Army strikes in PoK A petition has also been filed in the High Court of the region challenging the law. The petitioners, who included five youth and two prominent civil society activists, said that the law was "inconsistent and in contravention" with the occupied region's 'Constitution' and had been passed in derogation of the UN Charter of Human Rights, Dawn reported. Youth in Pakistan occupied Kashmir has been denied employment systematically over the years. Even Pakistan's National Testing Service, which administers academic performance evaluation tests in Pakistan doesn't consider the youth of the region. The protesters have vowed to continue their demonstrations until the law is rolled back by the government or is annulled by the court. The unemployment rate in Pakistan occupied Kashmir is amongst the worst among the regions controlled by Islamabad.

Protest in PoK against 'discriminatory, exclusionary' job regularisation law

Shaukat Ali Kashmiri, exiled Chairman of United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP) on Saturday (local time) said Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit Baltistan were a part of the erstwhile princely state of Jammu and Kashmir but have been illegally held by Pakistan since 1947.&nbsp;

Speaking at a press conference at Geneva on human rights violations in Pakistan and the occupied territory of Jammu and Kashmir, he said UKPNP is opposed to the use of religion as a weapon and terrorism as a foreign policy tool. &nbsp;

He said the Article 257 constitution of Pakistan is a provision related to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, "when the people of the State of Jammu and Kashmir decide to accede to Pakistan, the relationship between Pakistan and that State shall be determined in accordance with the wishes of the people of that State." &nbsp;

According to a UN resolution, Pakistan is obligated to ensure life, liberty, the dignity of the people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan, he said. &nbsp;

The people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan do not enjoy any basic political rights. The government represses political freedom, and controls the freedom of expression, Kashmiri said. &nbsp;

He further said that anyone, who wants to take part in public life in the country, has to sign a pledge of loyalty to Pakistan while anyone, who publicly supports or worries about Kashmir, faces persecution. &nbsp;

Those, who favour independence, risk being beaten and jailed. Numerous political leaders of Kashmir have been forced to live in exile and face the threat of being eliminated or languish in jail. &nbsp;

Talking about a prominent political leader from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Sardar Arif Shahid, who was brutally killed in Rawalpindi seven years ago, Kashmiri said that the issue was raised several times at different forums including United Nations to put pressure on Pakistan for a judicial inquiry but no action has been taken yet.&nbsp;

In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan, nationalist leaders and political workers and human rights activists are being booked for sedition, he added.&nbsp;

Speaking about the China-Pakistan economic corridor (CPEC), he said, the project runs through disputed territories of Gilgit Baltistan and is a cause of environmental damage - air quality, water resources, and soil erosion.&nbsp;

Kashmiri also said that UKPNP demands that the Pakistan government must take immediate actions against security forces and agencies, who kidnap citizens of Pakistan and Jammu and Kashmir and make arrangement for the immediate release of all those, who have disappeared.&nbsp;

UKPNP recommends that the Jammu and Kashmir issue must be resolved through a process of dialogue and peaceful means, he further said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Shaukat Ali Kashmiri, exiled Chairman of United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP) on Saturday (local time) said Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit Baltistan were a part of the erstwhile princely state of Jammu and Kashmir but have been illegally held by Pakistan since 1947.

Shaukat Ali Kashmiri, exiled Chairman of United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP) on Saturday (local time) said Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit Baltistan were a part of the erstwhile princely state of Jammu and Kashmir but have been illegally held by Pakistan since 1947. Speaking at a press conference at Geneva on human rights violations in Pakistan and the occupied territory of Jammu and Kashmir, he said UKPNP is opposed to the use of religion as a weapon and terrorism as a foreign policy tool. He said the Article 257 constitution of Pakistan is a provision related to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, "when the people of the State of Jammu and Kashmir decide to accede to Pakistan, the relationship between Pakistan and that State shall be determined in accordance with the wishes of the people of that State." According to a UN resolution, Pakistan is obligated to ensure life, liberty, the dignity of the people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan, he said. The people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan do not enjoy any basic political rights. The government represses political freedom, and controls the freedom of expression, Kashmiri said. He further said that anyone, who wants to take part in public life in the country, has to sign a pledge of loyalty to Pakistan while anyone, who publicly supports or worries about Kashmir, faces persecution. Those, who favour independence, risk being beaten and jailed. Numerous political leaders of Kashmir have been forced to live in exile and face the threat of being eliminated or languish in jail. Talking about a prominent political leader from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Sardar Arif Shahid, who was brutally killed in Rawalpindi seven years ago, Kashmiri said that the issue was raised several times at different forums including United Nations to put pressure on Pakistan for a judicial inquiry but no action has been taken yet. In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan, nationalist leaders and political workers and human rights activists are being booked for sedition, he added. Speaking about the China-Pakistan economic corridor (CPEC), he said, the project runs through disputed territories of Gilgit Baltistan and is a cause of environmental damage - air quality, water resources, and soil erosion. Kashmiri also said that UKPNP demands that the Pakistan government must take immediate actions against security forces and agencies, who kidnap citizens of Pakistan and Jammu and Kashmir and make arrangement for the immediate release of all those, who have disappeared. UKPNP recommends that the Jammu and Kashmir issue must be resolved through a process of dialogue and peaceful means, he further said. (With inputs from agencies)

UKPNP chairman: Parts of Jammu & Kashmir illegally held by Pakistan since 1947 

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans shrill campaign to internationalise Kashmir has bombed after the 57-member Islamic bloc brushed aside Islamabads frenzied attempt to haul up India for abrogating Article 370 more than a year ago. 
 
In the latest attempt to slam India for its decision to fully mainstream Kashmir with the rest of India, it was once again Pakistan`s light-headed Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi who had an egg on his face. Qureshi was left red-faced after the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), holding its 47th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers in Niger`s Niamey, snubbed Pakistan by making no mention of Kashmir in its agenda. 
 
Despite the embarrassment, Qureshi, took the `Islamophobia` route to mention Kashmir in his speech, another wasted exercise, as the participating ministers remained focused on session`s theme "United against Terrorism for Peace and Development".

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/never-pressured-by-military-leadership-on-any-matter-imran-khan-346205" hreflang="en">Never pressured by military leadership on any matter: Imran Khan</a> 
 
The OIC, through its Secretary General Yousef Al-Othaimeen, had made it aptly clear that the agenda of this year`s Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) session would include a list of topics and "issues of concern" to the Muslim world. 
 
"In addition to the Palestinian cause, the fight against violence, extremism and terrorism, Islamophobia and defamation of religious, the Council will discuss the situation of Muslim minorities and communities in non-member states, fundraising for the Rohingya case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), as well as the promotion of dialogue among civilizations, cultures and religions, and other emerging matters," the OIC, with a membership of 57 states spread over four continents, said in a statement released prior to the meeting. 
 
The much-expected agenda though came as a huge shocker for Pakistan which had for long been demanding a special OIC meeting on Kashmir.

"The meeting has not been convened so far because the Saudis, who wield a virtual veto in the 57-member bloc of Muslim countries, has not supported Islamabad`s move. The latest omission of Kashmir from the agenda of the regular foreign ministers` meeting comes at a time when ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia/UAE remain strained over what Pakistani diplomats say are `unfulfilled expectations`," Pakistan`s leading daily Dawn said in a report.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bilawal-bhutto-slams-imran-khans-heartless-government-for-sacking-over-4500-psm-employees-346106" hreflang="en">Bilawal Bhutto slams Imran Khan's 'heartless government' for sacking over 4,500 PSM employees</a> 
 
Qureshi was to face more embarrassment after landing in Niger along with Sardar Masood Khan, the former Pakistani Ambassador to the UN, who is now president of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). 
 
The duo referred Niger as a "brotherly Islamic country" and urged the founding member of the OIC to raise the Kashmir issue at the forum of African Union (AU) and various other international platforms. 
 
But, as the two-day session kicked off on Friday, neither Mahamadou Issoufou, President of the Republic of Niger, nor any other participating country diverted from the pre-decided agenda. 
 
OIC Secretary General Al-Othaimeen said that the choice of the theme for the session, "United against Terrorism for Peace and Development", is a strong reminder that "terrorism is the single most serious threat to the region and the world, given its negative impact on growth rates and cooperation ties, in addition to worsening Human Development Indices (HDI) ranking". 
 
He also valued the role assigned to the OIC Sawt al-Hikma (Voice of Wisdom) Center, which acts in coordination with the International Islamic Fiqh Academy to bring reason to bear and promote moderation and tolerance.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans shrill campaign to internationalise Kashmir has bombed after the 57-member Islamic bloc brushed aside Islamabads frenzied attempt to haul up India for abrogating Article 370 more than a year ago.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans shrill campaign to internationalise Kashmir has bombed after the 57-member Islamic bloc brushed aside Islamabads frenzied attempt to haul up India for abrogating Article 370 more than a year ago. In the latest attempt to slam India for its decision to fully mainstream Kashmir with the rest of India, it was once again Pakistan`s light-headed Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi who had an egg on his face. Qureshi was left red-faced after the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), holding its 47th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers in Niger`s Niamey, snubbed Pakistan by making no mention of Kashmir in its agenda. Despite the embarrassment, Qureshi, took the `Islamophobia` route to mention Kashmir in his speech, another wasted exercise, as the participating ministers remained focused on session`s theme "United against Terrorism for Peace and Development". Also read| Never pressured by military leadership on any matter: Imran Khan The OIC, through its Secretary General Yousef Al-Othaimeen, had made it aptly clear that the agenda of this year`s Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) session would include a list of topics and "issues of concern" to the Muslim world. "In addition to the Palestinian cause, the fight against violence, extremism and terrorism, Islamophobia and defamation of religious, the Council will discuss the situation of Muslim minorities and communities in non-member states, fundraising for the Rohingya case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), as well as the promotion of dialogue among civilizations, cultures and religions, and other emerging matters," the OIC, with a membership of 57 states spread over four continents, said in a statement released prior to the meeting. The much-expected agenda though came as a huge shocker for Pakistan which had for long been demanding a special OIC meeting on Kashmir. "The meeting has not been convened so far because the Saudis, who wield a virtual veto in the 57-member bloc of Muslim countries, has not supported Islamabad`s move. The latest omission of Kashmir from the agenda of the regular foreign ministers` meeting comes at a time when ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia/UAE remain strained over what Pakistani diplomats say are `unfulfilled expectations`," Pakistan`s leading daily Dawn said in a report. Also read| Bilawal Bhutto slams Imran Khan's 'heartless government' for sacking over 4,500 PSM employees Qureshi was to face more embarrassment after landing in Niger along with Sardar Masood Khan, the former Pakistani Ambassador to the UN, who is now president of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The duo referred Niger as a "brotherly Islamic country" and urged the founding member of the OIC to raise the Kashmir issue at the forum of African Union (AU) and various other international platforms. But, as the two-day session kicked off on Friday, neither Mahamadou Issoufou, President of the Republic of Niger, nor any other participating country diverted from the pre-decided agenda. OIC Secretary General Al-Othaimeen said that the choice of the theme for the session, "United against Terrorism for Peace and Development", is a strong reminder that "terrorism is the single most serious threat to the region and the world, given its negative impact on growth rates and cooperation ties, in addition to worsening Human Development Indices (HDI) ranking". He also valued the role assigned to the OIC Sawt al-Hikma (Voice of Wisdom) Center, which acts in coordination with the International Islamic Fiqh Academy to bring reason to bear and promote moderation and tolerance.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan's Kashmir campaign bombs at Islamic meet

The results for Pakistan's sham & void election in Gilgit-Baltistan are out. Thousands have hit the streets saying the mandate has been stolen by Pakistan-Tehreek-I-Insaaf. Molly Gambhir gets you the story.

Gravitas: Pakistan's sham election in Gilgit-Baltistan

The Indian Army is carrying out 'pinpoint strikes' on suspected terror launchpads inside PoK in response to Pakistani military's unrelenting efforts to push maximum number of terrorists into India before the onset of harsh winters.

Breaking News: India carries out 'pinpoint strike' on terror launchpads inside PoK

India on Thursday carried out "pinpoint strikes" inside Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(POK) using artillery and anti-tank missiles, reports said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-four-pakistani-terrorists-killed-in-gunbattle-344132">Also Read:&nbsp;Four Pakistani terrorists killed in gunbattle in J&amp;K</a>

According to newswire PTI, the Indian Army carried out strikes on suspected terror launchpads inside POK after Pakistan military tried to push terrorists into India.

India's retaliation comes as Pakistan began targeting Indian positions along the Line of Control(LoC) through heavy firing as the Indian army hit back.

The Indian army had attacked a large number of Pakistan Army bunkers, fuel dumps and launch pads, killing at least seven to eight Pakistan Army soldiers, reports said

At least two civilians were killed in Kamalkote sector in Uri in Baramulla district and a woman was reportedly killed in Balkote area in Haji Peer sector of Uri during the firing by Pakistan forces. 
&nbsp;

India on Thursday carried out "pinpoint strikes" inside Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(POK) using artillery and anti-tank missiles, reports said. Also Read: Four Pakistani terrorists killed in gunbattle in J&K According to newswire PTI, the Indian Army carried out strikes on suspected terror launchpads inside POK after Pakistan military tried to push terrorists into India.

India on Thursday carried out "pinpoint strikes" inside Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(POK) using artillery and anti-tank missiles, reports said. Also Read: Four Pakistani terrorists killed in gunbattle in J&K According to newswire PTI, the Indian Army carried out strikes on suspected terror launchpads inside POK after Pakistan military tried to push terrorists into India. India's retaliation comes as Pakistan began targeting Indian positions along the Line of Control(LoC) through heavy firing as the Indian army hit back. The Indian army had attacked a large number of Pakistan Army bunkers, fuel dumps and launch pads, killing at least seven to eight Pakistan Army soldiers, reports said At least two civilians were killed in Kamalkote sector in Uri in Baramulla district and a woman was reportedly killed in Balkote area in Haji Peer sector of Uri during the firing by Pakistan forces.

Indian Army carries out artillery, anti-tank missile strikes inside POK

Amid the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff"> India-China standoff</a> along the LAC, intelligence sources say Pakistan is setting up surface-to-air missile sites with the help of China in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Watch:

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Sources say that People's Liberation Army(PLA) and Pakistan Army troops have been carrying out construction work for the installation of surface-to-air&nbsp;missiles in PoK.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ladakh-standoff-india-china-agree-not-to-send-more-troops-to-the-frontline-329527">Also Read:&nbsp;Ladakh standoff: India, China agree not to send more troops to the frontline</a>

There are about 25 to 40 civilians including 120 Pakistan Army officials working on the construction site. Reports say the control room for the missile defence system will be headquartered in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir's Bdel Bagh area with ten PLA troops including three officers who will reportedly be present at the control room.

Intelligence sources have revealed that similar construction activity has also been reported at Chinar village and Chakothi village in Hattian Bala district of Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

The report comes even as Indian troops are stocking up essential supplies including tanks and heavy weaponry in eastern Ladakh amid the India-China standoff at LAC.

India has reportedly flown in T-90 and T-72 tanks in various sensitive areas including Chushul and Demchock sectors. The Indian Army also transported essential commodities including tents, food items, fuel and heaters.

India has also reportedly deployed over three additional Army divisions in eastern Ladakh. India has also used C-130J Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster transport planes to ferry supplies and manpower.

Indian Air Force (IAF) has also decided to remain on high alert in the forward air bases along the LAC even as Indian and Chinese corps commander level talks continue with the next meeting set for October 12.

Amid the India-China standoff along the LAC, intelligence sources say Pakistan is setting up surface-to-air missile sites with the help of China in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Amid the India-China standoff along the LAC, intelligence sources say Pakistan is setting up surface-to-air missile sites with the help of China in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Watch: Sources say that People's Liberation Army(PLA) and Pakistan Army troops have been carrying out construction work for the installation of surface-to-air missiles in PoK. Also Read: Ladakh standoff: India, China agree not to send more troops to the frontline There are about 25 to 40 civilians including 120 Pakistan Army officials working on the construction site. Reports say the control room for the missile defence system will be headquartered in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir's Bdel Bagh area with ten PLA troops including three officers who will reportedly be present at the control room. Intelligence sources have revealed that similar construction activity has also been reported at Chinar village and Chakothi village in Hattian Bala district of Pakistan occupied Kashmir. The report comes even as Indian troops are stocking up essential supplies including tanks and heavy weaponry in eastern Ladakh amid the India-China standoff at LAC. India has reportedly flown in T-90 and T-72 tanks in various sensitive areas including Chushul and Demchock sectors. The Indian Army also transported essential commodities including tents, food items, fuel and heaters. India has also reportedly deployed over three additional Army divisions in eastern Ladakh. India has also used C-130J Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster transport planes to ferry supplies and manpower. Indian Air Force (IAF) has also decided to remain on high alert in the forward air bases along the LAC even as Indian and Chinese corps commander level talks continue with the next meeting set for October 12.

China helping Pak to set up surface-to-air missile sites in PoK: Report

A protest was organised in Aliabad Hunza of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) with people demanding the release of 14 local men, including political leader Baba Jan, who were jailed in 2011 for `inciting` people against the government.The protestors vowed to continue with the agitation till acceptance of their demand.&nbsp;

The protests come at the time when Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa is visiting PoK. Bajwa has inaugurated state-of-the-art Software Technology Park, an initiative of the Special Communication Organisation (SCO), in Gilgit on Tuesday.

The protest was called by Aseeran-i-Hunza Rihaee Committee, a body formed to push for the release of the incarcerated leaders.About 500 male and female political activists from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistani Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N), religious and local organisations, and family members of the prisoners gathered at College Chowk in Aliabad Hunza, blocking the Karakoram HighwayThe protesters were holding placards inscribed with different slogans, calling for giving justice to the jailed people.&nbsp;

They also chanted the slogan as `Free 14 sons of Hunza`.The protesters said Baba Jan and 13 other people had been sentenced to life imprisonment in 2011 for what they said raising voice for the rights of victims of the Attabad lake disaster.They said it was astonishing that the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) charges had been slapped against the people.&nbsp;

Baba Jan is serving a ninety-year sentence which is based on trumped-up charges. He is an activist who challenged the then Pakistani administration which was essentially working against the people of Gilgit Baltistan.The Pakistan establishment has used the draconian schedule IV of the Anti-Terrorism Act in Gilgit Baltistan to muzzle the reasonable voices that resist its repression.

It has framed dozens under the law not only to give itself a free rein to rule the region but also to send a threatening message to all sections of the societyPuppet governments in Gilgit and Muzaffarabad, which largely operate at the command of the feudal elite of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, have committed systematic human rights violations to suppress the people of the region and keep them marginalised.

Pakistan makes huge claims at international platforms about working for the welfare of Kashmiri people but the ground reality reeks of a rapidly deteriorating human rights situation in the region.

A protest was organised in Aliabad Hunza of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) with people demanding the release of 14 local men, including political leader Baba Jan, who were jailed in 2011 for `inciting` people against the government.

A protest was organised in Aliabad Hunza of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) with people demanding the release of 14 local men, including political leader Baba Jan, who were jailed in 2011 for `inciting` people against the government.The protestors vowed to continue with the agitation till acceptance of their demand. The protests come at the time when Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa is visiting PoK. Bajwa has inaugurated state-of-the-art Software Technology Park, an initiative of the Special Communication Organisation (SCO), in Gilgit on Tuesday. The protest was called by Aseeran-i-Hunza Rihaee Committee, a body formed to push for the release of the incarcerated leaders.About 500 male and female political activists from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistani Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N), religious and local organisations, and family members of the prisoners gathered at College Chowk in Aliabad Hunza, blocking the Karakoram HighwayThe protesters were holding placards inscribed with different slogans, calling for giving justice to the jailed people. They also chanted the slogan as `Free 14 sons of Hunza`.The protesters said Baba Jan and 13 other people had been sentenced to life imprisonment in 2011 for what they said raising voice for the rights of victims of the Attabad lake disaster.They said it was astonishing that the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) charges had been slapped against the people. Baba Jan is serving a ninety-year sentence which is based on trumped-up charges. He is an activist who challenged the then Pakistani administration which was essentially working against the people of Gilgit Baltistan.The Pakistan establishment has used the draconian schedule IV of the Anti-Terrorism Act in Gilgit Baltistan to muzzle the reasonable voices that resist its repression. It has framed dozens under the law not only to give itself a free rein to rule the region but also to send a threatening message to all sections of the societyPuppet governments in Gilgit and Muzaffarabad, which largely operate at the command of the feudal elite of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, have committed systematic human rights violations to suppress the people of the region and keep them marginalised. Pakistan makes huge claims at international platforms about working for the welfare of Kashmiri people but the ground reality reeks of a rapidly deteriorating human rights situation in the region.

Amid Pakistan Army chief's visit to PoK, people take to streets demanding release of locals

A political activist from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) has rebuked Pakistan & China at the 45th Session of UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. In his address the activist, Nasir Aziz Khan sharply criticised both countries for constructing mega dams in the occupied territories.

Political activist rebukes Pak & China at UN over illegal construction of dams in PoK

The United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP) has launched a worldwide campaign in favour of Tanveer Ahmad, an activist and journalist arrested recently by local police and Pakistan's intelligence agencies.

Tanveer was tortured and arrested after his hunger strike and soon after he removed Pakistani flag from Dadyal in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) on August 14.

He is now being shifted to Mirpur Central Jail.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/womens-rights-a-key-issue-during-peace-talks-with-taliban-324361">Also read:&nbsp;Women's rights a key issue during peace talks with Taliban</a>

UKPNP activists organized a demonstration in Muzaffarabad and Kotli cities of PoK and shouted slogans against Pakistani secret agencies and local police. They demanded that Pakistani forces should leave from PoK.

The protesters said that Pakistan has forcefully occupied the territory and exploiting their resources. They accused both Pakistan and China for illegally constructing dams on the rivers and diverting the water which causes severe ecological imbalance.

In a statement UKPNP's exiled chairman Shaukat Ali Kashmiri strongly condemned the illegal detention of Tanveer Ahmed and demanded that Pakistan must release him immediately.

A large number of political activists and intellectuals in PoK and Gilgit Baltistan are under illegal detention of Pakistani forces and many of them are facing life term for raising voice against Pakistan's forceful occupation of their territory.

The United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP) has launched a worldwide campaign in favour of Tanveer Ahmad, an activist and journalist arrested recently by local police and Pakistan's intelligence agencies.

The United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP) has launched a worldwide campaign in favour of Tanveer Ahmad, an activist and journalist arrested recently by local police and Pakistan's intelligence agencies. Tanveer was tortured and arrested after his hunger strike and soon after he removed Pakistani flag from Dadyal in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) on August 14. He is now being shifted to Mirpur Central Jail. Also read: Women's rights a key issue during peace talks with Taliban UKPNP activists organized a demonstration in Muzaffarabad and Kotli cities of PoK and shouted slogans against Pakistani secret agencies and local police. They demanded that Pakistani forces should leave from PoK. The protesters said that Pakistan has forcefully occupied the territory and exploiting their resources. They accused both Pakistan and China for illegally constructing dams on the rivers and diverting the water which causes severe ecological imbalance. In a statement UKPNP's exiled chairman Shaukat Ali Kashmiri strongly condemned the illegal detention of Tanveer Ahmed and demanded that Pakistan must release him immediately. A large number of political activists and intellectuals in PoK and Gilgit Baltistan are under illegal detention of Pakistani forces and many of them are facing life term for raising voice against Pakistan's forceful occupation of their territory.

Campaign launched for safe release Of PoK activist and journalist Tanveer Ahmed

Activist Tanveer Ahmed was arrested and allegedly tortured by Pakistani agencies after he removed Pakistan's flag from a popular public place in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

According to news agency ANI, Ahmed had been on hunger strike, demanding the administration to remove all Pakistani flags from the area. When the local administration failed to do so, he went on to remove the flags himself.

In a video, Ahmed claimed he had removed a Pakistani flag from the area, adding he was being followed by the secret agencies. He then climbed on a wall and removed the second Pakistani flag hoisted at the square.

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Pakistan Occupied Kashmir: An activist who was on a hunger strike demanding the removal of Pakistani flags from the area, later removed the flags by himself in Dadyal. He says, "I removed a Pakistani flag from the area &amp; now I am being followed by secret agencies." (21.8) <a href="https://t.co/RLMkdgSP1H">pic.twitter.com/RLMkdgSP1H</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1296907425228849152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Sources told ANI that he was later mishandled and threatened by the security agencies.

People in PoK are resisting against Pakistan's illegal occupation and demanding Pakistani forces and other officials to leave the region.

(with inputs from ANI)

Activist Tanveer Ahmed was arrested and allegedly tortured by Pakistani agencies after he removed Pakistan's flag from a popular public place in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Activist Tanveer Ahmed was arrested and allegedly tortured by Pakistani agencies after he removed Pakistan's flag from a popular public place in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). According to news agency ANI, Ahmed had been on hunger strike, demanding the administration to remove all Pakistani flags from the area. When the local administration failed to do so, he went on to remove the flags himself. In a video, Ahmed claimed he had removed a Pakistani flag from the area, adding he was being followed by the secret agencies. He then climbed on a wall and removed the second Pakistani flag hoisted at the square. Pakistan Occupied Kashmir: An activist who was on a hunger strike demanding the removal of Pakistani flags from the area, later removed the flags by himself in Dadyal. He says, "I removed a Pakistani flag from the area & now I am being followed by secret agencies." (21.8) pic.twitter.com/RLMkdgSP1H — ANI (@ANI) August 21, 2020 × Sources told ANI that he was later mishandled and threatened by the security agencies. People in PoK are resisting against Pakistan's illegal occupation and demanding Pakistani forces and other officials to leave the region. (with inputs from ANI)

Pakistani agencies arrest activist after he brings down country's flag in PoK

Two Jammu and Kashmir policemen were killed while another sustained injures in a terror attack carried out by Jaish-e-Muhammad terrorists on the outskirts of Srinagar this morning.

J&amp;K police said that terrorists fired indiscriminately upon policemen near Nowgam Bypass area of Srinagar in which three cops sustained injuries, two of them later succumbed to their injuries at a hospital.

“They were shifted to hospital for treatment where 02 among them attained martyrdom. Area cordoned off. Further details shall follow,” police said in a tweet.

Inspector general of Police Kashmir range, Vijay Kumar, blamed Jaish-e-Muhammad outfit for carrying out the attack. The outfit is known for carrying out deadly attacks on security forces in the valley.

Two Jammu and Kashmir policemen were killed while another sustained injures in a terror attack carried out by Jaish-e-Muhammad terrorists on the outskirts of Srinagar this morning.

Two Jammu and Kashmir policemen were killed while another sustained injures in a terror attack carried out by Jaish-e-Muhammad terrorists on the outskirts of Srinagar this morning. J&K police said that terrorists fired indiscriminately upon policemen near Nowgam Bypass area of Srinagar in which three cops sustained injuries, two of them later succumbed to their injuries at a hospital. “They were shifted to hospital for treatment where 02 among them attained martyrdom. Area cordoned off. Further details shall follow,” police said in a tweet. Inspector general of Police Kashmir range, Vijay Kumar, blamed Jaish-e-Muhammad outfit for carrying out the attack. The outfit is known for carrying out deadly attacks on security forces in the valley.

Two Jammu and Kashmir policemen killed in Srinagar terror attack

A massive torch rally was held in Muzaffarabad city of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Wednesday night to oppose the mega-dams to be constructed by Chinese firms on Neelum-Jhelum River.

The protestors from ``Darya Bachao, Muzaffarabad Bachao" (Save River, Save Muzaffarabad) Committee chanted slogans like "let the Neelum and Jhelum rivers flow, let us live.''

Recently, Pakistan and China signed agreements to construct Azad Pattan and Kohala Hydropower Projects in PoK.The Azad Pattan Hydel Power Project of 700.7 megawatts of electricity as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was signed on July 6.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-chief-general-qamar-javed-bajwa-to-visit-saudi-arabia-in-quest-to-smooth-ties-320171" hreflang="en">Pakistan Army chief to visit Saudi Arabia in quest to smooth ties</a>

The USD 1.54 billion project will be sponsored by the China Gezhouba Group Company (CGGC).The Kohala Hydroelectric Power Project which will be built on Jhelum River is roughly 7 km upstream of Azad Pattan Bridge in Sudhanoti district of PoK and 90 km from Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan.

The project, expected to be completed by 2026, will be sponsored by China Three Gorges Corporation, International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Silk Road Fund.

What really irks locals is the high Chinese presence in the area, massive construction of dams, and river diversions threatening their very existence.

Dr Amjad Ayub Mirza, a political activist from PoK, told ANI, "Such protests in PoK are continuing for a long time, but their voice is not heard. China`s Three Gorges Corporation is constructing these billion dollars projects like Kohala Hydropower Project and Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower project and they have changed the course of the rivers. This has caused a severe rise in temperature in Muzaffarabad."

He added, "Once roaring Neelum River now gives the looks of a small rivulet. It has severely affected the local residents as they even do not have drinking water. The river is flooded with sewage."

"China is investing huge money in the region and who will repay it?" Dr Mirza questioned while adding that poor people of PoK will suffer the most by repaying these debts.Pakistan and China are jointly plundering the natural resources of PoK and Gilgit Baltistan in the wake of CPEC. The resentment in the occupied territories is high against Pakistan and China.&nbsp;

A massive torch rally was held in Muzaffarabad city of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Wednesday night to oppose the mega-dams to be constructed by Chinese firms on Neelum-Jhelum River.

A massive torch rally was held in Muzaffarabad city of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Wednesday night to oppose the mega-dams to be constructed by Chinese firms on Neelum-Jhelum River. The protestors from ``Darya Bachao, Muzaffarabad Bachao" (Save River, Save Muzaffarabad) Committee chanted slogans like "let the Neelum and Jhelum rivers flow, let us live.'' Recently, Pakistan and China signed agreements to construct Azad Pattan and Kohala Hydropower Projects in PoK.The Azad Pattan Hydel Power Project of 700.7 megawatts of electricity as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was signed on July 6. Also read: Pakistan Army chief to visit Saudi Arabia in quest to smooth ties The USD 1.54 billion project will be sponsored by the China Gezhouba Group Company (CGGC).The Kohala Hydroelectric Power Project which will be built on Jhelum River is roughly 7 km upstream of Azad Pattan Bridge in Sudhanoti district of PoK and 90 km from Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. The project, expected to be completed by 2026, will be sponsored by China Three Gorges Corporation, International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Silk Road Fund. What really irks locals is the high Chinese presence in the area, massive construction of dams, and river diversions threatening their very existence. Dr Amjad Ayub Mirza, a political activist from PoK, told ANI, "Such protests in PoK are continuing for a long time, but their voice is not heard. China`s Three Gorges Corporation is constructing these billion dollars projects like Kohala Hydropower Project and Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower project and they have changed the course of the rivers. This has caused a severe rise in temperature in Muzaffarabad." He added, "Once roaring Neelum River now gives the looks of a small rivulet. It has severely affected the local residents as they even do not have drinking water. The river is flooded with sewage." "China is investing huge money in the region and who will repay it?" Dr Mirza questioned while adding that poor people of PoK will suffer the most by repaying these debts.Pakistan and China are jointly plundering the natural resources of PoK and Gilgit Baltistan in the wake of CPEC. The resentment in the occupied territories is high against Pakistan and China.

Protests erupt in PoK against construction of dams by China

Chinese government mouth mouthpiece Global Times has declined to carry the Indian embassy in China's rebuttal to Pakistani envoy on Kashmir. Global Times on August 6 carried an interview of Pakistani envoy to China Moin Ul Haque on Kashmir to which the Indian side had sent a rebuttal.

The Indian embassy in China in its rebuttal said, "Ambassador Haque's misrepresentation, while not surprising, cannot conceal the significant progress that J&amp;K has made in the year following" abrogation of article 370 of the Indian constitution.

Highlighting the progress made, the rebuttal by the Indian mission said,"in the last one year since the historic decision on August 5 2019, several positive and affirmative union laws have been extended to J&amp;K" and "evidence of the change sweeping through J&amp;K can be seen in the creation of new education and health infrastructure and opportunities".&nbsp;

It explained,"50 new educational institutions were established in the region" the largest addition in 70 years with "over half a million Kashmiri students" availing "government scholarship schemes"

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"For this year alone, around 200 innocent <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kashmiris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kashmiris</a> have been killed, around 50 cases of rape and molestation and nearly 1,000 cases of destruction of houses and property have been reported," said Moin ul Haque, Ambassador of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> to China. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IOJK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IOJK</a> <a href="https://t.co/yUzZGUHP6r">https://t.co/yUzZGUHP6r</a> <a href="https://t.co/hRkzdloqaF">pic.twitter.com/hRkzdloqaF</a>
— Global Times (@globaltimesnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/globaltimesnews/status/1291416263592468481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On cross-border terror, the mission rebuttal said, "India's concerted efforts to bring peace, stability and progress to J&amp;K stands in stark contrast to Pakistan's strategy, which is little more than a blatant and rapacious campaign of cross border terrorism aimed at debilitating the region".&nbsp;

3,000 ceasefire violations by Pakistan in first seven&nbsp;months of 2020 has provided "support for terrorist infiltration along Line of Control", the Indian mission said, adding,"perhaps ambassador Haque could consider holding up a mirror to his own "regime" and reflect on Pakistan's own actions in the region before making ludicrous characterizations of the Indian government's actions."

India's statement from Beijing also spoke on POK pointing out how Islamabad's "repeatedly effected administrative and demographic changes in territories that it has occupied illegally and forcibly in J&amp;K and Ladakh" and its "obsession with irredentist pursuits has also been laid bare in its latest exercise in political absurdity on August 4 when it made untenable claims to Indian territories in the state of Gujarat and Union territories of J&amp;K and Ladakh". What is significant is the fact India mentioned about POK through which China's mega infrastructure project passes CPEC from Beijing.

In June, it emerged that China's popular app WeChat had removed statement by PM Narendra Modi on Galwan incident. Ministry of external affair's statement has also been taken down from Weibo, the Chinese counterpart of Twitter.

The developments come even as the Chinese envoy to India, Sun Weidong has been speaking freely to Indian media which many would say is the positive aspects of a democratic country.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Chinese government mouth mouthpiece Global Times has declined to carry the Indian embassy in China's rebuttal to Pakistani envoy on Kashmir. Global Times on August 6 carried an interview of Pakistani envoy to China Moin Ul Haque on Kashmir to which the Indian side had sent a rebuttal.

Chinese government mouth mouthpiece Global Times has declined to carry the Indian embassy in China's rebuttal to Pakistani envoy on Kashmir. Global Times on August 6 carried an interview of Pakistani envoy to China Moin Ul Haque on Kashmir to which the Indian side had sent a rebuttal. The Indian embassy in China in its rebuttal said, "Ambassador Haque's misrepresentation, while not surprising, cannot conceal the significant progress that J&K has made in the year following" abrogation of article 370 of the Indian constitution. Highlighting the progress made, the rebuttal by the Indian mission said,"in the last one year since the historic decision on August 5 2019, several positive and affirmative union laws have been extended to J&K" and "evidence of the change sweeping through J&K can be seen in the creation of new education and health infrastructure and opportunities". It explained,"50 new educational institutions were established in the region" the largest addition in 70 years with "over half a million Kashmiri students" availing "government scholarship schemes" "For this year alone, around 200 innocent #Kashmiris have been killed, around 50 cases of rape and molestation and nearly 1,000 cases of destruction of houses and property have been reported," said Moin ul Haque, Ambassador of #Pakistan to China. #IOJK https://t.co/yUzZGUHP6r pic.twitter.com/hRkzdloqaF — Global Times (@globaltimesnews) August 6, 2020 × On cross-border terror, the mission rebuttal said, "India's concerted efforts to bring peace, stability and progress to J&K stands in stark contrast to Pakistan's strategy, which is little more than a blatant and rapacious campaign of cross border terrorism aimed at debilitating the region". 3,000 ceasefire violations by Pakistan in first seven months of 2020 has provided "support for terrorist infiltration along Line of Control", the Indian mission said, adding,"perhaps ambassador Haque could consider holding up a mirror to his own "regime" and reflect on Pakistan's own actions in the region before making ludicrous characterizations of the Indian government's actions." India's statement from Beijing also spoke on POK pointing out how Islamabad's "repeatedly effected administrative and demographic changes in territories that it has occupied illegally and forcibly in J&K and Ladakh" and its "obsession with irredentist pursuits has also been laid bare in its latest exercise in political absurdity on August 4 when it made untenable claims to Indian territories in the state of Gujarat and Union territories of J&K and Ladakh". What is significant is the fact India mentioned about POK through which China's mega infrastructure project passes CPEC from Beijing. In June, it emerged that China's popular app WeChat had removed statement by PM Narendra Modi on Galwan incident. Ministry of external affair's statement has also been taken down from Weibo, the Chinese counterpart of Twitter. The developments come even as the Chinese envoy to India, Sun Weidong has been speaking freely to Indian media which many would say is the positive aspects of a democratic country.

Chinese government mouthpiece Global Times declines to carry Indian embassy's rebuttal on Pak envoy

Islamabad is set to honour Kashmiri Separatist Syed Ali Shah Geelani with Pakistan's highest civilian award. Pakistani lawmakers want to build a university in Geelani's name. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why the Pak govt should fix its priorities first.

Gravitas: Pakistan wants to honour this Kashmiri separatist | Syed Ali Shah Geelani

Pakistan's Punjab government has banned over 100 textbooks taught at schools after finding in them "blasphemous and objectionable content" such as not showing Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as part of the country.

Some books had not even printed the correct date of the birth of Pakistan's founder 'Quaid-e-Azam' Muhammad Ali Jinnah and national poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal, and some had the content against the two-nation theory, Punjab Curriculum and Textbook Board (PCTB) Managing Director Rai Manzoor Nasir said.

Nasir said that some 10,000 books taught at public and private schools have been reviewed by 30 committees.

"Over 100 of them including those published by Oxford, Cambridge, Link International Pakistan, Paragon Books, have been found containing objectionable content, therefore, they are banned on the recommendation of these committees.

"The banned books had blasphemous and anti-Pakistan content and missing of (Pakistan-occupied) Kashmir from the Pakistani map," he said.

The board has issued an order to confiscate these books from the market.

"The government will not tolerate this objectionable content to be taught to Pakistani children. We will conduct a complete inspection of other textbooks within the next six months," he said.

Last month, the Punjab provincial government, in light of the Punjab Assembly resolution, banned two books by British-American author Lesley Hazleton for allegedly containing blasphemous content.

Pakistan's Punjab government has banned over 100 textbooks taught at schools after finding in them "blasphemous and objectionable content" such as not showing Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as part of the country.

Pakistan's Punjab government has banned over 100 textbooks taught at schools after finding in them "blasphemous and objectionable content" such as not showing Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as part of the country. Some books had not even printed the correct date of the birth of Pakistan's founder 'Quaid-e-Azam' Muhammad Ali Jinnah and national poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal, and some had the content against the two-nation theory, Punjab Curriculum and Textbook Board (PCTB) Managing Director Rai Manzoor Nasir said. Nasir said that some 10,000 books taught at public and private schools have been reviewed by 30 committees. "Over 100 of them including those published by Oxford, Cambridge, Link International Pakistan, Paragon Books, have been found containing objectionable content, therefore, they are banned on the recommendation of these committees. "The banned books had blasphemous and anti-Pakistan content and missing of (Pakistan-occupied) Kashmir from the Pakistani map," he said. The board has issued an order to confiscate these books from the market. "The government will not tolerate this objectionable content to be taught to Pakistani children. We will conduct a complete inspection of other textbooks within the next six months," he said. Last month, the Punjab provincial government, in light of the Punjab Assembly resolution, banned two books by British-American author Lesley Hazleton for allegedly containing blasphemous content.

Pak bans over 100 textbooks over 'objectionable content', not showing PoK part of country

Despite rotting under debt and facing multiple crisis, Pakistan&nbsp;still&nbsp;persists&nbsp;in engineering wicked plots to defame India.

The plots are centered around Pakistan's favourite topic: Kashmir. Islamabad took a delegation of foreign journalists on a staged visit to the LoC&nbsp;on Wednesday.

A team of foreign media correspondents was taken on a tour by Imran Khan's government to&nbsp;the Poonch and Chirikot sector in Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

The delegation included journalists from media organizations such as Al Jazeera and CCTV, which are infamous for their anti-India rhetoric. The composition of the&nbsp;delegation itself speaks a lot about the purpose of the&nbsp;visit.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pakistans-staged-tour-of-the-line-of-control-315554/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This purpose of the&nbsp;visit was to portray India as the perpetrator of ceasefire violations and crimes along the Line of Control(LoC)&nbsp;and to show Pakistan as a "victim" of the circumstances created by India.

The Pakistan Army has been shelling villages along the LoC for three consecutive days.&nbsp;At 11 am on Thursday, it once again initiated an unprovoked ceasefire violation but these so-called foreign correspondents are obviously blind to Pakistan's actions.

They newspapers in Pakistan are carrying extensive columns on how these journalists praised the Pakistan army for its apparent ''bravery''. However, they were probably paid to do so.&nbsp;A similar incident had occured when a British parliamentary panel visited PoK earlier this year.

Debbie Abrahams, a British lawmaker, was barred from entering India due to an invalid visa.&nbsp;

In retaliation, she took part in press conferences with the Pak foreign minister and peddled lies about human rights violations in Kashmir.

According to reports, Abarahams was paid approximately $38,500 which&nbsp;is equivalent to 29 to 31 lakh Pakistani rupees. The British parliamentary panel has itself disclosed these details in its register a copy of of their filing.

It shows how Debbie Abrahams and her team received a "benefit of kind"&nbsp;of approximately $38,500 from the government of Pakistan. A benefit of kind which Britain has sugar-coated. It&nbsp;is not the first time that Debbie Abrahams has received funding from Pakistan.

In September 2018, the Pakistan High Commission in London had reportedly given around $14,000 euros to her group for a visit to Islamabad and Kashmir.

While Abrahams is accepting money from Imran Khan's government, she is hyprotically pointing out how can it be legal for UK to squander tax-payer's money on a bankrupt American company perhaps in the same manner in which Pakistan is paying journalists and lawmakers to defame India.

Despite rotting under debt and facing multiple crisis, Pakistan still persists in engineering wicked plots to defame India. The plots are centered around Pakistan's favourite topic: Kashmir.

Despite rotting under debt and facing multiple crisis, Pakistan still persists in engineering wicked plots to defame India. The plots are centered around Pakistan's favourite topic: Kashmir. Islamabad took a delegation of foreign journalists on a staged visit to the LoC on Wednesday. A team of foreign media correspondents was taken on a tour by Imran Khan's government to the Poonch and Chirikot sector in Pakistan occupied Kashmir. The delegation included journalists from media organizations such as Al Jazeera and CCTV, which are infamous for their anti-India rhetoric. The composition of the delegation itself speaks a lot about the purpose of the visit. This purpose of the visit was to portray India as the perpetrator of ceasefire violations and crimes along the Line of Control(LoC) and to show Pakistan as a "victim" of the circumstances created by India. The Pakistan Army has been shelling villages along the LoC for three consecutive days. At 11 am on Thursday, it once again initiated an unprovoked ceasefire violation but these so-called foreign correspondents are obviously blind to Pakistan's actions. They newspapers in Pakistan are carrying extensive columns on how these journalists praised the Pakistan army for its apparent ''bravery''. However, they were probably paid to do so. A similar incident had occured when a British parliamentary panel visited PoK earlier this year. Debbie Abrahams, a British lawmaker, was barred from entering India due to an invalid visa. In retaliation, she took part in press conferences with the Pak foreign minister and peddled lies about human rights violations in Kashmir. According to reports, Abarahams was paid approximately $38,500 which is equivalent to 29 to 31 lakh Pakistani rupees. The British parliamentary panel has itself disclosed these details in its register a copy of of their filing. It shows how Debbie Abrahams and her team received a "benefit of kind" of approximately $38,500 from the government of Pakistan. A benefit of kind which Britain has sugar-coated. It is not the first time that Debbie Abrahams has received funding from Pakistan. In September 2018, the Pakistan High Commission in London had reportedly given around $14,000 euros to her group for a visit to Islamabad and Kashmir. While Abrahams is accepting money from Imran Khan's government, she is hyprotically pointing out how can it be legal for UK to squander tax-payer's money on a bankrupt American company perhaps in the same manner in which Pakistan is paying journalists and lawmakers to defame India.

How Pakistan sponsors 'LoC tourism' to defame India

In February 2020, a British Parliamentary group visited the PoK to review the human rights situation on the ground. It has been reported that the group received money 30,000 British Pounds (30 lakh rupees) from the Pakistan government for this trip. WION in an exclusive interview spoke to Former Indian Envoy to UK Ruchi Ghanashyam.

Pak paid 30,000 pounds to British parliamentary group to visit PoK , Former Indian Envoy to UK speaks to WION

It has been revealed that All-Party Parliamentary Group on Kashmir (APPGK), whose aim is to highlight alleged human rights violations in Kashmir, received 30 lakh PKR ($17,917) from Islamabad for a visit to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The UK parliamentary group is chaired by Labour MP Debbie Abrahams.

According to a report, the APPGs have to declare benefits in kind and money received worth more than 1500 pounds on the APPG register. As per the 'receipt' regarding the visit of all-party parliamentary groups, APPGK received an amount between 29.7 lakh PKR and 31.2 lakh PKR on February 18 from the Pakistan government for a visit to PoK from February 18-22.

Abrahams landed in Pakistan and met Prime Minister Imran Khan after she was deported from India on February 17. Abrahams was deported to Dubai o after being informed at Delhi Airport that her e-visa was not valid.

The then MEA spokesperson, Raveesh Kumar, had said: “We believe that her statements and ideology are anti-India. There is a sustained campaign from her side against India.”

Abrahams has been extremely critical of India’s decision to abrogate Article 370 and strip the state of Jammu and Kashmir of its special status.

In reponse, Abrahams alleged that she was treated like a criminal and prevented by the Indian authorities from meeting friends and family in Delhi.&nbsp;

This is not the first time APPGK has received funds from Pakistan. On September 17, 2018, the Pakistan High Commission in London gave around 12,000 pounds to the group to fund a visit to Islamabad and Kashmir between September 17-20 that year.

(with inputs from ANI)

It has been revealed that All-Party Parliamentary Group on Kashmir (APPGK), whose aim is to highlight alleged human rights violations in Kashmir, received 30 lakh PKR ($17,917) from Islamabad for a visit to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

It has been revealed that All-Party Parliamentary Group on Kashmir (APPGK), whose aim is to highlight alleged human rights violations in Kashmir, received 30 lakh PKR ($17,917) from Islamabad for a visit to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The UK parliamentary group is chaired by Labour MP Debbie Abrahams. According to a report, the APPGs have to declare benefits in kind and money received worth more than 1500 pounds on the APPG register. As per the 'receipt' regarding the visit of all-party parliamentary groups, APPGK received an amount between 29.7 lakh PKR and 31.2 lakh PKR on February 18 from the Pakistan government for a visit to PoK from February 18-22. Abrahams landed in Pakistan and met Prime Minister Imran Khan after she was deported from India on February 17. Abrahams was deported to Dubai o after being informed at Delhi Airport that her e-visa was not valid. The then MEA spokesperson, Raveesh Kumar, had said: “We believe that her statements and ideology are anti-India. There is a sustained campaign from her side against India.” Abrahams has been extremely critical of India’s decision to abrogate Article 370 and strip the state of Jammu and Kashmir of its special status. In reponse, Abrahams alleged that she was treated like a criminal and prevented by the Indian authorities from meeting friends and family in Delhi. This is not the first time APPGK has received funds from Pakistan. On September 17, 2018, the Pakistan High Commission in London gave around 12,000 pounds to the group to fund a visit to Islamabad and Kashmir between September 17-20 that year. (with inputs from ANI)

Pro-Pakistan UK parliamentary group got money to visit PoK, reveals 'receipt'

It has bee revealed that Pakistan paid around 30 Lakh rupees or 33,000 Pounds to British Parliamentary Group to visit PoK to review human rights situation in February month earlier this year.

Pakistan paid British Parliamentary Group to visit PoK to review human rights situation

India on Thursday said it has strongly protested against&nbsp;Pakistan's attempt to construct&nbsp;the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK) and condemned Islamabad's continued attempts&nbsp;to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation.

India's strong protest came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday kicked off construction work at the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Chilas in Gilgit-Baltistan, notwithstanding New Delhi's objection to the China-backed mega project.

Asked about the development at the weekly briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said India had made its position on it clear earlier and it remains unchanged.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/domestic-violence-coronavirus-not-the-only-battle-being-fought-by-women-in-pakistan-313812">Also read:&nbsp;Domestic violence: Coronavirus, not the only battle being fought by women in Pakistan</a>

"The entire Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union territory of Ladakh, have been, are, and will be an integral and inalienable part of India. We have strongly protested against the construction of this dam to the government of Pakistan," Srivastava said.

"This dam will lead to submergence of a large part of land of the Indian union territories of J&amp;K and Ladakh and we condemn the continuous attempts by Pakistan to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation," he said.

India has also consistently conveyed its protest and shared concerns with both China and Pakistan on all such projects in the Indian territories under Pakistan's illegal occupation where it has no locus standi, the MEA spokesperson said.

The Pakistan government in May had signed a whopping Rs 442 billion contract with a joint venture of a Chinese state-run firm and a commercial arm of Pakistan's powerful military for the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha dam. 
Asked about reports of Pakistan allowing Afghan goods to be exported via Wagah, Srivastava said it was another example of Pakistan's creation of a mirage of goodwill.

"Let us be clear on this, Pakistan is not allowing Afghan trucks to carry Afghan goods and is seeking monopolistic transport practices. It is not allowing Afghanistan two-way transit rights as committed under article 3 of the Afghanistan Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (also known as APTTA)," he said.

"So, Pakistan has been following a policy of creating captive markets by denying full transit access to Afghanistan by restricting products from India and other countries. It is failing to fulfil its own commitments under APTTA," Srivastava said.

Pakistan has even denied transit of humanitarian grant assistance, including wheat from India, to Afghanistan, he said.&nbsp;

India on Thursday said it has strongly protested against Pakistan's attempt to construct the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK) and condemned Islamabad's continued attempts to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation.

India on Thursday said it has strongly protested against Pakistan's attempt to construct the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK) and condemned Islamabad's continued attempts to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation. India's strong protest came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday kicked off construction work at the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Chilas in Gilgit-Baltistan, notwithstanding New Delhi's objection to the China-backed mega project. Asked about the development at the weekly briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said India had made its position on it clear earlier and it remains unchanged. Also read: Domestic violence: Coronavirus, not the only battle being fought by women in Pakistan "The entire Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union territory of Ladakh, have been, are, and will be an integral and inalienable part of India. We have strongly protested against the construction of this dam to the government of Pakistan," Srivastava said. "This dam will lead to submergence of a large part of land of the Indian union territories of J&K and Ladakh and we condemn the continuous attempts by Pakistan to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation," he said. India has also consistently conveyed its protest and shared concerns with both China and Pakistan on all such projects in the Indian territories under Pakistan's illegal occupation where it has no locus standi, the MEA spokesperson said. The Pakistan government in May had signed a whopping Rs 442 billion contract with a joint venture of a Chinese state-run firm and a commercial arm of Pakistan's powerful military for the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha dam. Asked about reports of Pakistan allowing Afghan goods to be exported via Wagah, Srivastava said it was another example of Pakistan's creation of a mirage of goodwill. "Let us be clear on this, Pakistan is not allowing Afghan trucks to carry Afghan goods and is seeking monopolistic transport practices. It is not allowing Afghanistan two-way transit rights as committed under article 3 of the Afghanistan Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (also known as APTTA)," he said. "So, Pakistan has been following a policy of creating captive markets by denying full transit access to Afghanistan by restricting products from India and other countries. It is failing to fulfil its own commitments under APTTA," Srivastava said. Pakistan has even denied transit of humanitarian grant assistance, including wheat from India, to Afghanistan, he said.

India slams Pakistan over 'continuous attempts' to construct Diamer-Bhasha dam in PoK

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan declared that his government will build the biggest dam in the country's history.

The Pakistan PM was talking about the controversial Diamer-Bhasha dam. PM Imran Khan's visit to the site officially signalled&nbsp;the start of construction.

The dam will be built on the Indus River in Gilgit-Baltistan, which is in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK). Upon completion in 2028, it will be the world's highest roller compacted concrete dam. It will provide cheap electricity, irrigate farmland and create jobs -&nbsp;at least that's the promise.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-diamer-bhasha-dam-chinas-dam-pakistans-debt-313551/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The project has seen four inaugurations by four prime ministers in four decades. Finally, construction has begun but it would not have been possible without China's help.

The project faces high costs, territorial dispute with India and local protests. The total cost of the project is pegged at $14 billion. For fifty years, Pakistan has been trying to secure funds.

Since 1980, it has gone to the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and Western allies&nbsp;but they all refused because the project is in Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

In 2018, surprisingly, Pakistan's top judge ordered a crowd-funding campaign to kickstart the project but&nbsp;the collection fell short of the target. With no options left, Pakistan finally turned to China. The dam was made part of the China-Pakistan economic corridor(CPEC).

Now, Imran Khan is showcasing it as a matter of national pride. The fact is that it&nbsp;will be a Chinese dam. With a 70 per cent stake, China is the major shareholder.

India has protested asserting that the&nbsp;project is in Indian territory under Pakistan's illegal occupation. Also protesting are the locals in Gilgit-Baltistan. The dam is likely to submerge 32 villages in Diamer district alone.

Nearly 50,000 people will be displaced. Those who have already lost their land are not being given compensation. They also stand to lose their cultural heritage. Buddhist sculptures and inscriptions in 50 villages will go underwater.

The Diamer-Bhasha dam is not the only controversial project in the region.&nbsp;Azad Pattan and Kohala hydroelectric projects&nbsp;are facing similar issues with both dams being built in Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

Both face stern opposition from the locals and from India and both are being funded by the Chinese. Imran Khan's showpiece dam is more of a liability than an asset. The discontent and debt are Pakistan's fate and the dam is made by China.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan declared that his government will build the biggest dam in the country's history. The Pakistan PM was talking about the controversial Diamer-Bhasha dam.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan declared that his government will build the biggest dam in the country's history. The Pakistan PM was talking about the controversial Diamer-Bhasha dam. PM Imran Khan's visit to the site officially signalled the start of construction. The dam will be built on the Indus River in Gilgit-Baltistan, which is in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK). Upon completion in 2028, it will be the world's highest roller compacted concrete dam. It will provide cheap electricity, irrigate farmland and create jobs - at least that's the promise. The project has seen four inaugurations by four prime ministers in four decades. Finally, construction has begun but it would not have been possible without China's help. The project faces high costs, territorial dispute with India and local protests. The total cost of the project is pegged at $14 billion. For fifty years, Pakistan has been trying to secure funds. Since 1980, it has gone to the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and Western allies but they all refused because the project is in Pakistan occupied Kashmir. In 2018, surprisingly, Pakistan's top judge ordered a crowd-funding campaign to kickstart the project but the collection fell short of the target. With no options left, Pakistan finally turned to China. The dam was made part of the China-Pakistan economic corridor(CPEC). Now, Imran Khan is showcasing it as a matter of national pride. The fact is that it will be a Chinese dam. With a 70 per cent stake, China is the major shareholder. India has protested asserting that the project is in Indian territory under Pakistan's illegal occupation. Also protesting are the locals in Gilgit-Baltistan. The dam is likely to submerge 32 villages in Diamer district alone. Nearly 50,000 people will be displaced. Those who have already lost their land are not being given compensation. They also stand to lose their cultural heritage. Buddhist sculptures and inscriptions in 50 villages will go underwater. The Diamer-Bhasha dam is not the only controversial project in the region. Azad Pattan and Kohala hydroelectric projects are facing similar issues with both dams being built in Pakistan occupied Kashmir. Both face stern opposition from the locals and from India and both are being funded by the Chinese. Imran Khan's showpiece dam is more of a liability than an asset. The discontent and debt are Pakistan's fate and the dam is made by China.

Now, China funds Pakistan's Diamer-Bhasha dam project in PoK as construction begins

China, for a decade, blocked the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist under the United Nations sanctions regime. Azhar is&nbsp;the mastermind of several attacks against India.&nbsp;

China’s support to Pakistani terrorists was seen as a way for Beijing to keep its hold on its all-weather ally Pakistan.&nbsp;

And now, reports say that China is trying to revive a terror group in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). According to sources, Chinese officials recently met terrorists from Al Badr in PoK.

Al Badr is a defunct terror group which China could bring back to life. Al Badr was born out of the Hizb-ul-Mujahideen in 1998 after the ISI encouraged terrorists to operate independently. &nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rebel-groups-in-myanmar-have-chinas-backing-report-312367">Also Read: Rebel groups in Myanmar have China's backing: Report</a>

Al Badr had set two objectives for itself - to strengthen the "Kashmir freedom struggle" and "liberate" Jammu and Kashmir from India and merge it with Pakistan.

The group has a history of perpetrating violence in Afghanistan and Jammu and Kashmir and reports say that it is part of the United Jihad Organisation, an umbrella group of Pakistani terrorist groups operating in Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;

Al-Badr was proscribed by India in 2002 and the group went defunct after its key leaders were neutralised. The group's funding comes from the Jamaat-e-Islami and the ISI.

And now, with China's backing, the group could get a new lease of life. The Jammu and Kashmir police too have sensed a revival of Al Badr.&nbsp;

&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

China, for a decade, blocked the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist under the United Nations sanctions regime. Azhar is the mastermind of several attacks against India.

China, for a decade, blocked the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist under the United Nations sanctions regime. Azhar is the mastermind of several attacks against India. China’s support to Pakistani terrorists was seen as a way for Beijing to keep its hold on its all-weather ally Pakistan. And now, reports say that China is trying to revive a terror group in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). According to sources, Chinese officials recently met terrorists from Al Badr in PoK. Al Badr is a defunct terror group which China could bring back to life. Al Badr was born out of the Hizb-ul-Mujahideen in 1998 after the ISI encouraged terrorists to operate independently. Also Read: Rebel groups in Myanmar have China's backing: Report Al Badr had set two objectives for itself - to strengthen the "Kashmir freedom struggle" and "liberate" Jammu and Kashmir from India and merge it with Pakistan. The group has a history of perpetrating violence in Afghanistan and Jammu and Kashmir and reports say that it is part of the United Jihad Organisation, an umbrella group of Pakistani terrorist groups operating in Jammu and Kashmir. Al-Badr was proscribed by India in 2002 and the group went defunct after its key leaders were neutralised. The group's funding comes from the Jamaat-e-Islami and the ISI. And now, with China's backing, the group could get a new lease of life. The Jammu and Kashmir police too have sensed a revival of Al Badr.

Is China trying to revive a terrorist group in Pakistan occupied Kashmir?

Is China trying to revive a terrorist group in Pakistan occupied Kashmir? Sources tell WION that Chinese officials have met terrorist group Al Badr.

Gravitas Exclusive: Is China reviving a terror group in PoK?

Pakistan on Sunday rejected Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's remarks about the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and alleged that it was an attempt to divert attention from Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing a virtual Jan Samvad rally for Jammu and Kashmir, Singh said on Sunday that when people of PoK will want to be freed of Pakistan's occupation and be part of India, then this will lead to the fulfilment of Parliament's resolution that the region is an integral part of the country.

"Let's wait for what happens in future. There will be demand from PoK to be freed of Pakistan's occupation and to live with India. When this happens, then Parliament's resolution will also be fulfilled," Singh said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/soon-people-of-pok-will-demand-that-they-want-to-be-with-india-rajnath-singh-305731">Also read|&nbsp;Soon people of PoK will demand that they want to be with India: Rajnath Singh</a>

Parliament has also earlier passed resolution that PoK is part of India.

Reacting to Singh's remarks, the Foreign Office said that his statement is "another desperate attempt to divert attention from" Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan has been unsuccessfully trying to drum up international support against India for withdrawing Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 and bifurcating it into two Union territories.

India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

Pakistan on Sunday rejected Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's remarks about the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and alleged that it was an attempt to divert attention from Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan on Sunday rejected Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's remarks about the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and alleged that it was an attempt to divert attention from Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a virtual Jan Samvad rally for Jammu and Kashmir, Singh said on Sunday that when people of PoK will want to be freed of Pakistan's occupation and be part of India, then this will lead to the fulfilment of Parliament's resolution that the region is an integral part of the country. "Let's wait for what happens in future. There will be demand from PoK to be freed of Pakistan's occupation and to live with India. When this happens, then Parliament's resolution will also be fulfilled," Singh said. Also read| Soon people of PoK will demand that they want to be with India: Rajnath Singh Parliament has also earlier passed resolution that PoK is part of India. Reacting to Singh's remarks, the Foreign Office said that his statement is "another desperate attempt to divert attention from" Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has been unsuccessfully trying to drum up international support against India for withdrawing Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 and bifurcating it into two Union territories. India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

Pak rejects Rajnath Singh's remarks about situation in PoK

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