The Pulwama attack has once again brought the spotlight on Pakistan and it’s proxies operating in India. The Jaish-e-Mohammed, an organisation founded by Masood Azhar and headquartered in Bahawalpur in Pakistan’s Punjab province, has claimed responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;

It should be borne in mind that organisations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed and Jaish-al-Adl (which carried out a similar suicide attack on Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard on February 13, killing 27 soldiers), the Haqqani network and the Afghan Taliban are all creations of Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the ISI.&nbsp;

These organisations must be considered as armed wings of the ISI to wage undeclared war on its neighbours and to give the Pakistan state a strong element of deniability.&nbsp;

It should also be recognised that since the 1980’s, Pakistan has been a state sponsor of terror and has consistently used terror as an instrument of state policy.&nbsp;

The ISI has been using such organisations to carry out Pakistan’s objectives, mainly in India, but also in Afghanistan and Iran.&nbsp;

In India, the main aim is to wrest away the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir by terror and force, while in Afghanistan it is to have a client government, which will carry out the bidding of Islamabad and provide it with strategic depth in a possible conflict with India.&nbsp;

The Jaish-e-Mohammed in general and Masood Azhar, in particular, have been considered as strategic assets and very important to Pakistan’s regional aspirations.&nbsp;

Unlike foot soldiers, who take the risk of entering India by crossing the Line of Control (LOC), Masood Azhar was sent to India on a Portuguese passport and arrived in Delhi from Dhaka in 1993 pretending to be Adam Issa, a Portuguese of Gujarati descent.&nbsp;

In February 1994, he and Sajjad Afghani, the then Chief Commander of Harkat-ul-Ansar were captured by the J&amp;K police near Anantnag, South Kashmir.&nbsp;

Pakistan almost immediately started making attempts to free him. In June that year, two British nationals – Kim Housego and David Mackie — were kidnapped for the same purpose. However, Kim’s father, David Housego, who was the Financial Times New Delhi correspondent, was able to use his contacts in the UK and the USA to secure the release of these two without harm after a 17- day custody.&nbsp;

In October 1994, a Britisher of Pakistani descent, Ahmed Omar Sheikh, was sent from England and he successfully kidnapped three Britishers and an American from the backpackers paradise of Paharganj, New Delhi, to force the government of India to release Masood Azhar.&nbsp;

However, this plan did not succeed as the UP police were able to rescue the hostages from Ghaziabad, UP. Two policemen and a terrorist were killed in this rescue operation, but all the tourists were freed unhurt. Ahmed Omar Sheikh was sent to Tihar jail where he remained till December 1999.&nbsp;

The infamous hijacking of IC 814 from Kathmandu was also done for the same purpose and the ISI finally succeeded in getting Masood Azhar, Ahmed Omar Sheikh and a small time Kashmiri youth Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar freed in December 1999.&nbsp;

Zargar’s family ran a small shop called Latrum store in downtown Srinagar and he was added to the list of those to be released only to give a Kashmiri touch to the entire episode.

It should be borne in mind that Pakistan has never been a friend of the Kashmiris and distrusts them thoroughly. However, it covets their land for its strategic location and water resources.&nbsp;

Pakistan does not have any border with China except through Gilgit-Baltistan, a part of J&amp;K, which has been under its illegal occupation since 1947. The people living here do not have any political or human rights and the original Shia inhabitants are now a minority due to the settling of Pathan and Afghan refugees and presence of thousands of Chinese for construction activity along the Karakoram highway.&nbsp;

The fight, against terrorism and militancy, is being fought primarily by the Jammu and Kashmir police since 1988. The Army, BSF, CRPF and other security agencies are playing a very significant role, but it is the J&amp;K police which bears the brunt of the attacks and is usually the first responder to any terrorist attack.&nbsp;

Similarly, a large chunk of the Kashmiri population is pro India, but not very vocal about it.&nbsp;

The Pulwama attack poses a serious challenge to India and cannot be allowed to go unanswered. Not just the perpetrators, but also their handlers and masters in GHQ, Rawalpindi, have to be brought to book through all available means at the disposal of the Indian government.&nbsp;

Just as the Jaish-e-Mohammed is an auxiliary of Pakistan, stone pelters and those who interfere in anti-terror operations are their auxiliaries and must be dealt with sternly.&nbsp;

However, the rest of the Kashmiri population must be treated with honour and respect. This calls for careful calibration of the security forces response and J&amp;K police can play a major role in that. &nbsp;

There have been unanimous parliamentary resolutions asserting that the whole of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. The Indian state must work resolutely to make that happen. 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on the DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-pak-and-its-proxy-warriors-2722647">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

&nbsp;

The Pulwama attack has once again brought the spotlight on Pakistan and it’s proxies operating in India. The Jaish-e-Mohammed, an organisation founded by Masood Azhar and headquartered in Bahawalpur in Pakistan’s Punjab province, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

The Pulwama attack has once again brought the spotlight on Pakistan and it’s proxies operating in India. The Jaish-e-Mohammed, an organisation founded by Masood Azhar and headquartered in Bahawalpur in Pakistan’s Punjab province, has claimed responsibility for the attack. It should be borne in mind that organisations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed and Jaish-al-Adl (which carried out a similar suicide attack on Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard on February 13, killing 27 soldiers), the Haqqani network and the Afghan Taliban are all creations of Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the ISI. These organisations must be considered as armed wings of the ISI to wage undeclared war on its neighbours and to give the Pakistan state a strong element of deniability. It should also be recognised that since the 1980’s, Pakistan has been a state sponsor of terror and has consistently used terror as an instrument of state policy. The ISI has been using such organisations to carry out Pakistan’s objectives, mainly in India, but also in Afghanistan and Iran. In India, the main aim is to wrest away the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir by terror and force, while in Afghanistan it is to have a client government, which will carry out the bidding of Islamabad and provide it with strategic depth in a possible conflict with India. The Jaish-e-Mohammed in general and Masood Azhar, in particular, have been considered as strategic assets and very important to Pakistan’s regional aspirations. Unlike foot soldiers, who take the risk of entering India by crossing the Line of Control (LOC), Masood Azhar was sent to India on a Portuguese passport and arrived in Delhi from Dhaka in 1993 pretending to be Adam Issa, a Portuguese of Gujarati descent. In February 1994, he and Sajjad Afghani, the then Chief Commander of Harkat-ul-Ansar were captured by the J&K police near Anantnag, South Kashmir. Pakistan almost immediately started making attempts to free him. In June that year, two British nationals – Kim Housego and David Mackie — were kidnapped for the same purpose. However, Kim’s father, David Housego, who was the Financial Times New Delhi correspondent, was able to use his contacts in the UK and the USA to secure the release of these two without harm after a 17- day custody. In October 1994, a Britisher of Pakistani descent, Ahmed Omar Sheikh, was sent from England and he successfully kidnapped three Britishers and an American from the backpackers paradise of Paharganj, New Delhi, to force the government of India to release Masood Azhar. However, this plan did not succeed as the UP police were able to rescue the hostages from Ghaziabad, UP. Two policemen and a terrorist were killed in this rescue operation, but all the tourists were freed unhurt. Ahmed Omar Sheikh was sent to Tihar jail where he remained till December 1999. The infamous hijacking of IC 814 from Kathmandu was also done for the same purpose and the ISI finally succeeded in getting Masood Azhar, Ahmed Omar Sheikh and a small time Kashmiri youth Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar freed in December 1999. Zargar’s family ran a small shop called Latrum store in downtown Srinagar and he was added to the list of those to be released only to give a Kashmiri touch to the entire episode. It should be borne in mind that Pakistan has never been a friend of the Kashmiris and distrusts them thoroughly. However, it covets their land for its strategic location and water resources. Pakistan does not have any border with China except through Gilgit-Baltistan, a part of J&K, which has been under its illegal occupation since 1947. The people living here do not have any political or human rights and the original Shia inhabitants are now a minority due to the settling of Pathan and Afghan refugees and presence of thousands of Chinese for construction activity along the Karakoram highway. The fight, against terrorism and militancy, is being fought primarily by the Jammu and Kashmir police since 1988. The Army, BSF, CRPF and other security agencies are playing a very significant role, but it is the J&K police which bears the brunt of the attacks and is usually the first responder to any terrorist attack. Similarly, a large chunk of the Kashmiri population is pro India, but not very vocal about it. The Pulwama attack poses a serious challenge to India and cannot be allowed to go unanswered. Not just the perpetrators, but also their handlers and masters in GHQ, Rawalpindi, have to be brought to book through all available means at the disposal of the Indian government. Just as the Jaish-e-Mohammed is an auxiliary of Pakistan, stone pelters and those who interfere in anti-terror operations are their auxiliaries and must be dealt with sternly. However, the rest of the Kashmiri population must be treated with honour and respect. This calls for careful calibration of the security forces response and J&K police can play a major role in that. There have been unanimous parliamentary resolutions asserting that the whole of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. The Indian state must work resolutely to make that happen. (This article was originally published on the DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Pulwama attack cannot be allowed to go unanswered

UNSC strongly condemns 'heinous and cowardly' Pulwama attack by JeM

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-statement-mentioned-jem-in-general-terms-it-does-not-represent-judgment-on-pulwama-attack-china-198964">UNSC statement mentioned JeM in general terms, it does not represent </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-statement-mentioned-jem-in-general-terms-it-does-not-represent-judgment-on-pulwama-attack-china-198964">judgement</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-statement-mentioned-jem-in-general-terms-it-does-not-represent-judgment-on-pulwama-attack-china-198964"> on Pulwama attack: China</a>

China, a permanent member of the UN Security Council on Friday sought to downplay the scathing statement issued by the powerful organ of the world body naming Jaish-e-Muhammad(JeM) in the Pulwama terror attack, saying the mention of the Pakistan-based outfit was only in "general terms" and "does not represent a judgement".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-comes-hard-on-pakistan-says-islamabad-has-not-demonstrated-proper-understanding-of-terror-financing-198944">Pakistan hasn't demonstrated </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-comes-hard-on-pakistan-says-islamabad-has-not-demonstrated-proper-understanding-of-terror-financing-198944">proper</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-comes-hard-on-pakistan-says-islamabad-has-not-demonstrated-proper-understanding-of-terror-financing-198944"> understanding of terror financing: FATF</a>

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has come hard on Pakistan saying it has not demonstrated a proper understanding of the terror financing risks posed by "Da’esh, AQ, JuD, FiF, LeT, JeM, HQN, and persons affiliated with the Taliban. "

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/would-hate-to-give-two-points-to-pakistan-in-world-cup-sachin-tendulkar-198983">'Time to beat them once again': Tendulkar backs Gavaskar on Indo-Pak World Cup clash</a>

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar Friday said he would "hate" to see India concede two points to Pakistan by not playing them in the upcoming World Cup as such a move would only help the arch-rivals in the mega-event.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-against-forcefully-sending-aid-to-venezuela-198958">China against forcefully sending aid to Venezuela: Foreign ministry</a>

China said Friday it was against forcefully sending "so-called humanitarian assistance" to Venezuela, warning it could spark conflict in the crisis-torn country.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-encounter-underway-between-security-forces-and-terrorists-in-sopore-198965">J&amp;K: One terrorist killed in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-encounter-underway-between-security-forces-and-terrorists-in-sopore-198965">ongoing</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-encounter-underway-between-security-forces-and-terrorists-in-sopore-198965"> encounter between security forces and terrorists</a>

One terrorist was shot dead in the ongoing encounter between terrorists and security forces in Warpora area of Sopore in Baramulla district on Friday morning.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

UNSC statement mentioned JeM in general terms, it does not represent judgement on Pulwama attack: China China, a permanent member of the UN Security Council on Friday sought to downplay the scathing statement issued by the powerful organ of the world body naming Jaish-e-Muhammad(JeM) in the Pulwama terror attack, saying the mention of the Pakistan-based outfit was only in "general terms" and "does not represent a judgement".

UNSC statement mentioned JeM in general terms, it does not represent judgement on Pulwama attack: China China, a permanent member of the UN Security Council on Friday sought to downplay the scathing statement issued by the powerful organ of the world body naming Jaish-e-Muhammad(JeM) in the Pulwama terror attack, saying the mention of the Pakistan-based outfit was only in "general terms" and "does not represent a judgement". Pakistan hasn't demonstrated proper understanding of terror financing: FATF The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has come hard on Pakistan saying it has not demonstrated a proper understanding of the terror financing risks posed by "Da’esh, AQ, JuD, FiF, LeT, JeM, HQN, and persons affiliated with the Taliban. " 'Time to beat them once again': Tendulkar backs Gavaskar on Indo-Pak World Cup clash Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar Friday said he would "hate" to see India concede two points to Pakistan by not playing them in the upcoming World Cup as such a move would only help the arch-rivals in the mega-event. China against forcefully sending aid to Venezuela: Foreign ministry China said Friday it was against forcefully sending "so-called humanitarian assistance" to Venezuela, warning it could spark conflict in the crisis-torn country. J&K: One terrorist killed in ongoing encounter between security forces and terrorists One terrorist was shot dead in the ongoing encounter between terrorists and security forces in Warpora area of Sopore in Baramulla district on Friday morning.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has written a letter to cricket's global governing body International Cricket Council (ICC) to express concerns over the security of Indian players heading into the World Cup.&nbsp;

In the wake of a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/would-hate-to-give-two-points-to-pakistan-in-world-cup-sachin-tendulkar-198983">Sachin Tendulkar's comment on the Indo-Pak World Cup clash</a>

The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai decided against taking any stand on the match but urged the ICC and other nations to "sever ties" with countries from where "terrorism emanates".&nbsp;

India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup.&nbsp;

The letter read:

"BCCI fears for the safety and security of players and match officials participating in upcoming ICC events including the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.&nbsp;

Most countries from which the members of the ICC hail (including United Kingdom) have strongly condemned this terrorist attack and expressed solidarity with India.&nbsp;

The BCCI trusts that the ICC and ECB will ensure that the most robust security is provided to players, match officials and fans of Indian cricket for the upcoming World Cup.&nbsp;

The BCCI also wishes to express its concerns over the safety and security of the fans of Indian cricket at the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019. 

The BCCI trust the ICC and ECB will ensure that most robust security is provided to players, match officials and fans of Indian cricket for the upcoming World Cup."

It was a foregone conclusion that CoA would not take any decision on the matter as the ICC can't ban Pakistan as per rules.

It is understood that BCCI officials are also concerned that such a stand might cost them the hosting rights of the 2021 Champions Trophy and the 2023 World Cup.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has written a letter to cricket's global governing body International Cricket Council (ICC) to express concerns over the security of Indian players heading into the World Cup.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has written a letter to cricket's global governing body International Cricket Council (ICC) to express concerns over the security of Indian players heading into the World Cup. In the wake of a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan. Also Read: Sachin Tendulkar's comment on the Indo-Pak World Cup clash The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai decided against taking any stand on the match but urged the ICC and other nations to "sever ties" with countries from where "terrorism emanates". India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup. The letter read: "BCCI fears for the safety and security of players and match officials participating in upcoming ICC events including the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019. Most countries from which the members of the ICC hail (including United Kingdom) have strongly condemned this terrorist attack and expressed solidarity with India. The BCCI trusts that the ICC and ECB will ensure that the most robust security is provided to players, match officials and fans of Indian cricket for the upcoming World Cup. The BCCI also wishes to express its concerns over the safety and security of the fans of Indian cricket at the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019. The BCCI trust the ICC and ECB will ensure that most robust security is provided to players, match officials and fans of Indian cricket for the upcoming World Cup." It was a foregone conclusion that CoA would not take any decision on the matter as the ICC can't ban Pakistan as per rules. It is understood that BCCI officials are also concerned that such a stand might cost them the hosting rights of the 2021 Champions Trophy and the 2023 World Cup.

BCCI writes letter to ICC to express concerns over security of Indian players heading into World Cup

As India and Pakistan tensions continue to&nbsp;escalate <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-chairs-nsc-meeting-again-asks-for-actionable-proof-on-pulwama-attack-sources-to-wion-198779">over the Pulwama terrorist attack</a>, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said today that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan.

"Our government has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab," Gadkari said.

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Under the leadership of Hon'ble PM Sri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji, Our Govt. has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from Eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567044574916608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The construction of dam has started at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Moreover, UJH project will store our share of water for use in J&amp;K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567046848221186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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All the above Projects are declared as the National projects.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567049423568896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has blamed Pakistan for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-fires-at-posts-civilian-areas-along-loc-in-jk-for-third-day-indian-troops-retaliate-198774">Pulwama terrorist attack</a> which occurred last week even as the&nbsp;Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) took responsibility for it.

A water ministry official told WION, "This is not a new decision. Mantriji is simply reiterating what he has always said. He is talking about diverting India's share of Indus water which was going to Pakistan - and he has always been saying this."

For this India is constructing&nbsp;Shahpurkandi Dam at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river.&nbsp;Implementation of this project would help to minimise some of the water of the River Ravi which at present is going waste through the MadhopurHeadworks downstream to Pakistan.&nbsp;

On completion of the project, an additional Irrigation Potential of 5000 ha in Punjab State and 32173 ha in J&amp;K State would be created.

The&nbsp;Ujh project will store India's share of water for use in J&amp;K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states.

India and Pakistan have been trying to arrive at a consensus&nbsp;over the Indus water dispute. Last month, committees from both nations had met to evolve a compromise over the contentious water issue.

In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides.&nbsp;

The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir.

Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries - the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi - have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan.

Of the total 168 million acre-feet, India's share of water from the three allotted rivers is 33 million acre-feet, which constitutes nearly 20 per cent.

After the Uri attack in Kashmir in September 2016, the government had sought to use the Indus Waters Treaty to put pressure on Pakistan.&nbsp;

The measures included effectively using India's share of waters that flow into Pakistan. This also included fast-tracking irrigation and hydropower projects by resolving the inter-state dispute.

As India and Pakistan tensions continue to escalate over the Pulwama terrorist attack, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said today that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan.

As India and Pakistan tensions continue to escalate over the Pulwama terrorist attack, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said today that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan. "Our government has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab," Gadkari said. Under the leadership of Hon'ble PM Sri @narendramodi ji, Our Govt. has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from Eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × The construction of dam has started at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Moreover, UJH project will store our share of water for use in J&K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × All the above Projects are declared as the National projects. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × India has blamed Pakistan for the Pulwama terrorist attack which occurred last week even as the Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) took responsibility for it. A water ministry official told WION, "This is not a new decision. Mantriji is simply reiterating what he has always said. He is talking about diverting India's share of Indus water which was going to Pakistan - and he has always been saying this." For this India is constructing Shahpurkandi Dam at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Implementation of this project would help to minimise some of the water of the River Ravi which at present is going waste through the MadhopurHeadworks downstream to Pakistan. On completion of the project, an additional Irrigation Potential of 5000 ha in Punjab State and 32173 ha in J&K State would be created. The Ujh project will store India's share of water for use in J&K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states. India and Pakistan have been trying to arrive at a consensus over the Indus water dispute. Last month, committees from both nations had met to evolve a compromise over the contentious water issue. In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides. The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir. Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries - the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi - have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan. Of the total 168 million acre-feet, India's share of water from the three allotted rivers is 33 million acre-feet, which constitutes nearly 20 per cent. After the Uri attack in Kashmir in September 2016, the government had sought to use the Indus Waters Treaty to put pressure on Pakistan. The measures included effectively using India's share of waters that flow into Pakistan. This also included fast-tracking irrigation and hydropower projects by resolving the inter-state dispute.

Government has decided to stop share of water which flowed to Pak, will divert water from eastern rivers and supply in J&K & Punjab: Gadkari

India has been reacting strongly against Pakistan ever since Pulwama attack happened that led to the death of 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu &amp; Kashmir. Standing with the country’s first reactionary steps, the Bollywood industry has banned all Pakistani artists from performing here.&nbsp;

While many <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/we-are-not-releasing-our-films-in-pakistan-film-producer-murad-khetani-198784">producers have decided against releasing any Indian film in Pakistan</a>, another news confirms that Atif Aslam’s song in Salman Khan’s upcoming production ‘Notebook’ has been removed on the insistence of Khan himself. Aslam had apparently sung one song in the film which is now being re-recorded with another artist.&nbsp;

Speaking on the same, director Nitin Kakkar confirmed the news at the trailer preview of the film. He said, “We have got a new voice. There’s only one song of Atif in the film and we will have to re-do it. We all are Indians and it is unfortunate whatever has happened. But the show must go on as they say”.

The filmmaker also said that they delayed the release of ‘Notebook's trailer preview because of the Pulwama terror attack. The trailer was supposed to air on February 17 but it was postponed till 22. He said, “Nation is always our priority, country comes first and then other things. Unfortunately, that incident happened and we had to do our bit. We felt it is not the right time to release the trailer. So we held it back.”&nbsp;

Earlier, it was announced that singers like Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan who end up singing a few songs in a year for Bollywood films, will not be allowed to perform or collaborate in any way. No one thought that pre-recorded songs will also undergo a change. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/post-pulwama-attack-music-company-delists-atif-aslam-rahat-fateh-ali-khans-songs-on-youtube-197998">Also read: T-Series delisted their songs from their channel.&nbsp;</a>

Also, All Indian Cine Workers Association has announced a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/post-pulwama-attack-all-indian-cine-workers-association-announces-ban-on-pakistani-artists-198062">ban on Pakistani artists.</a>

In response, in Pakistan a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/petition-filed-in-lahore-hc-to-seek-complete-ban-on-indian-films-in-pakistan-198950">petition has been filed in Lahore HC</a> seeking a complete ban on Indian films in Pakistan.&nbsp;

'Notebook'&nbsp;is a romantic drama film slated to release on March 29. The movie will see the launch of two newcomers – <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/never-told-anyone-i-am-granddaughter-of-nutan-while-auditioning-for-films-says-pranutan-bahl-198967">Pranutan (Mohnish Bahl’s daughter)</a> and Zaheer Iqbal.&nbsp;

India has been reacting strongly against Pakistan ever since Pulwama attack happened that led to the death of 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu & Kashmir. Standing with the country’s first reactionary steps, the Bollywood industry has banned all Pakistani artists from performing here.

India has been reacting strongly against Pakistan ever since Pulwama attack happened that led to the death of 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu & Kashmir. Standing with the country’s first reactionary steps, the Bollywood industry has banned all Pakistani artists from performing here. While many producers have decided against releasing any Indian film in Pakistan, another news confirms that Atif Aslam’s song in Salman Khan’s upcoming production ‘Notebook’ has been removed on the insistence of Khan himself. Aslam had apparently sung one song in the film which is now being re-recorded with another artist. Speaking on the same, director Nitin Kakkar confirmed the news at the trailer preview of the film. He said, “We have got a new voice. There’s only one song of Atif in the film and we will have to re-do it. We all are Indians and it is unfortunate whatever has happened. But the show must go on as they say”. The filmmaker also said that they delayed the release of ‘Notebook's trailer preview because of the Pulwama terror attack. The trailer was supposed to air on February 17 but it was postponed till 22. He said, “Nation is always our priority, country comes first and then other things. Unfortunately, that incident happened and we had to do our bit. We felt it is not the right time to release the trailer. So we held it back.” Earlier, it was announced that singers like Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan who end up singing a few songs in a year for Bollywood films, will not be allowed to perform or collaborate in any way. No one thought that pre-recorded songs will also undergo a change. Also read: T-Series delisted their songs from their channel. Also, All Indian Cine Workers Association has announced a ban on Pakistani artists. In response, in Pakistan a petition has been filed in Lahore HC seeking a complete ban on Indian films in Pakistan. 'Notebook' is a romantic drama film slated to release on March 29. The movie will see the launch of two newcomers – Pranutan (Mohnish Bahl’s daughter) and Zaheer Iqbal.

Atif Aslam song dropped from Salman Khan production 'Notebook', Indian singer to replace

China, a permanent member of the UN Security Council on Friday sought to downplay the scathing statement issued by the powerful organ of the world body naming Jaish-e-Muhammad(JeM) in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pulwama-attack-cannot-be-allowed-to-go-unanswered-198875">Pulwama terror attack</a>, saying the mention of the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-comes-hard-on-pakistan-says-islamabad-has-not-demonstrated-proper-understanding-of-terror-financing-198944"> Pakistan-based outfit</a> was only in "general terms" and "does not represent a judgement".

At least 40 Central Reserve Police Force(CRPF) personnel were killed in a suicide attack by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-is-getting-globally-isolated-move-to-ban-jud-fif-is-cosmetic-response-to-our-diplomatic-campaign-india-198872">Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM)</a> in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14, sparking outrage in the country.

The powerful UN Security Council (UNSC) on Thursday strongly condemned the "heinous and cowardly" terror attack.

"The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir, which left 40 Indian paramilitary forces dead and dozens wounded on February 14, 2019, for which Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility," it said in a statement.

Asked about the statement highlighting the role of JeM claiming the responsibility of the Pulwama attack, China's Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters that Beijing was closely following the developments related to the terror incident.

"Yesterday, the UN Security Council issued a press statement that mentioned that a particular organisation but only in general terms. It does not represent a judgement on the attack," Geng said.

His remarks were seen as an attempt by China, without whose endorsement the UNSC statement could not have been released, aimed at placating its close ally Pakistan and play down the indictment of the JeM.

China has been repeatedly blocking India and several other countries' efforts to bring about a global ban on JeM chief Masood Azhar in the UN's anti-terror 1267 committee.

While China's endorsement of the UNSC statement was reflection of wariness on the part of Beijing to repeatedly defend JeM in the UN body, which casts a shadow on its relations with India, observers say it is to be seen what stand Beijing would take when France moves its resolution seeking to list Azhar as a global terrorist in the UN.

France, also a member of the permanent five of the UNSC, has officially announced that it would move a resolution soon in the 1267 committee seeking Azhar's listing.

Since 2016, China has consistently blocked moves first by India and later by the US, the UK and France to designate Azhar as a global terrorist by putting repeated technical holds.

In his response on Friday Geng said that "China also noted that the Pakistani government showed readiness to cooperate with India on the investigation and that it is also ready to resolve differences with India through dialogue".

"China hopes all parties will work to find the truth about this attack. We hope Pakistan and India will engage in dialogue to jointly safeguard regional peace and stability," he said.

The UN statement also underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of these "reprehensible acts of terrorism" accountable and bring them to justice".

The UN condemnation came a day after Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the UN Maleeha Lodhi met top UN leaders including with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to brief them about the escalating tensions in the region in the wake of the Pulwama attack. PTI

China, a permanent member of the UN Security Council on Friday sought to downplay the scathing statement issued by the powerful organ of the world body naming Jaish-e-Muhammad(JeM) in the Pulwama terror attack, saying the mention of the Pakistan-based outfit was only in "general terms" and "does not represent a judgement".

China, a permanent member of the UN Security Council on Friday sought to downplay the scathing statement issued by the powerful organ of the world body naming Jaish-e-Muhammad(JeM) in the Pulwama terror attack, saying the mention of the Pakistan-based outfit was only in "general terms" and "does not represent a judgement". At least 40 Central Reserve Police Force(CRPF) personnel were killed in a suicide attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14, sparking outrage in the country. The powerful UN Security Council (UNSC) on Thursday strongly condemned the "heinous and cowardly" terror attack. "The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir, which left 40 Indian paramilitary forces dead and dozens wounded on February 14, 2019, for which Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility," it said in a statement. Asked about the statement highlighting the role of JeM claiming the responsibility of the Pulwama attack, China's Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters that Beijing was closely following the developments related to the terror incident. "Yesterday, the UN Security Council issued a press statement that mentioned that a particular organisation but only in general terms. It does not represent a judgement on the attack," Geng said. His remarks were seen as an attempt by China, without whose endorsement the UNSC statement could not have been released, aimed at placating its close ally Pakistan and play down the indictment of the JeM. China has been repeatedly blocking India and several other countries' efforts to bring about a global ban on JeM chief Masood Azhar in the UN's anti-terror 1267 committee. While China's endorsement of the UNSC statement was reflection of wariness on the part of Beijing to repeatedly defend JeM in the UN body, which casts a shadow on its relations with India, observers say it is to be seen what stand Beijing would take when France moves its resolution seeking to list Azhar as a global terrorist in the UN. France, also a member of the permanent five of the UNSC, has officially announced that it would move a resolution soon in the 1267 committee seeking Azhar's listing. Since 2016, China has consistently blocked moves first by India and later by the US, the UK and France to designate Azhar as a global terrorist by putting repeated technical holds. In his response on Friday Geng said that "China also noted that the Pakistani government showed readiness to cooperate with India on the investigation and that it is also ready to resolve differences with India through dialogue". "China hopes all parties will work to find the truth about this attack. We hope Pakistan and India will engage in dialogue to jointly safeguard regional peace and stability," he said. The UN statement also underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of these "reprehensible acts of terrorism" accountable and bring them to justice". The UN condemnation came a day after Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the UN Maleeha Lodhi met top UN leaders including with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to brief them about the escalating tensions in the region in the wake of the Pulwama attack. PTI

UNSC statement mentioned JeM in general terms, it does not represent judgement on Pulwama attack: China

The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA)&nbsp;Vinod Rai has said that no decision has yet been taken on India's World Cup match against Pakistan.&nbsp;

There have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan following a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Pulwama">terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama</a> last week that killed over 40&nbsp;Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.&nbsp;

In a meeting to address the spiralling speculation around the match, the CoA deliberated on the matter but did not take any position for now.&nbsp;

"We will express concerns to ICC. We are in talks with government on scheduled India-Pakistan clash in World Cup." said CoA chief Vinod Rai.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;are&nbsp;scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup.&nbsp;

"16th June is very far away. We will take a call on that much later and in consultations with the government," he said.&nbsp;

Vinod Rai also&nbsp;mentioned that BCCI will draft a letter to&nbsp;game's global governing body&nbsp;asking them that should ban Pakistan from participating in the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-lose-by-not-playing-pak-in-world-cup-says-gavaskar-urges-imran-khan-to-act-198739">India lose by not playing Pak in World Cup, says Gavaskar; urges Imran Khan to act</a>

"We will write to ICC expressing our concerns about attacks that took place and that security of players, officials and everybody else must be taken care of."

"We're telling the cricketing community that in future we must sever ties with nations from where terror emanates," said Vinod Rai.&nbsp;

The bilateral cricketing ties between the two countries have already been suspended since 2012 and the teams last played a full series in 2007.

Recently, veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh said India doesn't need to revive any sort of sporting ties with Pakistan as a mark of respect for the armed forces.&nbsp;

"I don't think India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. Country comes first and we are all standing behind our country. Cricket or hockey or sports, it should be kept aside because this is a huge thing and repeatedly our soldiers are killed," said&nbsp;Harbhajan.&nbsp;

The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai has said that no decision has yet been taken on India's World Cup match against Pakistan.

The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai has said that no decision has yet been taken on India's World Cup match against Pakistan. There have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan following a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama last week that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. In a meeting to address the spiralling speculation around the match, the CoA deliberated on the matter but did not take any position for now. "We will express concerns to ICC. We are in talks with government on scheduled India-Pakistan clash in World Cup." said CoA chief Vinod Rai. India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup. "16th June is very far away. We will take a call on that much later and in consultations with the government," he said. Vinod Rai also mentioned that BCCI will draft a letter to game's global governing body asking them that should ban Pakistan from participating in the 2019 World Cup. Also Read: India lose by not playing Pak in World Cup, says Gavaskar; urges Imran Khan to act "We will write to ICC expressing our concerns about attacks that took place and that security of players, officials and everybody else must be taken care of." "We're telling the cricketing community that in future we must sever ties with nations from where terror emanates," said Vinod Rai. The bilateral cricketing ties between the two countries have already been suspended since 2012 and the teams last played a full series in 2007. Recently, veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh said India doesn't need to revive any sort of sporting ties with Pakistan as a mark of respect for the armed forces. "I don't think India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. Country comes first and we are all standing behind our country. Cricket or hockey or sports, it should be kept aside because this is a huge thing and repeatedly our soldiers are killed," said Harbhajan.

No decision yet on India's World Cup match against Pak, will tell countries to sever ties with nations where terror emanates: CoA chief Vinod Rai

Shortly after India decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan, the neighbouring South Asian nation reacted calling New Delhi's move a political one.&nbsp;

Government sources told WION that Pak Indus Water Commissioner has reacted over the report of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-has-decided-to-stop-share-of-water-which-flowed-to-pak-will-divert-water-from-eastern-rivers-and-supply-in-jk-punjab-gadkari-198788">India cutting water supply to Pakistan from its eastern rivers</a>.&nbsp;

Pakistan maintained that according to the Indus Water Treaty, India cannot stop the water flow to Pakistan from the rivers, the amount of which belongs to Pakistan under the treaty, sources informed WION.

"On the western rivers, India cannot intervene under any circumstances. India cannot unilaterally end the Indus Water Treaty,"&nbsp;sources told WION citing Pak Indus Water Commissioner.&nbsp;

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The construction of dam has started at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Moreover, UJH project will store our share of water for use in J&amp;K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567046848221186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to government sources, Pakistan is likely to take up the matter formally with the World Bank, seeking its intervention.&nbsp;

Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday announced that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan.

"Our government has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab," Gadkari said.

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All the above Projects are declared as the National projects.
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India has blamed Pakistan for the Pulwama terrorist attack which occurred last week even as the Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) took responsibility for it.

A water ministry official told WION, "This is not a new decision. Mantriji is simply reiterating what he has always said. He is talking about diverting India's share of Indus water which was going to Pakistan - and he has always been saying this."

India and Pakistan have been trying to arrive at a consensus over the Indus water dispute. Last month, committees from both nations had met to evolve a compromise over the contentious water issue.

In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides.&nbsp;

The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir.

Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries - the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi - have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan.

Shortly after India decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan, the neighbouring South Asian nation reacted calling New Delhi's move a political one. Government sources told WION that Pak Indus Water Commissioner has reacted over the report of India cutting water supply to Pakistan from its eastern rivers.

Shortly after India decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan, the neighbouring South Asian nation reacted calling New Delhi's move a political one. Government sources told WION that Pak Indus Water Commissioner has reacted over the report of India cutting water supply to Pakistan from its eastern rivers. Pakistan maintained that according to the Indus Water Treaty, India cannot stop the water flow to Pakistan from the rivers, the amount of which belongs to Pakistan under the treaty, sources informed WION. "On the western rivers, India cannot intervene under any circumstances. India cannot unilaterally end the Indus Water Treaty," sources told WION citing Pak Indus Water Commissioner. The construction of dam has started at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Moreover, UJH project will store our share of water for use in J&K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × According to government sources, Pakistan is likely to take up the matter formally with the World Bank, seeking its intervention. Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday announced that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan. "Our government has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab," Gadkari said. All the above Projects are declared as the National projects. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × India has blamed Pakistan for the Pulwama terrorist attack which occurred last week even as the Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) took responsibility for it. A water ministry official told WION, "This is not a new decision. Mantriji is simply reiterating what he has always said. He is talking about diverting India's share of Indus water which was going to Pakistan - and he has always been saying this." India and Pakistan have been trying to arrive at a consensus over the Indus water dispute. Last month, committees from both nations had met to evolve a compromise over the contentious water issue. In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides. The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir. Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries - the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi - have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan.

India can't unilaterally end Indus Water Treaty: Islamabad on New Delhi's move to stop sharing water flow to Pakistan

Indians have reacted strongly to the horrific terror attack in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir which killed 40 CRPF personnel. Several filmmakers have come forward to and announced that they would not be releasing their films in Pakistan at such a time. Songs of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/post-pulwama-attack-music-company-delists-atif-aslam-rahat-fateh-ali-khans-songs-on-youtube-197998">Pakistani singers Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan </a>have been delisted by T-Series and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/post-pulwama-attack-all-indian-cine-workers-association-announces-ban-on-pakistani-artists-198062">All Indian Cine Workers Association</a> has even banned Pakistani artistes from working in Bollywood.&nbsp;

Now, as a reaction to the ban- a petition in Lahore has sought a complete ban on trade and exhibition of Indian films in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Sheikh Latif, a Pakistani citizen, moved the Lahore High Court on Thursday seeking a complete ban on trade and exhibition of Indian films in Pakistan. 
He argued the import policy order 2016 announced by Pakistan had banned the import of all Indian films and other content.

However, on January 31, 2017, the then prime minister Nawaz Sharif "through a notification of the Ministry of Information announced that display of all international movies, including Indian films, in Pakistan will continue under the garb of revival of Pakistani film and cinema industry", the petitioner said.&nbsp;

Latif argued that the notification was "unlawful" as it was not approved by the federal cabinet, which was mandatory under a Supreme Court judgment.

Citing the Supreme Court's recent order to the federal government to take strict action against airing of Indian content on television channels, the petitioner requested the court to set aside the "impugned notification" of January 2017 for being unlawful and direct the administration to impose a complete ban on exhibition of Indian films and other content.

Indians have reacted strongly to the horrific terror attack in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir which killed 40 CRPF personnel. Several filmmakers have come forward to and announced that they would not be releasing their films in Pakistan at such a time.

Indians have reacted strongly to the horrific terror attack in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir which killed 40 CRPF personnel. Several filmmakers have come forward to and announced that they would not be releasing their films in Pakistan at such a time. Songs of Pakistani singers Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan have been delisted by T-Series and All Indian Cine Workers Association has even banned Pakistani artistes from working in Bollywood. Now, as a reaction to the ban- a petition in Lahore has sought a complete ban on trade and exhibition of Indian films in Pakistan. Sheikh Latif, a Pakistani citizen, moved the Lahore High Court on Thursday seeking a complete ban on trade and exhibition of Indian films in Pakistan. He argued the import policy order 2016 announced by Pakistan had banned the import of all Indian films and other content. However, on January 31, 2017, the then prime minister Nawaz Sharif "through a notification of the Ministry of Information announced that display of all international movies, including Indian films, in Pakistan will continue under the garb of revival of Pakistani film and cinema industry", the petitioner said. Latif argued that the notification was "unlawful" as it was not approved by the federal cabinet, which was mandatory under a Supreme Court judgment. Citing the Supreme Court's recent order to the federal government to take strict action against airing of Indian content on television channels, the petitioner requested the court to set aside the "impugned notification" of January 2017 for being unlawful and direct the administration to impose a complete ban on exhibition of Indian films and other content.

Petition filed in Lahore HC seeking complete ban on Indian films in Pakistan

Terrorist activities of Jehadi Islamic organisations in a part of Jammu and Kashmir has reached a new and crucial stage that calls for decisive and conclusive response from the Indian state. &nbsp;

The recent terrorist act in Pulwama, causing the death of 40 CRPF jawans travelling in a bus and not engaged in battle, makes it the turning point. It is “now or never” for ending terrorism in these parts of J&amp;K.&nbsp;

Violence to overawe a civilian population to attain political goals is terrorism. This type of violence is also a tool for dismembering a nation. The concern today is how, we as Indians, deter this terror and safeguard national integrity?&nbsp;

In Tamil Nadu, I was in charge in the Chandrashekar government [1990-91] and the process began by dismissing the Karunanidhi government. Tamils fully cooperated and we were able to decimate the LTTE without any civilian death. In the ensuing Assembly elections, the DMK won only two seats in the 224-seat House. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The dismemberment of Kashmir and the religious cleansing of Hindus from the state are the goals of J&amp;K Islamic terrorism.

In a cassette distributed in a mosque in Srinagar on June 8, 2007, Al Qaeda [now morphed into ISIS] confirmed that for Islam, India as presently constituted, is the target for terrorist acts and religious cleansing. The forced exodus of five lakh Hindu Kashmiris, principally the Pandit community, was beginning of religious cleansing in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

In J&amp;K, terrorism today is a premeditated, politically motivated and Jehadi Islamic religion-inspired violence perpetrated against the non-combatant target population, primarily those of Hindu faith, by clandestine agents to secure compliance by intimidation, to overawe the Hindu civilian population. &nbsp;

Terrorism in the state,&nbsp;thus, is a strategy of violence to generate fear and disruption, with the ultimate aim to secure the balkanisation of the Indian nation, the rubbishing of its ancient Hindu civilisation, secured through capitulation of law-abiding civilian citizens.&nbsp;

J&amp;K is thus today a terrorist-challenged state, which has profound national security implications.&nbsp;

Combating such terrorism has, however, become extremely complicated and multi-dimensional. Hence, we need to understand it’s nature and scope clearly before an effective strategy to deter terrorism can be formulated. There has been a paradigm change in terrorism’s character since 1968, caused by three specific innovations of the 20th century.&nbsp;

First, the invention of television with instant satellite relay, which has suddenly given small unknown groups the possibility of worldwide publicity. &nbsp;

Internet has raised that publicity potential manifold. The fact that most terrorist incidents take place in democratic states, may in part, be due to its availability.&nbsp;

Under an authoritarian regime like China, terrorists can be cut off from their media audience in the target country, thereby reducing to a minimum all the expected impact of their actions.

With freely available media, small groups of terrorists can attain heavy leverage against powerful opponents by getting wide publicity on small political events. The impact is mostly psychological and meant for media coverage. But it has the desired effect of promoting fear, shock and awe in the civilian population.

Hence, democratic India now need&nbsp;to formulate their counter-terrorist strategy keeping this in view, by imposing reasonable restrictions permitted in the Constitution on democratic freedom without destroying the basic structure of democratic practice itself.

Second is the incredible sophistication of hand-held weapons, especially it’s miniaturisation and proliferation that have enabled a small number of criminally-minded persons to do great harm.&nbsp;

Third, easy communication through internet and cell/satellite phones-enabled networking between various disparate terrorist groups. The ISI of Pakistan is engaged in assisting this enterprise to unravel India, and push it toward balkanisation. Hence, a terror cartel and networking has emerged in India.&nbsp;

A counter-terror strategy for India thus requires a paradigm shift from the traditional law &amp; order approach of providing more personnel and sophisticated weapons.&nbsp;

What then are the elements of this counter-terror strategy? &nbsp;In my view, there are three steps for an effective strategy to eliminate terror in J&amp;K.

First, all remaining traces of so-called “disputed status” of Jammu and Kashmir must be erased. For that, India must write to the United Nations withdrawing the illegal application filed by then Prime Minister Nehru.&nbsp;

It is illegal because it violated the 1935 British Indian Constitution on the Instrument of Accession Clause, which the J&amp;K Maharaja had signed merging the state into India. &nbsp;Also Nehru never took Cabinet approval for the application. Hence, it is illegal and not binding on successive Indian governments since the Cabinet had not cleared it.

Second, Article 370 of the Constitution labelled as “temporary” by the Constituent Assembly, should be deleted as per procedure laid out in the Constitution itself, which is that a notification prepared by the Cabinet for its abolition is issued by the President of India. With that, Article 35 A will also fade away.&nbsp;

Third, 10 lakh former servicemen should be liberally provided with funds and weapons and requested to go to the Valley and settle down there with their families. After five years, they can return and the houses they acquire can be occupied by the expelled Hindu Kashmiris.&nbsp;

Fourth, liberally help the Kashmiri Muslim youth with clean credentials, and even surrendered extremists, to get education and jobs anywhere in India.&nbsp;

I know many who are today more patriotic and able than the average citizen.

Finally, for five years, impose AFSPA all over the state, introduce POTA and have no election for the first two years. The success of these proposals will be obtained only in the next two years. Pakistan, which is ripe for dismemberment, needs to be broken into four — Baluchistan, Pakhtoonistan, Sindh, and residual West Punjab.&nbsp;

For this, India has to obtain the tacit support of China and US by their non-interference. For doubting Thomases remember, China did not interfere in 1965, 1971 and 1999 Indo-Pak wars.

(This article was originally published on the DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-india-s-moment-to-act-is-here-2722269">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Terrorist activities of Jehadi Islamic organisations in a part of Jammu and Kashmir has reached a new and crucial stage that calls for decisive and conclusive response from the Indian state.

Terrorist activities of Jehadi Islamic organisations in a part of Jammu and Kashmir has reached a new and crucial stage that calls for decisive and conclusive response from the Indian state. The recent terrorist act in Pulwama, causing the death of 40 CRPF jawans travelling in a bus and not engaged in battle, makes it the turning point. It is “now or never” for ending terrorism in these parts of J&K. Violence to overawe a civilian population to attain political goals is terrorism. This type of violence is also a tool for dismembering a nation. The concern today is how, we as Indians, deter this terror and safeguard national integrity? In Tamil Nadu, I was in charge in the Chandrashekar government [1990-91] and the process began by dismissing the Karunanidhi government. Tamils fully cooperated and we were able to decimate the LTTE without any civilian death. In the ensuing Assembly elections, the DMK won only two seats in the 224-seat House. The dismemberment of Kashmir and the religious cleansing of Hindus from the state are the goals of J&K Islamic terrorism. In a cassette distributed in a mosque in Srinagar on June 8, 2007, Al Qaeda [now morphed into ISIS] confirmed that for Islam, India as presently constituted, is the target for terrorist acts and religious cleansing. The forced exodus of five lakh Hindu Kashmiris, principally the Pandit community, was beginning of religious cleansing in the Kashmir Valley. In J&K, terrorism today is a premeditated, politically motivated and Jehadi Islamic religion-inspired violence perpetrated against the non-combatant target population, primarily those of Hindu faith, by clandestine agents to secure compliance by intimidation, to overawe the Hindu civilian population. Terrorism in the state, thus, is a strategy of violence to generate fear and disruption, with the ultimate aim to secure the balkanisation of the Indian nation, the rubbishing of its ancient Hindu civilisation, secured through capitulation of law-abiding civilian citizens. J&K is thus today a terrorist-challenged state, which has profound national security implications. Combating such terrorism has, however, become extremely complicated and multi-dimensional. Hence, we need to understand it’s nature and scope clearly before an effective strategy to deter terrorism can be formulated. There has been a paradigm change in terrorism’s character since 1968, caused by three specific innovations of the 20th century. First, the invention of television with instant satellite relay, which has suddenly given small unknown groups the possibility of worldwide publicity. Internet has raised that publicity potential manifold. The fact that most terrorist incidents take place in democratic states, may in part, be due to its availability. Under an authoritarian regime like China, terrorists can be cut off from their media audience in the target country, thereby reducing to a minimum all the expected impact of their actions. With freely available media, small groups of terrorists can attain heavy leverage against powerful opponents by getting wide publicity on small political events. The impact is mostly psychological and meant for media coverage. But it has the desired effect of promoting fear, shock and awe in the civilian population. Hence, democratic India now need to formulate their counter-terrorist strategy keeping this in view, by imposing reasonable restrictions permitted in the Constitution on democratic freedom without destroying the basic structure of democratic practice itself. Second is the incredible sophistication of hand-held weapons, especially it’s miniaturisation and proliferation that have enabled a small number of criminally-minded persons to do great harm. Third, easy communication through internet and cell/satellite phones-enabled networking between various disparate terrorist groups. The ISI of Pakistan is engaged in assisting this enterprise to unravel India, and push it toward balkanisation. Hence, a terror cartel and networking has emerged in India. A counter-terror strategy for India thus requires a paradigm shift from the traditional law & order approach of providing more personnel and sophisticated weapons. What then are the elements of this counter-terror strategy? In my view, there are three steps for an effective strategy to eliminate terror in J&K. First, all remaining traces of so-called “disputed status” of Jammu and Kashmir must be erased. For that, India must write to the United Nations withdrawing the illegal application filed by then Prime Minister Nehru. It is illegal because it violated the 1935 British Indian Constitution on the Instrument of Accession Clause, which the J&K Maharaja had signed merging the state into India. Also Nehru never took Cabinet approval for the application. Hence, it is illegal and not binding on successive Indian governments since the Cabinet had not cleared it. Second, Article 370 of the Constitution labelled as “temporary” by the Constituent Assembly, should be deleted as per procedure laid out in the Constitution itself, which is that a notification prepared by the Cabinet for its abolition is issued by the President of India. With that, Article 35 A will also fade away. Third, 10 lakh former servicemen should be liberally provided with funds and weapons and requested to go to the Valley and settle down there with their families. After five years, they can return and the houses they acquire can be occupied by the expelled Hindu Kashmiris. Fourth, liberally help the Kashmiri Muslim youth with clean credentials, and even surrendered extremists, to get education and jobs anywhere in India. I know many who are today more patriotic and able than the average citizen. Finally, for five years, impose AFSPA all over the state, introduce POTA and have no election for the first two years. The success of these proposals will be obtained only in the next two years. Pakistan, which is ripe for dismemberment, needs to be broken into four — Baluchistan, Pakhtoonistan, Sindh, and residual West Punjab. For this, India has to obtain the tacit support of China and US by their non-interference. For doubting Thomases remember, China did not interfere in 1965, 1971 and 1999 Indo-Pak wars. (This article was originally published on the DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Pulwama attack: India's moment to act is here

Amid growing tensions with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-fires-at-posts-civilian-areas-along-loc-in-jk-for-third-day-indian-troops-retaliate-198774">India over the Pulwama attack</a>, Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired a key meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) to discuss the security situation.

Government sources told WION that NSC reviewed the internal and external security challenges and categorically rejected India's charge on Pulwama attack.

NSC condemned Indian attempts to involve <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-fallout-all-central-armed-paramilitary-personnel-to-fly-to-srinagar-no-more-travel-by-road-198736">Pakistan in Pulawama attack</a>, government sources told WION. If India has any "actionable proof", it should share with Pakistan, the NSC agreed.

The security committee also briefed the Pakistan Foreign Office on the Kulbhushan Jadhav case. It also agreed to continue efforts to be part of the Afghan peace process.

The meeting was attended by Army chief General Bajwa, services chiefs, heads of intelligence agencies, security officials and federal and state ministers for finance, defence, foreign affairs and interior.

PTI quoting Pakistan's Geo TV reported that Prime Minister Khan and Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa held a one-on-one meeting during which they discussed region's security situation.

On Monday, India's ministry of external affairs(MEA) had said it wasn't surprised that Prime Minister Imran Khan had refused to acknowledge the attack on its security forces in Pulwama which it said was an act of terrorism" and said Pakistan is the "nerve centre of terrorism."

The ministry of external affairs (MEA) said, "Pakistani Prime Minister has ignored claims made by the Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM), as well as by the terrorist, who perpetrated this heinous crime. These should be sufficient proof for Pakistan to take action."

Pakistan based terror group (JeM) has claimed responsibility for the terror attack at Pulwama.

New Delhi asked Islamabad to "stop misleading" the international community and "take credible and visible action against the perpetrators of Pulwama terrorist attack and other terrorists and terror groups operating from areas under their control."

Amid growing tensions with India over the Pulwama attack, Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired a key meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) to discuss the security situation.

Amid growing tensions with India over the Pulwama attack, Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired a key meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) to discuss the security situation. Government sources told WION that NSC reviewed the internal and external security challenges and categorically rejected India's charge on Pulwama attack. NSC condemned Indian attempts to involve Pakistan in Pulawama attack, government sources told WION. If India has any "actionable proof", it should share with Pakistan, the NSC agreed. The security committee also briefed the Pakistan Foreign Office on the Kulbhushan Jadhav case. It also agreed to continue efforts to be part of the Afghan peace process. The meeting was attended by Army chief General Bajwa, services chiefs, heads of intelligence agencies, security officials and federal and state ministers for finance, defence, foreign affairs and interior. PTI quoting Pakistan's Geo TV reported that Prime Minister Khan and Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa held a one-on-one meeting during which they discussed region's security situation. On Monday, India's ministry of external affairs(MEA) had said it wasn't surprised that Prime Minister Imran Khan had refused to acknowledge the attack on its security forces in Pulwama which it said was an act of terrorism" and said Pakistan is the "nerve centre of terrorism." The ministry of external affairs (MEA) said, "Pakistani Prime Minister has ignored claims made by the Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM), as well as by the terrorist, who perpetrated this heinous crime. These should be sufficient proof for Pakistan to take action." Pakistan based terror group (JeM) has claimed responsibility for the terror attack at Pulwama. New Delhi asked Islamabad to "stop misleading" the international community and "take credible and visible action against the perpetrators of Pulwama terrorist attack and other terrorists and terror groups operating from areas under their control."

Pak PM Imran Khan chairs NSC meeting, again asks for 'actionable proof' on Pulwama attack: Sources to WION

The Pakistan army fired on forward posts and civilian areas along the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-fallout-all-central-armed-paramilitary-personnel-to-fly-to-srinagar-no-more-travel-by-road-198736">LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch</a> district on Thursday, violating the ceasefire for the third consecutive day, officials said.

The Pakistan army resorted to mortar shelling and small arms firing on the forward posts along the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/curfew-lifted-in-jammu-normal-life-resumes-198733">Line of Control (LoC)</a> in Poonch sector from 0100 hours, they said.

Indian troops retaliated strongly, the officials added.

There were five ceasefire violations by the Pakistan army during the past 24 hours along the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch districts, officials added.

On Wednesday, the Pakistan army had initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by resorting to heavy shelling with mortars and firing of small arms along the LoC in Kalal sector of Rajouri district.

The Pakistan army had resorted to unprovoked firing along the LoC in Nowshera sector of Rajouri on Tuesday as well.

The year 2018 had witnessed the highest number of ceasefire violations - 2,936 - by Pakistani troops in the last 15 years along the Indo-Pak border.

Pakistan continues to violate the ceasefire understanding of 2003 despite repeated calls for restraint and adherence to the agreement during flag meetings between the border guarding forces of the two countries, the officials said.

Amid mounting tension between India and Pakistan following the Pulwama terror attack and increasing ceasefire violations, the people along the LoC and the International Border (IB) in this region are living under intense fear.&nbsp;

The Pakistan army fired on forward posts and civilian areas along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Thursday, violating the ceasefire for the third consecutive day, officials said.

The Pakistan army fired on forward posts and civilian areas along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Thursday, violating the ceasefire for the third consecutive day, officials said. The Pakistan army resorted to mortar shelling and small arms firing on the forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch sector from 0100 hours, they said. Indian troops retaliated strongly, the officials added. There were five ceasefire violations by the Pakistan army during the past 24 hours along the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch districts, officials added. On Wednesday, the Pakistan army had initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by resorting to heavy shelling with mortars and firing of small arms along the LoC in Kalal sector of Rajouri district. The Pakistan army had resorted to unprovoked firing along the LoC in Nowshera sector of Rajouri on Tuesday as well. The year 2018 had witnessed the highest number of ceasefire violations - 2,936 - by Pakistani troops in the last 15 years along the Indo-Pak border. Pakistan continues to violate the ceasefire understanding of 2003 despite repeated calls for restraint and adherence to the agreement during flag meetings between the border guarding forces of the two countries, the officials said. Amid mounting tension between India and Pakistan following the Pulwama terror attack and increasing ceasefire violations, the people along the LoC and the International Border (IB) in this region are living under intense fear.

Pakistan fires at posts, civilian areas along LoC in J&K for third day; Indian troops retaliate

Pulwama attack: Massive protests against Pakistan in Tokyo

Lebanon PM Saad Hariri condemns Pulwama attack

The Ministry of Home Affairs said Thursday that all central paramilitary personnel are to fly into Srinagar. There will no longer travel by road into the Kashmiri capital.&nbsp;

The announcement comes in the wake of the Pulwama attack in which at least 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel lost their lives.&nbsp;

Thursday's announcement by the MHA is applicable to 780,000 personnel of the Central Armed Paramilitary Forces.&nbsp;

"The decision will immediately benefit approximately 780,000 personnel of CAPFs in the ranks of Constable, Head Constable &amp; ASI who were otherwise not eligible earlier. This includes journey on duty and journey on leave, i.e; while going on leave from J&amp;K to home and return," the home ministry said.&nbsp;

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MHA: This facility is in addition to the existing air courier services for CAPFs that have been steadily extended in all sectors by the MHA to help the jawans cut down on travel time during their journey to and fro from home on leave. <a href="https://t.co/iYyd1qOv4T">https://t.co/iYyd1qOv4T</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1098501383467266049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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MHA: In J&amp;K Sector, it may be recalled that Air Courier Service for CAPFs jawans was approved for the Jammu-Srinagar-Jammu sector. 
Subsequently, the Service was extended to cover 1) Delhi-Jammu, 2) Jammu-Srinagar, 3) Srinagar-Jammu and 3) Jammu-Delhi sector in Dec 2017.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1098501731670024192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The home ministry added that air support will be further provided from the Indian Air Force "as and when required".&nbsp;

On February 14, a local youth, Adil Ahmad Dar, rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus carrying Central Reserve Police Force personnel. The bus had been part of a convoy of 78 vehicles transporting 2,500 CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Home Affairs said Thursday that all central paramilitary personnel are to fly into Srinagar. There will no longer travel by road into the Kashmiri capital.

The Ministry of Home Affairs said Thursday that all central paramilitary personnel are to fly into Srinagar. There will no longer travel by road into the Kashmiri capital. The announcement comes in the wake of the Pulwama attack in which at least 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel lost their lives. Thursday's announcement by the MHA is applicable to 780,000 personnel of the Central Armed Paramilitary Forces. "The decision will immediately benefit approximately 780,000 personnel of CAPFs in the ranks of Constable, Head Constable & ASI who were otherwise not eligible earlier. This includes journey on duty and journey on leave, i.e; while going on leave from J&K to home and return," the home ministry said. MHA: This facility is in addition to the existing air courier services for CAPFs that have been steadily extended in all sectors by the MHA to help the jawans cut down on travel time during their journey to and fro from home on leave. https://t.co/iYyd1qOv4T — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2019 × MHA: In J&K Sector, it may be recalled that Air Courier Service for CAPFs jawans was approved for the Jammu-Srinagar-Jammu sector. Subsequently, the Service was extended to cover 1) Delhi-Jammu, 2) Jammu-Srinagar, 3) Srinagar-Jammu and 3) Jammu-Delhi sector in Dec 2017. — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2019 × The home ministry added that air support will be further provided from the Indian Air Force "as and when required". On February 14, a local youth, Adil Ahmad Dar, rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus carrying Central Reserve Police Force personnel. The bus had been part of a convoy of 78 vehicles transporting 2,500 CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.

Pulwama attack fallout: All central armed paramilitary personnel to fly to Srinagar, no more travel by road

Authorities Thursday lifted day curfew in Jammu, facilitating resumption of normal activities in the city that saw massive protests following the Pulwama terror attack.

Markets reopened and public transport was back on the roads. Schools also reopened after week-long closure due to curfew and restrictions.

Jammu District Magistrate Ramesh Kumar issued two orders announcing relaxation of curfew in all areas of Jammu district from 7 AM to 6 PM for 11 hours.

The district magistrate initially ordered relaxation in the curfew in the entire city from 7 AM to 2 PM and later extended the relaxation period till 6 PM, as per the order.

However, prohibitory orders remained in force to maintain law and order, officials said.

Policemen were seen making rounds of the city early this morning to announce relaxation of the curfew and asked people to resume their normal activities. 2G mobile Internet services have been restored in the district.

However, all colleges and universities in the district are closed.

"All examinations have been cancelled in Jammu University. There will be no teaching", JU PRO Vinay Thusoo said.

However, officials said examination of 8th and 9th classes would be held as per schedule Thursday in all districts of Jammu province.

In case of restrictions in any area, the admit cards of students and identity cards of teachers will be treated as curfew passes, the officials said.

Shops and business establishments reopened across the city, while public transport also resumed in most of the routes as people came out of their homes to buy essential commodities.

People in some areas complained of shortage of vegetables, milk and ration and demanded that ATMs be made operational immediately as they are running out of cash.

They also complained about the non-availability of public transport in some routes.&nbsp;All wine shops and bars will also remain closed.

Authorities Thursday lifted day curfew in Jammu, facilitating resumption of normal activities in the city that saw massive protests following the Pulwama terror attack.

Authorities Thursday lifted day curfew in Jammu, facilitating resumption of normal activities in the city that saw massive protests following the Pulwama terror attack. Markets reopened and public transport was back on the roads. Schools also reopened after week-long closure due to curfew and restrictions. Jammu District Magistrate Ramesh Kumar issued two orders announcing relaxation of curfew in all areas of Jammu district from 7 AM to 6 PM for 11 hours. The district magistrate initially ordered relaxation in the curfew in the entire city from 7 AM to 2 PM and later extended the relaxation period till 6 PM, as per the order. However, prohibitory orders remained in force to maintain law and order, officials said. Policemen were seen making rounds of the city early this morning to announce relaxation of the curfew and asked people to resume their normal activities. 2G mobile Internet services have been restored in the district. However, all colleges and universities in the district are closed. "All examinations have been cancelled in Jammu University. There will be no teaching", JU PRO Vinay Thusoo said. However, officials said examination of 8th and 9th classes would be held as per schedule Thursday in all districts of Jammu province. In case of restrictions in any area, the admit cards of students and identity cards of teachers will be treated as curfew passes, the officials said. Shops and business establishments reopened across the city, while public transport also resumed in most of the routes as people came out of their homes to buy essential commodities. People in some areas complained of shortage of vegetables, milk and ration and demanded that ATMs be made operational immediately as they are running out of cash. They also complained about the non-availability of public transport in some routes. All wine shops and bars will also remain closed.

Normal life resumes in Jammu after authorities lift curfew

The Supreme Court will on Friday hear a plea seeking its intervention to prevent attacks on Kashmiri students in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror strike.

Senior advocate Colin Gonsalves on Thursday mentioned the matter before Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and sought its hearing at 2 pm. The top judge, however, posted the plea for hearing tomorrow.

The petition was filed by advocate Tariq Adeeb

According to the plea, Kashmiri students had to lock themselves up in order to remain safe as mob violence erupted in Dehradun in Uttarakhand after the terror attack in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed on February 14.

The petition has sought the court's direction to the authorities, including heads of educational institutions, for immediate steps to prevent attacks against Kashmiris and other minorities, their social boycott, ostracisation, eviction and other coercive acts.

It has said those indulging in hate speech and targeting of Kashmiris should be prosecuted.

The plea has asked for the appointment of a senior officer in every state and Union territory for prevention of such acts and prosecution of those involved.

It has also requested the court for a direction to the authorities concerned to set up a website which would contain details of such incidents besides a single helpline for assistance across the nation.

The Supreme Court will on Friday hear a plea seeking its intervention to prevent attacks on Kashmiri students in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror strike. Senior advocate Colin Gonsalves on Thursday mentioned the matter before Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and sought its hearing at 2 pm.

The Supreme Court will on Friday hear a plea seeking its intervention to prevent attacks on Kashmiri students in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror strike. Senior advocate Colin Gonsalves on Thursday mentioned the matter before Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and sought its hearing at 2 pm. The top judge, however, posted the plea for hearing tomorrow. The petition was filed by advocate Tariq Adeeb According to the plea, Kashmiri students had to lock themselves up in order to remain safe as mob violence erupted in Dehradun in Uttarakhand after the terror attack in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed on February 14. The petition has sought the court's direction to the authorities, including heads of educational institutions, for immediate steps to prevent attacks against Kashmiris and other minorities, their social boycott, ostracisation, eviction and other coercive acts. It has said those indulging in hate speech and targeting of Kashmiris should be prosecuted. The plea has asked for the appointment of a senior officer in every state and Union territory for prevention of such acts and prosecution of those involved. It has also requested the court for a direction to the authorities concerned to set up a website which would contain details of such incidents besides a single helpline for assistance across the nation.

Attacks on Kashmiri students: Supreme Court to hear plea on Friday

The Saudi Crown Prince’s visit to India has received mix reactions that not only expose lack of consensus about Indian Foreign Policy but also alert us about the urgent need to remove prevailing ambiguity in prioritising our strategic partnerships.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, the crown prince’s visit came soon after the shocking terror arrack on CRPF men in Pulwama when the nation was mourning the martyrs and was under a pall of gloom. Outrage against Pakistan was high as Jaish e Mohammed had accepted responsibility for this barbaric act. This terrorist organisation operates from sanctuaries in Pakistan and its leaders are protected protégés of Pakistani armed forces and its notorious intelligence agency ISI. Saudi Arabia has a long and intimate relationship with Pakistan and it is understandable that the warm welcome extended to the royal guest breaching poetical didn’t go down well with the majority of Indians cutting across party lines.&nbsp;

But the timing of the tour wasn’t the only thing that raised eyebrows. Mohammed Bin Salman has in his itinerary sandwiched India between Pakistan and China. South Block went into overdrive to emphasise that in 21st-century 'enemy’s friend can be our friend’ also. It was argued that we should forge ties with other countries entirely on the basis of our national interest and get rid of the deadwood of ideology.

The problem is that the Saudi Crown Prince has been a controversial figure ever since his succession was signalled. In the beginning, high hopes were aroused that he will usher in an era of long-awaited modernisation leading hopefully sooner rather than later to a whiff of democracy. The detention on charges of corruption of high ranking members of the ruling elite and allowing women to drive reinforced these expectations. But then the brutal murder of Khashoggi, a US journalist of Saudi descent, upset the proverbial apple cart. The assassination may well have been undertaken by rogue elements in Saudi armed forces or intelligence services but the stink hast quite cleared that they perpetrated the crime to please their new master.&nbsp;

Once we accept the logic of realpolitik all this pales into insignificance. So, let us limit ourselves here to an assessment of what we have gained and are likely to gain in foreseeable future from this visit. At the same time, it is imperative to take into account the costs the agreements signed may entail.&nbsp;

We have been informed that Saudi Arabia has promised to invest $100 billion in India in oil refining, infrastructure, tourism, broadcasting and education. India has also been assured that its quota of Haj pilgrims will be doubled to 200,000 per year. Exchange of intelligence will continue and the pro formation condemnation of terrorism is also there without any specifics.&nbsp;

A more than small hiccup here is that one doesn’t know when the 45 billion dollar investment in Oil Refinery will fructify. Earlier, the proposed site was at Ratnagiri but due to strong farmer’s protest, the Maharashtra government has been constrained to announce its shifting. Land acquisition is likely to create obstacles.

Contrast this with what the Pakistan is getting immediately $10 billion out of which $3 billion to bail it out from defaulting on repayment of loans, $3 billion against deferred payments for oil imports and approximately, another $3billion for development of Gwadar port that is described as the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ on China’s One Belt One Road project. It is impossible to overlook that Gwadar is being developed to render impotent the potential of Chabahar in Iran to which India has already committed vast resources and considers extremely important to extend its strategic reach in Afghanistan and beyond in West Asia.&nbsp;

It is true that with the fall in oil prices globally and the US striving to explore shale oil had made Saudi Arab anxious and apprehensive about the future. The Crown Prince has indeed been exploring other options and looking for a new strategic alliance. However, it would be naive to conclude that suddenly India has begun to loom large on Saudi’s mental horizon.&nbsp;

It is impossible not to get alienated from Iran as we get embroiled into a tight embrace with Saudis. The US would like us to be more cordial with their long term allies when they tighten the screws on Iran. It would also like us to follow their lead in Afghanistan. What we must ask is that does this really serves our national interest?&nbsp;

Pakistan does need the Saudi crutches to survive but India is certainly not in such an abject and pitiable situation. We should remain alert that we don’t dissipate our energies chasing a mirage in the distant desert. True, we import 20 per cent of our oil from Saudi Arab and hundreds of thousands of Indians work in that country. This does not mean that we should change course suddenly or drastically dreaming of an Oasis that remains a long and hard way off. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The Saudi Crown Prince’s visit to India has received mix reactions that not only expose lack of consensus about Indian Foreign Policy but also alert us about the urgent need to remove prevailing ambiguity in prioritising our strategic partnerships.

The Saudi Crown Prince’s visit to India has received mix reactions that not only expose lack of consensus about Indian Foreign Policy but also alert us about the urgent need to remove prevailing ambiguity in prioritising our strategic partnerships. Unfortunately, the crown prince’s visit came soon after the shocking terror arrack on CRPF men in Pulwama when the nation was mourning the martyrs and was under a pall of gloom. Outrage against Pakistan was high as Jaish e Mohammed had accepted responsibility for this barbaric act. This terrorist organisation operates from sanctuaries in Pakistan and its leaders are protected protégés of Pakistani armed forces and its notorious intelligence agency ISI. Saudi Arabia has a long and intimate relationship with Pakistan and it is understandable that the warm welcome extended to the royal guest breaching poetical didn’t go down well with the majority of Indians cutting across party lines. But the timing of the tour wasn’t the only thing that raised eyebrows. Mohammed Bin Salman has in his itinerary sandwiched India between Pakistan and China. South Block went into overdrive to emphasise that in 21st-century 'enemy’s friend can be our friend’ also. It was argued that we should forge ties with other countries entirely on the basis of our national interest and get rid of the deadwood of ideology. The problem is that the Saudi Crown Prince has been a controversial figure ever since his succession was signalled. In the beginning, high hopes were aroused that he will usher in an era of long-awaited modernisation leading hopefully sooner rather than later to a whiff of democracy. The detention on charges of corruption of high ranking members of the ruling elite and allowing women to drive reinforced these expectations. But then the brutal murder of Khashoggi, a US journalist of Saudi descent, upset the proverbial apple cart. The assassination may well have been undertaken by rogue elements in Saudi armed forces or intelligence services but the stink hast quite cleared that they perpetrated the crime to please their new master. Once we accept the logic of realpolitik all this pales into insignificance. So, let us limit ourselves here to an assessment of what we have gained and are likely to gain in foreseeable future from this visit. At the same time, it is imperative to take into account the costs the agreements signed may entail. We have been informed that Saudi Arabia has promised to invest $100 billion in India in oil refining, infrastructure, tourism, broadcasting and education. India has also been assured that its quota of Haj pilgrims will be doubled to 200,000 per year. Exchange of intelligence will continue and the pro formation condemnation of terrorism is also there without any specifics. A more than small hiccup here is that one doesn’t know when the 45 billion dollar investment in Oil Refinery will fructify. Earlier, the proposed site was at Ratnagiri but due to strong farmer’s protest, the Maharashtra government has been constrained to announce its shifting. Land acquisition is likely to create obstacles. Contrast this with what the Pakistan is getting immediately $10 billion out of which $3 billion to bail it out from defaulting on repayment of loans, $3 billion against deferred payments for oil imports and approximately, another $3billion for development of Gwadar port that is described as the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ on China’s One Belt One Road project. It is impossible to overlook that Gwadar is being developed to render impotent the potential of Chabahar in Iran to which India has already committed vast resources and considers extremely important to extend its strategic reach in Afghanistan and beyond in West Asia. It is true that with the fall in oil prices globally and the US striving to explore shale oil had made Saudi Arab anxious and apprehensive about the future. The Crown Prince has indeed been exploring other options and looking for a new strategic alliance. However, it would be naive to conclude that suddenly India has begun to loom large on Saudi’s mental horizon. It is impossible not to get alienated from Iran as we get embroiled into a tight embrace with Saudis. The US would like us to be more cordial with their long term allies when they tighten the screws on Iran. It would also like us to follow their lead in Afghanistan. What we must ask is that does this really serves our national interest? Pakistan does need the Saudi crutches to survive but India is certainly not in such an abject and pitiable situation. We should remain alert that we don’t dissipate our energies chasing a mirage in the distant desert. True, we import 20 per cent of our oil from Saudi Arab and hundreds of thousands of Indians work in that country. This does not mean that we should change course suddenly or drastically dreaming of an Oasis that remains a long and hard way off. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Crown Prince visit: Pakistan needs Saudi Arabia's crutches to survive, but India doesn't

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-seeks-urgent-un-intervention-to-de-escalate-fresh-tensions-with-india-198228">India and Pakistan to take immediate steps</a> to defuse tensions and offered to help broker a solution if both sides agree.

The two countries have been locked in a diplomatic clash following a suicide attack on February 14 in Kashmir that killed 40 Indian security personnel, triggering counter-operations by Indian forces in the area.

"We are deeply concerned at the increasing tensions between the two countries," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

Guterres "stresses the importance of both sides to exercise maximum restraint and take immediate steps" to de-escalate, while also offering to mediate "should both sides ask," said Dujarric.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi appealed to Guterres to step in to defuse tensions, in a letter seen by AFP.

"It is imperative to take steps for de-escalation. The United Nations must step in to defuse tensions," said the letter sent on Monday.

The attack was claimed by Pakistan-based Islamist group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), but the foreign minister insisted that "attributing it to Pakistan even before investigations is absurd."

In response to the rising tensions, France, Britain and the United States were considering a new push at the Security Council to place Masood Azhar, the leader of JeM, on the UN terror list, but faced opposition from China, diplomats said.

China has twice blocked -- in 2016 and 2017 -- attempts to put the JeM leader on the blacklist. The group itself was added to the terror list in 2001.

Kashmir has been split between India and Pakistan since independence from Britain in 1947. Both countries claim the former Himalayan kingdom in full and have fought two wars over it.

India has long accused Pakistan of harbouring militants who launch attacks on its soil.

Pakistan's UN Ambassador Maleeha Lodhi met with Guterres and with the president of the Security Council to appeal for action, warning that a flareup in Kashmir could undermine peace efforts in Afghanistan.

"The escalation in the subcontinent poses a threat to prospects for peace in Afghanistan," Lodhi told AFP.

The United States is holding talks with the Taliban on ending 17 years of war. &nbsp;

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad's talks also involve Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the three countries that recognized the Taliban regime in Kabul before the US-led coalition toppled it following the September 11, 2001 attacks.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called on India and Pakistan to take immediate steps to defuse tensions and offered to help broker a solution if both sides agree.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called on India and Pakistan to take immediate steps to defuse tensions and offered to help broker a solution if both sides agree. The two countries have been locked in a diplomatic clash following a suicide attack on February 14 in Kashmir that killed 40 Indian security personnel, triggering counter-operations by Indian forces in the area. "We are deeply concerned at the increasing tensions between the two countries," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric. Guterres "stresses the importance of both sides to exercise maximum restraint and take immediate steps" to de-escalate, while also offering to mediate "should both sides ask," said Dujarric. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi appealed to Guterres to step in to defuse tensions, in a letter seen by AFP. "It is imperative to take steps for de-escalation. The United Nations must step in to defuse tensions," said the letter sent on Monday. The attack was claimed by Pakistan-based Islamist group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), but the foreign minister insisted that "attributing it to Pakistan even before investigations is absurd." In response to the rising tensions, France, Britain and the United States were considering a new push at the Security Council to place Masood Azhar, the leader of JeM, on the UN terror list, but faced opposition from China, diplomats said. China has twice blocked -- in 2016 and 2017 -- attempts to put the JeM leader on the blacklist. The group itself was added to the terror list in 2001. Kashmir has been split between India and Pakistan since independence from Britain in 1947. Both countries claim the former Himalayan kingdom in full and have fought two wars over it. India has long accused Pakistan of harbouring militants who launch attacks on its soil. Pakistan's UN Ambassador Maleeha Lodhi met with Guterres and with the president of the Security Council to appeal for action, warning that a flareup in Kashmir could undermine peace efforts in Afghanistan. "The escalation in the subcontinent poses a threat to prospects for peace in Afghanistan," Lodhi told AFP. The United States is holding talks with the Taliban on ending 17 years of war. US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad's talks also involve Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the three countries that recognized the Taliban regime in Kabul before the US-led coalition toppled it following the September 11, 2001 attacks.

UN Secretary-General Guterres urges India, Pakistan to defuse tension, offers to broker peace

Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday denied reports of any assault on Kashmiri students following the Pulwama terror attack and said there is no threat to students from the Valley.&nbsp;

Forty Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district on February 14 when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus.

Javadekar told reporters, “There is no threat to Kashmiri students as it is being made out to be. Countrymen are angry because of the Pulwama attack but no Kashmiri student has been assaulted following that.&nbsp;

While several Kashmiri students from different cities have been slapped with sedition charges for allegedly supporting the Pulwama terror attack, two colleges in Dehradun have decided not to admit those from the Valley, with students saying they were in a state of fear after the incident.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration Monday asked students outside the state to not pay heed to any rumours and try to stay put at their respective places.&nbsp;

The Home Ministry on Saturday issued an advisory to all states and Union territories to take measures to ensure the safety and security of Kashmiris.

The advisory had come hours after Home Minister Rajnath Singh assured an all-party meeting of doing the needful for the protection of the Kashmiri students and people who were allegedly threatened after the terrorist attack.

Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday denied reports of any assault on Kashmiri students following the Pulwama terror attack and said there is no threat to students from the Valley.

Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday denied reports of any assault on Kashmiri students following the Pulwama terror attack and said there is no threat to students from the Valley. Forty Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district on February 14 when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus. Javadekar told reporters, “There is no threat to Kashmiri students as it is being made out to be. Countrymen are angry because of the Pulwama attack but no Kashmiri student has been assaulted following that. While several Kashmiri students from different cities have been slapped with sedition charges for allegedly supporting the Pulwama terror attack, two colleges in Dehradun have decided not to admit those from the Valley, with students saying they were in a state of fear after the incident. The Jammu and Kashmir administration Monday asked students outside the state to not pay heed to any rumours and try to stay put at their respective places. The Home Ministry on Saturday issued an advisory to all states and Union territories to take measures to ensure the safety and security of Kashmiris. The advisory had come hours after Home Minister Rajnath Singh assured an all-party meeting of doing the needful for the protection of the Kashmiri students and people who were allegedly threatened after the terrorist attack.

Prakash Javadekar rules out any threat to students from Kashmir Valley

South Africa expressed shock and dismay over Pulwama attack

'Cricket last thing on my mind, have to back security forces,' says VVS Laxman

US President Donald Trump reacts to Pulwama attack

The Indian American community will hold peaceful protests outside the Pakistani and Chinese diplomatic missions in the US over the Pulwama terrorist attack, alleging China provides tacit support to Pakistan which uses non-State actors against its neighbours.

A candlelight protest will be held outside the Pakistan Consulate in Chicago after which the protesters will march to the Chinese consulate on Thursday, February 21, the organisers have said.&nbsp;

The main objectives of the protest, according to the organisers, are to "expose the barbaric nature" of Pakistani terrorism and to wake up the world against Pakistan- and China-supported terrorism, a media release said.

The next day, the Indian Americans in New York and New Jersey area would hold another peaceful protest outside the Pakistani consulate in Manhattan, New York.

"It is time that the United States and rest of the world speak in unison against Pakistani establishment's continued support to terrorists in recruiting, training, arming, finance and providing safe haven," eminent Indian American Dr Bharat Barai said in a statement.&nbsp;

Billions of dollars of US aid to Pakistan have done little to curb the terror outfits in Pakistan, he rued.

Forty Indian paramilitary personnel were killed on February 14 when a JeM terrorist rammed his explosive-laden in car in a vehicle carrying the jawans.&nbsp;

"This is not an act of terrorism but act of war. Pakistan will have to pay a heavy price for this. Time has come to take decisive and ruthless action against the perpetrators of this heinous crime against humanity," said New York-based Jagdish Sewhani, the president of the American India Public Affairs Committee.

"The Indian community is deeply pained by this mindless barbaric act. We are grieving for our slain soldiers and at the same time we want Pakistan to take strict actions against the terrorists," said a local Republican leader from Illinois J D Diganvker.

"We want the world community to take note. We all know terrorism has no place in the world today and we want the world to urge Pakistan to respond with stringent actions," he said, adding the protestors plan to submit memorandums to the Pakistani and Chinese consulates in Chicago.

It is time to declare Pakistan a terrorist State and isolate it completely -- both economically and militarily -- until it mend its ways, demanded community organiser Nirav Patel. &nbsp; &nbsp;

China's designs to use rogue nations such as Pakistan and North Korea to further its expansionist agenda is no secret, he alleged.

"It is also critical to urge China, which has repeatedly blocked the efforts in the UN by both the US and India to declare Masood Azhar, the head of Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist Organization, as a global terrorist," he said.

Community leader Amitabh Mittal said Pakistan was not just an India or a US problem. "It's an international problem that has become a breeding ground for terrorists who expand their network (e.G. Al-Qaeda and its offshoots) worldwide wreaking havoc and destruction in several countries in the world."

Meanwhile, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha mandirs globally, as well as the 100 BAPS mandirs across North America, held special prayer services for&nbsp; 
the Pulwama Attack Victims.

The BAPS, as an organisation and its followers, have also pledged financial support of Rs 10 million to support the victims and their family members on the road to recovery.&nbsp;

"Terror against anybody is terror against us all," said Jeff Spivey, the Chief of Irving Police Department, Texas, after attending a special prayer service organized by the BAPS.

Condemning in the strongest terms the dastardly act of terror in Pulwama, Indian American Muslim Council in a statement called for a thorough investigation and bringing the perpetrators to justice. It demanded action against the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist group. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Strongly condemning the Pulwama terrorist attack, Washington DC-based Voice of Karachi, which represents the expatriate Mohajir community, alleged that attackers enjoys official patronage in Pakistan.&nbsp;

It is vital for peace in South Asia as well as Pakistan's own future to end all overt and covert support for non-State actors and eliminate all safe havens granted to such militant proxies, said its leader Nadeem Nusrat.

Welcoming the US statement calling for Pakistan to take swift action against terror groups operating from its soil, Nusrat said the United States has played a leading and decisive role in the elimination of many terror sanctuaries around the world.&nbsp;

People of South Asia are looking towards the US administration to play a similar role in establishing lasting peace in the region, he said.

The Indian American community will hold peaceful protests outside the Pakistani and Chinese diplomatic missions in the US over the Pulwama terrorist attack, alleging China provides tacit support to Pakistan which uses non-State actors against its neighbours.

The Indian American community will hold peaceful protests outside the Pakistani and Chinese diplomatic missions in the US over the Pulwama terrorist attack, alleging China provides tacit support to Pakistan which uses non-State actors against its neighbours. A candlelight protest will be held outside the Pakistan Consulate in Chicago after which the protesters will march to the Chinese consulate on Thursday, February 21, the organisers have said. The main objectives of the protest, according to the organisers, are to "expose the barbaric nature" of Pakistani terrorism and to wake up the world against Pakistan- and China-supported terrorism, a media release said. The next day, the Indian Americans in New York and New Jersey area would hold another peaceful protest outside the Pakistani consulate in Manhattan, New York. "It is time that the United States and rest of the world speak in unison against Pakistani establishment's continued support to terrorists in recruiting, training, arming, finance and providing safe haven," eminent Indian American Dr Bharat Barai said in a statement. Billions of dollars of US aid to Pakistan have done little to curb the terror outfits in Pakistan, he rued. Forty Indian paramilitary personnel were killed on February 14 when a JeM terrorist rammed his explosive-laden in car in a vehicle carrying the jawans. "This is not an act of terrorism but act of war. Pakistan will have to pay a heavy price for this. Time has come to take decisive and ruthless action against the perpetrators of this heinous crime against humanity," said New York-based Jagdish Sewhani, the president of the American India Public Affairs Committee. "The Indian community is deeply pained by this mindless barbaric act. We are grieving for our slain soldiers and at the same time we want Pakistan to take strict actions against the terrorists," said a local Republican leader from Illinois J D Diganvker. "We want the world community to take note. We all know terrorism has no place in the world today and we want the world to urge Pakistan to respond with stringent actions," he said, adding the protestors plan to submit memorandums to the Pakistani and Chinese consulates in Chicago. It is time to declare Pakistan a terrorist State and isolate it completely -- both economically and militarily -- until it mend its ways, demanded community organiser Nirav Patel. China's designs to use rogue nations such as Pakistan and North Korea to further its expansionist agenda is no secret, he alleged. "It is also critical to urge China, which has repeatedly blocked the efforts in the UN by both the US and India to declare Masood Azhar, the head of Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist Organization, as a global terrorist," he said. Community leader Amitabh Mittal said Pakistan was not just an India or a US problem. "It's an international problem that has become a breeding ground for terrorists who expand their network (e.G. Al-Qaeda and its offshoots) worldwide wreaking havoc and destruction in several countries in the world." Meanwhile, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha mandirs globally, as well as the 100 BAPS mandirs across North America, held special prayer services for the Pulwama Attack Victims. The BAPS, as an organisation and its followers, have also pledged financial support of Rs 10 million to support the victims and their family members on the road to recovery. "Terror against anybody is terror against us all," said Jeff Spivey, the Chief of Irving Police Department, Texas, after attending a special prayer service organized by the BAPS. Condemning in the strongest terms the dastardly act of terror in Pulwama, Indian American Muslim Council in a statement called for a thorough investigation and bringing the perpetrators to justice. It demanded action against the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist group. Strongly condemning the Pulwama terrorist attack, Washington DC-based Voice of Karachi, which represents the expatriate Mohajir community, alleged that attackers enjoys official patronage in Pakistan. It is vital for peace in South Asia as well as Pakistan's own future to end all overt and covert support for non-State actors and eliminate all safe havens granted to such militant proxies, said its leader Nadeem Nusrat. Welcoming the US statement calling for Pakistan to take swift action against terror groups operating from its soil, Nusrat said the United States has played a leading and decisive role in the elimination of many terror sanctuaries around the world. People of South Asia are looking towards the US administration to play a similar role in establishing lasting peace in the region, he said.

Pulwama attack: Indian Americans to protest outside Chinese, Pak diplomatic missions in US 

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/leaders-at-all-party-meeting-strongly-condemn-dastardly-terror-act-of-14th-february-197746">Home Minister Rajnath Singh</a> on Tuesday reviewed the security situation in the country, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, where 40 CRPF Jawans were killed in an audacious terror attack last week, officials said.

Five security personnel, including a major, were martyred in the state on Monday in an encounter in which three Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists, including two top commanders believed to be behind the February 14 Pulwama terror attack, were also eliminated.

During the meeting, the home minister was briefed about the prevailing security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, including along the Indo-Pak border, a home ministry official said.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval too participated in the meeting which was attended by Union home secretary Rajiv Gauba, director of intelligence bureau Rajiv Jain besides others.

The meeting also took stock of the steps being taken to hunt down the terrorists operating in Jammu and Kashmir and how to check attempts of infiltrations from across the border.

The home minister directed the officials to ensure that all possible steps should be taken against the terrorists currently operating in Kashmir valley and protection of innocent Kashmiris living in different parts of the country, the official said.

Forty CRPF personnel were killed and five injured on Thursday in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a JeM suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying explosives into their bus in Pulwama district.

The bus was part of a convoy of 78 vehicles carrying CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.

Lt Gen KJS Dhillon, commander of Army's Srinagar-based Chinar Corps said on Tuesday that anyone who picks up the gun will be eliminated.

He also requested mothers of Kashmiri terrorists to persuade their sons to surrender.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday reviewed the security situation in the country, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, where 40 CRPF Jawans were killed in an audacious terror attack last week, officials said.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday reviewed the security situation in the country, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, where 40 CRPF Jawans were killed in an audacious terror attack last week, officials said. Five security personnel, including a major, were martyred in the state on Monday in an encounter in which three Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists, including two top commanders believed to be behind the February 14 Pulwama terror attack, were also eliminated. During the meeting, the home minister was briefed about the prevailing security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, including along the Indo-Pak border, a home ministry official said. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval too participated in the meeting which was attended by Union home secretary Rajiv Gauba, director of intelligence bureau Rajiv Jain besides others. The meeting also took stock of the steps being taken to hunt down the terrorists operating in Jammu and Kashmir and how to check attempts of infiltrations from across the border. The home minister directed the officials to ensure that all possible steps should be taken against the terrorists currently operating in Kashmir valley and protection of innocent Kashmiris living in different parts of the country, the official said. Forty CRPF personnel were killed and five injured on Thursday in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a JeM suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying explosives into their bus in Pulwama district. The bus was part of a convoy of 78 vehicles carrying CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar. Lt Gen KJS Dhillon, commander of Army's Srinagar-based Chinar Corps said on Tuesday that anyone who picks up the gun will be eliminated. He also requested mothers of Kashmiri terrorists to persuade their sons to surrender.

After Pulwama attack, Rajnath Singh reviews security situation in J&K

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday described as a "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">horrible situation</a>" the Pulwama terrorist attack by the Jaish-e-Mohammed group, in which 40 Indian paramilitary personnel were killed, saying he was getting reports on it and would issue a statement.

Separately, State Department Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino expressed "strong support" for India and asked Pakistan to "punish anyone responsible" for the February 14 attack.&nbsp;

The suicide attack has led to an&nbsp;escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan and Trump told reporters at the Oval Office that it would be "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-india-blaming-pakistan-without-evidence-says-imran-khan-198266">wonderful</a>" if the two South Asian neighbours get along.

"I have watched. I have got a lot of reports on it. We will have comment (on it) at an appropriate time. It would be wonderful if they (India and Pakistan) get along," Trump said in response to a question.

"That (the terrorist attack) was a horrible situation. We are getting reports. We will have a statement to put out," Trump said.

At a separate news conference, the State Department Deputy Spokesperson said the US has been in close communication with the Indian government "to express not only our condolences but our strong support".

"We urge Pakistan to fully cooperate with the investigation into the attack and to punish anyone responsible," Palladino said. In the aftermath of the Pulwama attack, the US has also been in contact with Pakistan, he said.&nbsp;

Following the terrorist attack, Trump's National Security Advisor, John Bolton, has supported India's right to self-defense.&nbsp;

Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, Bolton, and the White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders in separate statements have asked Pakistan to immediately take action against the JeM and its leaders and end support to terrorist safe havens.&nbsp;

The CRPF personnel were killed when a JeM terrorist rammed an explosive-laden car into a vehicle carrying them in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. PTI&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday described as a "horrible situation" the Pulwama terrorist attack by the Jaish-e-Mohammed group, in which 40 Indian paramilitary personnel were killed, saying he was getting reports on it and would issue a statement.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday described as a "horrible situation" the Pulwama terrorist attack by the Jaish-e-Mohammed group, in which 40 Indian paramilitary personnel were killed, saying he was getting reports on it and would issue a statement. Separately, State Department Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino expressed "strong support" for India and asked Pakistan to "punish anyone responsible" for the February 14 attack. The suicide attack has led to an escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan and Trump told reporters at the Oval Office that it would be "wonderful" if the two South Asian neighbours get along. "I have watched. I have got a lot of reports on it. We will have comment (on it) at an appropriate time. It would be wonderful if they (India and Pakistan) get along," Trump said in response to a question. "That (the terrorist attack) was a horrible situation. We are getting reports. We will have a statement to put out," Trump said. At a separate news conference, the State Department Deputy Spokesperson said the US has been in close communication with the Indian government "to express not only our condolences but our strong support". "We urge Pakistan to fully cooperate with the investigation into the attack and to punish anyone responsible," Palladino said. In the aftermath of the Pulwama attack, the US has also been in contact with Pakistan, he said. Following the terrorist attack, Trump's National Security Advisor, John Bolton, has supported India's right to self-defense. Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, Bolton, and the White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders in separate statements have asked Pakistan to immediately take action against the JeM and its leaders and end support to terrorist safe havens. The CRPF personnel were killed when a JeM terrorist rammed an explosive-laden car into a vehicle carrying them in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. PTI

Trump says Pulwama attack a 'horrible situation'

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

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

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

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

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-says-pulwama-attack-a-horrible-situation-198413">Trump says Pulwama attack a 'horrible situation'</a>

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday described as a "horrible situation" the Pulwama terrorist attack by the Jaish-e-Mohammed group, in which 40 Indian paramilitary personnel were killed, saying he was getting reports on it and would issue a statement.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/unleashing-the-power-of-south-asia-at-wion-conclave-today-in-dubai-thought-leaders-to-discuss-way-forward-for-the-region-198427">Unleashing the Power of South Asia: At WION conclave today in Dubai, thought leaders to discuss </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/unleashing-the-power-of-south-asia-at-wion-conclave-today-in-dubai-thought-leaders-to-discuss-way-forward-for-the-region-198427">way</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/unleashing-the-power-of-south-asia-at-wion-conclave-today-in-dubai-thought-leaders-to-discuss-way-forward-for-the-region-198427"> forward for the region</a>

WION is holding its 'Unleashing the Power of South Asia' conclave today in Dubai, the UAE. &nbsp;

The summit will bring together thought leaders from around the world to find common ground on the way forward for the South Asian region.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-urges-india-pakistan-to-take-immediate-steps-to-defuse-tensions-198397">UN Secretary-General Guterres urges India, Pakistan to defuse tension, offers to broker peace</a>

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called on India and Pakistan to take immediate steps to defuse tensions and offered to help broker a solution if both sides agree.

The two countries have been locked in a diplomatic clash following a suicide attack on February 14 in Kashmir that killed 40 Indian security personnel, triggering counter-operations by Indian forces in the area.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-urges-india-pakistan-to-take-immediate-steps-to-defuse-tensions-198397">Britain to strip teen who joined Islamic State of citizenship: Lawyer</a>

Britain will strip citizenship from Shamima Begum, a UK teenager who joined the Islamic State group in Syria and wants to return home with a newborn baby, a lawyer for her family said Tuesday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agreed-for-alliance-as-bjps-way-of-treating-allies-has-changed-uddhav-thackeray-198407">Agreed to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agreed-for-alliance-as-bjps-way-of-treating-allies-has-changed-uddhav-thackeray-198407">alliance</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agreed-for-alliance-as-bjps-way-of-treating-allies-has-changed-uddhav-thackeray-198407"> as BJP's way of treating allies has changed: Uddhav Thackeray</a>

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said Tuesday evening that he decided to join hands with the BJP because of the saffron party's changed way of dealing with its allies.

Thackeray was speaking to Sena workers at his residence here.

Trump says Pulwama attack a 'horrible situation' US President Donald Trump on Tuesday described as a "horrible situation" the Pulwama terrorist attack by the Jaish-e-Mohammed group, in which 40 Indian paramilitary personnel were killed, saying he was getting reports on it and would issue a statement.

Trump says Pulwama attack a 'horrible situation' US President Donald Trump on Tuesday described as a "horrible situation" the Pulwama terrorist attack by the Jaish-e-Mohammed group, in which 40 Indian paramilitary personnel were killed, saying he was getting reports on it and would issue a statement. Unleashing the Power of South Asia: At WION conclave today in Dubai, thought leaders to discuss way forward for the region WION is holding its 'Unleashing the Power of South Asia' conclave today in Dubai, the UAE. The summit will bring together thought leaders from around the world to find common ground on the way forward for the South Asian region. UN Secretary-General Guterres urges India, Pakistan to defuse tension, offers to broker peace UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called on India and Pakistan to take immediate steps to defuse tensions and offered to help broker a solution if both sides agree. The two countries have been locked in a diplomatic clash following a suicide attack on February 14 in Kashmir that killed 40 Indian security personnel, triggering counter-operations by Indian forces in the area. Britain to strip teen who joined Islamic State of citizenship: Lawyer Britain will strip citizenship from Shamima Begum, a UK teenager who joined the Islamic State group in Syria and wants to return home with a newborn baby, a lawyer for her family said Tuesday. Agreed to alliance as BJP's way of treating allies has changed: Uddhav Thackeray Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said Tuesday evening that he decided to join hands with the BJP because of the saffron party's changed way of dealing with its allies. Thackeray was speaking to Sena workers at his residence here.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told India on Wednesday that his country would "cooperate on all fronts" with India against terror.&nbsp;

"Extremism and terrorism are our common concerns," Salman said.&nbsp;

"We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations," he added.&nbsp;

Salman made his comments in a joint statement with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after delegation-level talks between them.&nbsp;

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Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman: Extremism &amp; terrorism are our common concerns.We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations. <a href="https://t.co/io5oIvFzTX">pic.twitter.com/io5oIvFzTX</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1098139150442610688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi: Pulwama mein hua barbar hamla duniya par chhai khatre ki nishani hai, hum is baat par sahmat hain ki atankwaad ko samarthan dene waale deshon pe sambhav dabav banane ki avyashkata hai <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaSaudiArabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaSaudiArabia</a> <a href="https://t.co/MmSprEgg1J">pic.twitter.com/MmSprEgg1J</a>
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"We agreed that there is a need to increase pressure on the countries which support terrorism," Modi said, adding that the two had also discussed greater defence cooperation.&nbsp;

He added that the attacks in Pulwama cast their shadow not only on India but also on the world.&nbsp;

Modi also said that Saudi Arabia is one of India's "most valuable strategic partners".&nbsp;

He added that "our relations have grown stronger" and that he welcomed "Saudi investment in Indian infrastructure".&nbsp;

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told India on Wednesday that his country would "cooperate on all fronts" with India against terror. "Extremism and terrorism are our common concerns," Salman said.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told India on Wednesday that his country would "cooperate on all fronts" with India against terror. "Extremism and terrorism are our common concerns," Salman said. "We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations," he added. Salman made his comments in a joint statement with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after delegation-level talks between them. Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman: Extremism & terrorism are our common concerns.We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations. pic.twitter.com/io5oIvFzTX — ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2019 × PM Modi: Pulwama mein hua barbar hamla duniya par chhai khatre ki nishani hai, hum is baat par sahmat hain ki atankwaad ko samarthan dene waale deshon pe sambhav dabav banane ki avyashkata hai #IndiaSaudiArabia pic.twitter.com/MmSprEgg1J — ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2019 × "We agreed that there is a need to increase pressure on the countries which support terrorism," Modi said, adding that the two had also discussed greater defence cooperation. He added that the attacks in Pulwama cast their shadow not only on India but also on the world. Modi also said that Saudi Arabia is one of India's "most valuable strategic partners". He added that "our relations have grown stronger" and that he welcomed "Saudi investment in Indian infrastructure".

Will 'cooperate on all fronts' against terror: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to India

Senior Minister in the Punjab Congress Government Navjot Singh Sidhu has equalised Pak sponsored terrorism and the latest terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir with the release of Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Maulana Masood Azhar, all implicated in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in exchange for passengers travelling by Indian Airlines IC-814 flight in 1999.

There was pandemonium in the Punjab Assembly and Sidhu was targetted by the Akali members for his much-condemned statement after the dastardly terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama. Sidhu has come under attack over his remark - "For a handful of people, can you blame the entire nation; can you blame an individual?"

Without naming the then NDA Government headed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he even went on to ask "Who had set them (those wanted for the Mumbai terrorist attack) free in Kandahar in 1999. Asserting that his fight is against them, Sidhu also said: "Fight these terrorists and those who provide them shelter. Write to their protectors asking for their extradition." &nbsp;

Sidhu is not naive. In fact, he has crossed all limits as he has made a diabolic attempt to politicise the issue by pointing a finger at the previous Atal Bihari Vajpayee led NDA Government and tried to spread the message that the release of Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and Maulana Masood Azhar was the cause behind 1700 violent incidents.&nbsp;

At a time, when the entire nation is supposed to be in sync with the government to take the enemy head-on, Sidhu is playing politics. There could not be a softer stand at this juncture than turning a blind eye to the low-intensity war being waged against India by Pakistan and asking the Indian government to write to Pakistan for the extradition of those exporting terror.

While the Congress party bosses are silent regarding Sidhu, we also have West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is continuously at loggerheads with the Centre. Even at this critical juncture, when the nation is supposed to be united in its fight against terror outfits operating from Pakistan, she has thrown up a poser asking "Why did the Centre not do anything to stop Pakistanis from carrying out such attacks all these years. Only when an election is knocking at the door, you think of starting a shadow war?"

It is most unfortunate that the West Bengal Chief Minister has cast aspersion on the motive of the Narendra Modi Government and tried to politicise a national emergency like situation. This, especially when Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a rally in Nagpur, had said that the Indian soldiers will decide the fate of the terrorists who were responsible for the killing of 44 CRPF soldiers in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

By questioning the timing of Prime Minister’s announcement, the West Bengal chief minister stands exposed on the issue of national security.&nbsp;

It defies imagination that the chief minister of a state could take such a stand when the country is under attack and the PM has declared that a free hand has been given to the Army to tackle the situation.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Senior Minister in the Punjab Congress Government Navjot Singh Sidhu has equalised Pak sponsored terrorism and the latest terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir with the release of Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Maulana Masood Azhar, all implicated in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in exchange for passengers travelling by Indian Airlines IC-814 flight in 1999.

Senior Minister in the Punjab Congress Government Navjot Singh Sidhu has equalised Pak sponsored terrorism and the latest terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir with the release of Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Maulana Masood Azhar, all implicated in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in exchange for passengers travelling by Indian Airlines IC-814 flight in 1999. There was pandemonium in the Punjab Assembly and Sidhu was targetted by the Akali members for his much-condemned statement after the dastardly terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama. Sidhu has come under attack over his remark - "For a handful of people, can you blame the entire nation; can you blame an individual?" Without naming the then NDA Government headed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he even went on to ask "Who had set them (those wanted for the Mumbai terrorist attack) free in Kandahar in 1999. Asserting that his fight is against them, Sidhu also said: "Fight these terrorists and those who provide them shelter. Write to their protectors asking for their extradition." Sidhu is not naive. In fact, he has crossed all limits as he has made a diabolic attempt to politicise the issue by pointing a finger at the previous Atal Bihari Vajpayee led NDA Government and tried to spread the message that the release of Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and Maulana Masood Azhar was the cause behind 1700 violent incidents. At a time, when the entire nation is supposed to be in sync with the government to take the enemy head-on, Sidhu is playing politics. There could not be a softer stand at this juncture than turning a blind eye to the low-intensity war being waged against India by Pakistan and asking the Indian government to write to Pakistan for the extradition of those exporting terror. While the Congress party bosses are silent regarding Sidhu, we also have West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is continuously at loggerheads with the Centre. Even at this critical juncture, when the nation is supposed to be united in its fight against terror outfits operating from Pakistan, she has thrown up a poser asking "Why did the Centre not do anything to stop Pakistanis from carrying out such attacks all these years. Only when an election is knocking at the door, you think of starting a shadow war?" It is most unfortunate that the West Bengal Chief Minister has cast aspersion on the motive of the Narendra Modi Government and tried to politicise a national emergency like situation. This, especially when Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a rally in Nagpur, had said that the Indian soldiers will decide the fate of the terrorists who were responsible for the killing of 44 CRPF soldiers in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir. By questioning the timing of Prime Minister’s announcement, the West Bengal chief minister stands exposed on the issue of national security. It defies imagination that the chief minister of a state could take such a stand when the country is under attack and the PM has declared that a free hand has been given to the Army to tackle the situation. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Even at a critical juncture, Mamata Banerjee and Navjot Singh Sidhu are politicising the Pulwama attack

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