At least nine people were killed Sunday in firing along the de facto India-Pakistan border in Kashmir, officials said, adding to the spike in deaths in recent days as New Delhi eased a curfew in the disputed region.

Tensions escalated between the nuclear-armed neighbours after India revoked Kashmir's autonomy on August 5 and imposed movement and communications restrictions to quell unrest.

Officials from the two countries accused each other of firing mortar rounds and small arms along the so-called Line of Control.

"Two soldiers and a civilian were killed and three others injured in the unprovoked fire by Pakistan," Indian Army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia told AFP of the "unprovoked" fire in the mountainous Tangdhar region of Kupwara district.

Several homes were damaged in the attack and three civilians were being treated in a hospital, he added.

Officials in Pakistan-administered Kashmir told AFP six civilians were killed and eight others wounded in Muzaffarabad and Neelum Valley.

"Mortar shells hit civilian houses and have so far martyred five people in Muzzafarabad and wounded six others," said Muzaffarabad deputy commissioner Badar Munir said.

Munir said the dead included three members of one family.

Neelum Valley official Akhtar Ayub said one civilian was killed and two injured.

The shelling came after five people were killed in Indian Kashmir on Wednesday, two days after New Delhi restored mobile phone and text services.

Indian authorities said repeatedly during the lockdown that Kashmir has been mostly peaceful.

Kashmir has been split between India and Pakistan since 1947 and was the spark of two wars and numerous skirmishes.

An armed rebellion against Indian rule has raged in the valley since 1989, claiming tens of thousands of lives, mostly civilians. 
&nbsp;

At least nine people were killed Sunday in firing along the de facto India-Pakistan border in Kashmir, officials said, adding to the spike in deaths in recent days as New Delhi eased a curfew in the disputed region.

At least nine people were killed Sunday in firing along the de facto India-Pakistan border in Kashmir, officials said, adding to the spike in deaths in recent days as New Delhi eased a curfew in the disputed region. Tensions escalated between the nuclear-armed neighbours after India revoked Kashmir's autonomy on August 5 and imposed movement and communications restrictions to quell unrest. Officials from the two countries accused each other of firing mortar rounds and small arms along the so-called Line of Control. "Two soldiers and a civilian were killed and three others injured in the unprovoked fire by Pakistan," Indian Army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia told AFP of the "unprovoked" fire in the mountainous Tangdhar region of Kupwara district. Several homes were damaged in the attack and three civilians were being treated in a hospital, he added. Officials in Pakistan-administered Kashmir told AFP six civilians were killed and eight others wounded in Muzaffarabad and Neelum Valley. "Mortar shells hit civilian houses and have so far martyred five people in Muzzafarabad and wounded six others," said Muzaffarabad deputy commissioner Badar Munir said. Munir said the dead included three members of one family. Neelum Valley official Akhtar Ayub said one civilian was killed and two injured. The shelling came after five people were killed in Indian Kashmir on Wednesday, two days after New Delhi restored mobile phone and text services. Indian authorities said repeatedly during the lockdown that Kashmir has been mostly peaceful. Kashmir has been split between India and Pakistan since 1947 and was the spark of two wars and numerous skirmishes. An armed rebellion against Indian rule has raged in the valley since 1989, claiming tens of thousands of lives, mostly civilians.

Nine killed in fresh firing across Kashmir border

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-symbol-of-valour-and-courage-amit-shah-on-air-force-day-254437">BJP president Amit Shah</a> on Monday said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi had repealed Article 370 within months of returning to power with an increased majority and urged people to take to task those who had "opposed" the move. 
 
Addressing a rally in poll-bound Maharashtra, he said the Modi government had taken steps for empowering the OBCs and given constitutional status to National Commission for Backward Classes. 
 
He said the government was moving in the direction shown by BR&nbsp;Ambedkar to empower the weaker sections. 
 
"You gave Narendra Modiji 300 seats (in the Lok Sabha polls). Modiji removed Article 370 in five months," he said. 
 
"Article 370 should have been scrapped or not? Is Kashmir an integral part of India or not? Prime Minister Narendra Modi has worked for integrating Kashmir with Bharat or not? Will you not question those who oppose it?" Shah asked. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/minimum-use-of-force-should-be-motto-of-police-everywhere-says-amit-shah-254336">The Union Home Minister</a> also heaped praises on Pankaja Munde, a Minister in Maharashtra government, who is contesting from Beed. 
 
He remembered her father and former union minister Gopinath Munde, saying he had done a lot of work for uplifting farmers, labourers and backward sections. 
 
"Gopinath Munde devoted his whole life for the sugarcane farmers, labourers in the sugar mills. Pankaja too is working for the backward sections of society," he said. 
 
Shah also greeted people on Dussehra. " It is the festival of victory of good over evil and inspires us to keep moving forward in life." 
 
BJP is contesting Maharashtra polls in alliance with Shiv Sena. The state will go to the polls on October 21.

BJP president Amit Shah on Monday said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi had repealed Article 370 within months of returning to power with an increased majority and urged people to take to task those who had "opposed" the move.

BJP president Amit Shah on Monday said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi had repealed Article 370 within months of returning to power with an increased majority and urged people to take to task those who had "opposed" the move. Addressing a rally in poll-bound Maharashtra, he said the Modi government had taken steps for empowering the OBCs and given constitutional status to National Commission for Backward Classes. He said the government was moving in the direction shown by BR Ambedkar to empower the weaker sections. "You gave Narendra Modiji 300 seats (in the Lok Sabha polls). Modiji removed Article 370 in five months," he said. "Article 370 should have been scrapped or not? Is Kashmir an integral part of India or not? Prime Minister Narendra Modi has worked for integrating Kashmir with Bharat or not? Will you not question those who oppose it?" Shah asked. The Union Home Minister also heaped praises on Pankaja Munde, a Minister in Maharashtra government, who is contesting from Beed. He remembered her father and former union minister Gopinath Munde, saying he had done a lot of work for uplifting farmers, labourers and backward sections. "Gopinath Munde devoted his whole life for the sugarcane farmers, labourers in the sugar mills. Pankaja too is working for the backward sections of society," he said. Shah also greeted people on Dussehra. " It is the festival of victory of good over evil and inspires us to keep moving forward in life." BJP is contesting Maharashtra polls in alliance with Shiv Sena. The state will go to the polls on October 21.

Question those who opposed repealing Article 370, says Amit Shah

At least one person lost his life and two others suffered injuries after a house collapsed in Mirpur following an earthquake measuring 3.8 on Richter scale that struck off the city and its adjoining areas in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) on Sunday morning. 
 
Quoting Pakistan Meteorological Department, ARY News, the epicentre of the quake, with a depth of 15 kilometres, was 12 km north-west of Jehlum's course in the Valley. 
 
Mirpur and adjoining areas were shaken by tremors at 10:28 a.m. (local time) for two to three seconds. 
 
Rescue sources were quoted as saying that tremors in the area resulted in a house to collapse, burying three under the debris, with two shifted to a hospital for treatment. 
 
Last month, at least 40 people were killed and 800 were injured when a 5.8-magnitude earthquake jolted the Kashmiri city of Mirpur, roughly 20 kilometres north of Jhelum in agricultural Punjab province. 
 
Tremors were also felt in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Jhelum, Charsadda, Swat, Khyber, Abbottabad, Bajaur, Nowshera, Mansehra, Battagram, Torghar and Kohistan.

At least one person lost his life and two others suffered injuries after a house collapsed in Mirpur following an earthquake measuring 3.8 on Richter scale that struck off the city and its adjoining areas in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) on Sunday morning.

At least one person lost his life and two others suffered injuries after a house collapsed in Mirpur following an earthquake measuring 3.8 on Richter scale that struck off the city and its adjoining areas in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) on Sunday morning. Quoting Pakistan Meteorological Department, ARY News, the epicentre of the quake, with a depth of 15 kilometres, was 12 km north-west of Jehlum's course in the Valley. Mirpur and adjoining areas were shaken by tremors at 10:28 a.m. (local time) for two to three seconds. Rescue sources were quoted as saying that tremors in the area resulted in a house to collapse, burying three under the debris, with two shifted to a hospital for treatment. Last month, at least 40 people were killed and 800 were injured when a 5.8-magnitude earthquake jolted the Kashmiri city of Mirpur, roughly 20 kilometres north of Jhelum in agricultural Punjab province. Tremors were also felt in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Jhelum, Charsadda, Swat, Khyber, Abbottabad, Bajaur, Nowshera, Mansehra, Battagram, Torghar and Kohistan.

One dead as earthquake of 3.8 magnitude strikes Pakistan occupied Kashmir

The number of polio cases in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-asks-iraq-pakistan-to-speak-to-iran-about-defusing-tensions-254051">Pakistan</a> climbed to 72 this year with three new cases registered in Sindh, Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, authorities said on Saturday. 
 
In Sindh, a 17-month-old girl from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/whosoever-comes-to-kartarpur-is-our-guest-says-pakistan-prime-ministers-special-adviser-253969">Karachi's</a> Orangi Town became the latest victim of polio, bringing the total number of cases in the city to four and eighth such case across the province, The Express Tribune reported. 
 
The Emergency Operation Centre for Polio in Sindh said that the child developed a fever and slight weakness in the right leg after which she was taken to the doctors. 
 
The case was classified as acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) following which she was tested positive for the poliovirus, it added. 
 
Meanwhile, the Balochistan Health Department said that the total number of polio cases in the province had reached six this year after a 15-month-old boy was diagnosed with the disease. 
 
According to the victim's parents, the infant from Jaffarabad felt weakness in his legs and became paralysed after suffering from high fever. 
 
The Emergency Polio Centre has also kicked off a special polio vaccination campaign after a recent spike in the cases and officials are optimistic to control the epidemic. 
 
A 21-month-old boy was diagnosed with the deadly disease in Hazara division's Torghar district, raising the total number of such cases to 53 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. 
 
As per the country-wide figures, 72 polio cases have been reported during the current year including 53 cases from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, eight from Sindh, six from Balochistan and five from Punjab. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-approves-tax-relief-for-gwadar-port-254040">Prime Minister Imran Khan</a>, last month, expressed serious concern over the recent spike in polio cases in the country and directed federal and provincial government officials to undertake effective awareness and immunisation campaigns to eliminate the disease.

The number of polio cases in Pakistan climbed to 72 this year with three new cases registered in Sindh, Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, authorities said on Saturday.

The number of polio cases in Pakistan climbed to 72 this year with three new cases registered in Sindh, Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, authorities said on Saturday. In Sindh, a 17-month-old girl from Karachi's Orangi Town became the latest victim of polio, bringing the total number of cases in the city to four and eighth such case across the province, The Express Tribune reported. The Emergency Operation Centre for Polio in Sindh said that the child developed a fever and slight weakness in the right leg after which she was taken to the doctors. The case was classified as acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) following which she was tested positive for the poliovirus, it added. Meanwhile, the Balochistan Health Department said that the total number of polio cases in the province had reached six this year after a 15-month-old boy was diagnosed with the disease. According to the victim's parents, the infant from Jaffarabad felt weakness in his legs and became paralysed after suffering from high fever. The Emergency Polio Centre has also kicked off a special polio vaccination campaign after a recent spike in the cases and officials are optimistic to control the epidemic. A 21-month-old boy was diagnosed with the deadly disease in Hazara division's Torghar district, raising the total number of such cases to 53 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. As per the country-wide figures, 72 polio cases have been reported during the current year including 53 cases from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, eight from Sindh, six from Balochistan and five from Punjab. Prime Minister Imran Khan, last month, expressed serious concern over the recent spike in polio cases in the country and directed federal and provincial government officials to undertake effective awareness and immunisation campaigns to eliminate the disease.

Pakistan: 72 cases of polio registered

Activists of Baloch National Movement (BNM) on Monday held protests outside 10 Downing Street, the residence of British Prime Minister, to raise the issue of enforced disappearances in Pakistan`s southwestern province of Balochistan.

The activists said that hundreds of Baloch women and children have been abducted by the Pakistan military in Balochistan.

On May 14, Hani Gul Baloch, a student of medicine in Karachi, was abducted along with her fiance, Naseem Baloch. She was kept in military torture cells where she was tormented for three months.

Upon her release, she was expelled by the Hamdard Medical University.

"Pakistan`s intelligence agencies recently adopted a new policy of abducting Baloch women and children to pressurise the Baloch political activists, who are fighting against the injustices committed by the Pakistani military establishment in Balochistan," Hammal Haider Baloch, Foreign spokesperson of BNM said during the protest.

He added, "The situation is becoming worse. Now, we have information that there are more than 100 Baloch women who have been abducted by the Pakistani security forces. They are missing. We have reports that Pakistani intelligence agencies are abducting Baloch women and keeping them in secret torture cells that too in a very grim situation."

The protesters said that they wanted to inform the British Prime Minister`s office regarding the worst human rights situation in Balochistan.

Hakeem Baloch, President of BNM (UK), said in his address, "We wish to make the world aware of the fact that the Pakistani Army is abducting Baloch women. Recently, they abducted women from Awaran, Dera Bugti and Bolan and various other parts of Makran. They are also abducting Baloch women from Karachi. We want to let the world know that they must take action against such inhuman acts of Pakistan."

He added, "Pakistan is losing its power in Balochistan because the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is not working in Balochistan. And, now to put pressure on the Baloch political activists and their leaders, they are abducting our women. We want the world to understand the problem of Baloch people and support them."

The Baloch activists have further initiated a social media campaign with hashtag #SaveBalochWomen to raise the issue on the global platform. 
&nbsp;

Activists of Baloch National Movement (BNM) on Monday held protests outside 10 Downing Street, the residence of British Prime Minister, to raise the issue of enforced disappearances in Pakistan`s southwestern province of Balochistan.

Activists of Baloch National Movement (BNM) on Monday held protests outside 10 Downing Street, the residence of British Prime Minister, to raise the issue of enforced disappearances in Pakistan`s southwestern province of Balochistan. The activists said that hundreds of Baloch women and children have been abducted by the Pakistan military in Balochistan. On May 14, Hani Gul Baloch, a student of medicine in Karachi, was abducted along with her fiance, Naseem Baloch. She was kept in military torture cells where she was tormented for three months. Upon her release, she was expelled by the Hamdard Medical University. "Pakistan`s intelligence agencies recently adopted a new policy of abducting Baloch women and children to pressurise the Baloch political activists, who are fighting against the injustices committed by the Pakistani military establishment in Balochistan," Hammal Haider Baloch, Foreign spokesperson of BNM said during the protest. He added, "The situation is becoming worse. Now, we have information that there are more than 100 Baloch women who have been abducted by the Pakistani security forces. They are missing. We have reports that Pakistani intelligence agencies are abducting Baloch women and keeping them in secret torture cells that too in a very grim situation." The protesters said that they wanted to inform the British Prime Minister`s office regarding the worst human rights situation in Balochistan. Hakeem Baloch, President of BNM (UK), said in his address, "We wish to make the world aware of the fact that the Pakistani Army is abducting Baloch women. Recently, they abducted women from Awaran, Dera Bugti and Bolan and various other parts of Makran. They are also abducting Baloch women from Karachi. We want to let the world know that they must take action against such inhuman acts of Pakistan." He added, "Pakistan is losing its power in Balochistan because the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is not working in Balochistan. And, now to put pressure on the Baloch political activists and their leaders, they are abducting our women. We want the world to understand the problem of Baloch people and support them." The Baloch activists have further initiated a social media campaign with hashtag #SaveBalochWomen to raise the issue on the global platform.

Baloch activists hold protest in London against enforced disappearance of women in Balochistan

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday visited earthquake affected Mirpur district of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Khan held a meeting with PoK Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider and was briefed about the losses as well as rescue and rehabilitation measure.

The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Ali Amin Gandapur and National Disaster Management Authority Chairman Lt Gen Mohammad Afzal, Dawn reported.

Khan also visited divisional headquarters hospital to inquire about the health of survivors.

Last week, two earthquakes struck PoK and adjoining areas. Chaudhry Mohammad Tayyab, the divisional commissioner of Mirpur, said that 40 people were killed while 680 others suffered injuries in Mirpur and Jhelum district of Pakistan`s Punjab.

Tayyab has said that according to preliminary reports 454 concrete houses and 1200 Katcha houses had been destroyed. Meanwhile, 6,660 concrete and 500 Katcha houses were partially damaged.

Nearly 140 school building and 200 vehicles were also marred by the natural disaster.

Khan was in New York to attend 74th session of United Nations General Assembly at the time of the disaster.

The Prime Minister had on Friday announced Pakistani Rupees 5 lakh compensation to people killed in the quake.

However, no compensation to injured has been issued yet.

Meanwhile, the government has deployed 22 teams, comprising 107 officials, to survey the area for property losses. They are expected to file a report in the coming 10 days.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday visited earthquake affected Mirpur district of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Khan held a meeting with PoK Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider and was briefed about the losses as well as rescue and rehabilitation measure.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday visited earthquake affected Mirpur district of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Khan held a meeting with PoK Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider and was briefed about the losses as well as rescue and rehabilitation measure. The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Ali Amin Gandapur and National Disaster Management Authority Chairman Lt Gen Mohammad Afzal, Dawn reported. Khan also visited divisional headquarters hospital to inquire about the health of survivors. Last week, two earthquakes struck PoK and adjoining areas. Chaudhry Mohammad Tayyab, the divisional commissioner of Mirpur, said that 40 people were killed while 680 others suffered injuries in Mirpur and Jhelum district of Pakistan`s Punjab. Tayyab has said that according to preliminary reports 454 concrete houses and 1200 Katcha houses had been destroyed. Meanwhile, 6,660 concrete and 500 Katcha houses were partially damaged. Nearly 140 school building and 200 vehicles were also marred by the natural disaster. Khan was in New York to attend 74th session of United Nations General Assembly at the time of the disaster. The Prime Minister had on Friday announced Pakistani Rupees 5 lakh compensation to people killed in the quake. However, no compensation to injured has been issued yet. Meanwhile, the government has deployed 22 teams, comprising 107 officials, to survey the area for property losses. They are expected to file a report in the coming 10 days.

Imran Khan visits earthquake-hit Mirpur district in PoK

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that talks with Pakistan could not be resumed until Islamabad stops "exporting terrorism" to India, and added that any future discussion would be held on Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), and not on Jammu and Kashmir.

Taking to Twitter, Singh also ruled out any possibility of talks with Pakistan on Jammu and Kashmir.

"There can be no talks when terrorism is being exported across the border. Talks with Pakistan can resume only after it stops exporting terrorism. Our neighbour should keep in mind that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Future discussion can only be about PoK," Singh tweeted.

Earlier today, he warned Pakistan not to "repeat its mistake" to go for war with India as it did in 1965 and 1971.

Addressing an event in Patna, Singh said that Pakistan would lose PoK if it dared to fight a war with India.

"Pakistan PM comes to PoK and suggests Pakistanis not to go to the border. It's good because if they come, they'll not be able to go back to Pakistan. They should not commit the mistake of repeating 1965 and 1971," Singh said.

He further said, "If they (Pakistan) repeat it, then they should think what will happen to PoK."

The government has on several occasions made it clear that talks between India and Pakistan cannot be resumed unless the latter stops using terrorism against India, saying that "talks and terror cannot go together."

His comments come days before the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York, where a high octane clash is expected between India and Pakistan over the abrogation of Article 370 and human rights violations in Pakistan.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that talks with Pakistan could not be resumed until Islamabad stops "exporting terrorism" to India, and added that any future discussion would be held on Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), and not on Jammu and Kashmir.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that talks with Pakistan could not be resumed until Islamabad stops "exporting terrorism" to India, and added that any future discussion would be held on Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), and not on Jammu and Kashmir. Taking to Twitter, Singh also ruled out any possibility of talks with Pakistan on Jammu and Kashmir. "There can be no talks when terrorism is being exported across the border. Talks with Pakistan can resume only after it stops exporting terrorism. Our neighbour should keep in mind that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Future discussion can only be about PoK," Singh tweeted. Earlier today, he warned Pakistan not to "repeat its mistake" to go for war with India as it did in 1965 and 1971. Addressing an event in Patna, Singh said that Pakistan would lose PoK if it dared to fight a war with India. "Pakistan PM comes to PoK and suggests Pakistanis not to go to the border. It's good because if they come, they'll not be able to go back to Pakistan. They should not commit the mistake of repeating 1965 and 1971," Singh said. He further said, "If they (Pakistan) repeat it, then they should think what will happen to PoK." The government has on several occasions made it clear that talks between India and Pakistan cannot be resumed unless the latter stops using terrorism against India, saying that "talks and terror cannot go together." His comments come days before the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York, where a high octane clash is expected between India and Pakistan over the abrogation of Article 370 and human rights violations in Pakistan.

Any talks with Pakistan in future will be about PoK: Rajnath Singh

Massive protests are expected in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Saturday.

The New York Times on September 19 had reported that the residents "have called for a massive protest on border with India on Saturday and in early October that is expected to be the biggest demonstrations yet."

The report had highlighted that the call for independence within PoK has been growing. It said that pro-independence movements are now attracting thousands of protesters. These protests were barely covered in Pakistani media and mobile phone and internet were cut off for a while in the area. One military general dismissed the demonstrators as "Indian agents."

This comes ahead of the scheduled UNGA session where both the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-abrogation-india-pakistan-clash-likely-at-unhrc-meet-in-geneva-248505">Indian and Pakistani</a> Prime Ministers are scheduled to speak.

This also comes in the wake of India decision to do away with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/removal-of-article-370-heralds-an-era-of-progress-for-jammu-and-kashmir-242889">Article 370</a> of the Constitution which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Even as Pakistan continues to make attempts to internationalise the Kashmir issue despite rebuffs, it has put curbs on residents of PoK who want&nbsp;an end to its control over the territory.

Pakistan's message to the residents in PoK has been very clear: No talk of independence will be allowed, The New York Times reported on Thursday.

A few NYT journalists who were granted rare access to the region in recent days found a toughening Pakistani security response to a growing pro-independence movement there.

Residents were quoted as saying that Pakistan's domination over the occupied territories has increased over the years especially after the scope of dialogue between the two countries came down.

Quoting the locals of the area, the NYT reported that the Pakistani crackdown also has another focus.

As outrage over India's move to end Kashmir's previously accorded (temporary) constitutional status has galvanised militants, Pakistani officials fear they could face international sanctions if they don't rein in the armed groups.

On August 5, the Government of India had announced the decision to abrogate Article 370 of the constitution which gave special status to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-road-ahead-whats-next-for-jammu-and-kashmir-after-bifurcation-revocation-of-articles-370-35a-240930">Jammu Kashmir</a>.

Pakistan and its leaders have since then resorted to cheap rhetoric against India with many threatening of war. It also downgraded its diplomatic relations with India.

India on its part has maintained that the issue is strictly internal to India.

Massive protests are expected in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Saturday. The New York Times on September 19 had reported that the residents "have called for a massive protest on border with India on Saturday and in early October that is expected to be the biggest demonstrations yet.

Massive protests are expected in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Saturday. The New York Times on September 19 had reported that the residents "have called for a massive protest on border with India on Saturday and in early October that is expected to be the biggest demonstrations yet." The report had highlighted that the call for independence within PoK has been growing. It said that pro-independence movements are now attracting thousands of protesters. These protests were barely covered in Pakistani media and mobile phone and internet were cut off for a while in the area. One military general dismissed the demonstrators as "Indian agents." This comes ahead of the scheduled UNGA session where both the Indian and Pakistani Prime Ministers are scheduled to speak. This also comes in the wake of India decision to do away with Article 370 of the Constitution which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Even as Pakistan continues to make attempts to internationalise the Kashmir issue despite rebuffs, it has put curbs on residents of PoK who want an end to its control over the territory. Pakistan's message to the residents in PoK has been very clear: No talk of independence will be allowed, The New York Times reported on Thursday. A few NYT journalists who were granted rare access to the region in recent days found a toughening Pakistani security response to a growing pro-independence movement there. Residents were quoted as saying that Pakistan's domination over the occupied territories has increased over the years especially after the scope of dialogue between the two countries came down. Quoting the locals of the area, the NYT reported that the Pakistani crackdown also has another focus. As outrage over India's move to end Kashmir's previously accorded (temporary) constitutional status has galvanised militants, Pakistani officials fear they could face international sanctions if they don't rein in the armed groups. On August 5, the Government of India had announced the decision to abrogate Article 370 of the constitution which gave special status to Jammu Kashmir. Pakistan and its leaders have since then resorted to cheap rhetoric against India with many threatening of war. It also downgraded its diplomatic relations with India. India on its part has maintained that the issue is strictly internal to India.

Massive protest expected in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir: Report

Member of the European parliament Neena Gill has slammed Pakistan for not able to protect minorities in the country, human rights violation in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir and its lack of action on terrorism.

Speaking during a discussion on Kashmir, Gill said, "To those members who have spoken today of their indignation towards India, I am astonished by your partiality, oversight and lack of any real empathy with the Kashmiris. Why do I say partial?"

"When Pakistan took the same measures in Gilgit and Baltistan, we didn’t speak up. When they gave away territory, which wasn't theirs, to China, we didn't speak up. Or when Sikhs and other minority women are abducted and forced to convert, we don't speak up. The fact is, there are human rights violations in PoK and very many honourable colleagues look the other way," Gill added.&nbsp;

Weeks ago a Sikh girl in Pakistan's Punjab province, Jagjit Kaur, was abducted and converted to Islam causing an international outcry.

Rapping Islamabad for its support to terror, Neena said, "The solution to Kashmir will come when state-sponsored terrorism and global misinformation by Pakistan ends, then dialogue will follow."

"Pakistan may talk the talk but it does not walk the walk when it comes to human rights... And I say to those colleagues concerned about rescinding of Article 370, you focus on one part and ignore the other issues that are dear to the hearts of many of us. Not only will it improve the rights of LGBT, women, minorities, it will also improve environmental protections amongst others and ban the outrageous triple talaq divorce," she added.&nbsp;

Pakistan has been trying to rake up Kashmir globally but hasn't found any traction. Last month at the United Nations Security Council it tried to rake up issue via China but other members of the UNSC did not support for an emergency session on Kashmir. &nbsp;

Member of the European parliament Neena Gill has slammed Pakistan for not able to protect minorities in the country, human rights violation in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir and its lack of action on terrorism.

Member of the European parliament Neena Gill has slammed Pakistan for not able to protect minorities in the country, human rights violation in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir and its lack of action on terrorism. Speaking during a discussion on Kashmir, Gill said, "To those members who have spoken today of their indignation towards India, I am astonished by your partiality, oversight and lack of any real empathy with the Kashmiris. Why do I say partial?" "When Pakistan took the same measures in Gilgit and Baltistan, we didn’t speak up. When they gave away territory, which wasn't theirs, to China, we didn't speak up. Or when Sikhs and other minority women are abducted and forced to convert, we don't speak up. The fact is, there are human rights violations in PoK and very many honourable colleagues look the other way," Gill added. Weeks ago a Sikh girl in Pakistan's Punjab province, Jagjit Kaur, was abducted and converted to Islam causing an international outcry. Rapping Islamabad for its support to terror, Neena said, "The solution to Kashmir will come when state-sponsored terrorism and global misinformation by Pakistan ends, then dialogue will follow." "Pakistan may talk the talk but it does not walk the walk when it comes to human rights... And I say to those colleagues concerned about rescinding of Article 370, you focus on one part and ignore the other issues that are dear to the hearts of many of us. Not only will it improve the rights of LGBT, women, minorities, it will also improve environmental protections amongst others and ban the outrageous triple talaq divorce," she added. Pakistan has been trying to rake up Kashmir globally but hasn't found any traction. Last month at the United Nations Security Council it tried to rake up issue via China but other members of the UNSC did not support for an emergency session on Kashmir.

I'm astonished by your partiality: European parliamentarian raises issue of human rights violation in PoK 

Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday said if the government can bring about transformational development in Jammu and Kashmir, then we don't need to wage a war to wrest Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

"If we can give people respect and bring so much development here that its shine reaches even PoK, I guarantee you that there will be a rebellion in PoK within a year and you will get it without going to any war. Every citizen of PoK will start saying that he wants to go to Kashmir," Malik said after inaugurating and laying the foundation stone of several power projects here.

The Governor took aim at "some" Central ministers for speaking of snatching PoK from Kashmir. "Some of our ministers usually do not get a chance to speak on international affairs. They say they will occupy PoK. I say if PoK is our next target, then we can take it on the basis of J-K's development," Malik said.

He said the administration wanted to provide everything that the people rightly deserve.

The Governor further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government was fully committed to developing Jammu and Kashmir, and in a far bigger way than what people expect.

Union Minister RK Singh was also present at the inauguration ceremony. (ANI)

Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday said if the government can bring about transformational development in Jammu and Kashmir, then we don't need to wage a war to wrest Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday said if the government can bring about transformational development in Jammu and Kashmir, then we don't need to wage a war to wrest Pakistan occupied Kashmir. "If we can give people respect and bring so much development here that its shine reaches even PoK, I guarantee you that there will be a rebellion in PoK within a year and you will get it without going to any war. Every citizen of PoK will start saying that he wants to go to Kashmir," Malik said after inaugurating and laying the foundation stone of several power projects here. The Governor took aim at "some" Central ministers for speaking of snatching PoK from Kashmir. "Some of our ministers usually do not get a chance to speak on international affairs. They say they will occupy PoK. I say if PoK is our next target, then we can take it on the basis of J-K's development," Malik said. He said the administration wanted to provide everything that the people rightly deserve. The Governor further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government was fully committed to developing Jammu and Kashmir, and in a far bigger way than what people expect. Union Minister RK Singh was also present at the inauguration ceremony. (ANI)

J&K governor suggest new mantra to get PoK without waging war

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Sunday warned Pakistan to stop supporting terrorism and added that it should be ready to lose Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir (PoK).

"Article 370 has been revoked. Now, Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) too is ours. Pakistan should be ready to lose PoK. For fulfilling the dream of united India, we are ready to move forward for PoK... Pakistan should stop supporting terrorism... India will not tolerate this," he said while attending a Bharat Ekta Manch rally here.&nbsp;

In August, Parliament had revoked Article 370 which gave special provisions to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcated the state into two union territories- Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh.

The Chief Minister also reminded Pakistan`s Prime Minister Imran Khan about the 1971 war in which Bangladesh was liberated.

"Pakistan was boasting of occupying Delhi in 1971 but they were about to lose Karachi. Bangladesh was partitioned. Their Army became our refugees," he added.

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Sunday warned Pakistan to stop supporting terrorism and added that it should be ready to lose Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir (PoK). "Article 370 has been revoked.

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Sunday warned Pakistan to stop supporting terrorism and added that it should be ready to lose Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir (PoK). "Article 370 has been revoked. Now, Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) too is ours. Pakistan should be ready to lose PoK. For fulfilling the dream of united India, we are ready to move forward for PoK... Pakistan should stop supporting terrorism... India will not tolerate this," he said while attending a Bharat Ekta Manch rally here. In August, Parliament had revoked Article 370 which gave special provisions to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcated the state into two union territories- Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The Chief Minister also reminded Pakistan`s Prime Minister Imran Khan about the 1971 war in which Bangladesh was liberated. "Pakistan was boasting of occupying Delhi in 1971 but they were about to lose Karachi. Bangladesh was partitioned. Their Army became our refugees," he added.

Pakistan should be ready to lose PoK, says Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told me to make Jammu and Kashmir so prosperous that the people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) would want to come and settle here, said Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday.

"When I came to take charge of Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister told me that make Jammu and Kashmir shine so much that people of PoK would want to cross the border over to our side and say proudly, this is our Kashmir," Malik said addressing the audience at an event here.

Malik was speaking at the electronic foundation stone laying ceremony for the upcoming 100 bedded State Cancer Institute at Government Medical College hospital here.

The Jammu and Kashmir Governor said that the Centre was eager to help the people of the region and urged them to come forward with their demands.

"The Central government has given us 8 medical colleges this year alone, which is more than what has been given to any other state in the country. We are soon going to have 4,500 doctors in the state. This is the perfect time for development in the region, I would request the people to keep the pressure on their politicians. Union Home Minister Amit Shahji meeting sarpanch of the villages from the state is a sign that the Centre is standing there with open arms," Malik said.

He said that the upcoming cancer institute will prove to be very beneficial for the state's residents and recounted his own battle with the deadly disease.

"I did not want to come here, because I have personally battled cancer, although I think having a cancer institute is a big thing. But the reason I did not want to come here was because I lost my wife to cancer eight years ago, and I was with her at every step during the 11 years of her fight against the disease. I finally decided to come because this institute would give the people an opportunity to get cured," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told me to make Jammu and Kashmir so prosperous that the people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) would want to come and settle here, said Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told me to make Jammu and Kashmir so prosperous that the people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) would want to come and settle here, said Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday. "When I came to take charge of Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister told me that make Jammu and Kashmir shine so much that people of PoK would want to cross the border over to our side and say proudly, this is our Kashmir," Malik said addressing the audience at an event here. Malik was speaking at the electronic foundation stone laying ceremony for the upcoming 100 bedded State Cancer Institute at Government Medical College hospital here. The Jammu and Kashmir Governor said that the Centre was eager to help the people of the region and urged them to come forward with their demands. "The Central government has given us 8 medical colleges this year alone, which is more than what has been given to any other state in the country. We are soon going to have 4,500 doctors in the state. This is the perfect time for development in the region, I would request the people to keep the pressure on their politicians. Union Home Minister Amit Shahji meeting sarpanch of the villages from the state is a sign that the Centre is standing there with open arms," Malik said. He said that the upcoming cancer institute will prove to be very beneficial for the state's residents and recounted his own battle with the deadly disease. "I did not want to come here, because I have personally battled cancer, although I think having a cancer institute is a big thing. But the reason I did not want to come here was because I lost my wife to cancer eight years ago, and I was with her at every step during the 11 years of her fight against the disease. I finally decided to come because this institute would give the people an opportunity to get cured," he said.

PM asked me to make J&K shine so that people of PoK want to come here: Governor Satya Pal Malik

A hug between cricketer Shahid Afridi and Pakistan Army spokesman Asif Ghafoor has left Twitterati wondering over the prospects of the former Pakistan cricket team captain becoming the country's next prime minister.

One user tweeted the picture of the hug between the two and wondered, "Next PM in the making?"

Responding to this, a twitter user said that if Afridi becomes the Prime Minister, he would be quick to hand back the Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) to India.

The former Pakistani cricketer has been vocal on the Kashmir issue, be it then calling for UN intervention on the matter shortly after the abrogation of Article 370 or backing Imran Khan's call to observe the so-called 'Kashmir solidarity day'.

Recently, Afridi joined Khan at a rally in Muzaffarabad, and his speech echoed the rhetorics of his Prime Minister on the Indian government's move.

The trolling that Afridi is being subjected to stems from how Imran Khan is often accused by his opponents of climbing to power on the back of the country's military.&nbsp;

A hug between cricketer Shahid Afridi and Pakistan Army spokesman Asif Ghafoor has left Twitterati wondering over the prospects of the former Pakistan cricket team captain becoming the country's next prime minister.

A hug between cricketer Shahid Afridi and Pakistan Army spokesman Asif Ghafoor has left Twitterati wondering over the prospects of the former Pakistan cricket team captain becoming the country's next prime minister. One user tweeted the picture of the hug between the two and wondered, "Next PM in the making?" Responding to this, a twitter user said that if Afridi becomes the Prime Minister, he would be quick to hand back the Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) to India. The former Pakistani cricketer has been vocal on the Kashmir issue, be it then calling for UN intervention on the matter shortly after the abrogation of Article 370 or backing Imran Khan's call to observe the so-called 'Kashmir solidarity day'. Recently, Afridi joined Khan at a rally in Muzaffarabad, and his speech echoed the rhetorics of his Prime Minister on the Indian government's move. The trolling that Afridi is being subjected to stems from how Imran Khan is often accused by his opponents of climbing to power on the back of the country's military.

A hug that leads Pakistan Twitterati to wonder if Shahid Afridi is the next PM

India sends out a strong message to Pakistan. Indian Army chief said that Indian army is ready to retrieve PoK.

Today Tonight: India sends out a strong message to Pakistan

In a bid to keep the Kashmir issue in focus, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today gave a speech<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-approaches-international-community-over-kashmir-but-commits-genocide-in-balochistan-baloch-leader-248933"> at Muzaffarabad in Pakistan</a> Occupied Kashmir(PoK) asserting that he was the &nbsp;"ambassador of Kashmiri people".

The Pakistan prime minister who is set to raise the Kashmir issue at the UN General Assembly in a fortnight set the stage during his address at&nbsp;PoK. "I am going to the UN General Assembly in New York and I will not disappoint the Kashmiri people," he said in a clear message that he would rake up the Kashmir issue during the congregation of world leaders later in the month.

Despite Imran's claim of support, several nations including organisation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kashmir-issue-does-not-concern-muslim-community-uae-snubs-pakistan-247853">Islamic cooperation(OIC) members </a>have backed India's move on abrogation of Article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

In fact, Pakistan's ally China had attempted to rake up the Kashmir issue at the UNSC last month calling for a consultative meet. In a huge diplomatic setback for Pakistan, the meeting ended with Russia, France, UK and US backing India. The&nbsp;consultations did not lead to any formal meeting which Islamabad was keen to have.&nbsp;

In the aftermath of India's decision to remove the special status for Jammy and Kashmir, Pakistan has been trying to internationalise Kashmir by reaching out to global capitals but it hasn't received any traction.

In his PoK speech, Imran Khan attacked PM Modi blaming him for the "injustice" in Kashmir. "Today Kashmir has been internationalised," the Pakistan prime minister told the crowd.

The Pakistan prime minister said India was "pushing" Muslim citizens towards "extremism".

Imran referred to the February 27 incident when Pak jets entered Indian airspace asserting that Pak Air Force brought down down the Indian jet. Imran said the government returned the pilot because he wanted to "solve issues through dialogue".

"Let me go to the United Nations and fight Kashmir's case," the Pakistan prime said while concluding his speech.

In a bid to keep the Kashmir issue in focus, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today gave a speech at Muzaffarabad in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(PoK) asserting that he was the "ambassador of Kashmiri people".

In a bid to keep the Kashmir issue in focus, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today gave a speech at Muzaffarabad in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(PoK) asserting that he was the "ambassador of Kashmiri people". The Pakistan prime minister who is set to raise the Kashmir issue at the UN General Assembly in a fortnight set the stage during his address at PoK. "I am going to the UN General Assembly in New York and I will not disappoint the Kashmiri people," he said in a clear message that he would rake up the Kashmir issue during the congregation of world leaders later in the month. Despite Imran's claim of support, several nations including organisation of Islamic cooperation(OIC) members have backed India's move on abrogation of Article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. In fact, Pakistan's ally China had attempted to rake up the Kashmir issue at the UNSC last month calling for a consultative meet. In a huge diplomatic setback for Pakistan, the meeting ended with Russia, France, UK and US backing India. The consultations did not lead to any formal meeting which Islamabad was keen to have. In the aftermath of India's decision to remove the special status for Jammy and Kashmir, Pakistan has been trying to internationalise Kashmir by reaching out to global capitals but it hasn't received any traction. In his PoK speech, Imran Khan attacked PM Modi blaming him for the "injustice" in Kashmir. "Today Kashmir has been internationalised," the Pakistan prime minister told the crowd. The Pakistan prime minister said India was "pushing" Muslim citizens towards "extremism". Imran referred to the February 27 incident when Pak jets entered Indian airspace asserting that Pak Air Force brought down down the Indian jet. Imran said the government returned the pilot because he wanted to "solve issues through dialogue". "Let me go to the United Nations and fight Kashmir's case," the Pakistan prime said while concluding his speech.

In PoK rally, Imran rakes up Kashmir, set to bring up issue at UNGA

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday asserted that the dilution of Article 370 would accelerate the process of development in the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh and said any talks with Pakistan now would be held only on Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK).

"Abrogation of Article 370 paved the way for the extension of various schemes and legislations, including 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments to strengthen the funds and functions of local bodies," he said.

The Vice President was interacting with a delegation of Sarpanchs (Village Heads) and Panchs (Panchayat Members) from Jammu and Kashmir and told them that Article 370 was only a temporary and transitory provision in the Constitution.

"Talks with Pakistan would be held only on PoK, the safety, security and integrity of the nation are paramount for every Indian," he said, according to an official statement.

Referring to the holding of Panchayat elections under the Governor's rule in Jammu and Kashmir after a long gap, Naidu expressed his happiness that 74 per cent of the electorate voted and around 3,500 of the 4,483 Panchayats have been elected.

"With the dilution of Article 370, the Panchayats would now become more dynamic as the 3Fs - Funds, Functions, and Functionaries would be devolved to them. The financial power of Panchayats has also been increased by 10 times enhancing their financial powers up to Rs 1 lakh," he said.

He pointed out that the Panchayats were vested with powers to raise their own resources by increasing taxes. "The Panchayats are also now empowered to conduct an audit of schemes like ICDS and PMAY to improve the quality of delivery," he added.

Observing that greater devolution of funds, functions, and functionaries would enable the 3-tier administrative system to function more effectively, he said, Jammu and Kashmir was losing around Rs 4,000 crores for not conducting Panchayat elections as per the norms set by the 14th Finance Commission.

"Now that elections have been conducted, the funds recommended by the Finance Commission will start flowing. I am happy to know that Rs 500 crore have already been released and another Rs 3,000 crore will be released shortly. This will be a big game-changer for the Panchayat system," he said.

The Vice President also suggested that holding elections to local bodies every five years should be made mandatory.

"There should be no discretion or scope for the states to either postpone or advance them," he said.

Stating that effective local governance was key for better implementation of development and welfare initiatives and for better service delivery, he said that the funds allocated to the local bodies should go into the accounts of Panchayats, municipalities, and corporations and spent in accordance with the resolutions of the respective bodies.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday asserted that the dilution of Article 370 would accelerate the process of development in the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh and said any talks with Pakistan now would be held only on Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK).

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday asserted that the dilution of Article 370 would accelerate the process of development in the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh and said any talks with Pakistan now would be held only on Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK). "Abrogation of Article 370 paved the way for the extension of various schemes and legislations, including 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments to strengthen the funds and functions of local bodies," he said. The Vice President was interacting with a delegation of Sarpanchs (Village Heads) and Panchs (Panchayat Members) from Jammu and Kashmir and told them that Article 370 was only a temporary and transitory provision in the Constitution. "Talks with Pakistan would be held only on PoK, the safety, security and integrity of the nation are paramount for every Indian," he said, according to an official statement. Referring to the holding of Panchayat elections under the Governor's rule in Jammu and Kashmir after a long gap, Naidu expressed his happiness that 74 per cent of the electorate voted and around 3,500 of the 4,483 Panchayats have been elected. "With the dilution of Article 370, the Panchayats would now become more dynamic as the 3Fs - Funds, Functions, and Functionaries would be devolved to them. The financial power of Panchayats has also been increased by 10 times enhancing their financial powers up to Rs 1 lakh," he said. He pointed out that the Panchayats were vested with powers to raise their own resources by increasing taxes. "The Panchayats are also now empowered to conduct an audit of schemes like ICDS and PMAY to improve the quality of delivery," he added. Observing that greater devolution of funds, functions, and functionaries would enable the 3-tier administrative system to function more effectively, he said, Jammu and Kashmir was losing around Rs 4,000 crores for not conducting Panchayat elections as per the norms set by the 14th Finance Commission. "Now that elections have been conducted, the funds recommended by the Finance Commission will start flowing. I am happy to know that Rs 500 crore have already been released and another Rs 3,000 crore will be released shortly. This will be a big game-changer for the Panchayat system," he said. The Vice President also suggested that holding elections to local bodies every five years should be made mandatory. "There should be no discretion or scope for the states to either postpone or advance them," he said. Stating that effective local governance was key for better implementation of development and welfare initiatives and for better service delivery, he said that the funds allocated to the local bodies should go into the accounts of Panchayats, municipalities, and corporations and spent in accordance with the resolutions of the respective bodies.

Dilution of Article 370 will accelerate development, talks with Pakistan only on PoK: Naidu

Dangerous Steps Taken By Pakistan To Disrupt Peace In Kashmir.

Gravitas: Pakistan's Nefarious Plots Exposed

In what is a significant diplomatic shift in its dealings with Pakistan, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh clarified on Sunday that if bilateral talks happen, it would not be on Jammu and Kashmir, only Pakistan-occupied Kashmir - the territory under Pakistan's control since its invasion in 1947.

Dialogue with Pakistan on PoK only: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

PoK will be on top of the agenda if talks are held with Pakistan in future, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday, adding that dialogue will only be held if the neighboring nation stops supporting terror.

"Why should there be talks? On what issues there would be talks? Talks with Pakistan would begin only after it stops patronising terrorism. If talks begin, it would now only be on the PoK and no other issue," he said.

The senior BJP leader was addressing a rally here ahead of flagging off "Jan Aashirvaad Yatra" of the Haryana BJP under the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

India has not been engaging with Pakistan since an attack on the Air Force base at Pathankot in January of 2016 by a Pakistan-based terror group, maintaining that talks and terror cannot go together.

Slamming Pakistan for its efforts to internationalise the issue of Kashmir after New Delhi scrapped Jammu and Kashmir's special status by revoking Article 370, Singh said the neighbouring country was knocking doors of the international community to save itself.

"We have a neighbour. You people know who is it. We removed Article 370 and it is thinning down. It is not able to digest and is knocking the doors of the world seeking help to save itself. It is crying before them and saying please save me," Singh said without naming Pakistan.

Mentioning United States'&nbsp;response in the United Nations, Singh said the most powerful country's President refused to help Pakistan, saying it should talk to India.

"Hato, hato... Bharat se baat kariye... Yahan aane ki jaroorat nahi hai (back off... talk to India... no need to come here," Singh said referring to Trump's response to Pakistan.Since Imran Khan came to power, he has urged for a dialogue with India on various occasions.

However, with the government's decision to burry Article 370, Islamabad has now refused to propose a peace solution through dialogue.

Alleging that Pakistan was trying to break and destabilise India with its acts like Pulwama, Singh said the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been giving a befitting reply to all its nefarious actions.

He said the Pakistan which was denying any Indian action in Balakot, has now back-tracked with Prime Minister Imran Khan himself saying that India was planning to take a bigger action than Balakot.

"It means that Pakistani Prime Minister has acknowledged what India did in Balakot and the terrorists killed in a big number," he said.

Early this year, tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district.

Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan on February 26.Singh said, the BJP was committed to its election manifesto and it was fulfilling all that was promised.

"Our Prime Minister took the decision and Article 370 was removed despite people saying if anyone would touch it, India will get divided," he said maintaining that the BJP was in politics not to form governments but to save the country.

He also slammed the apprehensions that there would be riots in the country if any government tries to touch Article 370.

"We don't do divisive politics. Those who practice it want to grab power for vote bank politics," he said, adding that now the two Union Territories Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh would taste the fruits of development along with the other parts of the country.

Pakistan has strongly condemned New Delhi's move on Kashmir. While Pakistan has been trying to amass international attention on the issue, India has called it an "internal matter."&nbsp;

PoK will be on top of the agenda if talks are held with Pakistan in future, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday, adding that dialogue will only be held if the neighboring nation stops supporting terror.

PoK will be on top of the agenda if talks are held with Pakistan in future, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday, adding that dialogue will only be held if the neighboring nation stops supporting terror. "Why should there be talks? On what issues there would be talks? Talks with Pakistan would begin only after it stops patronising terrorism. If talks begin, it would now only be on the PoK and no other issue," he said. The senior BJP leader was addressing a rally here ahead of flagging off "Jan Aashirvaad Yatra" of the Haryana BJP under the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. India has not been engaging with Pakistan since an attack on the Air Force base at Pathankot in January of 2016 by a Pakistan-based terror group, maintaining that talks and terror cannot go together. Slamming Pakistan for its efforts to internationalise the issue of Kashmir after New Delhi scrapped Jammu and Kashmir's special status by revoking Article 370, Singh said the neighbouring country was knocking doors of the international community to save itself. "We have a neighbour. You people know who is it. We removed Article 370 and it is thinning down. It is not able to digest and is knocking the doors of the world seeking help to save itself. It is crying before them and saying please save me," Singh said without naming Pakistan. Mentioning United States' response in the United Nations, Singh said the most powerful country's President refused to help Pakistan, saying it should talk to India. "Hato, hato... Bharat se baat kariye... Yahan aane ki jaroorat nahi hai (back off... talk to India... no need to come here," Singh said referring to Trump's response to Pakistan.Since Imran Khan came to power, he has urged for a dialogue with India on various occasions. However, with the government's decision to burry Article 370, Islamabad has now refused to propose a peace solution through dialogue. Alleging that Pakistan was trying to break and destabilise India with its acts like Pulwama, Singh said the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been giving a befitting reply to all its nefarious actions. He said the Pakistan which was denying any Indian action in Balakot, has now back-tracked with Prime Minister Imran Khan himself saying that India was planning to take a bigger action than Balakot. "It means that Pakistani Prime Minister has acknowledged what India did in Balakot and the terrorists killed in a big number," he said. Early this year, tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan on February 26.Singh said, the BJP was committed to its election manifesto and it was fulfilling all that was promised. "Our Prime Minister took the decision and Article 370 was removed despite people saying if anyone would touch it, India will get divided," he said maintaining that the BJP was in politics not to form governments but to save the country. He also slammed the apprehensions that there would be riots in the country if any government tries to touch Article 370. "We don't do divisive politics. Those who practice it want to grab power for vote bank politics," he said, adding that now the two Union Territories Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh would taste the fruits of development along with the other parts of the country. Pakistan has strongly condemned New Delhi's move on Kashmir. While Pakistan has been trying to amass international attention on the issue, India has called it an "internal matter."

Now talks with Pakistan only on PoK: Rajnath Singh

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh gives a stiff message for Pakistan during addressing an assembly. He said that talks between India & Pakistan will only be on PoK now.

Defence Minister Rajnath's stiff message for Pakistan, ''will talk now only on PoK''

Pakistan Prime Minister has said India plans to launch an attack in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/solve-your-issues-with-india-bilaterally-russia-tells-pakistan-243014">Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK)</a> and this one can be bigger than the Balakot strike, which was New Delhi's counter-terror strike on Jaish-e-Mohammad (JEM) terror camps. &nbsp;

JEM was the group behind the Pulwama attack on 14th February that killed over 40 Indian security personnel. &nbsp;

Imran Khan who speaking in the so-called legislative assembly of PoK on the occasion of Pakistan's Independence Day said: "India has a plan ready for action in Pakistan occupied Kashmir and like after Pulwama, India took action in Balakot, this can be bigger."

He hinted at an impending war with India for which he said his country was ready.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-india-surges-ahead-pakistan-lags-behind-243003/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We are ready, our military forces and society are on the same page, and we have decided, if they do any violation, which they have planned, we are ready for it", Khan said.

Blaming the international community, he said, "when this war happens, we are telling the international community, they will be responsible... its a trial for United Nations now."

Meanwhile, the so-called PM of PoK&nbsp;Raja Farooq Haider has said the line of control(LoC)&nbsp;will now be the "ceasefire line" and a notification in this regard will be issued soon.

While there were several provocative anti-India rhetoric by Imran Khan, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-warmongering-over-scrapping-of-article-370-president-alvi-calls-for-jihad-against-india-242906">President of Pakistan</a> Arif Alvi and Pakistani Army were not far behind.

Earlier in the day, the Pakistan President had talked about an impending war. President Alvi said, "We are a peace-loving country, but if War is imposed on us by India then it will not be limited between two countries.. the whole world will get affected by it and then only jihad and resolve will be left as an option for us."

Rawalpindi also put views across in the backdrop of Indian government's decision on August 5 to bifurcate the state.

"Pakistan Army is fully alive to the sanctity of Jammu &amp; Kashmir and will remain fully ready to perform its part in line with our national duty for the Kashmir cause", Asif Ghafoor, Pakistan spokesperson had tweeted.

Pakistan Prime Minister has said India plans to launch an attack in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK) and this one can be bigger than the Balakot strike, which was New Delhi's counter-terror strike on Jaish-e-Mohammad (JEM) terror camps.

Pakistan Prime Minister has said India plans to launch an attack in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK) and this one can be bigger than the Balakot strike, which was New Delhi's counter-terror strike on Jaish-e-Mohammad (JEM) terror camps. JEM was the group behind the Pulwama attack on 14th February that killed over 40 Indian security personnel. Imran Khan who speaking in the so-called legislative assembly of PoK on the occasion of Pakistan's Independence Day said: "India has a plan ready for action in Pakistan occupied Kashmir and like after Pulwama, India took action in Balakot, this can be bigger." He hinted at an impending war with India for which he said his country was ready. Watch Video: "We are ready, our military forces and society are on the same page, and we have decided, if they do any violation, which they have planned, we are ready for it", Khan said. Blaming the international community, he said, "when this war happens, we are telling the international community, they will be responsible... its a trial for United Nations now." Meanwhile, the so-called PM of PoK Raja Farooq Haider has said the line of control(LoC) will now be the "ceasefire line" and a notification in this regard will be issued soon. While there were several provocative anti-India rhetoric by Imran Khan, President of Pakistan Arif Alvi and Pakistani Army were not far behind. Earlier in the day, the Pakistan President had talked about an impending war. President Alvi said, "We are a peace-loving country, but if War is imposed on us by India then it will not be limited between two countries.. the whole world will get affected by it and then only jihad and resolve will be left as an option for us." Rawalpindi also put views across in the backdrop of Indian government's decision on August 5 to bifurcate the state. "Pakistan Army is fully alive to the sanctity of Jammu & Kashmir and will remain fully ready to perform its part in line with our national duty for the Kashmir cause", Asif Ghafoor, Pakistan spokesperson had tweeted.

India planning bigger attack than Balakot: Imran Khan in PoK assembly

Prime Minister Imran Khan in a speech to PoK Assembly on the occasion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-warmongering-over-scrapping-of-article-370-president-alvi-calls-for-jihad-against-india-242906">Pakistan's Independence Day</a> said India internationalised the Kashmir issue.

"People regard India as a tolerant country but ongoings in India contrary to belief," the Pakistan prime minister said, adding,"there is no rule of law in India."

"Spoke to President Trump and others, we will retaliate," he said.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pakistans-kashmir-defeat-242847/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Pakistan prime minister equated the RSS ideology with Hitler's Nazi party during his speech.

Tensions between India and Pakistan spiked after the government decided to scrap Article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan downgraded relations with India and cut off trade ties. Subsequently, it also sent back India's High Commissioner to Pakistan back home.

"It will cost India," the Pakistan prime minister said during his speech.

Prime Minister Imran Khan in a speech to PoK Assembly on the occasion of Pakistan's Independence Day said India internationalised the Kashmir issue. "People regard India as a tolerant country but ongoings in India contrary to belief," the Pakistan prime minister said, adding,"there is no rule of law in India.

Prime Minister Imran Khan in a speech to PoK Assembly on the occasion of Pakistan's Independence Day said India internationalised the Kashmir issue. "People regard India as a tolerant country but ongoings in India contrary to belief," the Pakistan prime minister said, adding,"there is no rule of law in India." "Spoke to President Trump and others, we will retaliate," he said. Watch Video: Pakistan prime minister equated the RSS ideology with Hitler's Nazi party during his speech. Tensions between India and Pakistan spiked after the government decided to scrap Article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan downgraded relations with India and cut off trade ties. Subsequently, it also sent back India's High Commissioner to Pakistan back home. "It will cost India," the Pakistan prime minister said during his speech.

India internationalised the Kashmir issue, says Imran Khan in PoK Assembly

A week after India announced internal administrative changes to remove the special status for Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan has continued its rhetoric and increased negative attitude towards India from no Eid sweets at Wagah to vandalisation of statue of Ranjit Singh and aircraft deployment.

On the occasion of Eid on Monday, there was no exchange of sweets between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-people-in-pakistan-kashmir-be-aware-unsc-not-waiting-for-you-qureshi-242536">Pakistan Rangers and BSF</a> at the Wagah border which had become a yearly tradition.&nbsp;

Over the weekend, Pakistan's daily newspaper Dawn reported that a statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the legendary 19th-century ruler of undived Punjab was vandalised. It was reported that men carrying clubs and bricks entered the mansion of Maharani Jind Kaur, the wife of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and vandalised the statue.&nbsp;

The men, from a certain religious organisation who were responsible for vandalising the statue, have been arrested and a criminal case has been registered against them. 
&nbsp; 
Meanwhile, Pakistan has placed three C 130 aircraft at the Skardu airbase in Pakistan occupied Kashmir in the backdrop of New Delhi's decision on Kashmir.&nbsp;

Government sources told news agency ANI that the transport aircraft have been placed and "Indian agencies concerned are keeping a close eye on the movement of Pakistanis along the border area".

Skardu airfield is forward operating base of the Pakistan Air Force.

A week after India announced internal administrative changes to remove the special status for Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan has continued its rhetoric and increased negative attitude towards India from no Eid sweets at Wagah to vandalisation of statue of Ranjit Singh and aircraft deployment.

A week after India announced internal administrative changes to remove the special status for Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan has continued its rhetoric and increased negative attitude towards India from no Eid sweets at Wagah to vandalisation of statue of Ranjit Singh and aircraft deployment. On the occasion of Eid on Monday, there was no exchange of sweets between Pakistan Rangers and BSF at the Wagah border which had become a yearly tradition. Over the weekend, Pakistan's daily newspaper Dawn reported that a statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the legendary 19th-century ruler of undived Punjab was vandalised. It was reported that men carrying clubs and bricks entered the mansion of Maharani Jind Kaur, the wife of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and vandalised the statue. The men, from a certain religious organisation who were responsible for vandalising the statue, have been arrested and a criminal case has been registered against them. Meanwhile, Pakistan has placed three C 130 aircraft at the Skardu airbase in Pakistan occupied Kashmir in the backdrop of New Delhi's decision on Kashmir. Government sources told news agency ANI that the transport aircraft have been placed and "Indian agencies concerned are keeping a close eye on the movement of Pakistanis along the border area". Skardu airfield is forward operating base of the Pakistan Air Force.

Week after India's decision on J&K, BSF, Pak rangers do not exchange sweets on Eid at Wagah

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