Kashmir : Counter Terror Operation Updates and Discussions
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J&K: Mehbooba Mufti trying to forge united approach of parties, holds talks with arch-rivals
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah said that the Jammu and Kashmir People Democratic Party (PDP) leader had spoken to him and he would convene an all-party meeting after his return to Kashmir from Delhi.
by Press Trust of India
Srinagar
July 30, 2019
UPDATED: July 30, 2019 22:11 IST
Mehbooba Mufti had Monday asked Farooq Abdullah to convene an all-party meeting. (File photo)
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) patron Mehbooba Mufti is trying to forge a united approach of parties in the wake of recent developments in the state and has held talks with arch-rivals National Conference as well as People's Conference and CPI-M.
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah said that the Jammu and Kashmir People Democratic Party (PDP) leader had spoken to him and he would convene an all-party meeting after his return to Kashmir from Delhi.
"Yes, she spoke to me yesterday (Monday) about an all-party meeting. I will convene it once I reach Srinagar," Abdullah told PTI over the phone.
Mehbooba Mufti took to Twitter saying she had spoken to People's Conference leaders Sajad Gani Lone and Imran Ansari in this regard.
"Spoke to heads of J&K mainstream parties including my former colleagues @sajadlone & @imranrezaansari regarding emerging developments in the state. There is a growing consensus that the present situation demands a recalibration of response & a united approach," she said.
Mehbooba Mufti had Monday asked Farooq Abdullah to convene an all-party meeting.
"In light of recent developments that have caused a sense of panic amongst people in J&K, I've requested Dr Farooq Abdullah Sahab to convene an all-party meeting. The need of the hour is to come together & forge a united response. We the people of Kashmir need to stand up as one," she tweeted.
The political affairs committee of People's Conference headed by Lone met to discuss and deliberate on party's future strategy in wake of the recent political developments suggesting a threat to the special identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
"There is as yet no clear evidence (of any changes to the special status of the state), the need of the hour is not to be off guard," a People's Conference leader said.
He said the party was unanimous and unambiguous in its assertion that special provisions are irreversible and sacred for the people of Kashmir.
"The party made an appeal to all those parties who believe in the defence of these special provisions to refrain from making attacks against each other at least for the duration when present political conditions are mired in suspense. Politics gives us enough opportunities to attack each other and there is enough ammunition with all of us to use against each other," he added.
CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami asked the governor's administration to clear confusion over the government orders which have deepened uncertainty in Kashmir in the last few days.
"The governor needs to clarify whether it is a rumour that 100 companies of additional companies of paramilitary forces are being deployed in Kashmir? One of his Advisor is saying 'the deployment was a deliberate and calculated response to the need of security grid,' while the governor says the 'government' orders being circulated on social media in Kashmir from past few days were invalid," he said.
Meanwhile, Governor Satya Pal Malik Tuesday sought to put to rest speculation that a "major development" was likely in the state, saying "everything is fine, everything is normal". He disowned as invalid government orders that had generated panic in recent days.
A spate of government orders including one which spoke of prolonged law and order situation had generated widespread speculation that the Centre was planning to abrogate Article 35-A which provides exclusive rights to immovable property and government jobs only to natives of Jammu and Kashmir.
Dismissing the speculation, the governor said "Koi valid order nahi hai jo dikhayi diya gaya hai (There are no valid orders that are in circulation on social media)".
J&K: Mehbooba Mufti trying to forge united approach of parties, holds talks with arch-rivals
J&K: Mehbooba Mufti trying to forge united approach of parties, holds talks with arch-rivals
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah said that the Jammu and Kashmir People Democratic Party (PDP) leader had spoken to him and he would convene an all-party meeting after his return to Kashmir from Delhi.
by Press Trust of India
Srinagar
July 30, 2019
UPDATED: July 30, 2019 22:11 IST
Mehbooba Mufti had Monday asked Farooq Abdullah to convene an all-party meeting. (File photo)
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) patron Mehbooba Mufti is trying to forge a united approach of parties in the wake of recent developments in the state and has held talks with arch-rivals National Conference as well as People's Conference and CPI-M.
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah said that the Jammu and Kashmir People Democratic Party (PDP) leader had spoken to him and he would convene an all-party meeting after his return to Kashmir from Delhi.
"Yes, she spoke to me yesterday (Monday) about an all-party meeting. I will convene it once I reach Srinagar," Abdullah told PTI over the phone.
Mehbooba Mufti took to Twitter saying she had spoken to People's Conference leaders Sajad Gani Lone and Imran Ansari in this regard.
"Spoke to heads of J&K mainstream parties including my former colleagues @sajadlone & @imranrezaansari regarding emerging developments in the state. There is a growing consensus that the present situation demands a recalibration of response & a united approach," she said.
Mehbooba Mufti had Monday asked Farooq Abdullah to convene an all-party meeting.
"In light of recent developments that have caused a sense of panic amongst people in J&K, I've requested Dr Farooq Abdullah Sahab to convene an all-party meeting. The need of the hour is to come together & forge a united response. We the people of Kashmir need to stand up as one," she tweeted.
The political affairs committee of People's Conference headed by Lone met to discuss and deliberate on party's future strategy in wake of the recent political developments suggesting a threat to the special identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
"There is as yet no clear evidence (of any changes to the special status of the state), the need of the hour is not to be off guard," a People's Conference leader said.
He said the party was unanimous and unambiguous in its assertion that special provisions are irreversible and sacred for the people of Kashmir.
"The party made an appeal to all those parties who believe in the defence of these special provisions to refrain from making attacks against each other at least for the duration when present political conditions are mired in suspense. Politics gives us enough opportunities to attack each other and there is enough ammunition with all of us to use against each other," he added.
CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami asked the governor's administration to clear confusion over the government orders which have deepened uncertainty in Kashmir in the last few days.
"The governor needs to clarify whether it is a rumour that 100 companies of additional companies of paramilitary forces are being deployed in Kashmir? One of his Advisor is saying 'the deployment was a deliberate and calculated response to the need of security grid,' while the governor says the 'government' orders being circulated on social media in Kashmir from past few days were invalid," he said.
Meanwhile, Governor Satya Pal Malik Tuesday sought to put to rest speculation that a "major development" was likely in the state, saying "everything is fine, everything is normal". He disowned as invalid government orders that had generated panic in recent days.
A spate of government orders including one which spoke of prolonged law and order situation had generated widespread speculation that the Centre was planning to abrogate Article 35-A which provides exclusive rights to immovable property and government jobs only to natives of Jammu and Kashmir.
Dismissing the speculation, the governor said "Koi valid order nahi hai jo dikhayi diya gaya hai (There are no valid orders that are in circulation on social media)".
J&K: Mehbooba Mufti trying to forge united approach of parties, holds talks with arch-rivals
The headlines may be sensational but I wouldn't be so casual in dismissing Vikram Sood. He's an ex RAW chief and has always maintained a certain gravitas in what he writes unlike say an A. S. Daulat.
Behind J&K troop surge, move to hoist Tricolour in all panchayats on Independence Day
“The government is infusing troops as many panchayat heads want to hoist the national flag this Independence Day. This deployment is being done to ensure no disruption to the process and avoid any untoward incident,” said sources.
Written by Liz Mathew | New Delhi | Updated: July 31, 2019 6:56:38 am
Sources said the ruling BJP has already given instructions to its units in every panchayat of the state to hoist the Tricolour on August 15.
The Centre is “infusing” troops in Jammu and Kashmir to provide security cover for a move to hoist the Tricolour in every panchayat in the state this Independence Day, government sources said.
“The government is infusing troops as many panchayat heads want to hoist the national flag this Independence Day. This deployment is being done to ensure no disruption to the process and avoid any untoward incident,” said sources. Over the weekend, reports of deployment of additional troops in the state had led to intense speculation over the Centre’s plans.
Sources said the ruling BJP has already given instructions to its units in every panchayat of the state to hoist the Tricolour on August 15. Following the panchayat elections in the state last year, which it considers as a “gain in grassroots democracy”, the BJP also hopes that the move will help it gather momentum for the assembly elections that are expected to be held this year.
According to sources, preparations for the elections topped the agenda of the meeting of senior BJP leaders with its J&K core group in Delhi Tuesday evening. The meeting follows BJP president and Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to the state during which he held detailed discussions with the state unit leaders. The party’s working president J P Nadda is expected to visit the state soon.
Tuesday’s meeting, chaired by Nadda, was attended by party general secretary (organisation) B L Santosh, general secretary in charge of J&K Ram Madhav, Union Minister Jitendra Singh, national vice president Avinash Rai Khanna, state chief Ravinder Raina and senior leaders from the state, including Nirmal Singh and Kavinder Gupta.
Later, Raina told reporters: “The announcement of elections could take place any time after the Amarnath Yatra concludes. As our Home Minister said in the Lok Sabha, the government and the BJP are ready to face elections whenever they are announced.”
Sources said state leaders have been asked to focus on developmental issues and campaign against the corruption at all levels. “The participants were of the view that initiatives taken by the central government against corruption have rattled some leaders and separatists in the Valley,” they said.
Sources said the BJP, which was a part of the ruling coalition in the state with the PDP until last year, has been discussing ways to ensure that funds and powers reach the panchayats in a “normalised” J&K. It has now decided to focus on winning as many seats from the Jammu, Leh and Ladakh regions while providing “resources and manpower” for Independents in the Kashmir Valley, they said.
Reviving its “Mission 44 +”, which was its goal in the 2014 assembly elections, the BJP’s target is to gain adequate numbers in the assembly. The BJP manifesto, released ahead of the 2019 general elections, referred to annulling Article 35A, which empowers the J&K legislature to define permanent residents of the state.
However, the party’s senior leaders have denied speculation that the Centre was planning to initiate discussions on eliminating Article 35A. On Tuesday, they indicated that the BJP would not tinker with the provision before the assembly elections. “Our priority is to hold the elections successfully in the state. We are confident that the BJP will do well,” a senior leader said.
Sources said the issue of Article 35A was not discussed in detail as “the matter is to be decided by the top leadership”. “The state leadership has been advised to prepare for elections. They have been asked to get booth committees and the social media campaign ready immediately,” said sources.
The BJP leaders were of the view that rumours in the Valley about moves to eliminate Article 35 A and Article 370 were “spread by separatists and their supporters”. “The central government’s zero-tolerance on terror and stringent action against corruption, including the crackdown on J&K bank, have terrified them,” sources said.
They said that even as the party steps up its political activities through the over 4,000 sarpanchs elected last year, the Centre will expedite the devolution of Rs 2,400 crore in funds awarded by the 14th Finance Commission and Rs 900 crore through Centrally Sponsored Schemes.
In order to achieve its targets, the party wants to help Independents in the Valley, which accounts for 46 seats in the 87-member assembly. The BJP won 25 seats in the 2014 elections, all from the Jammu region. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, it won the Udhampur, Jammu and Ladakh seats.
Behind J&K troop surge, move to hoist Tricolour in all panchayats on Independence Day
“The government is infusing troops as many panchayat heads want to hoist the national flag this Independence Day. This deployment is being done to ensure no disruption to the process and avoid any untoward incident,” said sources.
Written by Liz Mathew | New Delhi | Updated: July 31, 2019 6:56:38 am
Sources said the ruling BJP has already given instructions to its units in every panchayat of the state to hoist the Tricolour on August 15.
The Centre is “infusing” troops in Jammu and Kashmir to provide security cover for a move to hoist the Tricolour in every panchayat in the state this Independence Day, government sources said.
“The government is infusing troops as many panchayat heads want to hoist the national flag this Independence Day. This deployment is being done to ensure no disruption to the process and avoid any untoward incident,” said sources. Over the weekend, reports of deployment of additional troops in the state had led to intense speculation over the Centre’s plans.
Sources said the ruling BJP has already given instructions to its units in every panchayat of the state to hoist the Tricolour on August 15. Following the panchayat elections in the state last year, which it considers as a “gain in grassroots democracy”, the BJP also hopes that the move will help it gather momentum for the assembly elections that are expected to be held this year.
According to sources, preparations for the elections topped the agenda of the meeting of senior BJP leaders with its J&K core group in Delhi Tuesday evening. The meeting follows BJP president and Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to the state during which he held detailed discussions with the state unit leaders. The party’s working president J P Nadda is expected to visit the state soon.
Tuesday’s meeting, chaired by Nadda, was attended by party general secretary (organisation) B L Santosh, general secretary in charge of J&K Ram Madhav, Union Minister Jitendra Singh, national vice president Avinash Rai Khanna, state chief Ravinder Raina and senior leaders from the state, including Nirmal Singh and Kavinder Gupta.
Later, Raina told reporters: “The announcement of elections could take place any time after the Amarnath Yatra concludes. As our Home Minister said in the Lok Sabha, the government and the BJP are ready to face elections whenever they are announced.”
Sources said state leaders have been asked to focus on developmental issues and campaign against the corruption at all levels. “The participants were of the view that initiatives taken by the central government against corruption have rattled some leaders and separatists in the Valley,” they said.
Sources said the BJP, which was a part of the ruling coalition in the state with the PDP until last year, has been discussing ways to ensure that funds and powers reach the panchayats in a “normalised” J&K. It has now decided to focus on winning as many seats from the Jammu, Leh and Ladakh regions while providing “resources and manpower” for Independents in the Kashmir Valley, they said.
Reviving its “Mission 44 +”, which was its goal in the 2014 assembly elections, the BJP’s target is to gain adequate numbers in the assembly. The BJP manifesto, released ahead of the 2019 general elections, referred to annulling Article 35A, which empowers the J&K legislature to define permanent residents of the state.
However, the party’s senior leaders have denied speculation that the Centre was planning to initiate discussions on eliminating Article 35A. On Tuesday, they indicated that the BJP would not tinker with the provision before the assembly elections. “Our priority is to hold the elections successfully in the state. We are confident that the BJP will do well,” a senior leader said.
Sources said the issue of Article 35A was not discussed in detail as “the matter is to be decided by the top leadership”. “The state leadership has been advised to prepare for elections. They have been asked to get booth committees and the social media campaign ready immediately,” said sources.
The BJP leaders were of the view that rumours in the Valley about moves to eliminate Article 35 A and Article 370 were “spread by separatists and their supporters”. “The central government’s zero-tolerance on terror and stringent action against corruption, including the crackdown on J&K bank, have terrified them,” sources said.
They said that even as the party steps up its political activities through the over 4,000 sarpanchs elected last year, the Centre will expedite the devolution of Rs 2,400 crore in funds awarded by the 14th Finance Commission and Rs 900 crore through Centrally Sponsored Schemes.
In order to achieve its targets, the party wants to help Independents in the Valley, which accounts for 46 seats in the 87-member assembly. The BJP won 25 seats in the 2014 elections, all from the Jammu region. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, it won the Udhampur, Jammu and Ladakh seats.
Behind J&K troop surge, move to hoist Tricolour in all panchayats on Independence Day
Former Jammu and Kashmir CM Farooq Abdullah to be questioned by ED over involvement in state cricket scam
India
FP Staff
Jul 31, 2019 13:16:34 IST
File photo of NC chief Farooq Abdullah. PTI
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference patron Farooq Abdullah is to be questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) over his involvement in the Jammu and Kashmir cricket scam of 2002.
An investigation is underway by the CBI to look into the matter.
In 2018, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had filed charge sheets against then president of the association Abdullah and 3 others — Mohammad Saleem Khan, treasurer Ahsan Ahmed Mirza and an executive of Jammu and Kashmir Bank, Bashir Ahmed Misgar — for creating bogus bank accounts and allegedly misappropriating over Rs 43 crore from grants given by the BCCI to the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) for promoting cricket in the state.
CBI had said that the officebearers of the association are clearly responsible for the money laundering.
The irregularities were noticed in the state between 2001 and 2011.
Abdullah and others were charged with sections related to criminal conspiracy and criminal breach of trust under the Ranbir Penal Code (RPC).
In September 2015, the high court ordered the CBI to probe the scam, alleging that members of the JKCA had pocketed funds that they received from the BCCI for the development of the association.
Abdullah in his response to the high court had refuted the allegations claiming that his name was being dragged to tarnish his political image.
Updated Date: Jul 31, 2019 13:16:34 IST
Former Jammu and Kashmir CM Farooq Abdullah to be questioned by ED over involvement in state cricket scam - Firstpost
India
FP Staff
Jul 31, 2019 13:16:34 IST
File photo of NC chief Farooq Abdullah. PTI
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference patron Farooq Abdullah is to be questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) over his involvement in the Jammu and Kashmir cricket scam of 2002.
An investigation is underway by the CBI to look into the matter.
In 2018, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had filed charge sheets against then president of the association Abdullah and 3 others — Mohammad Saleem Khan, treasurer Ahsan Ahmed Mirza and an executive of Jammu and Kashmir Bank, Bashir Ahmed Misgar — for creating bogus bank accounts and allegedly misappropriating over Rs 43 crore from grants given by the BCCI to the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) for promoting cricket in the state.
CBI had said that the officebearers of the association are clearly responsible for the money laundering.
The irregularities were noticed in the state between 2001 and 2011.
Abdullah and others were charged with sections related to criminal conspiracy and criminal breach of trust under the Ranbir Penal Code (RPC).
In September 2015, the high court ordered the CBI to probe the scam, alleging that members of the JKCA had pocketed funds that they received from the BCCI for the development of the association.
Abdullah in his response to the high court had refuted the allegations claiming that his name was being dragged to tarnish his political image.
Updated Date: Jul 31, 2019 13:16:34 IST
Former Jammu and Kashmir CM Farooq Abdullah to be questioned by ED over involvement in state cricket scam - Firstpost
Big move for Jammu and Kashmir, Modi cabinet clears 10% EWS reservation in govt jobs and educational institutions
By: FE Online | Published: July 31, 2019 3:47:10 PM
The Centre had come out with a constitutional amendment bill to extend quota benefits to economically weaker sections in January.
Union minister Prakash Javadekar made the announcement after a cabinet meeting on Wednesday. (ANI Photo)
The central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday cleared a bill that would pave the way for providing 10% reservation to the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in educational institues and government jobs to people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Union cabinet approved the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (2nd Amendment) Bill, 2019 that would pave the way for EWS quota along with existing reservations.
In January this year, the government had come out with a constitutional amendment bill to extend quota benefits to economically weaker sections. The Supreme Court had upheld the Centre’s decision to give 10 per cent reservation to the poor in educational institutes and public employment. The quota will be over and above the existing 50 per cent reservation to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes. The apex court had observed that the move was an exception to equality as it intended to achieve ‘equality of opportunity’.
The government’s decision has come amid speculations over abrogation of Article 35A which gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir as the Centre deployed additional 10,000 troops on the Valley earlier this week.
Former CMs Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah have questioned the move of shifting more troops to the Valley. The BJP, on the other hand, accused both the National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party of trying to create panic among people by spreading rumuors.
Meanwhile, 13 of Bharatiya Janata Party’s core group leaders from Jammu and Kashmir are in New Delhi for a meeting with the party leadership. BJP J&K president Ravinder Raina said the meeting is being held to prepare the strategy for the impending Assembly elections in the state.
Jammu and Kashmir has been under President’s Rule since December, 2018.
Big move for Jammu and Kashmir, Modi cabinet clears 10% EWS reservation in govt jobs and educational institutions
By: FE Online | Published: July 31, 2019 3:47:10 PM
The Centre had come out with a constitutional amendment bill to extend quota benefits to economically weaker sections in January.
Union minister Prakash Javadekar made the announcement after a cabinet meeting on Wednesday. (ANI Photo)
The central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday cleared a bill that would pave the way for providing 10% reservation to the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in educational institues and government jobs to people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Union cabinet approved the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (2nd Amendment) Bill, 2019 that would pave the way for EWS quota along with existing reservations.
In January this year, the government had come out with a constitutional amendment bill to extend quota benefits to economically weaker sections. The Supreme Court had upheld the Centre’s decision to give 10 per cent reservation to the poor in educational institutes and public employment. The quota will be over and above the existing 50 per cent reservation to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes. The apex court had observed that the move was an exception to equality as it intended to achieve ‘equality of opportunity’.
The government’s decision has come amid speculations over abrogation of Article 35A which gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir as the Centre deployed additional 10,000 troops on the Valley earlier this week.
Former CMs Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah have questioned the move of shifting more troops to the Valley. The BJP, on the other hand, accused both the National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party of trying to create panic among people by spreading rumuors.
Meanwhile, 13 of Bharatiya Janata Party’s core group leaders from Jammu and Kashmir are in New Delhi for a meeting with the party leadership. BJP J&K president Ravinder Raina said the meeting is being held to prepare the strategy for the impending Assembly elections in the state.
Jammu and Kashmir has been under President’s Rule since December, 2018.
Big move for Jammu and Kashmir, Modi cabinet clears 10% EWS reservation in govt jobs and educational institutions
J&K police to procure 4,000 weapon safety systems to curb gun-snatching incidents
Jammu , July 30, 2019, 5:23 PM
Representational Picture
Concerned over a spurt in the incidents of weapon-snatching by militants, the Jammu and Kashmir Police will procure 4,000 weapon safety systems known as Smart Electronic Trigger Lock Weapon Tracking System (SETLWTS) to deal with the menace.
According to reports, over 200 weapons, including AK-47s, self-loading rifles (SLRs) and INSAS rifles besides a large number of ammunition were snatched by the militants in the state during the last three years.
The state police recently floated tenders for purchasing the 4,000 Weapon Safety System vehicles to ensure the safety of its arms and ammunition.
“Tenders have been invited from manufacturers or their authorised dealers for the supply of Weapon Safety Systems (WSSs)-smart electronic trigger lock weapon tracking system (SETLWTS),” Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police, Mubassir Latifi said.
According to the specification, the WWSs must have trigger-based locking units with GPS trackers so that they cannot be misused and can be speedily traced, he said.
Such devices should also be compatible with fire arms and could be removed only by the biometrics of authorised users. Any forcible removal will damage the whole trigger mechanism system.
The system also carries finger and palm print scanners fitted in the grip to operate trigger locks, the police official said.
Blaming overindulgence in use of smartphones by police personnel for the spike in gun-snatching incidents in the Kashmir Valley, the police had last year banned the use of such gadgets by its sentries during duty time.
The order, issued by Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) A K Choudhary, had said the tendency not only lowers the image of the police, but also compromises with personal security of individuals.
The incidents of weapon-snatching have increased in the Kashmir Valley, especially south Kashmir, after Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani’s killing in July 2016, officials said.
As militant recruitment increased in 2017 and 2018, reports suggest that there is a shortfall of weaponry among the militant ranks, they said.
As many as 36 SLRs, 58 SLR magazines and 1,000 SLR rounds besides eight AK47s, 15 of its magazines and 283 rounds were looted from security forces from May 2016 to December 31, 2016, according to an estimate prepared by the security agencies.
Also, 39 INSAS rifles, 119 INSAS magazines, 380 INSAS bullet rounds, four carbines, 70 carbine rounds, one .303 rifle and one LMG were snatched by the militants during the period.
J&K police to procure 4,000 weapon safety systems to curb gun-snatching incidents | Greater Kashmir
Jammu , July 30, 2019, 5:23 PM
Representational Picture
Concerned over a spurt in the incidents of weapon-snatching by militants, the Jammu and Kashmir Police will procure 4,000 weapon safety systems known as Smart Electronic Trigger Lock Weapon Tracking System (SETLWTS) to deal with the menace.
According to reports, over 200 weapons, including AK-47s, self-loading rifles (SLRs) and INSAS rifles besides a large number of ammunition were snatched by the militants in the state during the last three years.
The state police recently floated tenders for purchasing the 4,000 Weapon Safety System vehicles to ensure the safety of its arms and ammunition.
“Tenders have been invited from manufacturers or their authorised dealers for the supply of Weapon Safety Systems (WSSs)-smart electronic trigger lock weapon tracking system (SETLWTS),” Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police, Mubassir Latifi said.
According to the specification, the WWSs must have trigger-based locking units with GPS trackers so that they cannot be misused and can be speedily traced, he said.
Such devices should also be compatible with fire arms and could be removed only by the biometrics of authorised users. Any forcible removal will damage the whole trigger mechanism system.
The system also carries finger and palm print scanners fitted in the grip to operate trigger locks, the police official said.
Blaming overindulgence in use of smartphones by police personnel for the spike in gun-snatching incidents in the Kashmir Valley, the police had last year banned the use of such gadgets by its sentries during duty time.
The order, issued by Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) A K Choudhary, had said the tendency not only lowers the image of the police, but also compromises with personal security of individuals.
The incidents of weapon-snatching have increased in the Kashmir Valley, especially south Kashmir, after Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani’s killing in July 2016, officials said.
As militant recruitment increased in 2017 and 2018, reports suggest that there is a shortfall of weaponry among the militant ranks, they said.
As many as 36 SLRs, 58 SLR magazines and 1,000 SLR rounds besides eight AK47s, 15 of its magazines and 283 rounds were looted from security forces from May 2016 to December 31, 2016, according to an estimate prepared by the security agencies.
Also, 39 INSAS rifles, 119 INSAS magazines, 380 INSAS bullet rounds, four carbines, 70 carbine rounds, one .303 rifle and one LMG were snatched by the militants during the period.
J&K police to procure 4,000 weapon safety systems to curb gun-snatching incidents | Greater Kashmir
Militant killed as encounter breaks out between security forces and terrorists in J&K's Shopian
The encounter broke out between militants and security forces at Zawora Baderhama village in Shopian district.
By Shuja-ul-Haq, Ashraf Wani & Rouf A Roshangar
Srinagar
July 31, 2019
UPDATED: July 31, 2019 20:02 IST
Indian Army's 23 Para, Central Reserve Police Force and police are at the spot | Photo courtesy: Mohd Iqbal
HIGHLIGHTS
The encounter broke out between militants and security forces at Zawora Baderhama village in Shopian district. The area where the gunfight is underway in Shopian, South Kashmir, was cordoned off.
Indian Army's 23 Para, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and police are engaged in the encounter with the terrorists.
The security teams launched a cordon and search operation in Zawora Baderhama area after receiving credible inputs about the presence of militants in the area.
A police official said that as soon as forces intensified search operation towards suspected spot, hiding militants fired upon forces.
As per the police officials two to three militants are believed to be trapped in the area.
Encounter between Indian forces and terrorists break out in Shopian
The encounter broke out between militants and security forces at Zawora Baderhama village in Shopian district.
By Shuja-ul-Haq, Ashraf Wani & Rouf A Roshangar
Srinagar
July 31, 2019
UPDATED: July 31, 2019 20:02 IST
Indian Army's 23 Para, Central Reserve Police Force and police are at the spot | Photo courtesy: Mohd Iqbal
HIGHLIGHTS
- An encounter broke out between Indian forces and terrorists on Wednesday
- The area where the gunfight is underway in Shopian was cordoned off
- The encounter broke out between militants and security forces at Zawora Baderhama village
The encounter broke out between militants and security forces at Zawora Baderhama village in Shopian district. The area where the gunfight is underway in Shopian, South Kashmir, was cordoned off.
Indian Army's 23 Para, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and police are engaged in the encounter with the terrorists.
The security teams launched a cordon and search operation in Zawora Baderhama area after receiving credible inputs about the presence of militants in the area.
A police official said that as soon as forces intensified search operation towards suspected spot, hiding militants fired upon forces.
As per the police officials two to three militants are believed to be trapped in the area.
Encounter between Indian forces and terrorists break out in Shopian
Jammu and Kashmir: Police arrest one Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist, recover ammunition
The arrested terrorist has been identified as Showkat Ahmad Tantary, a resident of Damhal Hanji Pora in Kulgam district.
By Rouf A Roshangar
Srinagar
August 1, 2019
UPDATED: August 1, 2019 03:40 IST
The police have registered an FIR at PS Chadoora police station in Budgam in the matter. (Representational Image)
The Budgam police arrested one Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist from Jammu and Kashmir's Qazipora area on Wednesday.
The arrested terrorist has been identified as Showkat Ahmad Tantary, a resident of Damhal Hanji Pora in Kulgam district. He was affiliated with the proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen and was wanted by law for complicity in a series of terror crimes.
Incriminating materials including arms and ammunition were recovered from him.
The police have registered an FIR at PS Chadoora police station in Budgam in the matter.
Further investigation is underway.
Jammu and Kashmir: Police arrest one Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist, recover ammunition
The arrested terrorist has been identified as Showkat Ahmad Tantary, a resident of Damhal Hanji Pora in Kulgam district.
By Rouf A Roshangar
Srinagar
August 1, 2019
UPDATED: August 1, 2019 03:40 IST
The police have registered an FIR at PS Chadoora police station in Budgam in the matter. (Representational Image)
The Budgam police arrested one Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist from Jammu and Kashmir's Qazipora area on Wednesday.
The arrested terrorist has been identified as Showkat Ahmad Tantary, a resident of Damhal Hanji Pora in Kulgam district. He was affiliated with the proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen and was wanted by law for complicity in a series of terror crimes.
Incriminating materials including arms and ammunition were recovered from him.
The police have registered an FIR at PS Chadoora police station in Budgam in the matter.
Further investigation is underway.
Jammu and Kashmir: Police arrest one Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist, recover ammunition
Another maha-gathbandhan.
J&K: Mehbooba Mufti trying to forge united approach of parties, holds talks with arch-rivals
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah said that the Jammu and Kashmir People Democratic Party (PDP) leader had spoken to him and he would convene an all-party meeting after his return to Kashmir from Delhi.
by Press Trust of India
Srinagar
July 30, 2019
UPDATED: July 30, 2019 22:11 IST
Mehbooba Mufti had Monday asked Farooq Abdullah to convene an all-party meeting. (File photo)
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) patron Mehbooba Mufti is trying to forge a united approach of parties in the wake of recent developments in the state and has held talks with arch-rivals National Conference as well as People's Conference and CPI-M.
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah said that the Jammu and Kashmir People Democratic Party (PDP) leader had spoken to him and he would convene an all-party meeting after his return to Kashmir from Delhi.
"Yes, she spoke to me yesterday (Monday) about an all-party meeting. I will convene it once I reach Srinagar," Abdullah told PTI over the phone.
Mehbooba Mufti took to Twitter saying she had spoken to People's Conference leaders Sajad Gani Lone and Imran Ansari in this regard.
"Spoke to heads of J&K mainstream parties including my former colleagues @sajadlone & @imranrezaansari regarding emerging developments in the state. There is a growing consensus that the present situation demands a recalibration of response & a united approach," she said.
Mehbooba Mufti had Monday asked Farooq Abdullah to convene an all-party meeting.
"In light of recent developments that have caused a sense of panic amongst people in J&K, I've requested Dr Farooq Abdullah Sahab to convene an all-party meeting. The need of the hour is to come together & forge a united response. We the people of Kashmir need to stand up as one," she tweeted.
The political affairs committee of People's Conference headed by Lone met to discuss and deliberate on party's future strategy in wake of the recent political developments suggesting a threat to the special identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
"There is as yet no clear evidence (of any changes to the special status of the state), the need of the hour is not to be off guard," a People's Conference leader said.
He said the party was unanimous and unambiguous in its assertion that special provisions are irreversible and sacred for the people of Kashmir.
"The party made an appeal to all those parties who believe in the defence of these special provisions to refrain from making attacks against each other at least for the duration when present political conditions are mired in suspense. Politics gives us enough opportunities to attack each other and there is enough ammunition with all of us to use against each other," he added.
CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami asked the governor's administration to clear confusion over the government orders which have deepened uncertainty in Kashmir in the last few days.
"The governor needs to clarify whether it is a rumour that 100 companies of additional companies of paramilitary forces are being deployed in Kashmir? One of his Advisor is saying 'the deployment was a deliberate and calculated response to the need of security grid,' while the governor says the 'government' orders being circulated on social media in Kashmir from past few days were invalid," he said.
Meanwhile, Governor Satya Pal Malik Tuesday sought to put to rest speculation that a "major development" was likely in the state, saying "everything is fine, everything is normal". He disowned as invalid government orders that had generated panic in recent days.
A spate of government orders including one which spoke of prolonged law and order situation had generated widespread speculation that the Centre was planning to abrogate Article 35-A which provides exclusive rights to immovable property and government jobs only to natives of Jammu and Kashmir.
Dismissing the speculation, the governor said "Koi valid order nahi hai jo dikhayi diya gaya hai (There are no valid orders that are in circulation on social media)".
J&K: Mehbooba Mufti trying to forge united approach of parties, holds talks with arch-rivals
And with in 2 days the bonds of Mahagathbandhan 2.0 are coming loose.
PM Modi, not BJP, will decide on 35A: Ram Madhav
By Reader Correspondent on August 1, 2019
‘Mehbooba trying to stay relevant in politics, time to get rid of family rule in J&K’
Srinagar: Making the party’s stand clear on a range of controversial issues, BJP’s national secretary and Kashmir helmsman Ram Madhav said at a presser held in Srinagar on Wednesday that it is not the party but the prime minister who will decide about Article 35A, the Constitutional provision that gives special rights and privileges to Jammu & Kashmir state.
“You all know the party’s stand on Article 35A but the party has no mandate to take any decision regarding Article 35A. The decision has to be taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Let me assure you that the decision will be in the interest of the state,” Madhav said.
“There are some other issues within the court. Article 35 A is being currently discussed in Supreme Court. Whatever decisions will be taken by the court or centre will consider the political situation of Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
He lashed out at regional parties National Conference (NC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for manufacturing fear in the state for their “political gains.” Both the parties have been threatening New Delhi in case it “tinkered” with or “touched” Article 35A.
In response to PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti’s threats, he said that she was trying to remain relevant in politics by trying to create panic. He said her statements will fuel “terrorism” in the state.
“Mehbooba Mufti is issuing statement of goli barood just to keep herself politically relevant and to save her base. These statements are meant to bring back terrorism in the state. Now even people from her own party don’t come to her meetings, not even on the party’s Foundation Day,” he said.
Regarding the deployment of additional companies of armed forces in the state, Madhav said the deployment was normal practice and “shouldn’t be connected with other issues, including Article 35A.”
“Deployment and removal of forces has been a normal practice in J&K. There is Amarnath Yatra going on and elections are to be held at the block level. Some leaders are connecting it with issues like onslaught on Article 35A, which they are doing for their self-interest,” he said.
Madhav announced that the BJP would contest elections in all 87 assembly seats of the state.
“We have set into motion the process of preparations for Assembly elections. Without any sort of alliance, the BJP will contest on all 87 seats of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Apart from the two old parties (NC and PDP), we wish that new faces, forces and people come forward, to get rid of the family rule which has been in J&K for decades,” he said.
On the passage of the Bill to criminalise instant triple talaq in Rajya Sabha, he said it was done for security and empowerment of Muslim women.
“There had been many such rituals like child marriage among Hindus, which were abolished though a Hindu Code bill. This is a big sigh of relief for women and such laws are introduced after considering interests of people. We thank those members who supported indirectly by remaining silent or walked out of the House yesterday,” he said, referring to the abstention by two members of the PDP during voting on the Bill.
PM Modi, not BJP, will decide on 35A: Ram Madhav
By Reader Correspondent on August 1, 2019
‘Mehbooba trying to stay relevant in politics, time to get rid of family rule in J&K’
Srinagar: Making the party’s stand clear on a range of controversial issues, BJP’s national secretary and Kashmir helmsman Ram Madhav said at a presser held in Srinagar on Wednesday that it is not the party but the prime minister who will decide about Article 35A, the Constitutional provision that gives special rights and privileges to Jammu & Kashmir state.
“You all know the party’s stand on Article 35A but the party has no mandate to take any decision regarding Article 35A. The decision has to be taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Let me assure you that the decision will be in the interest of the state,” Madhav said.
“There are some other issues within the court. Article 35 A is being currently discussed in Supreme Court. Whatever decisions will be taken by the court or centre will consider the political situation of Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
He lashed out at regional parties National Conference (NC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for manufacturing fear in the state for their “political gains.” Both the parties have been threatening New Delhi in case it “tinkered” with or “touched” Article 35A.
In response to PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti’s threats, he said that she was trying to remain relevant in politics by trying to create panic. He said her statements will fuel “terrorism” in the state.
“Mehbooba Mufti is issuing statement of goli barood just to keep herself politically relevant and to save her base. These statements are meant to bring back terrorism in the state. Now even people from her own party don’t come to her meetings, not even on the party’s Foundation Day,” he said.
Regarding the deployment of additional companies of armed forces in the state, Madhav said the deployment was normal practice and “shouldn’t be connected with other issues, including Article 35A.”
“Deployment and removal of forces has been a normal practice in J&K. There is Amarnath Yatra going on and elections are to be held at the block level. Some leaders are connecting it with issues like onslaught on Article 35A, which they are doing for their self-interest,” he said.
Madhav announced that the BJP would contest elections in all 87 assembly seats of the state.
“We have set into motion the process of preparations for Assembly elections. Without any sort of alliance, the BJP will contest on all 87 seats of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Apart from the two old parties (NC and PDP), we wish that new faces, forces and people come forward, to get rid of the family rule which has been in J&K for decades,” he said.
On the passage of the Bill to criminalise instant triple talaq in Rajya Sabha, he said it was done for security and empowerment of Muslim women.
“There had been many such rituals like child marriage among Hindus, which were abolished though a Hindu Code bill. This is a big sigh of relief for women and such laws are introduced after considering interests of people. We thank those members who supported indirectly by remaining silent or walked out of the House yesterday,” he said, referring to the abstention by two members of the PDP during voting on the Bill.
PM Modi, not BJP, will decide on 35A: Ram Madhav