Brussels, 21 September 2006 – History was made at the extraordinarily successful “Global Discourse on Kashmir 2006”, which was held in the European Parliament on 12th and 13th September 2006. Having assembled an impressive roster of distinguished speakers who provided invaluable insight and analysis on the people of Jammu & Kashmir’s “Right to Self-determination”.
His Excellency the President General Pervez Musharraf of Islamic Republic of Pakistan was the Guest of Honour at the Discourse.
Mr. James Elles (MEP), Chairman All Party Group for Kashmir in the European Parliament and the Rapporteur of the Budget Committee welcomed the President and the delegates in the Opening Plenary of the Discourse.
Barrister Majid Tramboo, Chair and Executive Director of International Council
for Human Rights and Kashmir Centre.EU in his introductory speech expressed
his delight to the President for having “accepted our invitation to this third
Global Discourse on Kashmir”. He added - “It is a great honour for us and
for the people of Kashmir that you are here with us today. This demonstrates
your love and affection towards the Kashmiri people and your resolve to help
us achieve our right to live with peace and dignity. I feel privileged both
as a Kashmiri as well as the Executive Director of Kashmir Centre.EU by your
presence here sir and it will certainly add a strong voice and visibility
to the Kashmir cause here in the European Union”. Barrister Tramboo wholeheartedly
commended the President’s courage and wisdom having offered new and creative
ideas which generated a lot of debate and hoped that the Indian leadership
will match his courage and vision to move from its entrenched, stubborn and
unrealistic position over Kashmir and join both Kashmiris and Pakistan to
find a solution in accordance with aspirations, needs and concerns of the
people of Jammu and Kashmir. Barrister Tramboo proposed three steps to begin
addressing the Kashmir issue. As a first step he proposed – “the army and
the paramilitary forces should be moved out of civilian areas so that the
people could feel a visible movement on the ground. This will give hope to
the Kashmiris that their basic fears about their security are being addressed
and will create an atmosphere of goodwill towards a peaceful settlement”.
Secondly, he advocated making the present Cease Fire Line (CFL) irrelevant
followed by total eradication of any border control over the movement of the
people from either side. Most importantly, he insisted on the formation of
“Joint Working Group on Jammu and Kashmir” in which governments of Pakistan
and India should invite and include the people of Jammu and Kashmir to explore
the possibilities for resolving the Kashmir issue.
President General Pervez Musharraf declared that All Party Group for Kashmir in the European Parliament and Kashmir Centre.EU has provided a formidable forum on Kashmir. Looking at work of the European
Parliament, the President said – “No forum is more prestigious than European Parliament to deliberate on issues of freedom and human rights in relation to millions of Kashmiris. This Parliament enjoys great esteem as a voice of consciousness and custodian of human rights and democracy around the world. I appreciate the interest of European Parliament in the Kashmir dispute.”
Commenting on the Discourse, the President Musharraf stated that the people
Jammu and Kashmir as well as Pakistan and India closely watch the deliberation
of this “Discourse”. He opined that the ideas and proposals that would come
out of the “Discourse” could go a longway in resolving the longstanding dispute
of Jammu and Kashmir.
Elaborating on the Indo-Pakistan peace process the President said: “The peace
process initiated by Pakistan and India over the last 2 years has a different
background. In transformed regional and international environment the peace
process indeed, sustained at different levels in search for “acceptable settlement”
meaning “acceptable” first of all to the people of Kashmir, then to Pakistan
and India”.
The President made it absolutely clear that confidence-building measures initiated by the two countries are important to create a better environment and that the peace process has to move beyond CBMs. “The history of Pakistan and India relations tells us that without solving the main cause of tension, and without solving the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir, the confidence building, trust and improvement of relations can prove to be fragile”, he added.
President General Pervez Musharraf in very unambiguous words stated that the Kashmir issue cannot be brushed aside and place it on the back burner and make progress on other issue because “this dispute involves fundamental rights, including the right of self-determination of the people. The issues can never be put in the cold storage. The affected people will never allow it to happen. The Kashmir dispute has to be addressed squarely and there is no prime day than to day to start the effort to reach to an acceptable settlement”, he stated.
In question and answer session the President further clarified that Kashmiris
should be part of the dialogue “all the way immediately and first” and that
“official position of Pakistan is unchanged i.e. Kashmiris right to self-determination
in accordance with the 1948 UN resolutions.”
Mr. James Elles in his concluding remarks directed the attention of the President towards his colleagues in the All Party Group for Kashmir who were present in the “Discourse”. He agreed with the President that one needs to carry almost everybody on board in order to resolve the matters. He therefore, believed that Barrister Tramboo’s proposal of “Working Group on Kashmir”, either formal or informal, may be the right thing to do to bring everybody on board.
He particularly appreciated the President’s approach based on sincerity, flexibility and wisdom. Mr. Elles complimented the President on demonstrating huge courage to fight terrorism in his own country.
He thanked the President and wished him very best in his endeavours to bring
peace and prosperity to the region.
Following the opening plenary, the Discourse
2006 moved to debate the three selected themes.
THEME I - entitled “Building peace in Kashmir” was chaired by Lord Nazir Ahmed of Rotherham. The Prime Minister of Azad State of Jammu and Kashmir Sardar Attique Ahmed Khan was the keynote speaker under this theme. In his Prime Ministerial speech, he paid rich tribute to All Party Group for Kashmir in the European Parliament and Kashmir Centre.EU for initiating bold initiatives on Kashmir. The Prime Minister stressed on the need to have more intra-Kashmir dialogue at all levels. He also stressed the need to revive the composite dialogue between India and Pakistan. Prime Minister Sardar Attique believes that EU has a special role in building peace in South Asia.
Sajjad Karim (MEP), Chairman Friends of Pakistan stated that the Kashmir issue has flashed at different frequencies and that EU had no choice but to take note of it. He was of the opinion that multilateralism has a role to play in resolving the Kashmir issue.
Dr. Charles Tannock (MEP), Chairman Friends of India and Vice- President European Parliament Human Rights Sub-Committee appealed to “MJC/UJC for a unilateral ceasefire”. He welcomed – “launching of a bus service across the LoC between Srinagar and Muzaffarabad, allowing divided families to be reunited after nearly 60 years. Let there be more people to people contact across the Line of Control” making LoC “irrelevant”.
Mushahid Hussain Syed, Senator and Chairman of the Pakistan Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Secretary General of the Pakistan Muslim League challenged certain myths advocated by some of i.e. “our Indian friends” such as military in Pakistan does not want the settlement of Kashmir that was totally refuted by the President of Pakistan (who is also chief of the Army Staff) in his opening plenary speech. Equally, it is suggested that mullahs are against the settlement, which is contradicted by MMA’s leader Fazl-ur-Rehman expressing his readiness in India for the settlement. He expressed the need on taking political initiatives. He made it clear that the current status quo is not acceptable, military might is not the solution, the need for dialogue and that any framework of peace should be grounded on international law and the UN charter.
Gopalaswami Parthasarathy, Former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan and Former Ambassador of India to Cyprus and Australia and a visiting Professor to Centre for Policy Research in New Delhi commented that the dialogue process to resolve the issue of Jammu and Kashmir would have several facets. There would firstly have to be groups that will work separately and jointly to arrive at a common and mutually acceptable framework for moves to promote travel, tourism, trade and economic cooperation across the LoC.
Farooq Siddiqui, Chairman Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front thanked the President of Pakistan for reassuring Kashmiris about its unchanged Policy on Kashmir and for continuing his government’s political, diplomatic and moral support to the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their struggle for self-determination. He questioned the Indian claim of “democracy” on the logic of government of India stationing hundred of thousands Indian troops and paramilitary forces on the streets of Jammu and Kashmir. He recalled that the European Parliament’s ad hoc delegation named its Report as “Beautiful Prison of the world”. Mr. Siddiqui attacked the Indian government’s hypocrisy because on one hand expressing their preparedness to talk to Hizb-ul-Mujahidden and on the other hand declaring them as “terrorists”. He believed that India is neither serious nor sincere on the Kashmir Issue.
Lars Rise, former Member of the Norwegian Parliament and a political strategist warned that - “we have to keep in mind that it may be very dangerous not to care about a major conflict like the Kashmir Conflict. The language of despair, the language of anger, bitterness and hate may be detonation of bombs.”
THEME II - entitled “International Perception
of the Kashmir Issue”. This session was chaired by Chris Davies (MEP), Vice-Chairman
of the All Party Group for Kashmir in the European Parliament.
The presentations under this theme were made by the following panellists:
Professor Emilio Asti, Research Scholar in the University of Milan, in his intervention he outlined in detail the background of the Jammu & Kashmir dispute. He emphasized that a solution to the Kashmir problem is imperative. In his analysis it is the only conflict resolution of the Kashmir issue that can bring peace and prosperity in South Asia.
Riaz Ahmed Khokar, the former Foreign Secretary of the Government of Pakistan; described the Kashmir conflict as a major and serious dispute of 1.3 million Kashmiris and 1.2 billion people of South Asia. Mr. Khokar insisted that it is the moral and legal responsibility of the international community to facilitate, promote and encourage a serious dialogue between India and Pakistan bearing in mind the UN resolutions on Kashmir. He concluded his presentation by stating that neither India nor Pakistan can impose a decision on Kashmiris.
Professor Radha Kumar of Mandela Centre for Conflict Resolution, New Delhi stressed that “Self-governance” formula of the Pakistan President is a win-win formula and that this approach has worked at other places i.e. Northern Ireland and Sudan. Ms. Kumar was however, sceptical about the sustainability of the peace process between India and Pakistan while the intense violence persists.
Dr. Shireen Mazari, Director General of Institute of Strategic Studies, Islamabad; in her presentation strongly supported the Kashmiris right to self-determination.
Analysing the historical background she stated that India took the Kashmir issue to the United Nations under Chapter 6 of the UN charter. Consequently, India has accepted Kashmir as a dispute. Dr. Mazari referred to Article I of the Simla Agreement which states - “the principles and purposes of the UN Charter shall govern the relations between the two countries”, and its preamble reiterates that the “status quo of LoC shall be maintained”. However, Dr. Mazari emphasized that India violated the UN resolutions and the Simla Agreement and examples of such violations can be ascertained by the Indian encroachment in Siachen, Tamar and Butla. She concluded her presentation by clarifying that international and humanitarian laws have not been altered following 9/11 therefore, the legitimacy of the right to self-determination is unquestionable.
Per Gahrton, former MEP and a political strategist was aggrieved to note that Swedish perception of non-violent India of Gandhi shattered when he visited the Indian-held Kashmir in 2004 with the European Parliament’s ad hoc delegation and witnessed enormous Indian military presence there. He expressed his disappointment that the Kashmir conflict is neglected by the international community and hoped that it receives the attention, which it deserves.
Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai, Executive Director of the Kashmiri American Council and
Kashmir Centre, Washington D.C, in his speech stated that the principle of
self-determination and the maintenance of international peace and security
are inseparable. The denial of this right to self-determination to the people
of Kashmir has brought two neighbouring counties of South Asia – India and
Pakistan - to the brink of nuclear catastrophe. Although, the applicability
of the principle of the self-determination to the specific case of Jammu and
Kashmir has been explicitly recognized by the United Nations, it was upheld
equally by India and Pakistan when the Kashmir dispute was brought before
the Security Council. The agreement is embodied in the two resolutions of
the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan explicitly accepted by
both Governments. It is binding on both Governments and no allegation of non-performance
of any of its provisions by either side can render it inoperative.
Indeed, any process that ignores the wishes of the people of Kashmir and is designed to sidetrack the United Nations will not only prove to be an exercise in futility but can also cause incalculable human and political damage.
Danielle Caron; a member of the Brussels Parliament, in her brief presentation stressed on the need to have free access to journalists, international human rights and humanitarian organizations and the Kashmiri Diaspora to Indian-held Kashmir so that better understanding for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute and peace can develop.
THEME III - entitled “Human Rights in Jammu and Kashmir” was held under the
chairmanship of Mrs. Jean Lambert (MEP), a member of the European Parliament
Human Rights Sub-Committee.
The following panellists made their presentations:
Professor Marco Lombardi, Associate Professor of Sociology, Catholic University of Sacro Cuore stated that in the last two years, India and Pakistan continue their negotiation to resolve the Kashmir issue and both sides met some of the Kashmiri leaders as well. In April 2005 the two governments launched a bus service between the two parts of Kashmir allowing separated families to meet. However, Professor Lombardi expressed his disappointment that human rights abuse continue in the Indian held Kashmir and accountability remains a serious problem. He complained that Indian authorities have also steadfastly refused to allow any independent monitoring by international human rights organizations. He concluded by stating that many cases of human rights violations stem from abuse of power under repressive laws.
Dr. Attiya Inayattulah, a member of the Pakistan National Assembly and a member of the Kashmir Committee of the Pakistan Parliament and UNESCO Executive Board Member argued that human rights is a critical element in building peace. Whereas Pakistan and India are attempting to talk on the Kashmir conflict but there is an ample evidence which suggest that the Valley of Kashmir is the most concentrated area of human rights violations in contemporary history since the Nazi period. One can clearly say that Kashmiris are humans without any rights. Dr. Inayatullah catalogued the gross human rights violations occurring on daily basis in the Indian held Kashmir. She concluded by stating that Pakistan wants conflict resolution while India wants conflict management but what Kashmiris need is conflict prevention and promotion and protection of their human rights on urgent basis.
P. J. Mir, of ARY Digital T.V Channel in his presentation expressed grief that hundreds of thousands of Indian soldiers have their guns on Kashmir. He wondered as to why human rights of others are more important than Kashmiris. He remembered 9/11 as a brutal act of terror and international community moved in a united effort to combat violence and terrorism but this united effort, unfortunately, had no impact on the lives of Kashmiris. He viewed the peace process between Pakistan and India with some pessimism unless human rights issues of the people of Jammu and Kashmir are not addressed.
Zafar Meraj, Chief Editor “Kashmir Monitor” from Srinagar presented a grim picture of human rights situation in “Indian administered Kashmir”.
He recalled that in May 2006, the Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in Srinagar stated that he has issued a directive to Indian security agencies strictly to observe zero tolerance towards the civilian population while dealing with the militancy but he is at loss whether the “directive” has reached to the concerned as immediately after the Prime Minister returned to New Delhi, a fresh wave of human rights violations against Kashmiri civilians commenced. He sighted many cases one of them being where Indian troops gunned down a Kashmiri youth who was not remotely involved in any militancy. Mr. Meraj also expressed his dismay that a large number of Kashmiris are detained in Indian prisons for a number of years, some of them over 14 years, despite the fact the judiciary has ordered to release them. This is routinely ignored by the Indian security agencies.
Ali Shahnawaz Khan, Executive Director, Kashmir Scandinavian Council, Oslo commented that the Indian response to the Kashmiri freedom movement in terms of military might is disturbing. Mr. Khan believes that the government of Pakistan in their dealing with the government of India has to attach priority to the human rights situation in Jammu and Kashmir. He insisted that human rights violations must be projected as “state terrorism” as it is complete departure from the international conventions and covenants.
Murtaza Shibli, Chief Editor “Kashmir Affairs”, in his presentation made a woeful case for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He stated the lives of the people are full of scares both visible and invisible. Relying on independent organizations reports he confirmed that 22 people have been killed in custody by the Indian troops between the period of 2nd November 2006 and 4th September 2006. This is more than one person every two weeks and indicates a level of widespread abuse. Mr. Shibli quoted a leading Srinagar based English Newspaper editorial in its 12 August 2006 edition which stated – “It seems they (Indian paramilitary forces) have been brainwashed to consider every Kashmiri a terrorist and entire Kashmir valley as enemy territory where they can operate as per their sweet will to kill anyone whom they consider a potential threat.” He drew the attention towards the recent resignation of Justice Mir as chair of the pro-India Jammu and Kashmir State Human Rights Commission (August 2006). Justice Mir resigned as a protest against the government’s growing disregard for human rights violations by the Indian occupied forces in Jammu and Kashmir.
Marjan Lucas, Project Manager, IKV in her brief
presentation drew the attention of delegates to the “Report” prepared by the
Kashmiri women lawyers. She asked the delegates to take serious note of the
Report.
On the Second day (13 September 2006) of the “Discourse 2006”, the proceedings began with the 3 workshops, which were conducted in the European Parliament. The Rapporteurs of the three workshops presented their reports in the “Closing Plenary”.
In the afternoon of 13th September 2006, the Closing Plenary was conducted in the European Parliament under the chairmanship of Gary Titley (MEP), leader of the Labour Party and Vice Chairman of the All Party Group for Kashmir in the European Parliament. The chief guest at the closing plenary was the Prime Minister Sardar Attique Ahmed Khan of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The Closing Plenary received and considered reports from the three Workshops from their rapporteurs and proposals from the “Kashmir Strategy Group” which had been formed by James Elles (MEP). Following a lively debate and discussions on the reports and proposals, the Discourse unanimously adopted six conclusions with a view to strengthening the ongoing peace process (which has now been resumed between India and Pakistan) and the work of All Party Group for Kashmir in the European Parliament and Kashmir Centre.EU
This followed the closing plenary speech by the chief guest Prime Minister Sardar Attique Ahmed Khan. The Prime Minister at the outset congratulated the All Party Group for Kashmir in the European Parliament, Kashmir Centre.EU and all the delegates for organizing and participating in the Discourse and for agreeing unanimously on a set of conclusions of the Discourse. He considered it as a success and thanked everybody who worked hard over the last two days.
Referring to the participation and speech of the President of Pakistan, the Prime Minister stated that the “Discourse” is serious in its nature and content. “We take inspirations from President Musharraf’s address and ideas. He is the foremost and sincere champion of the Kashmir Cause and Kashmiris. Indeed, the President’s prompt and immediate response to the 8th October 2005 earthquake speaks volumes of his love and affection towards the suffering Kashmiris”, he added.
Addressing to the European Parliament the Prime Minister Sardar Attique Ahmed Khan asked the Foreign Affairs Committee to “carry out a study as to how to promote and enhance people to people contact, trade and promotion of joint tourism of the State of Jammu and Kashmir”. He hoped that the upcoming report of the Foreign Affairs Committee would be balanced and can facilitate the resolution of the Kashmir conflict. The Prime Minister admitted that real beneficiaries of peace would be the people of Jammu and Kashmir besides, Pakistan, India and South-Asia as a whole.
In his concluding remarks the Prime Minister invited the All Party Group for Kashmir in the European Parliament and Kashmir Centre.EU to hold (and offered himself as the host) the next “Discourse” in Azad Jammu and Kashmir
The Global Discourse on Kashmir 2006 was brought to close by vote of thanks by James Elles (MEP), Chairman All Party Group for Kashmir in the European Parliament.
The Global Discourse on Kashmir 2006 Conclusions
1. Recognizing that the people of Jammu and Kashmir should be fully included in the peace process, the governments of India and Pakistan should agree to establish a “Working Group on Jammu and Kashmir. Such a “group” should bring together all the three parties with legitimate interest in being involved in finding a solution – the Pakistani government, the Indian government and the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
2. Believing firmly that reduced military and para-military forces in Jammu and Kashmir will bring a great sense of security along with cessation of all violence and flexibility and tolerance in thinking and mindset.
3. Recommending strongly that international organizations to appeal to all Kashmiri militant groups to declare a ceasefire.
4. Insisting overwhelmingly to ensure the promotion and protection of all human rights in Jammu and Kashmir.
5. Ensuring that there is enhanced and improved communication across the Ceasefire Line in order to make the Ceasefire Line as irrelevant as possible.
6. Making progress on the path towards resolution and peace, the initiative need to be taken, with help of the EU and others, to organize as early as possible a conference at which all segments of Jammu and Kashmir political spectrum should be invited in order to give them the opportunity for consultation in a free and fair atmosphere.
Former renegade chief shot dead in Bandipora
Srinagar, June 17: A former ‘supreme commander’ of pro-government outfit Ikhwan was gunned down in Bandipora town of north Kashmir’s Varmul district on Saturday afternoon. Elsewhere in the state, two militants and a civilian were killed since Friday night.
According to reports , unidentified assailants fired indiscriminately at Ghulam Ahmad Hurra alias Gamgeen of Naidkhai at the main chowk, killing him instantly. A cart driver Habibullah Dar was injured in the shootout.
Hurra, a former “chief commander” of the Ikhwan, was allegedly involved in a number of innocent killings, extortion and abductions. ==
HM alleges coercion on civilians
Srinagar: Frontline militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen has alleged that troops forced the residents of Old Town Varmul to bring out a procession against the Ulema. A local news agency CNS quoting Hizb spokesman Junaid-ul-Islam said that troops threatened of dire consequences those who would shirk from the procession. The identity cards were snatched from the youth, the CNS quoted Junaid as saying.
Exhibition brings Kashmiri talent to Capital
By Zahid Hameed
ISLAMABAD,June 17: A two-day exhibition of exquisite artefacts and intricately embroidered garments made by over two hundred Kashmiri girls was held in the capital on Saturday. The Minister for Kashmir affairs and northern areas, Major (r) Tahir Iqbal was the chief guest for the occasion and the ambassadors of Egypt and Australia also accompanied the minister, appreciating the work of the students, saying that the exhibition should be made a regular feature and that similar exhibitions should be held in their respective countries.
The exhibition organised by the Azad Jammu and Kashmir council secretariat, has showcased the work of ten girls’ vocational centers (GVCs), which have been operating in Azad Kashmir and other cities throughout the country. Organisers said that the primary objective of the exhibition was to create employment and self-employment opportunities for women and to promote both traditional and modern arts and crafts. ==
Mirwaiz to attend OIC foreign ministers meeting
NEW DELHI ,June 17: The Organisation of Islamic Conference has invited All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) Chief Mirwaiz Umer Farooq to its three-day foreign ministers meeting in Azerbaijan starting from Monday.==
Centre for Kashmir Studies in KU now
Srinagar, June 17: Governor, Lt. General (Retd) S K Sinha on Saturday said “Kashmiriyat is a strong tool to conquer divides and unite the boundaries.”
Inaugurating Centre for Kashmir Studies in Kashmir University this morning, the Governor exuded confidence that this Centre will become a vibrant forum for carrying out extensive research and deep study of all facets of Kashmir including its history, culture, philosophy, spiritualism and art. ==
Army orders inquiry into officer’s ‘suicide’
Family seeks independent probe
Jammu/Bhopal, June 17 : Army has ordered a high-level inquiry into the cause and circumstances which led to the Army Service Corps (ASC) Lt Sushmita Chakraborty to allegedly commit suicide at Northern Command headquarters in Udhampur on June 15.
Denying any harassment at the workplace, Command Brigadier (Nagrota) K K Chopra told the mediapersons last evening that it was a case of depression. ==
DM imposes restrictions on sale, procurement of Army combat dress
JAMMU, June 17 : District Magistrate, Jammu Hirdesh Kumar Singh, in exercise of powers vested in him under section 144 Cr.P.C, has imposed restrictions upon the private parties dealing in the procurement, storage and sale, stitching of Army combat dress cloth/ readymade combat dress which are being passed in the hands of terrorists and other anti-national elements. ==
Alleging harassment by forces
Amarnath pilgrims threaten to return
By Syed Basharat
SRINAGAR, June 17: It is not only inclement weather that has created impediments in Amarnath Yatra but it is the alleged harassment at the hands of security forces that has compelled some of the Yatris to return to their homes without having any darshan of the holy shrine.
Today, around 1000 Yatris protested against the management accusing them of misleading the Yatris. "Since today morning they have announced ten times that Yatra has been restarted and when we lined up here our 14 people among a group of 56 were allowed to proceed towards the holy shrine and we were directed to return. Now we have lost the contact with our family members else we could have returned home without having any Darshan here. The security forces are troubling us unnecessarily and this harassment and humiliations is intolerable," wailed Himant Patel a resident of Pasoliu village - Surat Gujrat.==
Pay hike for IB, RAW sleuths
NEW DELHI, June 17 : In an unexplained move, the Union Cabinet has showered a bonanza of 15 per cent hike in the pay packets of the sleuths of the two intelligence agencies by sanctioning a special package of Rs 30 crores to the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) of the Cabinet Secretariat.
A top source in the Cabinet Secretariat said special powers have also been delegated to the IB and RAW chiefs for dealing with the internal security as it was felt that the two agencies' effectiveness was hampered if they have to depend on other police outfits for action on their inputs.==
Three to run for AJK assembly
GUJRANWALA: The Virks residing here would go to polls on July 12 to elect MLA for the AJK assembly. Gujranwala falls under constituency No 31 Jammu-3. ==
Putin comes at the back of IPI
PRESIDENT Vladimir Putin has said that Russian Company Gazprom is ready to participate in plans to build the natural gas pipeline from Iran to India via Pakistan. Talking to reporters at Shanghai, he said that it’s completely realisable project as Iran, Pakistan and India want it. ‘Gazprom is ready to help’, he said.
The Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline project is a feasible project as the demand of energy is expanding amidst growing economic activity in Pakistan and India. ==
The politics of gas pipelines
THE Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) gas pipeline project has received a shot in the arm with the Russian president’s offer to participate in the venture. President Putin, who met the Pakistani and Iranian leaders at the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation this week, has said that the Russian agency Gazprom is willing to help the other IPI partners in what he has described as a “completely realisable” scheme. Russia’s backing for this project is of significance not just from the technological and economic points of view. ==
Text of President Musharraf's address at CICA moot in Almaty
ALMATY, Jun 17 (APP): Following is the text of address President General Pervez Musharraf at the Second CICA Summit here Saturday.
"Your Excellency President Nursultan Nazarbayev
Chairman of the CICA Summit
Distinguished Heads of State and Government
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I consider it a special privilege to represent Pakistan at the Second CICA Summit and continue my association with this important endeavour initiated by you Mr. Chairman many years ago to promote confidence, trust, understanding and security in Asia.
I am also happy to be in the beautiful city of Almaty and wish to thank you for the splendid hospitality extended to us in the generous traditions of your people.
CICA has been making steady headway since the last Summit. It particular, the adoption of the CICA Catalogue of Confidence Building Measures in 2004 was a significant development. The establishment of the CICA Secretariat, is yet another landmark development.
Mr. Chairman,
Old and new conflicts, tensions and menace of terrorism afflict many parts of our Asian continent. Regional conflicts and tensions also retard economic progress, aggravate poverty and cause despair and anger that can breed extremism and terrorism.In this context, CICA is a valuable forum for interaction and dialogue, focussing on security situation and challenges we face together. It encourages adoption of CBMs that can help manage conflicts. However, we feel these must pave the way for final settlement, which alone can ensure durable peace.
In regions that are fortunate to be relatively free of tension, intra-regional mechanism to reinforce trust and confidence can help accelerate economic development and consolidate peace and security. These mechanisms can promote peaceful environment conducive for socio- economic advancement by allowing people to devote their resources and energies for this purpose.
US behind the scene playing its role on Kashmir issue: Kasuri
ISLAMABAD,May 19: Foreign Minister, Khurshid Ahmad Kasuri has said that Pakistan, though an US ally, has neither compromised its national interests nor would do so in future.
Delivering a policy statement in the Senate here, Khurshid Kasuri said that Pakistan has never taken any dictation from the US nor has requested it for arbitration on the Kashmir issue. He recalled that Pakistan had differed several times with the US in the United Nation Security Council.==
Pakistan’s economy a success story: US
Washington asks Pak, India to resolve Kashmir dispute
Dr Jassim Taqui
Islamabad,May 18:The United States is working through a three-pronged strategy to help the seven countries of South Asia — Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka — become more free, stable and prosperous, Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Richard Boucher says.
Testifying before the House International Relations Committee Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, Boucher said the three-pronged strategy “aims to: (1) build regional stability through counter-terrorism, counter-narcotics, and conflict resolution efforts; (2) provide opportunities for integrating and connecting South and Central Asian nations with energy, water, infrastructure, trade and communication projects; and (3) build and reinforce the key foundations of democracy — education, economic growth, rule of law, the protection of human rights and transparent government.”
Boucher said that, with the exception of India, the other nations of the region are facing daunting democratic challenges.
“Pakistan has chosen the right course but will need continued support to hold free and fair elections in 2007,” Boucher said. The US economic programmes in South Asia are intended to “jump-start” development and growth by helping build capacity and encouraging changes in the policies and regulations that hamper the region’s strong entrepreneurial spirit.==
Round table is waste of time: Kashmir HC Bar
SRINAGAR, May 18: High court bar association today described as "wastage of time" the forthcoming round table conference here.
A spokesman of the association said the holding of the conference is not carrying any weight. "Government of India had held such a conference in past also. It could neither yield any positive result in past nor are those going to achieve now", he said.
The spokesman added that his association is ready to take part in all such conferences which are for the solution of Kashmir issue as per UN resolutions. Only such a process can take out the people from the present turmoil. ==
Roundtable in Kashmir extended by one day
NEW DELHI, May 18: The round table conference of state's political leaders convened by the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in Srinagar next week will be now spread over two days to accommodate more views and give enough time to the participants to deliberate and find solution to the Kashmir issue. Earlier, it was slated to be held on May 25, but now it will start on May 24 afternoon, official sources here said.
According to rescheduled programme, Prime Minister Singh will arrive at Srinagar on May 24 morning. He will first chair a high-level meeting of the unified headquarters invovling two corps commanders and heads of security agencies to review security and discuss the possibility of troop reduction or redeployment in the Valley. The army, central paramilitary forces, state police and the intelligence bureau are making presentations before the Prime Minister about the militancy situation in the state.==
New front floated
JAMMU, May 18: A new front with name Peoples Forum for Peace and Harmony has been floated in district Doda to consolidate the bonds of communal harmony and amity.
Advocate Ghulam Hassan has been made its convenor, Sheikh Abdul Rehman president state Samajwadi Party, Khursheed Ahmed Dev, Kulbhusan Gupta, Prem Nath Chuni Lal and others are its members. ==
Bid to de-Hinduise J&K: BJP
NEW DELHI, May 18: Accusing the Government of failing to ensure security of people in militancy-hit Doda, the BJP today said the prevailing situation in Jammu and Kashmir was forcing Hindus to leave the State.
The Army should be given a free hand to tackle the situation, BJP deputy leader V K Malhotra said during zero hour in the Lok Sabha.
Referring to reports that 30,000 troops have been pulled out of J&K, he demanded their re-deployment, particularly in sensitive areas. ==
RTC is half circle
Hurriyat calls for participation from across LoCcircle: Mirwaiz
By Athar Parvez
SRINAGAR, May 18: Chairman of Mirwaiz faction of Hurriyat Conference, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq today implied that the round table conference which is being organized in Srinagar after a few days, does not appear fully rounded since the conference does not involve the leadership of the entire undivided Jammu and Kashmir.
Regarding his faction's participation in the RTC, he said Hurriyat is holding an executive council on May 22 to take the decision about it. Mirwaiz also expressed his dismay over what he called prolonging of the resolution process. He said that his faction does not want an unlimited dialogue but a result oriented dialogue.
Speaking during a seminar titled "Kashmir issue and the ongoing dialogue process" organized by his faction as part of a programme for paying tributes to the people who have sacrificed their lives so far for the "right of self-determination", Mirwaiz implied that the participation of leadership of the entire undivided Kashmir in the conference can make it a round table conference. ==
India hardens stand on Siachen
Rajeev Sharma
New Delhi, May 18:India today publicly drew its own Lakshman Rekha on the Siachen dispute when Minister of State for External Affairs E Ahamed told the Rajya Sabha in a written reply that authentication of the positions presently held by India and Pakistan on the highest battlefield of the world was the basis for redeployment of forces.
With this statement, New Delhi has not only hardened its position on Siachen but also conveyed a point that the ball is now in Pakistan’s court to make up its mind on the 22-year-old bilateral dispute. The Indian minister’s written reply in Parliament comes days before the Defence Secretaries of the two countries hold two-day expert-level talks here on May 23-24. This will be the tenth round of formal Indo-Pak talks on Siachen.==
Roundtables useless: Syed Ali Geelani
Srinagar, May 14: “Kashmir issue cannot be solved by roundtable conferences but by plebiscite only, and till the government of India does not understand the ground reality such initiatives are useless.”
This was stated by Syed Ali Shah Geelani, chairman of his faction of Hurriyat Conference in a statement here.
Geelani alleged that India was not showing any flexibility for the solution of the vexed Kashmir issue. “Killings and other atrocities continue unabated in Kashmir,” he said. ==
Mentally deranged man killed in Kupwara
Army regrets, calls it ‘mistaken identity’
SHABIR IBN YOUSUF
Kunanposhpora, May 14: Killing of a mentally challenged man by troops on Saturday night triggered massive protests here Sunday with people demanding action against the accused. Army while regretting the killing termed it a case of “mistaken identity.”
40-year-old Muhammad Abdullah Sheikh son of late Fateh Muhammad was gunned down by troops on the banks of Khamel river last night. ==
UN resolutions provide basis for Kashmir resolution: British MP
LONDON May 14 (APP): A British MP Rob Marris, has said the United Nations resolutions on Kashmir should be made the basis in efforts to find a just solution of the long pestering issue of Kashmir.
He said without just settlement of Kashmir dispute peace and stability would remain elusive in South Asia. He expressed these views during a meeting with Ghulam Muhammed Safi, former Secretary General of All Parties Hurriyat Conference at Kashmir House Birmingham Central office of Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK the other day. President Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK, Muhammed Ghalib was also present on the occasion. ==
Progress in Kashmir would entail demilitarization of whole area: says expert on Kashmir
WASHINGTON, May 13 (APP)- Stating that there were "multiple ways" by which conflicts could be resolved, noted expert on Kashmir, Dr. Ghulam -Nabi Fai Friday emphasized that "any type of progress" in Jammu and Kashmir would entail "demilitarization of the whole area."
Demilitarization, he said, could start with the most disturbed cities- and, it could then extend to small towns and villages on both sides. ==
Heart diseases on rise in IHK
Srinagar, May 14 : In occupied Kashmir, cardiac diseases have assumed alarming proportions, as a result of continued oppression of Kashmiris by Indian army.
This was disclosed by Dr Upendra Koul, a well-known cardiologist and Director Cardiology, Fortis Hospital New Delhi, while talking to media persons in Srinagar. ==
Mainstream parties exploit sentiments of people’
Srinagar, May 14: Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Forum chief Bhushan Bazaz on Sunday lashed out at mainstream parties, accusing them of exploiting sentiments of people of the state.
In a statement here Bazaz said “Congress, NC PDP and BJP indulge in political gimmicks to exploit sentiments of the people,” and demanded an end to the alleged human rights violations. ==
Doda killings aimed at ethnic cleansing: Advani
JAMMU, May 14: Veteran BJP leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha L K Advani today said the recent militant attacks in Doda were aimed at ethnic cleansing. He said the militant strikes were similar to the attacks carried out by them in Kashmir in 1989-90 to drive out Pandits from the Valley.
"There is a definite difference between the terrorist attacks at New Delhi (on the eve of Diwali), IISc Bangalore and Varanasi temple and this month’s terror strike at Doda and Basantgarh. While the other attacks were carried out by the militants to show their presence to the Government and give a feeling that they had neither been concurred nor finished, the attacks at Doda and Udhampur were part of a sinister design and well planned to force migration of minorities", Mr Advani told reporters at Jammu Airport after his day long visit to Doda where two BJP workers were killed and 41 others were injured in a grenade attack by the militants on a BJP procession.==
Hizb blames security agencies for Doda massacre
Doda, May 14: Condemning the massacre of 22 Hindus at Village Kulhaand of Doda district, Hizbul-Mujahideen has blamed the security agencies for the massacre and demanded an impartial probe from neutral agencies.
In a telephonic massage to some media outlets in Doda, Tariq Bagwan HM spokesman said, “Our struggle is against forcible and illegal occupation of Indian forces, not against our own people irrespective of their religion and caste.” ==
Indian engineer killed on Pakistan’s order: Taliban
New Delhi, May 14:In a surprising development in the killing incident of Indian engineer K. Suryanarayan in Afghanistan last month, a Taliban commander has claimed that the Hyderabad-based engineer was killed on the direction of Pakistan. Zabul province Commander of Taliban revealed this in an interview to a private Afghan television, Tolo TV.
Suryanarayan, who was working for a Bahraini company, Al Moayed, on a telecom project in Afghanistan, was abducted on April 28 in Zabul province on the main highway linking the capital Kabul to the southern city of Kandahar, birthplace of the Taliban movement, and was later beheaded on April 30. ===
Indian engineer’s killing Pak denies reports claiming ISI hand
Islamabad—Pakistan on Sunday refuted the claims reportedly made by a Taliban commander that Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has sponsored the killing of K. Surayanarayan, an Indian engineer who was abducted and killed last month in Zabul province of Afghanistan. ==
Kabul-BB see Osama in Pakistan
AFGHAN Foreign Minister Rangeen Dadfar Spanta has claimed that Osama bin Laden is living in Pakistan close to the Afghan border, but Islamabad is making ‘half-hearted efforts’ to catch him. Foreign Office spokesperson Tasneem Aslam has repudiated the claim saying that no one knows about his whereabouts. ==
The Chagos islanders
DECADES of boneheaded inhumanity and transatlantic subservience on the part of the British government were exposed this week by a high court decision in London. Two judges ruled that the Ilois people have every right to return home, 35 years after they were evicted without warning from the Chagos Islands by British officials.
They were the victims of a deal between London and Washington which allowed the US build a huge and isolated military base on Diego Garcia, the largest island in the Indian Ocean archipelago, still a British overseas territory. The Ilois, who had made their homes and livelihoods on the islands for centuries, were abandoned in a dockside slum in Mauritius: “Unfortunately, along with the birds go some Tarzans or Man Fridays,” wrote a Foreign Office official when the deal was done.==
The US no to Annan
As expected, the United States has rejected the two calls by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan for direct talks with Iran. After his proposal on May 4 that “stakeholders and key players” in the Iran nuclear crisis should sit at the negotiating table, Dr Annan made another appeal on Friday for US-Iran talks. “I think it is important that the United States come to the table and join the European countries and Iran to find a solution,” he said at a summit of European and Latin American countries in Vienna. He recalled that he had stated this “very clearly, both in private contacts with the American administration and publicly.” ==
Two Indian girls arrested at LoC
JAMMU: Two lovelorn Indian girls who tried to cross the line of control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir to meet their Pakistani boyfriends were arrested by the army and later let off.
Asha Patel of Mumbai and Asha Sharma of Haldwani in Nanital, Uttar Pradesh, were arrested at Chakan da Bagh - the last Indian point on the LoC in Poonch - on Rawlakote road when they tried to cross over to the Pakistani side where their boyfriends waited for them on Saturday. ==
New Delhi’s longest-range missile ready for test launch
NEW DELHI, May 14: India’s longest-range ballistic missile is ready for a test launch, the country’s top military scientist announced on Sunday.
“We are technically ready for the test-firing of the missile,” M. Natarajan, scientific adviser to the defence ministry, announced at an official function here which was attended by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
“We are awaiting a nod from the government,” he said of the Agni-III nuclear-capable ballistic missile which has an official range of 4,000 kilometres.==
India to embark upon remote tech weapons
NEW DELHI , May 14 : Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said the country would soon embark upon production of cutting edge technology weapons in sensors, robotics, propulsion systems, stealth and fighting wars through use of remote technology.
“We also plan to go in for precision guided munitions as well as unmanned vehicle technologies in the 11th and 12th plan period,” Singh said while giving away awards of excellence to country’s top defence scientists here today
OIC links ties with India to Kashmir settlement
By Qudssia Akhlaque
ISLAMABAD, May 7: The Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) has linked development of positive relations with India to a just settlement of the Kashmir dispute.
This was stated in the OIC secretary-general’s report on political issues. The report was presented to the pan-Islamic body’s senior officials’ meeting, which began in Jeddah on Saturday.
Positive relations between the OIC and India could not be achieved as long as there were tensions between Pakistan and India and without a just solution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with international legality, the OIC said in a veiled reference to India’s interest in obtaining observer status at the OIC.==
Inquilabi for demilitarisation of two Kashmirs
Srinagar, May 7: Mahaz-e-Azadi has demanded an immediate pullout of Indian and Pakistani troops from all the violence-affected areas across the LoC in Kashmir.
The Mahaz patron Azam Inquilabi addressing the party workers on the party foundation day urged both the countries to unite the two Kashmirs and give them a chance to decide their future.
“People of the united Valley across the LoC would elect their representatives through free and fair democratic process for united constituent assembly under self-governance,” he said, adding United Jihad Council should be given a seat in that. ==
Indian troops kill Hizb bomb-make
ron, police and security forces have eliminated one of Pulwama district's most wanted militants and "District Commander" of Hizbul Mujahideen, Mushtaq Ahmed Bhat alias Gowhar, in Noorpora village of Tral early this morning.
Mushtaq Ahmed Bhat, a district commander of Hizbul Mujahideen, Kashmir’s frontline militant group, was killed in an ambush by troops in Tral town, south of Srinagar, an army spokesman confirmed.
“Bhat was the mastermind of all the car bomb blasts in the (Kashmir) valley since 2004 which led to a large number of casualties among security forces and innocent civilians,” army spokesman VK Batra said.
He was identified as Mushtaq Ahmed Bhat alias Gowhar S/o Abdul Majeed Bhat R/o Quil Shikargah, Tral. According to these sources, Gowhar had been appointed as Hizbul Mujahideen's "District Commander" for Anantnag after the most wanted Shabir Bidaoori got killed in an encounter with Army in 2005.
Official sources said that Gowhar had joined Hizbul Mujahideen in 1990 and returned to Valley in 1991 after taking guerrilla training at a camp in PoK. He played a key role in establishing and operating Hizbul Mujahideen's radio communication network for about five years. Thereafter he excelled in fabricating IEDs and making car bomb blasts, mostly on main roads and Jammu-Srinagar highway. Officials claimed that Gowhar was responsible for over 50 identified killings of civilians and Police personnel besides a number of troopers in IED blasts. ==
15 VDCs for areas surrounding Kulhand
JAMMU, May 7: Fifteen Village Defence Committees (VDCs) have been constituted by the administration for the villages surrounding Kulhand and 90 guns distributed among them.
Deputy Commissioner Doda Gulzar Ahmed Qureshi said that people from 15 villages adjoining Kulhand approached Doda Police Station and requested for formation of VDCs in their respective villages.
Acting on the request of the villagers, the administration framed VDCs and provided a total of 90 guns (.303 make) with a total of 9000 bullets, Mr Qureshi said and added that since formation of VDCs is voluntary exercise, the administration will constitute the same as and when people of any areas request for the same.
The villages surrounding Kulhand for which VDCs have been constituted are Dhallal, Jijote Gawari, Kawaloot-A, Kawaloot-B, Majoot-C, Seel Gawari, Seel Chakri, Seel Thawa, Silyan Gawalkot, Jijote-C, Malwana Kundal, Malwana Kamroh, Malwana Gawari, Raman Malwan and Punekar Malwam.==
Geelani for peaceful struggle
Srinagar: Syed Ali Geelani, chairman Tehreek-e-Hurriyat on Sunday reiterated that his party would “liberate Kashmir” through peaceful means.
A statement here said Geelani while addressing a Seerat Majlis in south Kashmir’s Pulwama said that for a solution to Kashmir dispute they wouldn’t resort to violence of any kind. ==
CBI to approach UK for deportation of naval chief’s kin
NEW DELHI, May 7: Simultaneous efforts have been set in motion by the CBI to approach the British Government through diplomatic channels for deportation of R Shankaran, one of the accused in the navy war room leak case and kin of naval chief Arun Prakash, on the plea that his passport had become invalid after its revocation.
Besides this, the CBI has already approached the interpol headquarters in Lyon (France) for issuance of a red corner notice against Shankaran on May one.
Highly-placed CBI sources said the External Affairs Ministry had been asked to launch simultaneous efforts through diplomatic channels for his deportation on the plea that the passport, on which he was travelling, had become invalid and should be subsequently sent back to his country of origin.
A request had already been sent to the UK authorities but according to the British law, Shankaran could stay in that country until his visa was vaild, they said.
They said the interpol had been requested to expedite the issuance of the red corner notice against him so that he could not leave that country.
During the probe in the case, the CBI has also found several loop holes in the security drill followed in the navy’s war room and an advise had already been made to the concerned authorities.
The Government had on May one revoked the passport of Shankaran after he failed to appear before it despite several notices served at his office and residence in Mumbai seeking his appearance for questioning in the case.
Shankaran’s office ‘Shanks Oceangraphic Private Limited’ in Mumbai and the office of Jennifer Mirza, who was allegedly heading his front organisation in Goa, was raided by CBI during which certain documents were recovered.
Former Naval Commander Kulbushan Parashar, already arrested by the CBI, had told investigators that he had met Shankaran in London. Parashar was arrested by the CBI on April six when he himself returned from the UK.==
Singh
wants Kashmir issue settled by 2008’
* Indian PM tells Kashmir interlocutors he doesn’t want indefinite talks
* APHC, New Delhi to remain in touch through committees
By Iftikhar Gilani
NEW DELHI,May 04: Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has reportedly told his interlocutors on Kashmir that he does not want “open ended discussions” on the Kashmir issue, and has set a deadline of 2008 to settle the dispute.
During his meeting with the moderate faction of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) on Wednesday, Singh told the Kashmiri leaders he would be happy to study their proposals for peace. Official sources here also said that the prime minister did not try to persuade Hurriyat leaders to participate in the round table discussions scheduled in Srinagar on May 25.==
Mirwaiz hosts farewell lunch for Aziz Ahmed
NEW DELHI (May 05 ): Chairman APHC(A) Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Thursday hosted farewell lunch in the honour of newly appointed Pakistan's ambassador to New Zealand and outgoing Deputy High Commissioner to India Munawar Saeed.==
Separatists too may turn up
Srinagar, May 04: Preparations are in full swing for the conduct of roundtable conference (RTC) in Srinagar with efforts being made to ensure maximum participation from separatist camp.
Sources said that Mirwaiz-led Hurriyat Conference has already conveyed to the Prime Minister, during their May 03 meeting that the conglomerate would participate in the conference while a Kashmiri Pandit leader is in touch with Shabir Ahmed Shah in this connection.==
Talks fruitful: APHC; No
futile: APHC - G
Hurriyat to have one more round of talks before Srinagar roundtable confab
Srinagar, May 04: A day after Hurriyat leaders held “fruitful” talks with Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in New Delhi and hinted at participating in the Srinagar roundtable conference, senior Hurriyat leader, Moulana Abbas Ansari Thursday said that another round of talks will be held with Dr. Singh ahead of roundtable confab on May 25.==
Captain’s kin scent coverup
- By Asit Jolly
Chandigarh, May 3: The family of Capt. Sumit Kohli, the young, recently-wed Indian Army officer who reportedly shot himself in Kupwara on Sunday, is not prepared to accept the Northern Command’s version implying "family tensions" as being the cause of his desperate act.
According to the Army, 26-year-old Capt. Kohli, an artillery officer doing internal security duties with 18 Rashtriya Rifles at Lohab, in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara area, took his own life by placing the barrel of an AK-47 rifle under his chin and pressing the trigger.==
Kashmiris hail cross-LoC trade
HELD SRINAGAR,May 04: Kashmiris welcomed on Thursday an agreement between India and Pakistan to allow trade along a highway linking the two sides of their divided Himalayan territory, hoping it would usher in a new era of prosperity in the region.
After two days of talks, India and Pakistan agreed on Wednesday to start a truck service across the Line of Control. The trade route is scheduled to open by mid-July.
“It is a welcome development. Our handicrafts, carpets, shawls and fruits are internationally acclaimed. The decision will hugely benefit these businesses,” said AM Mir, general secretary of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The highway was opened to travellers in April 2005, but trade was not allowed. The new agreement will also help recover held Kashmir’s economy.
Kashmiri traders will be able to send their famed carpets, embroidered shawls, spices, walnut furniture and apples to Azad Kashmir and Pakistan, officials said. “After a painful and prolonged period of turmoil, a new era of economy and trade has started,” Ghulam Nabi Azad, chief minister of held Kashmir, said on Thursday.
But the biggest beneficiary of the trade agreement will be Kashmir’s apple industry, the mainstay of held Kashmir’s economy. The region produces about 1.2 million metric tonnes of apples a year, bringing in India Rs 20 billion ($455 million) a year and employing nearly 600,000 people.
Currently, Kashmir apples have to be shipped by trucks to other Indian cities before being exported to other countries, including Pakistan. ==
Trading across LoC is good news
The two-day technical-level talks in New Delhi between India and Pakistan have ended positively with a path-breaking agreement on trade across the Line of Control (LoC). After 59 years, the two divided Kashmirs will begin trading from mid-July with commercial trucks moving between Srinagar and Muzaffarabad. The list of items to be traded is still to be worked out but representatives of the chambers of commerce on both sides will be meeting later this month to finesse the modalities of the agreement and exchange the list of goods to be traded. Additionally, India and Pakistan have also agreed to start a bus service between Poonch and Rawalakot from June 19. Two more meeting points along the LoC are also to be worked out. Five such meeting points are already in place.==
Items of trade
Srinagar:From this Kashmir-Carpets, Rugs, Chain-stitch, Wall hangings, papier-mâché, shawls, Pashmina, crewel embroidered, Kashmiri wooden products, wood carving items, Namdas, Gabbas, Tapestry, cricket bats, furniture and other wooden items, slick products, Kashmiri fruits, dry fruits, including almonds and walnuts, Kashmiri spices, flowers, rajmash, moong, Kashmiri saffron, Kashmiri wazwan, leather and leather products, aromatic plants, medicinal plants. ==
Traders, tourism players welcome Srinagar-Muzaffarabad trade link
Srinagar, May 4: President Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries Rouf Punjabi has in a statement welcomed the decision taken by India and Pakistan for opening of Srinagar- Muzaffarabad road for trade and described it as a historical one.
He also appreciated the positive role of Chief Minister, Mr. Ghulam Nabi Azad played by him in this connection.
Chairman, houseboat owners Association Mohammed Azim Tuman while appreciating the decision of opening trade link through Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road hoped that both the countries would initiate dialogue for giving boost to tourism industry also in both the countries.
Habibullah Mir, President Hotel and Restaurant Association also hailed the decision of India and Pakistan regarding trade yesterday and appealed the leaders of both the countries to consider ways and means for boosting tourism sector also. ==
Hindu-Muslim riots in Gujarat
Indian court bans razing of mosques
NEW DELHI,May 04: India’s Supreme Court on Thursday banned the western state of Gujarat from razing mosques in a city where a municipal drive to clear congested areas triggered sectarian violence that left six dead.
The ban came as soldiers were ordered to support police in the city of Vadodara (formerly Baroda), where clashes since Monday between Hindus and Muslims have also left scores injured and many stores gutted. The national government has told the chief minister of Gujarat to avoid a repeat of the 2002 Hindu-Muslim riots, a top Home Ministry source said. ==
Massive sectarian violence feared
By Khalid Hasan
WASHINGTON,May 04: Human Rights Watch (HRW) has warned that the possibility of a return to massive sectarian violence in Gujarat must be forestalled with prompt action by government authorities. In a report released on Thursday, the watchdog group said recent anti-Muslim riots in Gujarat have left six dead and have coincided with violence in Muslim-majority Jammu and Kashmir, where militant groups massacred at least 35 Hindus on April 30 and May 1. It urged the Indian government, the state governments of Gujarat and Jammu and Kashmir, and the Pakistan government to take all steps possible to protect religious minorities in the two regions.==
Delhi should understand US policies’
Jammu, May 4: Mukhtiar Singh, the envoy of Punjab chief minister, Thursday said America was using India for its own interests.
Singh said India and Pakistan should understand the policies of America. He said that American government had used Pakistan for its own vested interests and is now using India.
He was addressing reporters at a press conference on Thursday after the delegation led by him from Punjab was stopped from traveling to Kulhaand in Doda by the administration on security reasons.==
Traitors' No More?
Pakistani decision-makers have finally crossed an important psychological barrier as far as some erstwhile 'ghaddar' Kashmiri leaders are concerned.
By Syed Talat Hussain
For an issue that only a few years ago evoked more international yawns than interest, Kashmir has consistently retained media limelight and global attention, competing with crises like Iraq and Afghanistan.
So it did not come as much of a surprise when Pugwash, an international organisation, chose Pakistan as a venue for a conference on Kashmir last month. Moots such as these have become a standard way to keep the gaze of diplomacy steady on global problems.
While it is difficult to fathom the actual contribution that the conference made in suggesting a framework to crack the problem of Kashmir, it was significant in, at least, one respect: Pakistani decision-makers crossed an important psychological barrier where Kashmiri leaders are concerned, whose close connections with Delhi traditionally earned them Islamabad's ire and contempt. Omar Abdullah, head of the National Conference, and third-generation of the Abdullah family, commonly known in Pakistan's ruling circles as the 'ghaddars of Kashmir,' made his maiden visit to this country, displaying the new flexibility that now dictates Islamabad's fresh Kashmir outlook. ==
Muslim-West dialogue on 8th
KARACHI,May 04:British Deputy High Commission would organise a dialogue between the Muslim World and the West by Youth Representatives from UK and Pakistan on May 8.
The concept note and background of the dialogue is after the terrorist acts in Britain in July 2005, the need to search deeper into the root causes behind terrorism has increased. Greater efforts need to be made to interact and engage with the Muslim World to develop a better understanding of each other’s points of views.
Young people will figure prominently in the proposed dialogue because they are considered central to understanding a society and to shape its future. Young people are the most dynamic and idealist section of the society. They are relatively more impressionable and once they are convinced of a cause, they work passionately for it. They are considered the backbone of any political activity or movement. In view of the reduction of voting age to 18 in Pakistan, the importance of youth in the context of political process has increased even more.==
Missing
people: Indian-occupied Kashmir
I'm looking for word regarding Beth Alison Heath and Irfan Kawasi, travelling
in the Kashmir area.
Lindy, Austin, Texas, USA
-----------------------------------
I would like to know about the safety/welfare of M/S Feroz- ud-din and Ab
Rashid and their twenty odd field staff, all hailing from various villages
of Uri, Indian-administered Kashmir, who were working under me in nineties
when I headed the Mechanical Investigation Division, Power Development Corporation,
J&K, Srinagar, Kashmir. M/S Ajit Singh Mastana/ Mushtaq Tibat Bakal/ Tulip,
wherever you are, kindly inform if you have any knowledge.
P.N.Raina , California, USA
-----------------------------------
I am seeking information on the well being Ahmed Shah Gillani and Munni Begum,
Baramulla District, J&K.
Reyaz Gillani, Chicago USA
-----------------------------------
Desperately trying to find news of my friend Amy Potter who is in Kashmir
somewhere. Please any news of her can someone contact us we are all very worried
for her. She is 30 years old, English rose complexion, titian hair and dresses
always in traditional Indian dress.
Gina Sutton, Combe Martin, UK
-----------------------------------
I have friends in the small village of Padum south of Kargil, between Srinigar
and Leh in the Jammu-Kashmir district. Is there a map that would indicate
whether that area was hit and how badly?
Linda Chandler, Bisbee, AZ, USA
-----------------------------------
Ian Thacker, from Colorado, was travelling through India in the Kashmir region,
reportedly into The Himalayas during the earthquake and hasn't been heard
from since. If anyone has any direct or secondary information, please get
in contact. Many Thanks, Ian's friends and family.
Janet Feder, Denver, Colorado, USA
-----------------------------------
I would like to know the well being of Reyaz Ahmad Hakeem and his family from
Natipora, Srinagar.
Sangeeta, Pennsylvania, USA
-----------------------------------
I want to know if Mushtaq Ahmed Bhat and his family, of Chaudery Bagh, Rainawari,
Srinagar, are alive and safe.
Fiona Cowieson, Dunfermline, Scotland
-----------------------------------
How do we find out about British/Welsh survivors in Indian-administered Kashmir?
My brother Geriant is out there, we have heard nothing (as I'm sure have many).
But who do we contact for advice? how to find him, what is being done - which
looks like hardly anything where he is till Monday. Please can you help?
Victoria, Oswestry, Shropshire
-----------------------------------
posted by ICHR KAshmir Centre.EU at 5:12 AM 1 comments
Missing people: Azad Jammu & Kashmir
One of my friends whose name is Aftab works here in Karachi has relatives
in Muzaffarabd near Neelam Valley. There has been no news about them until
now he is going there today by train to find out.
Shahzad Firdous, Karachi, Pakistan
-----------------------------------
My two brothers Jagdish Lal Tandon and Bast Ram Tandon and nephew Subash Tandon
were visiting Muzaffarabad. We learned Basti Ram Tandon is still buried under
the rubble. How do we find out the condition of the other two survivors?
Shiv Tandon
-----------------------------------
I'm looking for word regarding Beth Alison Heath and Irfan Kawasi, travelling
in the Kashmir area.
Lindy, Austin, Texas, USA
-----------------------------------
This is Muhammad Khurshid from Virginia. My cousin Khan Zaman Khan works for
Edhi Trust (Ambulance Driver) in Muzaffarabad, Kashmir. His wife name is Parveen
and he has 4 sons. This village name is Noorasari. Any information on how
I may be able to find out if they are safe, is greatly appreciated.
Zia Khurshid, Burke, Virginia, USA
-----------------------------------
Hello there, my friend Mr Nabeel Liaquat is missing in Rawlakot and still
after 3 days there is no contact with him, therefore I am too much worried
about him.
Nabeel Ansari, Tehsil Dadya,l Azad Kashmir
-----------------------------------
This for Janice Garret from Bedford UK. My cousins go to Pearl Valley. The
schools were closed (to students) at the time quake stuck. And from what I
understand none of the teachers were hurt in the schools (but I can't say
for certain). However, the residential are of Rawalakot did receive damage
and people did die, but compared to the rest of the areas the death toll was
much lower. Hope this help.
Waleed, NY, USA
-----------------------------------
Two of my friends are in Indian-administered Kashmir. One is filming a documentary;
he is Academy award winner Ross Kauffmann and we have not heard from him yet.
The other person is my friend Thais Lange who was travelling on her own, at
times meeting up with Ross at different intervals. Last time I spoke with
them was early last week; they were at a wedding on a house boat in Kashmir,
India. Any information on how I may be able to find out if they are safe,
is greatly appreciated.
Wendy Tarrant, New York, New York
-----------------------------------
If anyone knows of Saira Raza Khan of Baag, Rera, Azad Kashmir please get
in contact. Saira is a teacher there and has five children and her in-laws
all died in the earthquake. If you have any news please get in contact as
we are very worried. Thank you.
Zara, Brentford, UK
-----------------------------------
My dear mother Mrs Sardar Yaqoob (who is a resident of Karachi) was in a village
called Abbas Pur near Bagh, Azad Kashmir, teaching women as a volunteer when
the quake hit the area. I have tried in vain all my resources to find her
welfare. Three days have passed and no news. Can some one help me please with
her whereabouts?
Zohra Imran Quraishi, Bloomfield, Michigan, USA
-----------------------------------
Things are very bad indeed. Here in Lahore, lots of people from Kashmir are
trying to contact loved ones but all the communication systems are down and
roads are still not entirely open to ordinary traffic yet - so there is a
lot of tense and anxious expectation. Perhaps, if anyone from the UK is going
to Pakistani Kashmir or if the BBC could manage it, messages of concern could
be relayed to dear ones? I would be grateful for any news of Mansoor Ahmad
Ababsi, Lecturer at the Azad Kashmir University, and his family members, we've
been trying to contact them to no avail at all. The Kashmir Helpline set up
by the Pakistani Govt merely refers one to the Police Control centre in Muzaffarabad,
and you cant get through to them in any case. There are hundreds of Kashmiris
in Lahore who are languishing in their sorrow and cant get home or get in
touch with families and dear ones. A real nightmarish, dismal scenario.
Omer Salim-Khan, Lahore, Pakistan
-----------------------------------
Any news of Pearl Valley schools Rawalakot? A friend and former colleague
doing VSO work at the institute there.
Janice Garrett, Bedford UK
Kashmir violence
Tujh ko kitnon ka lahoo chaihye aay arz-e-watan … so wrote Faiz, and the Kashmiris wonder how long the violence that has bathed their valley in blood will continue. Some 35 new names have been added to the death toll. This time they are identified as Hindus, many of them entrapped by a group impersonating Indian soldiers. No one has taken the responsibility for these two latest incidents in Doda and Udhampur districts, the worst of their kind in six years, but these are obviously linked to the fresh round of talks between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Kashmiri leaders scheduled to begin Wednesday (today). ==
Massacre of Hindus
IN an unfortunate incident, thirty-two villagers in Doda and Udhampur districts of the Occupied Kashmir were killed by unknown people. Officials, however, are putting blame on militants saying that it is an attempt to ‘weaken peace talks between the government and moderate’ Kashmiris.==
Murder in Kashmir: don’t get derailed!
Gunmen dressed in combat fatigues shot dead 23 Hindus in two remote villages of Doda district in Indian-held Jammu and Kashmir late Sunday night. In another incident, 12 Hindus who had been earlier kidnapped were also found dead. According to reports, the gunmen ordered the villagers to come out of their houses, then herded them into the house of a local village head, and opened fire at them, killing 22 people on the spot. The Indian union minister has pointed to a “particular outfit” without naming the outfit, but a “senior security official” said that “Lashkar-e-Tayba had over 350 militants operating in Doda district and 90 percent of them were foreigners”. ==
Sheikh demands new commission to probe Chitisinghpora killings
Jammu,May 02: The Samajwadi Party state president Sheikh Abdul Rehman demanded the appointment of fresh commission to probe into the massacre of 35 Sikh at Chitisinghpora on March 21, 2000.
Sheikh was reacting over the CBI's report indicting Army officers for staging a fake encounter killing innocent civilians at Pathribal. ==
India ready to talk to Kashmiris: Menon
By Mohammed Rizwan
LAHORE,May 02: Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Shiv Shankar Menon has said that India is ready to talk to Kashmiris as they have the right to ascertain their own destiny. Addressing the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) on Tuesday, Menon quoted Prime Minister Manmohan Singh as saying that borders between India and Pakistan could not be redrawn but could be made “irrelevant”. ==
No plan to ban Dawa, says FO
* Scientist’s release marks closure of AQ Khan case
* Kashmiri leaders must have greater involvement in peace process
ISLAMABAD,May 02: Pakistan has no plans to act against two Islamic charities listed by the United States last week as terrorist organisations, the Foreign Office said on Tuesday.
The United States banned the Jamaatud Dawa and its affiliate Idara Khidmat-e-Khalq as terrorist organisations, saying they were fronts for Lashkar-e-Taiba, a militant group fighting Indian rule in Kashmir. ==
Kashmir chamber asks for details of resort sales
Srinagar May 03(PTI):The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) today demanded a detailed account from the state government regarding media reports about a move to lease famous hill resorts to private tourist operators. ==
Kashmir truck, bus services in June, July
NEW DELHI ,May 02(APP) - India and Pakistan are expected to announce the
dates tomorrow for starting truck service for intra-Kashmir trade and launching
Poonch-Rawalakot bus service in June and July respectively.
The two sides held extensive discussion on the first day of the two-day talks
on the agenda items including opening of meeting points along the Line of
Control, leader of Pakistan delegation and Director General South Asia, Ministry
of Foreign Affairs Syed Ibne Abbas told APP.==
30-member VDC framed for Kulhand
JAMMU, May 2: The State administration today framed a 30-member Village Defence Committee (VDC) for Kulhand inhabitants.
The formation of VDC was one of the announcements made by the Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad during his visit to the Kulhand village yesterday. ==
SPO killed in Kashmir
SRINAGAR, May 2 : A Special Police Officer was killed and another injured in an exchange of fire in Kupwara district between two security patrols who apparently mistook each other for militants, a police official said today. ==
Lashkar denies
Srinagar, May 2: Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) today denied involvement in the massacre of at least 35 persons in Doda and Udhampur districts.
LeT spokesman Abu Huzaifa in a telephonic statement to the Kashmir News Service (KNS) said the outfit was not involved in the killing of innocent civilians. ==
Geelani condemns massacre, visiting Doda today
Srinagar, May 02: Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani while condemning the massacre of civilians in Doda today said that he would visit the bereaved families to express his solidarity and sympathies.
Addressing a press conference here today, Geelani said that the massacre of innocent people, irrespective of caste, creed, colour or political belief was a shameful act. ==
Rajnath against talks with Hurriyat
Jammu, May 2:Mr Rajnath Singh, BJP President, today demanded imposition of President’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir as the state government had “miserably failed” to prevent killing of innocent persons by terrorists.
Mr Rajnath Singh, who was talking to media persons here, said the Congress-led coalition government had no right to continue in office as it had failed to protect the lives of minorities.==
Balloon in air
About two years ago a group of Indian journalists had an interesting inter-action with "Azad" Kashmir "Prime Minister" Sardar Sikandar Hayat Khan in Muzaffarabad, the Capital of the occupied territory. In the midst of other assertions the Sardar had revealed that authorities were thinking of doing away with a provision debarring those from contesting elections who did not swear by Jammu and Kashmir's accession with Pakistan. He had left little doubt that the move was intended to draw the Jammu-Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) into the contest. ==
(Indian)Army organises seminar on human rights
Srinagar, May 2: Army organised a two-day seminar on human rights in north Kashmir’s Varmul district on Tuesday.The seminar is being conducted by Army’s Varmul Division "to principally address the important aspects of human rights to include the imperative need to uphold the customs and norms of human rights in a democratic society==
Lt Gen Sapru takes over as GOC 16 Corps
JAMMU, May 2: Lt Gen T K Sapru has taken over as General Officer Commanding (GOC) of prestigious Nagrota based 16 Corps.
Commissioned into the elite Gorkha Regiment, Lt Gen Sapru, a son of the soil has served as General Staff Officer in Military Operations and Military Secretary Branch at Army Headquarters. He also remained as Defence attache in the Embassy of India at Kathmandu, Colonel, General Staff in Akhnoor Division during ‘Operation Rakshak’ and Commander junior leaders wing in Belgaum. He is graduate of the prestigious Defence Services Staff College, Wellington.==
Defence Minister takes Navy to task
Leak of information from War Room
New Delhi, May 2:Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee today expressed unhappiness over the leak of information from the Navy’s War Room and told the armed forces to enforce counter-espionage measures and sensitize all top secret installations to ensure that no leakage of classified information takes place.
Inaugrating the three-day top naval commanders’ conference here, he referred to the recent incidents involving the leak of classified information even from the War Room. The Defence Minister asked officials to come up with “a zero defect system to ensure secrecy”.==
(Indian) Army orders probe into Capt’s death
Srinagar, May 2:The Army has ordered an inquiry into the death of Capt Sumit Kohli, who reportedly committed suicide at his place of posting in the Lolab area of Kupwara district, north Kashmir, on Sunday.
According to a Defence spokesperson here, the inquiry would look into the circumstances that led to the death of Captain Kohli of 18 RR.
He reportedly committed suicide by firing from his AK 47 rifle.==
Pakistan condemns terrorist attack in IHK
Delhi says peace process to continue
Aroosa Alam
Islamabad,May 02:Pakistan Tuesday condemned the killing of 34 Hindus in Doda district in Indian Occupied Kashmir as a “terrorist act” and said it would not have any impact on the ongoing peace process between Islamabad and New Delhi. “It is unfortunate. It is a terrorist act and we condemn it. However, it will not have any impact on the peace process,” Foreign Office spokesperson Tasneem Aslam told a questioner at a weekly briefing. ==
UK presses India to send troops to Afghanistan
Rajeev Sharma
New Delhi, May 2:Great Britain today surprised India by urging the UPA government to contribute troops for International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan and do justice to its own increased role and strategic requirements in the land-locked country.
The proposal was made by British Prime Minister Tony Blair's Foreign Policy Adviser Nigel Shinwald who met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here this evening for half an hour. British High Commissioner here Michael Arthur was present during Mr Shinwald's meeting with the Prime Minister.==
Iran to attack Israel if US acts ‘evil’
Tehran,May 02:Iran threatened on Tuesday to attack Israel in response to any “evil” act by the United States and said it had enriched uranium to a level close to the maximum compatible with civilian use in power stations.
The defiant statements were issued shortly before world powers meet in Paris to discuss the next steps after Tehran rejected a U.N. call to halt uranium enrichment.
Senior officials from the U.N. Security Council’s permanent members—Britain,
China, France, Russia and the United States—plus Germany were to discuss how
to curb an Iranian program that Western nations say conceals a drive for atomic
warheads.===============================
No terror camps in AJK, FO debunks Indian charges
ISLAMABAD,April 18: The Foreign Office on Tuesday dismissed an statement as "propaganda" that camps for training militants to fight Indian troops in held Kashmir were flouring in Pakistan.
"This is baseless. I think we should not even pay attention to such statements," Foreign Office spokeswoman Tasnim Aslam said. "This is propaganda and I think the Indians have milked this cow for too long." Aslam said aid groups from around the world were working in Pakistani Kashmir to help victims of a massive earthquake but no one had seen terrorist training camps or infrastructure.
In New Delhi earlier Tuesday a senior Indian bureaucrat said, "We have strong, solid, foolproof evidence that terror infrastructure in Pakistan is flourishing." Talking to reporters in Srinagar Indian Home Secretary VK Duggal offered no evidence to back up his claims. Duggal said New Delhi knew how many militants were being trained and how many were likely to infiltrate held Kashmir.
Duggal said violence has decreased since last year, but the militancy remains a major threat. "It is not just Kashmir but the whole country suffers because of it," Duggal said. He said there have been 374 incidents of violence since January, compared to nearly 500 during the same period last year.
He said India was open to talks on demilitarisation of Kashmir, an idea often floated by President Pervez Musharraf. But, he said, "A pre-requisite is that cross-border terrorism must end.==
'Terror camps flourishing across LoC'
Govt to answer every gun with a gun: Duggal
SRINAGAR, Apr 18: Signalling a tough posture against militancy, the Government today said it would answer "every gun with a gun" in Jammu and Kashmir and end of cross-border terrorism would be an important Confidence Building Measure.
"Cross border terrorism must end. We have fail-proof and fool-proof evidence that (militant) camps are flourishing across the border. The Centre is determined to keep the State peaceful in all conditions," Union Home Secretary V K Duggal told reporters on the first day of his two-day visit to the State to review the security situation in the run up to bypoll in four Assembly constituencies.
Inspite of Indo-Pak Confidence Building Measures, militant infrastructure, including camps, were running and the terrorists were ready to infiltrate into the State from across the border. ==
India will re-design Kishanganga Dam
By Iftikhar Gilani
NEW DELHI,April 18: The Indian Union Cabinet has decided to convert the Kishanganga dam project into a run-of-the-river scheme in the wake of Pakistan’s objection to New Delhi storing 220 million cubic metres of Indus River water in the reservoir to produce electricity.
“The decision was made to end Pakistan’s objections that India cannot store water under Annexure E of the Indus Water Treaty (IWT). New Delhi will now propose that this will be a run-of-the-river scheme under Annexure D of the IWT,” Indian Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal told reporters.
He added that under the new “configuration” there would be no storage and diversion of Kishanganga (Neelam) river water.
Officially, India has always denied there were storage facilities to be built with the project. But the Indian minister admitted that Kishanganga was a “storage cum hydro electric project”, on Tuesday. He said the “run of the river” project would also generate the same 330 megawatts (MW) of electricity.
Sibal said there would be no diversion of water to Wullar Lake and thus it would not affect irrigation in Pakistan. “The issue was a major objection raised earlier by Pakistan during talks,” he said. He said the objection had been addressed adequately by the new configuration.==
J&K under 'illegal occupation' says Geelani
SRINAGAR, Apr 18: Stating that the Government of India has "illegally
occupied" the state of Jammu & Kashmir, the chairman of Hurriyat
Conference (G), Syed Ali Shah Geelani today said that the people should find
out ways through which this "illegal occupation" could be removed.
According to a spokesman of Hurriyat (G,) Geelani said this while addressing
a religious congregation at Zawoora-Shopian.
"We have to find out the ways through which we could escape from the
clutches of GOI which has illegally occupied the state of Jammu & Kashmir.
By the use of force the Government of India has snatched freedom from us and
the outsiders are ruling the roost with the insiders being trampled over",
said the chairman Hurriyat (G). ==
Intra-Kashmir moot backs CBMs
MIRPUR (AJK): Justice (retd) Abdul Majeed Mallick has said that the two-day intra-Kashmir dialogue, which concluded in held Jammu, fully supported the ongoing confidence building measures (CBMs) initiated by India and Pakistan, and resolved that immediate steps be taken to take the benefits of the peace process to the people of the Jammu and Kashmir state.
Majeed Mallick, who attended the conference, being a member of the delegation from Azad Kashmir, was talking to APP here on Tuesday after reaching home.
Elaborating the unanimous decision taken at the moot, he said, the conference emphasised that the process of bilateral dialogue and consequent improvement in overall environment would lead to the resolution of the Kashmir issue.
To deal with various aspects of the peace process, the conference set up three working groups which dealt in detail with its various dimensions, notably CMBs, mechanisms, to sustain the dialogue and possible solution to the Kashmir problem, he said.
The conference, Mallick said, unanimously resolved that there could be no peace without the resolution of the Kashmir issue. Dealing with the CBMs, the conference called for simplification of procedures for travel across the Line of Control (LoC) and recommended that the route be open for trade as well as greater interaction at various levels.=
India’s nuclear ambitions are obvious
INDIA has refused to make explicit commitment to the US not to conduct fresh nuclear tests as part of a landmark civilian atomic cooperation agreement. An Indian External Ministry announcement said that India is bound only by what is contained in the July 18 joint statement vis-a-vis its commitment to maintain ‘unilateral moratorium’ on nuclear testing.
India had earlier rejected the US call to define its credible minimum nuclear deterrent. It has also declined to sign the Non-Proliferation Treaty. And it has now refused even to commit not to conduct fresh nuclear tests. It doesn’t, therefore, need Aristole’s wisdom to comprehend New Delhi’s nuclear designs. It’s quite evident that India has greater ambitions on this count and there is no ambiguity left now that India has entered into civil nuclear cooperation deal with Washington to realise them. Seemingly India wants to fine-tune its nuclear weapon technology by utilizing the US nuclear expertise. India has practically acquired the status of a nuclear power as a result its civil nuclear deal with the US and its nod to separate its weapon-oriented nuclear facilities. It has also developed huge nuclear network that includes its cooperation with Iran to help initiate its nuclear programme. ==
Omar accuses PDP of harassing voters by ‘misusing Hizb posters’
Srinagar, Apr 18: Lashing out at PDP candidates Moulvi Iftikhar Hussain Ansari and Dilawar Mir, National Conference president Omar Abdullah today said that the defectors besides incurring extra expenses on state exchequer necessitated by by-polls were also busy in creating ways and means to harass people and keep them away from the ballot.
Addressing a public gathering during election campaigning in Mamusa Pattan today, Omar alleged that Ansari and Dilawar Mir had defected from NC and joined PDP in “greed of a ministerial berth”.
“However all their hopes were dashed when Mufti Mohammed Sayeed lost the chair,” he said, while campaigning for party candidate and his uncle Sheikh Mustafa Kamal, who is contesting from Pattan constituency.
Omar in his address also alleged that their defection, forcing by-polls, besides hampering developmental activities had also incurred extra expenditures on the state exchequer.
Omar said that Ansari and Dilawar were also busy in creating ways and means to keep people away from using their franchise, alleging that “they had issued posters in names of Hizbul Mujahideen to ensure that people boycott”, which he said goes in their favor.==
Geelani asks people to explore ways to ‘liberate’ Kashmir
Srinagar, Apr 18: Addressing a daylong Seerat Conference at Shopian in Pulwama district of south Kashmir Tuesday, the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat Jammu and Kashmir chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani stressed upon the Muslims to follow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in letter and spirit as it was only way to achieve success in this world and hereafter.
Geelani said Prophet Muhammad (SAW) liberated the human beings from the slavery of humans and called them to serve and worship Allah alone. He said Islam alone ensures peace and tranquility to human beings while all other ideologies divest them of peace and comfort by involving them in conflict of creed, colour, race, region and nation.
Commenting on Kashmir issue, Geelani alleged India had occupied Kashmir by the dent of its military might against the wishes of its people and deprived them of every kind of freedom. “Today we see occupying forces are brazenly asking the natives of this land to show their identity at every place. So we need to explore ways to liberate our land from the occupation of aliens,” he said. ==
Gun will not be given up: HM
SRINAGAR, Apr 18: Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) today ruled out dropping of gun
for talks.
In a statement to a local news agency KNS, Junaidul Islam, spokesman of HM
said, "Holding dialogue after giving up gun is meaningless".
He was reacting to a statement by chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad in which
the latter stated that talks were not possible with militants, holding the
gun. "Azad's statement is an eye-opener for those holding talks with
government of India. Gun has given a new lease of life to the Kashmir issue
and this very weapon is the only and effective source for carrying the ongoing
movement to its logical conclusion", Junaid said.
He added that Azad's statement has exposed the designs of New Delhi and showed
that it is insincere towards the dialogue." By holding conferences, government
of India wants to delay a solution and divide the pro-freedom leadership.
After Azad's statement, no pro-freedom has any justification for taking part
in such conferences", the spokesman.
13 Hurriyat (G) leaders detained
SRINAGAR, Apr 14 : Thirteen leaders and activists of Hurriyat Conference (G) were arrested near Mirgund-Pattan as they were running anti election campaign. ==
India to modify Kishanganga Project
NEW DELHI (PPI) - In a bid to end a long-standing dispute over Kishanganga project, India will now propose to Pakistan modifications in 330 MW hydro-electric power plant in Occupied Kashmir to convert it into a run-of-the-river project.==
Handle with care
Investigation into blast cases should be transparent and credible
The entire case of several arrests following the serial blasts in Srinagar
on Friday smacks of fishy deals. Not only because the army and the police
are coming out with two contradictory versions in their bid to take credit
for the same. It is also absurd for the fact that the security agencies and
their intelligence wings which were absolutely clueless about the explosions
till they happened, could precisely pin the blame on a particular organization
and even effect arrest of nine militants involved in the serial blasts within
twenty four hours of the tragic incidents. While that has been the usual practice
in a bid to cover up for the complacency and ineffectiveness of the security
agencies and their increased presence, it is questionable on several counts.
First such investigations lack the credibility that only fair and transparent
probes can effect. Secondly, it is almost humanly impossible to say that the
intelligence wings had no prior knowledge about the militancy related incidents
before these happen and yet manage to solve the entire case with absolute
precision about what happened within a few days.
Pranab opens Army commanders’ conference
New Delhi, April 17:The Indian Army’s top brass are in town to discuss major issues facing the force during the bi-annual Army Commanders Conference which was inaugurated by Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee here today. The conference is being chaired by Army Chief, Gen JJ Singh. It will also be addressed by the Chief of Air Staff and the Naval Chief.
In this conference amongst other issues, the senior officers are slated to discuss “Future infantry soldier as a system” (F-INSAS) as envisaged in infantry vision - 2020. The Defence Research and Development Organisation will also share, the progress made in the field of “Nuclear, biological and chemical defence technologies”.
A review of operational situation in J&K and North East, training for primary tasks and important administrative matters will also be discussed at the conference. Training of Army personnel on information technology for organisational adaptations and meeting future requirements of Army will be another important topic to be deliberated upon. ==
Azad toughens stand
ARSHAD ME’RAJ
Srinagar, Apr 17:Toughening his stand over engaging militant groups in the ongoing dialogue process, Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad Monday said the militants wouldn’t be made part of the process unless they drop their weapons.
“The government won’t hold any dialogue with the gun-wielding militants; in democracy the talks can be held only with the persons who abjure violence,” he told reporters at the sidelines of passing out parade of recruits of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) here.
Azad said there were many militant groups operating in the Valley “whose masters were dictating them from across the border.” “The militants also comprise of foreigners,” he said, adding, “the attitude of their masters has changed.”
The Chief Minister described the talks held between frontline militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen and then NDA government in 2000 as a “shame.” ==
Geelani challenges Pak policy
Srinagar, Apr 17: Syed Ali Shah Geelani, chairman of Hurriyat Conference Monday challenged Pakistan’s present Kashmir policy, saying that it was contradictory to historical facts.
Geelani, who was talking to a Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (Amanullah group) delegation from Pakistani Kashmir at his residence here said, “Demilitarization from city and towns makes no sense. India’s occupation will still continue in Kashmir.”
“Pakistan’s present Kashmir policy ignores sacrifices of Kashmiris and we challenge it like we challenge Indian occupation,” Geelani said. ==
Spurt in arrests causes sense of insecurity: Jamaat
Srinagar, Apr 17: Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir Monday alleged that phenomenal spurt in the unjustified arrests by the police and other security agencies has caused sense of insecurity among all people. In a statement today, a Jamaat spokesman alleged that torture and enforced disappearance of arrested persons had become a routine in Kashmir. He alleged that court orders were being openly defied with impunity. "Several innocent activists of Jamaat-e-Islami were arrested from Islamabad and Varmul districts and lodged in police stations and interrogation centres for several days. A senior Jamaat member Abdul Ahad Khan s/o Ghulam Mustafa was summoned to a local army unit a weak ago and detained on the premise that one of his relatives was wanted. Presently he is lodged at JIC for his no sin," said the spokesman. ==
Hurriyat reiterates stand on demilitarization of J&K
POONCH, Apr 17: Reiterating his demand on demilitarization of J&K State, the moderate faction of Hurriyat Conference, chief Moulvi Umar Farooq, said the conglomerate stands for United States of Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing a public meeting at Mendhar near here today, he said Pakistan President, Gen. Pervez Musharraf had agreed to pull out troops from the PoK, provided India also agrees to withdraw its military from Jammu and Kashmir.==
Militants using explosive-filled cigarettes in J-K
Jammu, Apr 17: Militants in Jammu and Kashmir have devised a novel way to carry out blasts.
An explosive-filled cigarette seized from a civilian last night indicated that the ultras are deviating from their usual techniques and working on different ways to target people in the state.
A civilian got injured when he ignited such a cigarette in the remote Mislai village in Thathri area of Doda district, Col D K Badola, heading the 16 Corp Media Centre, said.
"Militants are now using explosive-filled cigarettes to carry out blasts in Jammu and Kashmir. One such cigarette has been recovered last night," Col Badola said. ==
India plans to ruin Pak agriculture
To build seven hydropower projects on Chenab river
By Khalid Mustafa
ISLAMABAD: India has come up with an odious plan to construct at least seven more hydropower projects on the Chenab river to generate 3,270 MW electricity, which if constructed with its ulterior motives (in violation of the Indus Waters Treaty), will not only ruin Pakistan’s agricultural but also jeopardize defence of the country.
A senior government official confided to The News that India has made a plan to build seven more hydropower projects on the Chenab river, which is one of the main water resources of the country. India has already completed the Salal hydropower project on the Chenab river with 690 MW power generation capacity, which has been operational since 1987.==
Indian Air Force joins race to occupy J&K
By Iftikhar Gilani
NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has requested 870 acres of land in the Awantipora area of Pulwama, near Srinagar, to expand its strategic base, Jammu and Kashmir government sources have confirmed.
Most of the land in question is under apple and paddy cultivation. If the move goes head, it will mean the displacement of at least seven villages: Gulzarpora, Baigpora, Shala Tolina, Jungle Nar, Sonari Gund, Batapora, and Ranzipora.
According to sources, the Jammu and Kashmir government is willing to negotiate the release of only 500 acres of the requested land amount. However, according to villagers who expect to be directly affected by the land move, “the deal is in its final stages and negotiations on price are going on between revenue authorities and the Air Force”. ==
US must listen to Qazi
JAMAAT-e-Islami Amir Qazi Hussain Ahmed has said that Washington’s 20-year plan to combat terrorism is an open declaration of war against Islam and Muslims. Talking to newsmen in Lahore on Sunday, he said that the US must refrain from implementing the plan in the interest of world peace and stability.
Qazi Hussain Ahmed’s candid and forthright stand on the US plan to target Islam under the garb of war against terrorism has exposed the deep rooted conspiracy to exterminate Muslims. He has represented the sentiments of the Muslims the world over in general and of Pakistan in particular. Terrorism is a curse and it’s absolutely unfair to equate it with Islam, which abhors the menace in all its forms and manifestations and stands for tolerance, moderation, understanding and compassion. ==
…and to Pope Benedict also
SIMILARLY, the US should also pay attention to Pope Benedict’s call for ‘serious and honest’ talks to resolve Iran’s nuclear issue for achieving ‘an honourable solution’ for all parties. In his message on the occasion of Easter, he also urged for peace in Iraq as well as ‘patient and persevering dialogue’ in the Middle East for resolution of the Palestine issue
Former militant shot at; body of tourist recovered from Dal Lake
Srinagar, April 3: Unidentified gunmen, suspected
to be militants, today shot at and injured a released militant in Gund Dachhna
Bandipore while as police recovered body of a woman tourist from Dal Lake
today, whose identification was being ascertained.
According to sources suspected militants today in broad-day-light shot at
and injured one Syed Rehman of Bandipore. Sources said that Syed was a former
militant associated with militant outfit Al Barq and was released recently.
Presently he used to work as a contractor. ==
Close shave for Azad,
wife
CRPF constable guns down Inspector,
2 Head Constables inside CM's residence
JAMMU, Apr 3: An Inspector and two Head Constables
of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were gunned down by their colleague
at highly guarded Chief Minister's residence here this evening.
An accident took place at 1950 hours. Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad and
his wife were at the residence when incident took place.
The accused CRPF Constable ran to the police station Pirthmitha and surrendered
alongwith his Insas rifle.
However, none of the securitymen deployed the main gate of CM house as well
as the CRPF jawans tried to prevent him from running outside the premises.
Eyewitness said that the securityman deployed at the main gate switched off
all the lights when he was running towards the police station Pirmitha with
rifle in his hand. Due to darkness outside the main gate, the accused CRPF
jawan collided with an electric pole and his rifle fell down on the road.
He again picked up the rifle and ran towards the police station.
Eye witness said that the magazine of his Insas rifle remained there on the
road with bullets scattered nearby. The cops deployed on the main gate for
the CM security later took away the magazine alongwith the scattered bullets.
The CRPF jawan was carrying another magazine with him which he fitted to the
rifle while fleeing towards the police station Pirmitha.
The accused jawan has been identified Anand Kumar Singh, of 'D' Company 4th
Battalion CRPF. He is a resident of Chapra in Bihar.
The CRPF men who lost their lives were identified as Company Commander Inspector
Mohan Lal Shan, Head Constables Hardev Nath Pandey and Joginder Jha.
Sources said that the accused CRPF jawan Anand Kumar Singh in his statement
to police said that the Company Commander refused to sanction leave in his
favour despite the fact that he had reserved ticket for his journey. This
irked the accused and he opened fire upon him killing him on the spot. The
accused disclosed to police that while firing on the Company Commander inside
(CRPF) Morcha (Picket) number 4 the magazine of his rifle fell down. He fired
at least five bullets from that and fitted another magazine. He then fired
upon two Head constables, who came to overpower him also killing both of them
on the spot.
He than ran towards the police station and surrendered before the police.
Director General of Police (DGP) Gopal Sharma while talking to the media persons
outside CM's residence said that a constable of 'D' Company of CRPF's 4th
Battalion opened fire on his colleague killing an Inspector and two Head Constables
on the spot inside the CRPF picket of CM residence. He said that the accused
cop has been arrested and his questioning is in progress.==
Sehrai condemns harassment
Srinagar: Secretary Jammu and Kashmir, Tehreeki-e-Hurriyat, Muhammad Ashraf Sehrai on Monday "strongly condemned the raids on the houses of its party members and unnecessary harassment of their family members."==
Mujahideen leaders active on political, diplomatic fronts: Salahuddin
SRINAGAR (NNI)April 02: Kashmiri Mujahideen leadership has disclosed that Hizbul Mujahideen would come over ground at an ‘appropriate time’ adding that the Mujahideen leaders were set to go active on political and diplomatic fronts provided the dialogue process moved forward without making cease-fire a precondition. In an interview with local news agency KNS, United Jihad Council Chairman, Syed Salahuddin while obliquely supporting the Kashmir settlement through dialogue emphasized that cease-fire should not be a precondition for dialogue process to move forward. “In Afghanistan, Vietnam and other conflict areas war and dialogue have run side by side. Armed confrontation would automatically recede as the dialogue process moves forward. We have long decided that while keeping the liberation struggle alive we shall be active on political as well as diplomatic fronts so as to protect precious sacrifices against any sellout. This would also strengthen the sincere and untainted leadership,” the agency quoted Salahudin as said. ==
Indian Army to set
up tactical communication system
Steps to be taken to thwart Google threat
New Delhi ,April 03:Indian Army Chief General JJ Singh said here on Monday that the Army proposed to set up a tactical battlefield communication system keeping in view the challenge posed by the induction of long range missiles and artillery in modern day warfare and increased use of information technology.
Stating this, the Army chief said long range missiles and artillery had thrown up new dimensions in future warfare and the Indian Army was in the process of setting up a tactical battlefield communication system with all the requisites, including flexibility, robustness and secure infrastructure in a battle area.
Talking to reporters on the sidelines of a seminar on defence communication jointly organised by the Amy and the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), General Singh said the Army's electronic warfare experts were now busy finalising the blueprint for the futuristic system.==
Terror firmer @ 45% militancy countrywide
Pramod Kumar Singh /
New Delhi,April 03: It is an extraordinary situation. Over 45 per cent area of the country, comprising 220 districts, is under the throes of some kind of militancy. Apart from terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, insurgency in Northeastern States, Maoist menace is the major cause of worry for the security agencies.
According to a report of the Task group on Internal Security, "8,695 police station areas are directly affected by the Maoist challenge. Naxalism, which disguises itself with terms like "Class Struggle" and "Social Justice" is pure and simple terrorism. Reason: investigations by the security agencies into the recent violent attacks by Maoists have found that they are cahoots with the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) of Pakistan."
Indian Maoist groups have been found to be involved in illicit narcotic trade and smuggling of the counterfeit Indian currency, which they use for buying weapons and explosives.
Intelligence sources said, "Pakistan is executing its plan by indulging into espionage, training, indoctrinating Indian Maoist groups involved in drug peddling. ISI is using Maoists for destabilising India through a well-coordinated strategy." According to an estimate, there are as many as 9,300 hardcore Maoists and 7,000 regulars who are spread across Naxal-affected States. Most of these groups use assault rifles, country-made arms, weapons looted from police and paramilitary forces.==
Inqallabi for poll boycott
Srinagar: The Jammu Kashmir Mahaz-e-Aazadi patron Azam Inqallabi on Monday appealed the people to boycott forthcoming by-polls in the state.==
Geelani urges boycott
SRINAGAR, Apr 3: Hurriyat Conference (G) today
said that notwithstanding its spurning the demands of Kashmris for granting
them the right of self determination, government of India has been again trying
to give an impression to the world that Kashmris take part in elections. Hurriyat
(G) leaders said this while addressing different public gatherings today in
Baramulla where by-elections are going to be held for three assembly constituencies
on April 24.
A spokesman of Hurriyat (G) said that the leaders appealed people not to participate
in these elections. They have told them that Kashmiris had tried to take the
GoI to the talks table in a serious manner but they have so far shown so seriousness.
==
Indo-US N-deal runs into trouble
OPPOSITION to the Indo-US nuclear deal is mounting. In a latest development, at least 10 of the 18 US lawmakers, who have tabled a motion against the Indo-US nuclear deal in the Congress are members of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans. The Indian Embassy officials were shocked with this development over the weekend.
The Indo-US nuclear deal is running into trouble as a result of its opposition in both sides of the political divide in the US Congress. The participation of 10 out of 18 members of the Congressional Caucus on India amply speak of the apprehensions about its negative impact on non-proliferation. India is, in fact, under strict scrutiny on account of its conduct vis-a-vis nuclear proliferation in general and its nuclear cooperation with Iran in particular. Indian Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran had to face tough questioning from the US lawmakers on its objectionable defence ties with Tehran. Interestingly, the resolution against the nuclear deal has been tabled by Republican Fred Upton in association with Democrat Edward Markey, which represents the contradiction in the actions and professions of Washington and New Delhi. There is obviously a growing realization in the lawmakers as well as think-tanks in the US about the imbalance in the Bush administration’s policy towards India and Pakistan.==
Deal or slow surrender
Is New Delhi going to accept patron-client relationship with US
When, after years of New Delhi's efforts at snuggling up to the sole super-power, an Indo-US defence pact was signed at Washington in June 2005 and a nuclear deal was initiated there on 18 July to be finally signed at Delhi on 2 February 2006, the critics objected to not so much the exact terms of these agreements as to what, they feared, might soon turn out to be the beginning of a process of slow surrender. The attraction and imagined advantages of the proximity to the sole super-power might draw India so close to the latter that it might eventually lose much of it initiative and de facto independence. This almost always happens when the asymmetry between two allies, in virtually every field that matters, is visibly yawning. But, few could imagine that, even before the ink of the Delhi agreement had dried, India would invite a 4-star American general to visit the forward areas of its army positions on the LoC to suggest the measures for "plugging the routes of the militants and for waging counter-insurgency campaigns." Commandant Michael W. Hagee of the US Marine Corp is believed to have landed at Delhi on 26 March, and had flown into Kashmir on the 29th. Immediately, he was taken to Uri to interact with the officers in those forward areas and then to Srinagar for discussions with the senior officers of the 15th Corp.
Custodial violence
On the eve of Advocate Jalil Andrabi’s tenth death anniversary, the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) tabled its annual report in the legislative assembly. The report says that the commission registered as many as 17 custodial murders during the preceding year. The report further said that many people do not approach the commission for various reasons. For getting the exact number of the custodial murders during the said period, one has to rely on the information provided by various human rights organizations. The reports are very disturbing the claims of the government o the contrary notwithstanding. Ten years ago when Jalil Andrabi was murdered in custody, the government tried to bail out the culprits by blaming the situation. Even activists across the globe fell in the trap. They did write beautiful obituaries for the slain lawyer but failed to take a stand. But today, when the government and the international community believe that the situation had taken a favourable turn, custodial violence has not ended. The issue of custodial murders and enforced disappearances has been extensively discussed in various fora at the local, regional and international levels. The government of India and even the security agencies were forced to rein in the men in uniform. The former deputy Prime Minister (known for his hard posture viz-a-viz Kashmir) urged the men in uniform to behave like human beings. The former Corps Commander also issued a strong worded statement urging his boys to exercise care and caution while fighting militancy. T==
Magarmal Bagh firing case
Delhi HC has rewarded killers of Kashmiris: HCBA
Srinagar, Mar 28: Reacting sharply to the Delhi High Court’s reinstatement of 4 CRPF men accused of killing 11 civilians and wounding over a score of others after a militant attack in Magarmal Bagh on January 19, 1991, the Kashmir High Court Bar Association (HCBA) has termed the judgement as in favour of the guilty, and questioned the Court’s jurisdiction in the case.
“The Delhi High Court’s judgement is a reward
for the killers of Kashmiris, and it will encourage and provide legal justification
to the security forces deployed in Kashmir to kill and wound whomsoever they
want,” a statement of the Bar, quoted by the CNS, said.The four CRPF men had
been dismissed from service on July 1992 by the then IGP CRPF, Southern Sector,
Hyderabad, D.R Karthikeyan, who held them guilty of indiscriminate and excessive
firing causing heavy casualties among civilians.
The accused had thereafter approached the Delhi High Court which, on February
1, 2006, described their dismissal as a “punishment grossly disproportionate
to the alleged offence,” and directed their reinstatement with all consequential
benefits.==
Resolution for militants’ return from PcK defeated in Assembly
Srinagar, Mar 28: The state assembly today voted
out a resolution calling for the return and rehabilitation of militants from
Pakistan-controlled-Kashmir (PcK), while the government denied that a proposal
(for the return of militants) was under consideration.
The resolution, which had been moved by CPI(M) leader, Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami,
in July last year, came up for discussion for the second time today, the CNS
said.
In the resolution, Tarigami had asked the government to take up with the centre
the issue of militants who have gone across the LoC for arms training but
now wanted to return and live a peaceful life with their families.
The debate on the resolution had remained inconclusive in the monsoon session,
and the resolution was tabled again today for discussion.==
APHC seeks China’s role in efforts for Kashmir settlement
KARACHI, March 28: All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Tuesday said that China should also be made a party for resolving the Kashmir dispute as it had control over a large chunk of the territory. Addressing the final round of a Kashmir conference at the World Social Forum, he said: “The All Parties Hurriyat Conference is preparing a roadmap-2020 for the resolution of this dispute in which we will also recommend for the inclusion of China as a party.”
He said ground realities would determine the roadmap.
“Forces of globalisation could not be ignored in this issue,” he said, adding that Kashmiris were the weakest party in this dispute while the other two — India and Pakistan — were nuclear powers.
“Kashmir is a huge tragedy and the very relations between Pakistan and India depend on the solution of this issue. These two countries have to decide to which direction this issue should proceed.”
He suggested that the Saarc (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) forum should be expanded in accordance with aspirations and wishes of the Kashmiri people.
He said Pakistan and India would be given representation in the future parliament of the proposed united Kashmir. “If our roadmap is implemented it would resolve all the disputes by 2020,” he stressed.
“This issue should be resolved through phased measures,” he said, adding that the Kashmiri leadership on both sides of the Line of Control should also change their mindset.
Sardar Abdul Qayyum Khan of the Muslim Conference said he saw a united Kashmir by 2020. “By then Kashmir would be a prosperous and independent region where everyone will have equal rights irrespective of his caste and creed,” he observed.
Mohammad Shafi Uri of the National Conference said that no solution should be discussed without mentioning globalisation which was hovering over the world.
He said Pakistan and India were engaged in a peace process but they were not putting the ‘core issue’ on priority which was a negative message for the Kashmiris.==
Jamaat concerned at Dar’s disappearance
Srinagar: Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday expressed serious concern over the disappearance of one Abdul Hamid Dar of Agan Mettipora, district Islamabad, Kashmir, after he had been forcibly driven out of his home on March 20, evening by Sumo borne men in civvies.In a statement today, a spokesman of Jamaat said, "A day before this incident, Dar had received a call from mobile phone. The caller had asked him to attend police station, Mattan, for some investigation. ==
ISL up against immigrants’ settlement plan
Srinagar: Islamic Students League (ISL) Jammu Kashmir today threatened agitation in case government moved ahead with its plan to settle non-state subjects in the state. In a statement today, a spokesman of ISL alleged that government, as part of its conspiracy, was trying to settle the foreign immigrants in the state to bring about demographic changes. "The settlement plan is aimed to decrease the ratio of population of majority community in the state," said the spokesman. The spokesman said only those who had left their homeland (J&K) in 1947 due to unavoidable circumstances arising from Kashmir dispute had the right to return and settle in the state.
JK Govt ready to release 54 PoK detenues:Azad
JAMMU, Mar 28: Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today said that the blot of most corrupt State will soon be removed as the war against corruption has been yielding positive result.
He was winding up the discussion on working of Home and Estates Ministries in the Legislative Council. "With the support of everybody, the menace of corruption has been checked upto large extent and I hope within shortest possible time the blot of `most corrupt State’ in the country would be removed", Mr Azad said and sought the cooperation of all in this direction.
"Jitna Samey Burai Ke Aane Main Lagta Hai Utna Jaane Main Bhi Lagta Hai", he said and added that with the collective efforts things would become normal and all the evils like corruption would fade away.
Acknowledging outstanding role of Jammu and Kashmir Police in tackling militancy and maintaining law and order during the last 16 years, the Chief Minister highlighted the sacrifices made by various police personnel and SPOs.==
'UK, US prevented Pak-India war'
LONDON (AFP) - Intense diplomatic efforts by
Britain and the United States prevented nuclear neighbours India and Pakistan
from going to war four years ago, British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said
on Tuesday.
The Foreign Office, headed by Straw, and the US State Department, under then
secretary of State Colin Powell, worked tirelessly to defuse the stand-off
between the countries over the disputed region of Kashmir, the minister said.
He was responding to a question about hopes for a peaceful settlement of the
Kashmir problem following a speech in London to British diplomats.==
Kashmir before treaty
THE Foreign Office spokesperson is right in pointing out that Pakistan could not accept Dr Manmohan Singh's suggestion to separate the Kashmir dispute from other issues and enter into a peace and friendship treaty with India. The friendship proposal amounts to putting the cart before the horse; for the most natural course before two adversaries could come closer to each other would be to sit down and make sincere efforts to resolve the differences that separate them so that once their enmities are behind them, they could move forward to form a relationship of friendliness and goodwill, should their interests coincide. There is no doubt that as contiguous neighbours with a long and shared history, Pakistan and India, have certain common interests and goals. But to forge genuine and meaningful cooperation on an equal footing between persons or entities they should be trusting one another and that is not possible with disputes continuing to linger between them. For the same reason, CBMs rest on shaky grounds.
Pak for free movement of people across LoC
Press Trust of India
Islamabad, March 27:Favouring simplification of procedures for freer movement of Kashmiris across the Line of Control, Pakistan on Monday said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's latest offer of a friendship treaty would help the peace process enter a "new important phase".
The Indian Prime Minister's speech (in Amritsar) "encourages us to believe that the peace process will be strengthened and enter a new important phase," Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Tasnim Aslam said in a statement at a media briefing here.==
PM's Kashmir-centric remarks significant Mufti asks experts, academicians to debate and prepare best from Self-rule
By Athar Parvez
SRINAGAR, Mar 26: Former chief minister and the patron of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today stressed that the constitutional experts and academicians should debate over the self-rule concept and prepare "the best form of self-rule which must not defeat the people's verdict".
Mufti remarked that the involvement of separatist leadership in the current peace process was a "historical necessity". The PDP patron doesn't feel that the biggest coalition partners in the state government - Congress and PDP share a "fragile relationship", but the one which is based on "firm footing". Regarding the unilateral cease-fire in Kashmir, he opines that it can be made possible through negotiations. ==
Thai embassy informed about missing tourist
Srinagar,Mar 26: State police has apprised the Thailand embassy in New Delhi about the disappearance of a Thai woman tourist from the Valley some days ago.News agency KNS reported that the 50-year-old Hwang Souchin who was putting up at a houseboat in Dal lake is missing since March 22.
Mushtaq for poll boycott
Srinagar,Mar 26: Chairman of Muslim League Mushtaq-ul-Islam has appealed the people to boycott by-elections in the State In a statement here on Sunday, Mushtaq termed the elections as futile and appealed the people to boycott it and asked the pro-freedom parties to start a campaign against it.
J&K’s first sitting Minister visits Jinnah’s
land
WSF’s Karachi meet yells for a thousand Azadis
From Ahmed Ali Fayyaz
KARACHI, Mar 26: It was as recent as in late 2004 that Islamabad had severely objected to the Indian move of including the Managing Director of Jammu & Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) in the bilateral talks then underway over the proposed Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service. An important round of the dialogue in the Pakistani capital was cancelled. Even as Islamabad learned gradually that unlike that country, there was no national level surface transport authority in India, the stalemate continued for a many weeks. Finally, the venue was changed to New Delhi where the host country was free to choose her official delegation. The deadlock persisted and vanished only after the Indian Prime Minister ran over the textbook bureaucracy. In February, 2005, the partners announced to launch the bus service on April 7th.==
Host of experts for seminar on Indo-Pak peace
Jammu, March 26:Close on the heels of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s roundtable conference on Kashmir, a two-day mini-conclave is being held here to discuss various aspects of the peace process between India and Pakistan and internal dimensions.
The national seminar, that has been organised by the centre for strategic and regional studies of Jammu University, will be inaugurated by the Governor, Lieut-Gen S.K. Sinha (retd), on Tuesday. Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad would address the valedictory session. The deputy Chief Minister, Mr Muzaffar Hussain Baig, will deliver a special lecture on the opening day. ==
Insisting on Kashmir a mistake, says Singh
AMRITSAR (Agencies) - Indian Prime Minister
Manmohan Singh Friday offered a peace, security and friendship treaty to Pakistan
and sought to de-link the vexed Kashmir dispute from other issues to take
the peace process forward.
Making an emotional speech in Punjabi at the Ranjit Avenue ground in Amritsar
before flagging off of the Amritsar-Nankana Sahib bus service, the prime minister
said several initiatives could be taken without linking everything to Kashmir.==
Reinserting Kashmir
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of a new Indo-Pak bus service route commencing from Amritsar on Friday, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has, once again, accentuated his country's ostensibly unwavering commitment to the normalisation of ties with Pakistan. Dr Singh's speech, rich in emotive appeals, drew a lukewarm reaction from across the border, with Islamabad appearing to be disconcerted with what it saw to be a plain reiteration of India's stolid stance on Kashmir.==
Singh’s another clever ploy
INDIAN Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has offered a treaty of peace, security and friendship to Pakistan but said that linkage of the Kashmir dispute to normalisation of relations will be a mistake. He made the remarks at the flagging off ceremony of the Amritsar-Nankana Sahib bus in the Sikhs’ holiest city. Foreign Office spokesperson Tasnim Aslam has termed Singh’s statement as ‘positive’. ==
Resolving K knot
26 March 2006
THE ‘peace and friendship’ initiative unveiled by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh of India is a bold attempt to kick-start the stalled peace process with Pakistan. The proposals offered by the Indian leader at the historic occasion of opening yet another India-Pakistan bus service — between Amritsar and Lahore — seek to establish ‘common institutions’ across the Line of Control in Kashmir besides forging a pact of ‘peace, security and friendship’ with Pakistan.==
India plans meeting of Azad, Sikandar
Singh to discuss ‘peace and friendship treaty’ during Pakistan visit
By Iftikhar Gilani
NEW DELHI: The Indian establishment is working on arranging the first-ever bilateral meeting of the heads of government of Indian and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir. ==
We will oppose division of J&K: Geelani
Srinagar, Mar 25: Syed Ali Geelani chairman Tehreek Hurriyat (TH) Jammu and Kashmir Saturday said they would oppose any proposal of dividing J&K state and instead of discussing autonomy and self-governance, the issue should be settled by giving people the right to self-determination.
In a statement here, Geelani said, “India has no legal, moral or social right in occupying the state. Solution of Kashmir lies in implementing UN resolutions.” ==
HCBA seminar on Kashmir and HR
Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association is organizing a seminar ‘Kashmir dispute and Human rights abuses” on April, 2 here at hotel Grand Mumtaz.
The seminar is aimed at showing the World community the aspirations of the people of Kashmir, and as to what is the real solution to the dispute, a HCBA statement said. ==
Start demilitarisation from Srinagar: Tarigami
Shujaat Bukhari
That would be the biggest confidence building measure, he says India should not hesitate to take bold decisions Pugwash conference a major movement forward People of both sides of border have a strong desire for peace
SRINAGAR,Mar 22: Jammu and Kashmir secretary of the CPI (M) M.Y. Tarigami has said that demilitarisation should start from Srinagar and it would be the biggest confidence-building measure. ==
No Kashmir solution acceptable without BB’s approval
ISLAMABAD: No solution of Kashmir issue will be accepted with out the approval of Benazir Bhutto, said Isahque Zafar, PPP AJK president, on Friday. He said the credit for having recognised Kashmir issue as international dispute in the Organisation of Islamic Conference went to Benazir Bhutto. He said Benazir Bhuttto had worked hard for the freedom of Kashmir.==
HAS TWO NATION THEORY LOST ITS GLOSS IN KASHMIR?
Kashmirwatch.com -March 27
BY ALI IMRAN
Has the two nation theory lost its luster for Kashmir politicians is an important question that has been engaging the attention of political analysis’s in the state. Seen in retrospect it has been the war between the nationalists and the believers in the two nation theory propounded by Poet Philosopher of the East Dr. Mohammad Iqbal and carried forward by Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah that has provided vibrancy and vitality to Kashmir politics for past sixty years. It is the two nation theory only that provided raison d’etre for the United Nation for adopting resolutions guaranteeing right to self determination for the state of Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of Pakistan claiming accession of the state for being a Muslim majority and its contiguity with that country. If one looks at the history of the observance of March 23 in the state it provides a slit to look into the question whether two nation has lost its gloss in the state or not.
In the contemporary history of the sub-continent March 23, is an important milestone. It was on this day in 1940 that Pakistan Resolution was adopted in the historic Manto Park of Lahore that led to the creation of Pakistan, a sovereign and independent country for the Muslims of South Asia. The resolution was a very concrete manifestation of the two nation theory that was born in 1916, in the shape of the Lucknow Pact when as a result of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s efforts Congress accepted the rights of Muslims for a separate constituencies
Kashmir in cold storage
23 March 2006
THE heated exchange between India and Pakistan last week is unfortunate. This is the first such diplomatic hiccup since the two countries began their so-called composite dialogue two years ago. In a television interview, India’s national security adviser M K Narayanan accused Pakistan of fomenting a ‘new form of jihadi terror’ targeting religious peace in India.
The Indian official cited the recent attacks in Bangalore and Varanasi to support his claim. Islamabad has angrily dismissed the charge saying Pakistan itself was a victim of terrorism and is working tirelessly to eliminate it.
This new unpleasantness in India-Pakistan relations is regrettable but not really surprising. This is the price the big two of South Asia are paying for not making use of their long spell of peace and bonhomie that followed the historic steps taken by Prime Minister Vajpayee and President Musharraf to break free from the past. This is what this newspaper had feared all along when it repeatedly called for making progress on the Kashmir front warning the neighbours that if they did not take credible steps to resolve the issue, they could soon find themselves back to square one. Clearly, either the two parties are oblivious to the problem at the heart of their uneasy relationship intentionally avoiding to recognise the source of their friction. One also senses a hope that with the passage of time, the question of Kashmir could resolve itself or might be forgotten by the people involved. If this is the case, it is not a very realistic expectation. This approach to Kashmir ignores what is at stake on both sides. This issue does not affect the people of Kashmir alone but holds long-term political and economic ramifications for both India and Pakistan and their billion plus population. ==
Geelani says mainstream forces can’t be ignored
Averse to division, willing for UN sponsored talks
Srinagar, Mar 23: Senior separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani Thursday acknowledged the importance of mainstream leaders saying they could not be ignored despite their ‘negative’ role in past. However Geelani reiterated that plebiscite as enshrined in UN resolutions was the only option to resolve the Kashmir dispute.
Speaking during a seminar organized by Hurriyat Conference led by him, Geelani said, “There are elements like NC, PDP, Congress and Mr. Tarigami. National Conference helped India enslave the people of J&K and Congress betrayed us by reneging on promises made in highest international bodies. There is PDP also which ruled the state for three years and recently handed over power to Congress under an agreement. But the fact is they are there and they exist. NC has 28 members in Assembly. Congress is also working. These elements could not be ignored.”
Geelani further asserted that restoration of right to self-determination was the only way to end the debate of ethnic divisions in the state. He said that majority as well as various minorities would equally enjoy the self-determination. “We want to uphold the geographical integrity of the state,” he added.
About the alternative ways to reach an amicable solution of Kashmir dispute, Geelani recalled that India, Pakistan and various leaders from Kashmir had conducted ‘130 exercises since 1947.’
“There is no scope or chance of dialogue with India. Nothing will come out form this futile exercise.”
Regretting that Hurriyat Conference remained plagued by the ideological dissent for a decade, Geelani said that the dissent came into open when some leaders started bending backwards.
“Hurriyat Constitution undoubtedly advocates tripartite dialogue but that has to be under the UN supervision and outside the ambit of Indian constitution.” ==
Back home, J&K leaders happy with Musharraf
S.P. Sharma
Jammu, March 23:There is enthusiasm among Jammu and Kashmir leaders who have returned here from Islamabad after meeting the Pakistan President, Gen Pervez Musharraf, during the conference that was organised by the US-based PUGWASH.
Leaders of various parties were allowed by the Centre to go to Pakistan and participate in the conference and they also took the opportunity to meet General Musharraf.
Back home, most of these leaders are full of tales of their meeting with General Musharraf which they recite with excitement and have little to say about the deliberations of the PUGWASH conference.==
Defenceless defence of Indo-US N-deal
US AMBASSADOR in Pakistan Ryan C Crocker has said that Indo-US nuclear deal will enhance security and stability in South Asia. Talking to a selected group of journalists in Islamabad on Wednesday, he asserted that the agreement will not in any way assist India’s nuclear weapons’ programme. He ruled out any Pak-US nuclear technology deal.
The Indo-US nuclear deal seemingly represents convergence of US and Indian interests in the context of Washington’s anti-China policy and India’s ambition of a major world power. By signing the deal, India has apparently succeeded in deceiving Washington through its contrived ambiguity about its future role in South Asia, while President Bush has, in his exuberance of containing China, perceived India as a tool in its regional strategy. ==
Heavyweight activists to take on war, women’s
rights and water
WSF begins today at KMC Sports Complex on Kashmir Road
KARACHI,Mar 23: Tariq Ali, Asma Jehangir and Jamal Juma will be joined by other global rights activists for the opening session of the World Social Forum (WSF) at 6:00 p.m. today, Friday, at the KMC Sports Complex on Kashmir Road.
The WSF, which will run from March 24 to 29, will include contributions from Rajya Sabha and Kumari Nirmala Deshpande, who would chair the opening session, Jeremy Corbyn, member Parliament and vice president Anti-War Coalition, UK, Waha Kaar, Kenya Debt Relief Network and member International Council World Social Forum, Jose Correia, member International Council World Social Forum, Brazil and Juma, member Stop the Wall Campaign, Palestine.
Karamat Ali, a member of the organizing committee, spoke of the activities on Thursday at a press conference at Karachi Press Club. Disaster management, water issues in South Asia, bonded labour, peace and conflict, inter-religious dialogue, women in resistance movements, the situation of rights in Pakistan would be discussed in the opening plenary session.
“With more than 400 activities lined up for the event, it is very difficult to name each and every one and highlight their significance. However, every single one of these 460 activities is for people and address issues related to people,” he said.
The WSF was initially scheduled for Jan 24-29 this year but was postponed due to the Oct 8 earthquake. Around 20,000 participants are expected to take part in the ‘critical reflection’ of globalization, wars, terrorism and a host of other issues, Ali added. ==
Kashmir scientist finds cause of rare disease in US
Srinagar, Mar 23: Manzoor Wani, a young Kashmiri scientist working at Heart and Lung Research Institute at The Ohio State University in USA, has found the cause of a 35 year old unique unknown human disease.
Abid Mirza, a lecturer in biochemistry at the Islamia College of Sciences here said in a statement today that the unknown disease was first studied in 1960’s in two siblings of a consanguineous marriage, a brother and sister who were shown to suffer from the rare disease. ==
Anger in both houses over killing of Shopian youth in Ahmedabad
JAMMU, Mar 22: If the alleged custodial killings of two Kashmiri youth, hailing from Shopian town of Kashmir rocked the Lower House this morning as the PDP MLAs, supported by National Conference members, did not allow the Assembly to function for the first ten minutes of Question Hour then veteran Congress MLC Ghulam Rasool Kar threatened to disrupt proceedings of the Upper House over the issue seeking government's intervention to check custodial killings and mysterious disappearance of youth.
It was PDP MLA from Shopian, Ghulam Hassan Khan, who raised the issue in the Lower House, as he referred to a news report published in The Kashmir Times, while showing it to the Speaker Tara Chand. The news report mentioned about two residents of Shopian town, who were recently killed in Gujarat and were laid to rest yesterday in their respective ancestral graveyards amidst allegations by their families.
At the beginning of the Question Hour today, Khan stood on his seat with today's issue of the newspaper in his hand, as he pointed to the news story and demanded that government reply on the matter.
When members sitting on Opposition benches joined in, the din aggravated, and Khan came out into the Well of the House, trying to raise his voice above the ruckus.
Soon, other PDP members, including Syed Bashir Ahmed, Mohammed Khalil Band, Sartaj Madni, Peer Mohammed Hussain and Shanti Devi, joined Khan. Other MLAs, who were standing with Khan in the well, were Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami (CPI-M), Manjit Singh (BSP) and Sofi Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din (independent).
Meanwhile, NC members, lead by Sharief-ud-Din Shariq and Dr Mehboob Beg, also raised their concern about the alleged custodial killings of Kashmiri youth in Gujarat.
After the noisy scenes continued for about four minutes, Speaker allowed Khan to speak, who said, "Two innocent youth have been killed in Gujarat. They were not involved in any militant activity. This incident shows that a Kashmiri youth is not safe anywhere in India outside the state."
While the din ebbed a bit, Speaker directed Minister for Transport, Mangat Ram Sharma, to take up the matter with government of Gujarat and present a report in the House after conducting an inquiry in to the same.
While Sharma agreed to the Speaker's directions, Shariq, apparently not satisfied with the directions, came out into the well at 10.07 a.m., blaming the government for the incident.==
Grave human rights abuses
CM will have to demonstrate will and capacity to deal with problem
Chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad's assertion that four months of his rule have shown a downward sling in terms of human rights abuse may be wishful thinking. Not only does he contradict the human rights groups working in the Valley, he appears to be locking horns also with the government run State Human Rights Commission in making this claim. Azad seems to quote statistics to make this claim but statistics are often misleading, both in terms of numbers and the differing perceptions of whether a certain killing falls in the line of human rights abuse or not. ==
Bhim demands amendment in Art 370 to resolve J&K problem
JAMMU, Mar 23: Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) president Bhim Singh has urged the Centre to amend Article 370 of the constitution giving special status to the State to resolve the Kashmir
52 RR Major accused of molesting Tangmarg girl
Srinagar,Mar 04: The alleged molestation of a 15-year-old girl by an Army Major on Friday night triggered protest demonstrations at Tangamarg in north Kashmir’s Varmul district on Saturday.
Local news agency CNS said troops of 52 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) in civvies led by a Major barged into the house Abdul Ghani Joo son of Ghulam Rasool and allegedly molested his daughter Mehmooda Akhtar.
Quoting the residents, the CNS said the Major who kept chanting his name as “Major Parvez” appeared at Tantraypora in Tangamarg, dragged the girl out of the house but she fell unconscious. The cries of the family caught attention of their neighbors and they hurled firepots on the troops.
According to residents, the Major dressed in civies appear in dead of the night into the households and than on various pretext starts harassing the inmates. ==
PSA against KU research scholar quashed
SRINAGAR, Mar 5 (UNI): The Jammu and Kashmir
High Court has quashed the Public Safety Act (PSA) against a research scholar
and another person and ordered their immediate release.
The orders were passed by Justice Mansoor Ahmed here. Security forces had
arrested Nazir Ahmed Ganai, a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Islamic Studies
from the Kashmir University and a resident of Safapora, on October 16, 2003,
allegedly for his links with the militants.==
President Bush’s visit to South Asia
Kashmirwatch.com,March 06
By Minhaj Qidwai
President Bush’s visit to South Asia, and especially to India has reiterated the double standards that, the West has shown in the recent past. Whether it is the issue of cartoons, or the Indian nuclear deal, the denominators are Muslims and Islam.
This week President Bush paid a visit to South Asia. It comprised of a quick trip to Afghanistan, extended trip to India, and short trip to Pakistan. Let us peek into this trip.
Afghanistan: With the fall of Taleban, and installment of Mr. Karzai as President, Afghanistan is slowly moving towards a new chapter in its history. Moving out of Soviet influence, and that of Talebans, into tip toeing the Americans, and their quest for energy. However, the new government is mostly limited to the capital Kabul. Skirmishes still continue with the Talebans, and President Karzai’s government remains fragile.
India: President Bush, in his extended trip to India, visited New Delhi and Hyderabad. This visit of President Bush to India wrote a new chapter in the history of world. A country was rewarded access to the latest American nuclear technology for its bad behavior. India to date has not signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.======
India to free 124 Pakistanis by 31st: Kashmiri leader
By A Reporter
ISLAMABAD, March 12: India will free 124 Pakistanis detained in different jails of the Occupied Kashmir by March 31, disclosed Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party chief Bhem Singh.
Speaking at a press conference here on Sunday Mr Singh said that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had directed the Jammu and Kashmir home minister to screen and deport all those Pakistanis who had completed their jail term.
He said most of them were presently in jails for over eight years under the Public Safety Act and pointed out that no one could be kept behind the bars for more than two years under the act.
He said the apex court of India had passed an order on September 27, 2005 directing the Ministry of Home Affairs of the central government to monitor the cases and file an affidavit within four weeks explaining the status of all these persons detained from time to time under the orders of the State of Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the court observed that “Unfortunately, no steps have been taken in pursuance of various previous orders passed by this court. All the parties are complaining against each other and blaming each other for non-compliance of the orders”.
Bhem Singh said that the court had asked the Home Ministry to clearly state as to what was the position of detention orders with respect to such persons and whether the period of detention had already expired. In cases where the detention of any detenu has expired, the ministry was asked to state as to what steps were being taken for their release.
Bhem Singh said that he had invited the attention of the prime minister to the plight of these detainees languishing in jails despite various orders passed by the courts. He said no charge had been framed against them under which they could be sent to the jail for over three to four years.
He appealed to President General Pervez Musharraf to free all those Indian nationals, who had completed their terms in Pakistani jails.
Sincerity Required to Settle Kashmir Issue, Says Azad
Winding up the discussion on the resolution regarding roundtable conference,
the Chief Minister said that pursuit of emotional slogans and beating about
the bush to lead astray people, who have shunned the path of confrontation
and understood the ground realities, is mere wasting of time.
Mirwaiz not to attend Kashmir confab in Pak
The Mirwaiz's secretary said that the Hurriyat Chairman would not be able
to attend the three-day international conference on Kashmir as he has an acute
fracture in his right ankle and doctors have advised him to take complete
bed rest.
US, UK to 'only support' Kashmir efforts: Blair
"Now we can only support the efforts that are made by the two countries,
but I think over the past few years we have shown that we are prepared to
do that, and I hope very much that progress is made, and I think it is important,"
British Prime Minister Tony Blair said at a joint press conference.
India, Pakistan talk to improve air links
Uncertainty over extension to Chief Secretary
While the uncertainty prevails over the extension to the chief secretary Vijay
Bakaya for another six months, five important departments of the state government
are working without the senior officials.
NC challenges zero deficit, tax free budget
Challenging government's claim for presenting zero deficit budget during last
three years, leader of opposition Abdul Rahim Rathar presented a detailed
account of expenditures affected by the govt. allegedly without budget provisions
under various departments as pointed out in the Auditor General reports for
the last three years .
HC directs LAWDA to resume Dal demolitions
Cranking up efforts to stop the rapid shrinkage of the world heritage site,
J&K High Court has directed Lakes and Waterways Development Authority
(LAWDA) to resume demolitions around the Dal Lake.
1956 road accident deaths in 2 years in J&K
At least 1956 people have lost their lives in various tragic road accidents
across the state of Jammu and Kashmir since January 1, 2004 till date, which
include 114 deaths during the current year.
3 militants among 4 killed in Kashmir
Three militants, including a commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba, and a girl were
killed in Jammu and Kashmir, where a militant laid down his arms, a police
spokesman said today.
Endorse Kashmiri right of self-determination: UJC chief to Bush
Srinagar, Mar 01: The supreme commander of the
Hizb-ul-Mujahideen and the chairman of the United Jehad Council (UJC), Syed
Salahuddin, has called upon the US to put pressure on India to grant Kashmiris
the right of self-determination.
“The US, which claims to be the champion of liberty, democracy and human rights
round the world, should compel Indian rulers to grant Kashmiris the basic
right promised to them before the United Nations and the international community,”
Salahuddin said in a statement issued on the US president George W. Bush’s
visit to India and Pakistan.==
India softens Kashmir stance
from Shaiq Hussain
ISLAMABAD - As US President George W. Bush arrived Wednesday in New Delhi,
on the first leg of his four-day official visit to South Asia, India has softened
its stance on Kashmir by indicating its willingness to formally discuss the
Kashmiris’ self-governance plan with Pakistan.
India was earlier reluctant to discuss the ‘self-rule and demilitarization’
in Kashmir proposal floated by President Musharraf formally with Pakistan
but the ongoing secret diplomacy between the two states and the quiet US mediation
has made this breakthrough possible, said an official on the condition of
anonymity. It was after these positive indications by India on Kashmir that
President Bush started talking openly about the US role in the durable settlement
to the core issue of Kashmir, he added. ==
Pugwash Islamabad conference to attract luminaries
By Mariana Baabar
ISLAMABAD,Feb 25: The first three-day Pugwash Conference to be held from March10 to 12 in Islamabad is expected to attract luminaries from Azad Kashmir, Indian Held Kashmir, India and Pakistan. The first such conference on Kashmir was held at Kathmandu.
"The conference will provide a platform for the eminent representatives and facilitate the ongoing peace process. The Pugwash Conference offers no solution but only facilitates all on a common platform. It will also provide an opportunity to Kashmiris on both sides to get together and look at the prospects for self-governance in Jammu and Kashmir. ==
Routes reserved for Bush’s visit
By Shahzad Malik
ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad district administration on Wednesday submitted a security plan to the Interior Ministry about the upcoming visit of US President George Bush to Pakistan.
Three routes have been fixed for President Bush to travel from the airport to Aiwan-e-Sadr. The first route is from the airport to Aiwan-e-Sadr via Dhokari Chowk; the second via Jinnah Avenue and the third route via the Kashmir Highway, sources told Daily Times.==
5-star rooms for US ‘officer dogs’
NEW DELHI: An argument broke out between US security personnel and the management of the Le Meridien Hotel in New Delhi on Wednesday over the accommodation of 60 sniffer dogs that are part of President George W Bush’s security entourage. ==
‘SFC man killed in custody'
Srinagar, Mar 1: Tehreek-e-Hurriyat general secretary Muhammad Ashraf Sehrai has strongly condemned the killing of SFC employee by police in Chatroo Kishtwar in custody.In a statement, Sehrai said, Shabir Ahmad Bhat son of Muhammad Jamal Bhat was "first arrested by the STF and later killed in a nearby forest."He condemned the "gruesome act" and demanded that killers be brought to the book.
ML condemns ‘custodial’ killing
Srinagar,Mar 1: Condemning the alleged custodial killing of one Peer Ashiq Hussain of Varmul by the security forces, the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir today said it debunked the myth of government claim on human rights front. In a statement, a spokesman of ML said, "Peer Ashiq Hussain was arrested from Narbal by the security forces and tortured to death in custody.
His gouged eye was an ample proof of torture death." Meanwhile, a delegation of ML led by Masrat Ahmad Bhat visited the residence of the martyred youth and expressed sympathies with his family.
‘GoI trying to change JK’s demography’
Srinagar,Mar 1: National Conference leader Mohi-ud-Din Anwari has criticized New Delhi for trying to change the demography of Jammu and Kashmir state. In a statement, here, Anwari said, "New Delhi has virtually refused to give assent to the Resettlement Act as it feels that the Act is a stumbling block in its game plan to change the demography of the state.""New Delhi has double standards on democracy and the constitution," Anwari said.He appealed the youth of the state to be ready to meet any eventuality in case New Delhi refuses to give assent to the Resettlement Act.
Self-governance being discussed with India
ISLAMABAD, Feb 27: The Foreign Office said on Monday that Pakistan and India were discussing at various levels the proposal of self-governance in Kashmir. Answering a question about ‘secret diplomacy’ on self-governance in the disputed territory, FO Spokesperson Tasnim Aslam said: “I won’t call it secret diplomacy, but we do have various levels of engagement with India on this issue.” She pointed to the composite dialogue, engagement at political and leadership levels as well as back-channel diplomacy.
Addressing the weekly news briefing, the spokesperson declined to comment on why the Indian prime minister had now talked about having the intention of revisiting the human rights situation in Kashmir.==
JKLF(F) appeals Bush to intervene in Kashmir issue
Srinagar,Mar 01:The spokesman of Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front’s Chairman Farooq papa in a statement has welcomed President Bush’s attention to Kashmir issue. In his statement Spokesman said that, while in the present era United States of America enjoys the status of being the only super power by virtue of its military and economic might, it also is seen as champion of democracy. As such having an additional moral responsibility to built peace and harmony within nations and people rather than war. ==
JKLF(F) reacts the remarks of Sham Saran
Srinagar,Mar 1:Reacting to the statement made by the Sham Saran in which he defined the “cititizens of Kashmir as citizens of India” JKLF(F) has termed as wishfull thinking on part of India’s Foreign Secretary.
The spokesman for JKLF said that Mr Saran needs to read the Legal document that defines the citizen of Kashmir “State Subject Definition Notification dated the 20th April, 1927 “which is self evident that citizens of Kashmir are Citizens of Kashmir only and can not be coerced to be called citizen of India. ==
Mahesh Bhatt says "Suicide Bomber" script complete
Colombo, Mar. 1 (AP): Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt on Tuesday said he had completed the script for an upcoming movie that explores the mind-set and motivations of a would-be suicide bomber.
Based loosely on the events of the London subway bombings, "Suicide Bomber" will begin filming in London in July and then shift its location to Kashmir, Bhatt said.
Bush rejects Pak mediation demand on Kashmir
S. Rajagopalan
Washington, February 24:US President George W. Bush once again rejected Pakistan’s demand of third-party mediation on Kashmir. He said Washington would at best nudge the two countries to carry forward dialogue.
In an interview to Pakistani journalists on Wednesday, Bush was clearly not forthcoming on another key Islamabad demand — a copycat nuke deal. As he put it, the deal with India itself “is just the beginning of a very long process”. ==
Pak fine-tuning Kashmir proposals
From SHAIQ HUSSAIN
ISLAMABAD,Feb 23:Pakistan’s foreign policy managers
are engaged in fine-tuning the proposal of ‘self-governance and demilitarization’
in Kashmir after receiving positive hints from Washington indicating the Bush
administration’s growing interest in the vital plan.
“Intense discussions are on in the Foreign Office and other ruling quarters
on President Bush’s upcoming visit to South Asia and the policy makers are
‘fine-tuning’ the Kashmiris’ self-rule proposal to make it acceptable,” said
a senior official here requesting anonymity.
He said the Bush administration has showed keen interest in the vital proposal
and it has been conveyed to Pakistan that the US President would discuss it
in detail with Pakistani leadership during his stay in the Pakistani capital.==
Bush's South Asia policy
WHILE Washington claims it is following a policy of de-hyphenation in South Asia, no one can fail to note a continuously growing tilt on its part towards India. The imbalance was clearly visible in President Bush's address to the Asia Society and in the interview given to two Pakistani newspapers on Wednesday. While he was all praise for India, there was an unmistakable though oblique reprimand of Islamabad's handling of the protests against Danish cartoons. ==
No sell out on Kashmir: Geelani
SRINAGAR, Feb 22: Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman
Syed Ali Shah Geelani today said he would neither sell out on Kashmir nor
would he allow others to do so.
According to a press note he was addressing a series of public meetings at
Delina-Baramulla and Shiva-Sopore.
"Those entering into a dialogue with government of India without getting
important conditions accepted by the latter are indulging in a sell out. But
I assure you on my behalf that I will never sell out with the blood of martyrs
nor will I allow others to do so", Geelani said.
He described as justified the armed struggle. "Those describing our youth
as terrorists are intending to hide their own terrorism. The blood of the
people who laid down their lives for the ongoing movement can not be sold
for concessions and benefits. As long as even a single soldier in Kashmir,
our struggle will continue", Geelani said.==
Murder case registered against Army amid massive protests
4 young civilians killed in Handwara firing
CM orders magisterial inquiry
From Ahmed Ali Fayyaz
SRINAGAR, Feb 22: Days before the Prime Minister’s roundtable conference of all political parties on Jammu and Kashmir and commencement of the first full-length session of the State legislature in Congress-led coalition Government, Army has created considerable tension in Kupwara district of north Kashmir, killing four young civilian in a broad daylight shootout. While Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad had immediately ordered magisterial inquiry, Handwara Police have registered a murder case against troops of Rashtriya Rifles 33 Bn involved in the shootout.
Authoritative sources told the Excelsior that troops of RR 33 Bn opened indiscriminate gunfire towards a group of youngsters, who were playing cricket at a small playfield across Mawar Nallah, when a suspected youngster fled from a search operation at Doodhipora, about 7 Km from Handwara town, in Kupwara district at 1300 hours today. Over a specific information, troops were conducting the search of a residential house when the unidentified youngster ran away.==
TADA, POTA courts shifted
Jammu: The Terrorism and Disruptive Activities Act (TADA) and Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) courts in Jammu have been shifted from Jammu jail complex to District and Sessions court premises.==
Custodial violence
On the eve of Advocate Jalil Andrabi’s tenth death anniversary, the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) tabled its annual report in the legislative assembly. The report says that the commission registered as many as 17 custodial murders during the preceding year. The report further said that many people do not approach the commission for various reasons. For getting the exact number of the custodial murders during the said period, one has to rely on the information provided by various human rights organizations. The reports are very disturbing the claims of the government o the contrary notwithstanding. Ten years ago when Jalil Andrabi was murdered in custody, the government tried to bail out the culprits by blaming the situation. Even activists across the globe fell in the trap. They did write beautiful obituaries for the slain lawyer but failed to take a stand. But today, when the government and the international community believe that the situation had taken a favourable turn, custodial violence has not ended. The issue of custodial murders and enforced disappearances has been extensively discussed in various fora at the local, regional and international levels. The government of India and even the security agencies were forced to rein in the men in uniform. The former deputy Prime Minister (known for his hard posture viz-a-viz Kashmir) urged the men in uniform to behave like human beings. The former Corps Commander also issued a strong worded statement urging his boys to exercise care and caution while fighting militancy. T==
Magarmal Bagh firing case
Delhi HC has rewarded killers of Kashmiris: HCBA
Srinagar, Mar 28: Reacting sharply to the Delhi High Court’s reinstatement of 4 CRPF men accused of killing 11 civilians and wounding over a score of others after a militant attack in Magarmal Bagh on January 19, 1991, the Kashmir High Court Bar Association (HCBA) has termed the judgement as in favour of the guilty, and questioned the Court’s jurisdiction in the case.
“The Delhi High Court’s judgement is a reward for the killers of Kashmiris,
and it will encourage and provide legal justification to the security forces
deployed in Kashmir to kill and wound whomsoever they want,” a statement of
the Bar, quoted by the CNS, said.The four CRPF men had been dismissed from
service on July 1992 by the then IGP CRPF, Southern Sector, Hyderabad, D.R
Karthikeyan, who held them guilty of indiscriminate and excessive firing causing
heavy casualties among civilians.
The accused had thereafter approached the Delhi High Court which, on February
1, 2006, described their dismissal as a “punishment grossly disproportionate
to the alleged offence,” and directed their reinstatement with all consequential
benefits.==
Resolution for militants’ return from PcK defeated in Assembly
Srinagar, Mar 28: The state assembly today voted out a resolution calling
for the return and rehabilitation of militants from Pakistan-controlled-Kashmir
(PcK), while the government denied that a proposal (for the return of militants)
was under consideration.
The resolution, which had been moved by CPI(M) leader, Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami,
in July last year, came up for discussion for the second time today, the CNS
said.
In the resolution, Tarigami had asked the government to take up with the centre
the issue of militants who have gone across the LoC for arms training but
now wanted to return and live a peaceful life with their families.
The debate on the resolution had remained inconclusive in the monsoon session,
and the resolution was tabled again today for discussion.==
APHC seeks China’s role in efforts for Kashmir settlement
KARACHI, March 28: All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Tuesday said that China should also be made a party for resolving the Kashmir dispute as it had control over a large chunk of the territory. Addressing the final round of a Kashmir conference at the World Social Forum, he said: “The All Parties Hurriyat Conference is preparing a roadmap-2020 for the resolution of this dispute in which we will also recommend for the inclusion of China as a party.”
He said ground realities would determine the roadmap.
“Forces of globalisation could not be ignored in this issue,” he said, adding that Kashmiris were the weakest party in this dispute while the other two — India and Pakistan — were nuclear powers.
“Kashmir is a huge tragedy and the very relations between Pakistan and India depend on the solution of this issue. These two countries have to decide to which direction this issue should proceed.”
He suggested that the Saarc (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) forum should be expanded in accordance with aspirations and wishes of the Kashmiri people.
He said Pakistan and India would be given representation in the future parliament of the proposed united Kashmir. “If our roadmap is implemented it would resolve all the disputes by 2020,” he stressed.
“This issue should be resolved through phased measures,” he said, adding that the Kashmiri leadership on both sides of the Line of Control should also change their mindset.
Sardar Abdul Qayyum Khan of the Muslim Conference said he saw a united Kashmir by 2020. “By then Kashmir would be a prosperous and independent region where everyone will have equal rights irrespective of his caste and creed,” he observed.
Mohammad Shafi Uri of the National Conference said that no solution should be discussed without mentioning globalisation which was hovering over the world.
He said Pakistan and India were engaged in a peace process but they were not putting the ‘core issue’ on priority which was a negative message for the Kashmiris.==
Jamaat concerned at Dar’s disappearance
Srinagar: Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday expressed serious concern over the disappearance of one Abdul Hamid Dar of Agan Mettipora, district Islamabad, Kashmir, after he had been forcibly driven out of his home on March 20, evening by Sumo borne men in civvies.In a statement today, a spokesman of Jamaat said, "A day before this incident, Dar had received a call from mobile phone. The caller had asked him to attend police station, Mattan, for some investigation. ==
ISL up against immigrants’ settlement plan
Srinagar: Islamic Students League (ISL) Jammu Kashmir today threatened agitation in case government moved ahead with its plan to settle non-state subjects in the state. In a statement today, a spokesman of ISL alleged that government, as part of its conspiracy, was trying to settle the foreign immigrants in the state to bring about demographic changes. "The settlement plan is aimed to decrease the ratio of population of majority community in the state," said the spokesman. The spokesman said only those who had left their homeland (J&K) in 1947 due to unavoidable circumstances arising from Kashmir dispute had the right to return and settle in the state.
JK Govt ready to release 54 PoK detenues:Azad
JAMMU, Mar 28: Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today said that the blot of most corrupt State will soon be removed as the war against corruption has been yielding positive result.
He was winding up the discussion on working of Home and Estates Ministries in the Legislative Council. "With the support of everybody, the menace of corruption has been checked upto large extent and I hope within shortest possible time the blot of `most corrupt State’ in the country would be removed", Mr Azad said and sought the cooperation of all in this direction.
"Jitna Samey Burai Ke Aane Main Lagta Hai Utna Jaane Main Bhi Lagta Hai", he said and added that with the collective efforts things would become normal and all the evils like corruption would fade away.
Acknowledging outstanding role of Jammu and Kashmir Police in tackling militancy and maintaining law and order during the last 16 years, the Chief Minister highlighted the sacrifices made by various police personnel and SPOs.==
'UK, US prevented Pak-India war'
LONDON (AFP) - Intense diplomatic efforts by Britain and the United States
prevented nuclear neighbours India and Pakistan from going to war four years
ago, British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said on Tuesday.
The Foreign Office, headed by Straw, and the US State Department, under then
secretary of State Colin Powell, worked tirelessly to defuse the stand-off
between the countries over the disputed region of Kashmir, the minister said.
He was responding to a question about hopes for a peaceful settlement of the
Kashmir problem following a speech in London to British diplomats.==
Kashmir before treaty
THE Foreign Office spokesperson is right in pointing out that Pakistan could not accept Dr Manmohan Singh's suggestion to separate the Kashmir dispute from other issues and enter into a peace and friendship treaty with India. The friendship proposal amounts to putting the cart before the horse; for the most natural course before two adversaries could come closer to each other would be to sit down and make sincere efforts to resolve the differences that separate them so that once their enmities are behind them, they could move forward to form a relationship of friendliness and goodwill, should their interests coincide. There is no doubt that as contiguous neighbours with a long and shared history, Pakistan and India, have certain common interests and goals. But to forge genuine and meaningful cooperation on an equal footing between persons or entities they should be trusting one another and that is not possible with disputes continuing to linger between them. For the same reason, CBMs rest on shaky grounds.
Pak for free movement of people across LoC
Press Trust of India
Islamabad, March 27:Favouring simplification of procedures for freer movement of Kashmiris across the Line of Control, Pakistan on Monday said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's latest offer of a friendship treaty would help the peace process enter a "new important phase".
The Indian Prime Minister's speech (in Amritsar) "encourages us to believe that the peace process will be strengthened and enter a new important phase," Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Tasnim Aslam said in a statement at a media briefing here.==
PM's Kashmir-centric remarks significant Mufti asks experts, academicians to debate and prepare best from Self-rule
By Athar Parvez
SRINAGAR, Mar 26: Former chief minister and the patron of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today stressed that the constitutional experts and academicians should debate over the self-rule concept and prepare "the best form of self-rule which must not defeat the people's verdict".
Mufti remarked that the involvement of separatist leadership in the current
peace process was a "historical necessity". The PDP patron doesn't
feel that the biggest coalition partners in the state government - Congress
and PDP share a "fragile relationship", but the one which is based
on "firm footing". Regarding the unilateral cease-fire in Kashmir,
he opines that it can be made possible through negotiations.