Hurriyat leaders put under house arrest, PPP chief arrested

Srinagar, Jun 28 (KMW): Several leaders of moderate Hurriyat Conference including chairman Mirwaiz Moulvi Omar Farooq has been put under house arrest while  People's Political Party (PPP) Chairman Hilal Ahmad War and Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) Chief Mohammad Yaseen Malik has been arrested from their Maisuma residences.The chairman of the breakaway Hurriyat Conference,  Syed Ali Shah Geelani and about half-a-dozen other senior leaders of the amalgam have already been arrested and some of them booked under the Public Safety Act (PSA).The breakaway Hurriyat Conference has given ''Sopore Chalo'' call which was supported by almost all separatists’ organisations, including moderate HC and JKLF. The breakaway Hurriyat Conference had also asked all the students to hold protest demonstrations in their respective institutions today and tomorrow respectively. However, government announced closure of all educational institutions today and tomorrow to foil such demonstrations. A spokesman of the moderate Hurriyat Conference Shahidul Islam told that Mirwaiz Omar was not being allowed to leave his Nigeen house by the security forces deployed in large numbers since early this morning. He said Mirwaiz was informed that he has been put under house arrest and cannot leave till further orders. Shahidul Islam said the other leaders also put under house arrest included himself, Bilal Gani Lone, Aga Syed, Moulana Abbas Ansari and Syed Saleem Geelani, Chairman of the JKLF Malik was arrested by police from his Maisuma residence at 0430 hrs, a spokesman of the front said. Acting Chairman of Jammu and Kashmir People's League (PL) Mukhtar Waza has also been put under house arrest by authorities at his Kadipora Anantnag residence since early in the morning ahead of Sopore march. PPP Chairman was also arrested from his Maisuma residence this morning at 06:30 hrs.

5 militants, 3 Jawans killed in LOC gunbattle

Jammu, Jun 28 (KMW): Five armed foreign militants were killed on Monday and three army men lost their lives in a fierce gunbattle that broke out along the Line of Control (LOC) in Kupwara sector of Jammu and Kashmir. Acting on a tip off, troops picked up the movement of a group of infiltrating militants in 104 forward locations along LoC in Kupwara belt and launched an operation, triggering the encounter, a senior army official at Udhampur-based Northern Command told said. Five foreign militants and three army jawans were killed in the gunbattle which was on when reports last came in from the area.

Two killed, about 100 injured in fresh clashes

Srinagar, Jun 28 (KMW): Two people, including a minor, were killed and over 100 others injured when security forces opened fire, burst teargas shells and resorted to lath charge to disperse demonstrators in different parts of the Kashmir valley. However, officials and police did not say anything about the clashes, resulting in rumours about the killings. This evoked more protests in other areas. The injured included some security personnel also, official sources said. Four people were hit by bullets at Lawaypora and were later shifted to SMHS hospital. A report from Baramulla said a ten-year-old boy was killed when security forces opened fire to disperse the ''pro-freedom'' demonstrators at Delina in this north Kashmir district. His body was later taken to the main town. The security forces again fired in the air, burst teargas shells and resorted to lath charge to disperse the demonstrators at the main town area. Security forces also opened fire at Kapran when a procession was moving towards the main Sopore town, resulting in serious injuries to one Tajamul. He was later shifted to hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. About two dozen people, half of them security personnel, including a senior police officer, were injured in a clash between the ''pro-freedom'' demonstrators and security forces at main chowk Handwara in the frontier district of Kupwara.The demonstrators were protesting against fresh killing of youths in security force firing in Sopore.Reports of clashes between security forces and demonstrators were also received from more than two dozen other areas of Srinagar city and Anantnag.

LeT planning to target political leaders, separatists in J&K

Srinagar, June 27 (PTI): Security in Jammu and Kashmir has been further beefed up following intelligence inputs suggesting that Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba was planning to carry out terrorist strikes in the state including assassination of a political or a top separatist leader. Sources in the security establishment said that some intelligence inputs were intercepted in which Lashkar commanders in the Valley were receiving instructions from across the border to carry out a terrorist strike in Jammu or Kashmir, which includes targeting any politician or separatist leader. The sources said that security around vital installations had been tightened and a fresh review of the security cover to all the politicians and important separatist leaders had been conducted. The sources said that Lashkar may try and target a separatist leader and blame it on security forces as has been done in the past. The killing of Mirwaiz Farooq, Abdul Gani Lone and the bid on life of Fazal-haq Qureshi earlier this year by terrorists were examples of their tactics. Mirwaiz Farooq and Abdul Gani Lone were allegedly shot dead by terrorist of Hizbul Mujahdieen. Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, who enjoys Z category security of the state government, has been instructed about the threat perception while a round-the-clock guard was to be provided to other separatist leaders.

Youth killed in firing in Sopore

Srinagar, June 27 (KMW): A youth was killed after CRPF personnel fired rubber bullets on a stone-pelting mob that had defied curfew in Sopore town of north Kashmir this evening, two days after a similar incident left two civilians dead sparking protests in the Valley. The victim, identified as Bilal Wani of Kralteng, Sopore, was hit on the neck by a rubber bullet fired by the CRPF personnel to disperse protesters who were indulging in stone-pelting in the town, 55 kms from here, police said. Wani was rushed to Srinagar hospital where he succumbed to his injuries, they said. On June 25, two youths were killed and three others injured allegedly in firing by CRPF after the security personnel were attacked by protesters following an encounter in which two militants were gunned down. The incident sparked protests across the Valley with both factions of Hurriyat calling for a shutdown.

J&K minister says CRPF firing unwarranted

Srinagar, June 27 (KMW): Jammu and Kashmir Law Minister Ali Muhammad Sagar today described as "totally unwarranted" firing by CRPF personnel on protestors in Sopore in north Kashmir, saying such action was adding fuel to the fire.” This was totally unwarranted. Firing (by CRPF) at this point of time is only adding fuel to the fire. What they have done is very unfortunate and it will send a very wrong message," he told reporters here. A youth was killed after CRPF personnel fired rubber bullets on a stone-pelting mob that had defied curfew in Sopore town this evening, two days after a similar incident left two civilians dead sparking protests in the Valley.

AFSPA withdrawal demand for political gains: Army Chief

New Delhi, Jun 26 (KMW): Firmly opposing any dilution or withdrawal of the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act in Jammu and Kashmir, Army Chief General V K Singh has said the demand was being made for "narrow political gains".Soldiers operating in "hostile environment" need legal protection to perform their tasks efficiently, Singh said, adding, "Any dilution or withdrawal of AFSPA will lead to constraining our operations." "AFSPA is a misunderstood act and all who ask for its dilution or withdrawal, probably do so for narrow political gains," he said in an interview to the 'Land Forces' Defence magazine. The Army Chief was asked if the withdrawal of AFSPA would "seriously jeopardize" the safety and credibility of the force in Jammu and Kashmir.

Protesters defy curfew, stop train in Sopore

Srinagar, June 26 (KMW): Defying curfew, people today staged protests against the killing of two youths allegedly in CRPF firing on a mob and stopped Baramulla-Qazigund train in Sopore town of Kashmir Valley, where a separatists-sponsored bandh affected normal life in major towns. Police said no one was injured in the incident and the train suffered no damage as a result of the blockade by protesters in Sopore, 55 kms from here, in north Kashmir. Indefinite curfew was clamped in the town last evening when hundreds of people took to streets, set ablaze a security vehicle, damaged a bunker and attacked the local police station, demanding action against the CRPF personnel. Groups of people defied curfew and staged demonstrations at Hathishah Mohalla, Jamia Kadeem and Krankshivan and pelted stones on security personnel. However, there was no report of any casualty.

Govt not serious about punishing the guilty: PDP

Srinagar, Jun 26 (KMW): Opposition PDP today accused the state government of not being serious about bringing those responsible for the killing of innocent youths in Jammu and Kashmir to book saying instead of punishing the guilty, it was using oppressive measures to provoke further resentment.” The government seems totally non-existent. Instead of punishing the guilty it is using oppressive measures to suppress people's anguish and sentiments, which causes further resentment. Even the current situation did not sensitize the CM who preferred to holiday in Ladakh and Gulmarg showing a non-serious attitude," PDP general secretary Mohammad Dilawar Mir said in a statement here. Expressing deep shock and anguish over the recent killing of youths in various parts of valley, Mir criticized the government for its failure to protect lives and property of the people.

PPP Chief writes to Home Ministers of India and Pakistan

Srinagar, June 25 (KMW):  People’s Political Party (PPP) Chairman, Hilal Ahmad War in an open letter to Mr. P. Chidambaram and Mr. Rehman Malik, Home Ministers of India and Pakistan. Mr. War wrote, “Having Regard to the commitment of exercise of right of self-determination for the people of J&K, history has provided one more golden chance to you which you are required to fulfil and en-cash towards your obligations. No amount of repressive policies, use of force, intimidating through Indian military, Para military and other forces can take away this inalienable right of J & K people. Please do not sit over the volcano but avoid any such calamity which endangers entire South-East –Asia as a whole by your negligence. Let better sense prevail upon you and your respective leadership across India and Pakistan to capitalize at this historical juncture for the attainment of Permanent Peace and Tranquillity on this side of globe”.

Two teenagers killed by CRPF in Sopore

Srinagar, June 25 (KMW): Two teenagers were killed and five other  injured when CRPF opened fire on demonstrators protesting the killing of a suspected militant in an encounter in Sopore town of north Kashmir some 50 kilometres (31 miles) north of Srinagar, the summer capital of the insurgency-racked region. this evening, police said. The victims were identified as 15-year-old Shakeel Ahmad Ganai and Firdous Ahmad.Police said the trouble started when local residents took out a procession and pelted stones on CRPF vehicles who were returning after a day-long gun battle with militants at Bagh-i-islam Krankshivan area of the town where two guerrillas of Laskar-e-Taiba (LeT) were killed and two security men injured in a gunfight. The locals claimed one of the two persons killed in the encounter was a civilian. Police said the section of the mob pelted stones on CRPF vehicles, after which the paramilitary personnel opened fire, resulting in injuries to five persons. High tension has gripped Sopore town in the wake of this incident and additional deployments of CRPF and police have been sent to maintain law and order there.Sopore has been a hotbed of separatist violence since 1990s when the present separatist armed campaign started in Kashmir.

Hizb militants held in north Kashmir

Srinagar, Jun 25 (KMW): Two Hizbul Mujahideen militants, who were trained in Pakistan, were arrested by security forces in Kupwara district of north Kashmir, police said today. Abdul Hameed Para alias Suliman and Ghulam Jeelani Wani alias Khalid, both residents of Baramulla district, were arrested by a joint search party of police and army at village Unisoo in Handwara, 80 km from here last night. Two Chinese pistols along with two magazines and 14 rounds were recovered from them, police said. The arrest of the duo comes close on the heels of the busting of a Laskar-e-Taiba module by police in Kulgam district of south Kashmir yesterday with the arrest of three militants.

Geelani booked under PSA, Mirwaiz under house arrest

Srinagar, June 24 (KMW): The Hurriyat chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani under the stringent Public Safety Act and placed moderate Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umer Farooq under house arrest to foil their planned all-party meet to chalk out future course of action."We have booked him (Geelani) under PSA. There are good numbers of grounds (for detention) against Geelani. I have signed the PSA warrant against Geelani and as per the orders he would be lodged at sub-jail Cheshma Shahi", District Magistrate, Srinagar, Mehraj Ahmd Kakroo said.Before being shifted to the sub-jail, Geelani was examined by doctors at police control room. Geelani along with his close aide Mohmmad Ashraf Sehrai was detained on June 20 by police in Kupwara for allegedly making a provocative speech.

Kashmir Media Watch, Chief editor beaten up by JK Police

Srinagar, June 20,2010: Kashmir Media Watch, Chief Editor, Ajaz Ahmad War was beaten up ruthlessly by J & K Police near Budshah Chowk while performing his professional duties. The Press fraternity has condemned this act and termed it attack on the freedom of press. Dr. Shabir Choudhary , London based  leader of Kashmir National  Party strongly condemned this act. Dr. Shabir said this is not a violation of Human Rights but a brutal attack of journalism in Kashmir. He appealed all those persons, parties and scribes who believe in freedom of Press should oppose this action and stand with victim journalist, Ajaz Ahmad War. Meanwhile, Engineer Wahid , leader of Human Watch ( South-Asian Chapter) has condemned the act vehemently. Dr. Nazir Gilani , Secretary General, JKCHR has also condemned the incident and termed it as most unfortunate . While talking to Senior Superintendent of Police, Javaid Riyaz Bedar regarding the inhuman incident, he said we have attached two cops in this regard and assured the victim that he will personally investigate the matter.

War Condemns the Killing of Youth Stop Genocide in Kashmir: PPP Chief to India

Srinagar, June 20, 2010(KMW): People's Political Party (PPP), Chairman, Hilal Ahmad War condemned in strong words the brutal killing of Mohammad Rafiq Bangroo who was ruthlessly beaten up by CRPF personnel few days back and finally succumbed to his injuries at SKIMS tonight. Another teenager Javaid Ahmad Malla of Noorbagh, Srinagar was critically injured today morning when CRFP personnel fired indiscriminately on a peaceful mob protesting the killing of Mohammad Rafiq Bangroo. The second youth Javaid Ahmad Malla also succumbed to his injuries at SKIMS.  Meanwhile, Kashmir Media Watch, Chief Editor, Ajaz Ahmad War has been ruthlessly beaten up near Budshah Chowk by J & K Police today while performing his professional duties. He has been shifted to Bone and Joint Hospital, Barzulla for the treatment. The act is highly condemnable and an attack on the freedom of press. Mr. War termed the killings of Kashmir youth right from Wamiq Fasrooq, Zahid Farooq, Inayat of Dalgate and now Rafiq and Javaid, a well thought out new genocide policy of Indian Security Forces in Kashmir. The gruesome killing of three youngsters of Nadihal in North Kashmir by the Indian Army in a stage managed encounter at the Line of Control is an glaring example of Indian Genocide Policy in Kashmir.  Under the new strategy and a policy framed by Home Ministry of India, the genocide carried out by Indian Occupational Forces under the instructions of Home Ministry, young school boys which is the fourth generation of Kashmir problem are targeted purposefully to deter the fourth generation of Kashmir to take the responsibilities of freedom movement. While paying rich tributes to slain youth Mohammad Rafiq Bangroo and Javaid Ahmad Malla, PPP Chief demanded that the perpetrators should be brought to book without any delay. He asked Indian government to stop genocide in  Kashmir and punish the killer cops .If the killer cops are not punished, the entire population of Kashmir will be constrained to go for an all out war with Indian Occupational Forces. The Occupational Forces of India have unleashed a reign of terror in Kashmir valley in particular and have converted whole Kashmir into a slaughter house and a graveyard of human rights. He further said that Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and other draconian laws have given licence to men in Khaki to kill innocent Kashmiri youth like birds. Mr.War said such tactics will not deter the resolve of oppressed Kashmiris and the youth in particular but will give boost the morale of the struggling people of Kashmir to increase the momentum of their struggle for Right to self-determination. PPP Chief pledges to fight for the freedom till the last Child of Kashmir. By creating war situation, they cannot bypass or kill Kashmir Problem. They have but to concede the right of self-determination of the people of Kashmir sooner or later. They cannot escape from this issue. It is better and wiser to concede the right of self-determination as early as possible. It appears that the Present Government is trying to create war situation. God forbid if such thing happens, then, entire subcontinent will have to face the horrors of a terrible nuclear war in which India will be the greatest sufferer.

Relatives of militants may get passport in JK

Srinagar, Jun 20 (KMW): Procedures for issue of passports may have been eased elsewhere but youths in Jammu and Kashmir, said to be relatives of militants, do not get their travel document. Many of them claim they have been denied passport but are not informed about it formally. The state government, which intervened in the matter, claims that passport of relatives of militants are being issued but their kith and kin complain that they are still denied the 'right to travel’. Police refutes these claims and say the process is on.’ Campaign for Right to Travel', a group formed by Kashmiris who have been denied passports, allege that the government has blacklisted more than 60,000 people from receiving passports on the basis of intelligence reports that they could pose a security risk if they travel outside the country.

Safakadal youth succumbs to his injuries at SKIMS

SRINAGAR, June 19(KMW): Mohammad Rafiq Bangro, a youth who was injured in CRPF beating at Safakadal, succumbed to his injuries at SKIMS late this evening.

Twety six-year-old Rafiq was critically injured when he was beaten with gun buts and lathis on June 12 outside his home at Safakadal. He was removed to SKIMS in a critical condition. There was no improvement in his condition during last seven days and it continued to deteriorate.

Reports of his death were doing rounds for last several days. But both police and doctors were denying the reports.

However, late this evening the police confirmed his death. The body was not yet handed over to family for the last rites. "Rafiq's body is still lying in SKIMS. The authorities are likely to go for an autopsy of the body before it is handed over to the bereaved family," sources said.
On the day when Rafiq was thrashed by security men and cops, the people of Safakadal said he may not survive because he had received serious head injury. They stated that the youth was not involved in any protest demonstration or stone pelting and that he was innocent but was attacked by the security men.

Demonstrations were held at Safakdal this evening as the news about the youth succumbing to injuries reached there. Raising pro-freedom slogans, they were demanding registration of murder case against guilty cops and punishment to them.

During last several days the family had approached police to register a case against the guilty security men. But the cops refused to do so.
Te affected family members and their relatives held a protest demonstrations at Press Colony here some days back against the refusal by police to register the case.

Two Pakistani militants shot dead in Baramulla

Srinagar, June 18 (KMW): Two Pakistani militants belonging to Harkatul Mujahideen outfit were killed in an overnight gun battle with security forces in Baramulla district of north Kashmir.The bodies of Sajid and Umer, hailing from Pakistan, were recovered this morning from a house in Poshnad-Kreeri, 55 kms from here, police said. The militants fired at a search party of special operations group of local police and troops of 29 Rashtriya Rifles last evening, they said, adding the ultras belonging to Harkatul Mujahideen were killed in the ensuing gun battle. Two AK 47 rifles and a large number of ammunition were recovered from the slain militants.

India, Pak Foreign Secretaries to hold talks in Islamabad on Jun 24

New Delhi, Jun 18 (KMW): Foreign Secretaries of India and Pakistan will hold talks in Islamabad on June 24 on finding common ground for re-starting the peace process between the two countries, suspended after the 26/11 terror attack. Days ahead of the talks, India today handed over to Pakistan a set of responses to the six dossiers on 26/11 given by Islamabad on April 25 before the Prime Ministers of the two countries were scheduled to meet at Thump on the sidelines of the SAARC Summit. The responses were handed over to Pakistan's Deputy High Commissioner here who was called to the External Affairs Ministry. The External Affairs Ministry today said Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao will visit Pakistan at the invitation of her Pakistani counterpart Salman Bashir to hold Foreign Secretary-level talks in Islamabad on June 24.

India hands over 11th dossier to Pak on Mumbai terror attacks

New Delhi, Jun 18 (KMW): Ahead of the meeting of the foreign secretaries next week, India today handed over the eleventh dossier to Pakistan containing response to points raised by Islamabad over the Mumbai terror strikes and providing "additional information" on those involved in the attacks, including JuD chief Hafiz Saeed.The proceedings of the special Mumbai court, which heard the 26/11 case, including that of lone captured terrorist Ajmal Kasab, his confessional statement and the judgement of the court sentencing him to death, were part of the dossier handed over by Y K Sinha, Joint Secretary in- charge of Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan, to Pakistan's Deputy High Commissioner Riffat Masood, sources said.

What do you know about Masjid Al-Aqsa?

Have you noticed that whenever Masjid Aqsa is mentioned in the media, they show the picture of Masjid (Dome of Rock) Why?
The main reason for that is the Zionist conspiracy to erase from the memory of Muslims worldwide, the true picture of Masjid Al-Aqsa.
PLEASE BE CAUTIONED
Many Muslims and Non Muslims publish the incorrect picture of Masjid Aqsa out of ignorance. It has become a common mistake in the Muslim world. The real tragedy is that generations of Muslim children (as well as adults) around the world are unable to differentiate between Masjid Aqsa and the Dome of the Rock.
What is worse than this is that many Muslims today display the picture of the Dome of the Rock in their homes and offices, as it were Masjid Aqsa?
SUBHAN ALLAH
What do you think is going to happen if Masjid Aqsa will destroy and removed from present landscape?
Obviously you might not expect much since everyone will see the Dome of Rock still standing, unharmed.
People will incorrectly believe that nothing has changed and that something else was destroyed.
What are you going to do now?
It is your duty now to clear up this misunderstanding, especially for our children because they are the future.
Truth has come and Falsehood has vanished. Surely Falsehood is ever bound to vanish. (Al-Quran 17:81)
(The writter can be reached at: bilalbashirbhat@rediffmail.com)

Gunfight breaks out in north Kashmir

Srinagar, June 17 (KMWI): A gunfight between security forces and holed-up separatist guerrillas broke out in north Kashmir's Baramulla district late Thursday evening. 'Following specific information about the presence of militants in Poshnag (Kreeri) village in Baramulla district, the special operations group of the police and troops of counter-insurgency Rashtriya Rifles surrounded a house in the village this evening. The holed up militants were challenged to surrender, but they resorted to automatic gunfire at the surrounding troops, triggering a gunfight which is still on.' The officer said two separatist guerrillas, including a Pakistan national named Sajjad, were believed to be holed up inside the house, which has been cordoned off by the security forces.

Kashmir is part of India: Farooq Abdullah

Kolar, Karnataka, Jun 17 (KMW): India always wanted to maintain peace with neighboring countries, including Pakistan, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Farooq Abdullah today said. Addressing media persons after dedicating the first ever solar village in the country at Yerasandra in the district, he said, ''Kashmir is part of India. We want to maintain communal harmony with neighboring countries.'' ''Pakistan is now suffering because of its own mistakes. Internal trouble in that country is brewing and every other day it is witnessing violence in the form of bomb blasts by terrorists which it had created to trouble India,'' he added.

1 Killed in Kupwara Encounter

Srinagar, June 16(KMW): One person was killed in an encounter with security forces in Kupwara district, police said today. Police said the slain person was a militant.The gun battle took place yesterday at Gujjar Pati Zaloora area near Daroosas forest, 120 kms from here, police said, adding a jawan was also injured.One AK 47 rifle, four magazine, 119 rounds, a wireless set, a hand grenade, a compas, three mobile phones besides some clothing items and medicines were recovered from the spot, police said.

Rajya Sabha polls: BJP may support Vijay Mallya

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tuesday indicated that it may support independent candidate and liquor baron Vijay Mallya in the Rajya Sabha elections from Karnataka.Senior party leader Ananth Kumar said that the party’s aim was to defeat the Congress.“No decision has been taken about Karnataka…Our aim is that Congress loses wherever it is,” Kumar said here. The BJP has fielded M. Venkaiah Naidu and Ayanur Manjunath as its two candidates from Karnataka. Mallya, who has entered the fray with the support of the Janata Dal-Secular, needs the support of the BJP to make it to the Rajya Sabha.The Congress has announced Oscar Fernandes and T.V. Maruthi as its two candidates for the June 17 polls to the four Rajya Sabha seats from the state.Asked about the party  having gathered its Rajasthan legislators in a resort ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections in that state, Kumar said all BJP legislators were with the party.
“We will win two seats in Rajasthan,” he said.

Osama warns US against executing 9/11 mastermind

Dreaded terrorist Osama Bin Laden has warned US against executing 9/11 terror attack mastermind and other Al Qaeda prisoners, saying the outfit will kill any American it has taken hostage.“The day America takes this decision, it will have made a decision to execute whoever is taken captive by us,” bin Laden said in a 90-second audio message posted to jihadist websites. The message, which has not been authenticated, also warned US president Barack Obama against escalating military operation in Afghanistan, backing Israel against the Palestinians, and “oppressing” the Arab and Muslim world. “Your friend in the White House is continuing to behave badly on many important questions,” the message says in an apparent address to the American people. “He has stepped up military operations in Afghanistan and continued to keep our prisoners in its prisons such as our hero Khalid Sheikh Muhammad.” Khalid Sheikh has been facing trial in the US for plotting terror attack on New York’s World Trade Centre Sep 11, 2001. “If the US executes him, we will kill our American prisoner,” the message said, in an apparent reference to a US soldier kidnapped in Aghanistan last year. Taliban insurgents in June last year captured American soldier Bower Berghdahl in Afghanistan. The militants have released several videos of the soldier appealing to his family and fellow Americans to urge the US government to pull out its troops from the war-wracked country. The message also carries a threat of a major terror attack in the US similar to 9/11, in which 3,000 people were killed. “The US will be hit again as it was on September 11. Justice calls for an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, and this makes warfare inevitable,” it said.

Pakistan wants to resolve all issues with India: PM Gilani

Jun 15(KMW): Pakistan said Tuesday it sought a “negotiated and peaceful resolution” of all disputes with India.
“Pakistan is a peaceful nation. We are against territorial aggrandisement and seek a negotiated and peaceful resolution of all disputes with India,” Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said during his address at the National Defence University here.
“The Indian leaderships’ willingness to resume the stalled dialogue is a step in the right direction for regional peace and progress,” Online news agency quoted Gilani as saying.
India has steadfastly refrained from using the word “dialogue” in its engagement with Pakistan, saying it is time to go beyond nomenclatures and first address the “trust deficit” with its neighbor.
Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, at his National Press Conference in New Delhi May 24 to mark the first year of the second term of the United Progressive Alliance government, had said: “Pakistan is our neighbor. It is our obligation to make every effort to normalize relations with India’s neighbors. That’s essential to realise our full developmental potential.”
“Trust deficit is the biggest problem. Unless we tackle that, we can’t make progress. It has been my effort to reduce the gap,” he said.
In a bid to bridge this “trust deficit”, Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna is scheduled to meet his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi in Islamabad July 15.
Before that, Indian Home Minister P. Chidambaram is to visit Islamabad for the SAARC home ministers’ conference June 26.
India had suspended the sub-continental composite dialogue in the wake of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack that it has blamed on Pakistani terrorists.
Ajmal Amir Kasab, the lone gunman captured alive during the November 26-29, 2008 mayhem and who has been sentenced to death by a Mumbai court, has admitted to being a Pakistani national and has said the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror group had trained him for the attack, which claimed 166 lives.

Who has compromised in Gilgit Baltistan: Dr Shabir Choudhry

Legally and constitutionally areas of Gilgit Baltistan are part of the State of Jammu and Kashmir, but practically Pakistan has annexed these areas. Irony is Pakistan still present itself as a champion of Kashmiri peoples right of self determination and many people are so gullible that not only they accept this, but also urge others to fall in line or else they will be declared anti Pakistan or pro India.
 These areas of Gilgit Baltistan have great strategic importance and it was because of this the British leased Gilgit Agency from the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir; and returned it only two weeks before the end of their Raj in India. This area was so important to them that when the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir refused to give them a lease, they in order to twist his arm, managed unrest in Kashmir which included the incident of 13 July 1931.
  Pakistan took over these areas after the British, with help of Gilgit Scouts, managed another unrest which resulted in overthrow of the Maharaja’s appointed Governor Brigadier Gansara Singh. In order to get some kind of legality to their rule, the Pakistani government signed a treaty with their puppet rulers in Azad Kashmir. This treaty is known as the Karachi Agreement.
 The government of Pakistan issued Gilgit Baltistan Ordinance last year and have made these areas a province of Pakistan without declaring it as such. In 1971 war they lost East Pakistan which was about 57 thousand square miles; and they have recovered some of that loss by annexing Gilgit Baltistan which is about 28 thousand square miles.
 Gilgit Baltistan has population of just over two million. They weren’t many who opposed this Ordinance, as they expected it to bring about a system of government better than what they had experienced previously. Apart from that they were promised enormous economic rewards which have not been delivered yet.
 One man – Shafqat Inquilabi had commitment to his ideology, and he loved his nation; and didn’t want it to become part of Pakistan. He thought it was humiliating that Gilgit Baltistan is annexed by an Ordinance. He decided to stand up and be counted that at least there was someone who openly opposed it. After discussing the matter with his colleagues, especially leadership of Kashmir National Party, he decided to challenge this Ordinance. In hope of getting justice and that from Pakistani rulers and Pakistani judiciary, he challenged the Ordinance in the Supreme Court of Pakistan.
 In my last article on the subject titled, Gilgit Baltistan and Shafqat Inquilabi, I wrote some details of what the Pakistani secret agencies did to Shafqat Inquilabi for challenging Pakistani government over the issue of Gilgit Baltistan. This article was carried by dozens of publications and I got many emails on the subject. Some people have expressed support, and a few have suggested that propaganda has been unleashed against Shafqat Inquilabi that he has ‘compromised’ and that was why Kashmiri nationalists were not supporting him.

This allegation is ridiculous. All colonial powers want to prolong their rule in their colony and for that purpose they give rewards to those who are willing to sell their souls for material and political gains. Pakistani rulers are no exception to this rule. They have also established their rule with help of local collaborators which directly support their rule and some act as their ‘B team’; and impose themselves as ‘nationalists’. The role of these fake nationalists is to create divisions and make allegations against those who genuinely oppose the colonial rule.
 About four years ago I heard Shafqat Inquilabi had compromised his position, and he was no longer a ‘nationalist’. When Pakistan annexed these areas, many ‘nationalists’ decided to remain quiet, or tried to get some rewards; but Shafqat Inquilabi was prominent among those who strongly opposed this Ordinance. Furthermore it was Shafqat Inquilabi who filed a case in the Supreme Court of Pakistan; and consequently suffered for his daring action; and yet propaganda against him is that he has ‘compromised’.
 It doesn’t require rocket science to reach this conclusion that those who are spreading this propaganda are either agents of those whose interest Shafqat Inquilabi has challenged or they have personal disliking of the man or they feel threatened by his political activities, as they feel area for them to manoeuvre is getting marginalised.
 Who else has compromised?
 Both factions of APHC are Valley centric, their Kashmir or interest does not go beyond boundaries of the Valley, hence silence over what Pakistan does to people of Jammu and Kashmir on the other side of LOC. One could say same is the case with Yasin Malik, Shabir Shah and Sajjad Lone. He has become more pro division since becoming son in law of Amanullah Khan.
 I had an interesting email regarding the issue of compromise, and it surely gives a different perspective on the matter. Without making any changes, I am producing most of this email for benefit of my readers. It reads:

‘I am very much surprised as to why Indian government does not talk about rights of people of Gilgit Baltistan? And why even the elected leadership (Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti) in Kashmir never raise enough concern over Pakistan's pact for GB year 2009?

Does it mean that India has given up its claim on the territory or does not consider GB part of Kashmir? Then why Indian Government Official Map still shows GB as part of 1947 Kashmir political map?

Also its true for GB people as well, they don’t seek any political input from Indian Administered Kashmir or even Indian government. It seems that, unlike what we hear officially from APHC, Indian or Pakistani Government is not what is actually happening on the ground. The only thing which is true on the ground and what is portrayed in news is the huge army presence in civilian areas of Kashmir Valley, which is the cause of death and other human right violations. It is portrayed as if only Valley is having consistent agitations and issues with Army and Indian Government. Rest part of Kashmir like AJK, GB, Ladhak, Jammu all seems to be contended, by and large, with what ever they have got.

It is agreed that all regions of Kashmir political entity don't protest as vehemently as Kashmir-Valley Specific. The reasons may be they are driven by religion or Pakistani agency or foreign money sources, but yes, Kashmir Valley really make a louder and consistent case than any other sub-division of Kashmir State.

What will it take to make a unified voice from all regions of Kashmir State, unanimously that we want liberation? And when will that happen? Can only Kashmir Valley stone throws and agitations and human sacrifices is enough for Kashmir resolution? Aren't the political leaders guilty of misery of common men, whom they have forced in this quagmire of never ending mess?

What is the way forward? I think the way forward is to realise that we have a problem, and then to have a compromise solution. Compromise solution is to give the Kashmir state (the whole) political freedom guaranteed by United Nations, China, India and Pakistan. In return, Free Kashmir will guarantee, equal and fair treatment of all neighbours and will not give leverage to one neighbour at the cost of the other. This will include political and business opportunities as well’.
 This long quotation has many important points and readers can draw their own conclusions. But it shows that people know who is doing what in name of Kashmir; and what needs to be done to end the misery of the suffering people.
 However it would be pertinent to say that, at least, one political figure from the Valley has expressed his support for Shafqat Inquilabi and the cause he is promoting. That person is Hilal Ahmed War, who has expressed his full solidarity with the people of Gilgit Baltistan and openly said that these areas are part of the State of Jammu and Kashmir. Hilal Ahmed War says Pakistan has no right to annex these areas.

Role of China in this matter
 
It would be interesting for the readers to know that China also had great input in Gilgit Baltistan Ordinance. Chinese interest in this strategically important region is well known and they have more than 12,000 army personal carrying out various projects. China has helped Pakistan enormously and all the major projects have been completed with the Chinese help, guidance and money.

China and Pakistan have signed some more major projects related to this region which include construction of Diamer Basha Dam and other dams. Apart from the skilled labour, China has agreed to completely finance the $8.5 billion project, which was previously
put at 6.5 billion. When the World Bank refused to help Pakistan, the Chinese agreed to take full responsibility for the project, but they were not willing to invest this huge amount of money in a territory legal status of which was uncertain.
 The work on the project was scheduled to start in 2009, and under pressure from China the Pakistan government produced that Ordinance. They had no time to think or plan it properly; or even discuss it with their puppets in Azad Kashmir or in Gilgit Baltistan.
 This adds a new twist to the tragedy. On one hand there is government of Pakistan with all its might and powerful secret agencies, and of course support of local collaborators, not to mention position of China on the subject of the Ordinance; and on other hand is Shafqat Inquilabi who has challenged that Ordinance.
 Of course he has no chance of winning. So far he has stood firmly and has not given in to the pressure of the agencies to withdraw that petition from the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Apart from the Almighty the only supporter he has is newly established nationalist and secular party called Kashmir National Party.
 We will continue to support Shafqat Inquilabi, even when we know we will get hurt in this fight, and we will not win it either; but at times, winning is not everything, upholding a principle is more important. Instead of becoming collaborators or agents of those who occupy us, we will rather go down fighting.

 Writer is Director Diplomatic Committee of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs.Email:drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com

Strike over teenager's death enters second day

Srinagar, June 13 (KMW): Life came to a standstill in the old city today as a general strike observed to protest against the death of a 17-year-old youth entered second day, even as authorities imposed undeclared curfew  orders fearing trouble here.
At least 35 people, including 15 policemen, were injured here when clashes ensued between people mourning the death of teenage boy Tufail Ahmed Mattoo and security personnel yesterday, district Magistrate Meraj Ahmad Kakroo said, adding, redhibitory orders that were imposed following the clashes will remain in force today as well.
However, police and paramilitary force personnel deployed across the city have been directed to allow students with roll number slips to appear in examinations. Shops and business markets are closed and traffic off the roads in the city, officials said.
According to reports during the funeral of teenager boy the  violent mob yesterday manhandled some top separates leaders and asked them to refrain from shedding the crocodile tear and do not politicise the killing of innocent youth for your vested interest. It is first time that people have taken over and administer the people’s justice in their own hands.

Pakistan may re-launch militancy on 1990 pattern: Strategic Analysts

New Delhi, June 13 (KMW):  According to Strategic analysts Pakistan is revising the strategy in order to re-launch militancy in the State of Jammu and Kashmir on the pattern of 1990. Top Army Official has disclosed that about 600-800 militants were waiting to infiltrate, into valley in order to give a new life to militancy in Kashmir valley.
Northern Army Commander Lt General B S Jaswal, however, said the Army has succeeded in keeping the infiltrators at bay by adopting a three-pronged strategy.
"There is no let-up on the part of Pakistan in trying to send across militants. But if you see the statistics this year, they have not been able to make any inroads," he told NDTV.
The top Army Commander said 600-800 militants were waiting to infiltrate from across the border.
He said according to the statistics, 70 militants had infiltrated by this time last year while this year, only 12 could infiltrate as per the assessment.
According to Strategic analysts Pakistan is revising the strategy in order to re-launch militancy in the State of Jammu and Kashmir on the pattern of 1990.

'ISI part of landscape of destruction in Afghanistan'

London, Jun 13 (KMW): Pakistan’s ISI is part of the "landscape of destruction" in Afghanistan and it will be a "waste of time" to provide evidence of its links with the Taliban, according to Amrullah Saleh, former head of the war-torn country's intelligence agency. Saleh, who resigned last week from his post, told 'The Sunday Times': "the ISI is part of the landscape of destruction in this country (Afghanistan), no doubt, so it will be a waste of time to provide evidence of ISI involvement. They are a part of it." The paper said testimony by western and Afghan security officials, Taliban commanders, ex-Taliban ministers and a senior Taliban emissary show the extent to which the ISI "manipulates" the Taliban's strategy in Afghanistan.

Gilgit Baltistan and Shafqat Inquilabi: Dr Shabir Choudhry

For the first time in the past 63 years, rulers of Pakistani Administered Kashmir were allowed to visit Gilgit Baltistan, area of the State which has been under direct and oppressive rule of Pakistan.

The State was partitioned after the war between India and Pakistan and puppet rulers of Pakistani Administered Kashmir signed away vast areas of Gilgit Baltistan to their political bosses in Islamabad; and limited their interest to the area known as Azad Kashmir.

Since 1947 bureaucrats and secret agencies of Pakistan ruled Gilgit Baltistan with an iron fist, and rulers of Pakistani Administered Kashmir turned blind eye to the plight of these unfortunate people; and enjoyed their rule and sincerely served their Pakistani masters. They continue to serve and flatter Islamabad, even at the cost of interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

The party (Muslim Conference) that signed that ignominious treaty with Pakistani rulers, in view of some, worse than the Treaty of Amritsar, had no branches or even a single member in the areas of Gilgit Baltistan. One wonders what moral or legal justification they had to sign that treaty and leave the people of 28 thousand Square miles at the mercy of oppressive and imperialist minded bureaucrats of Pakistan. 

One wonders with that kind of blunder which made lives of millions of innocent people like a living hell, how do these so called leaders and champions of ‘freedom movement’ could sleep at night?

After signing this agreement, Muslim Conference leaders and rulers of Azad Kashmir almost forgot about the plight of the people of Gilgit Baltistan; and confined their rule and interest to the territory of Azad Kashmir. In early 1990s when the Kashmiri struggle was at its peak and many Kashmir watchers thought India might leave Kashmir on condition that the entire State becomes an independent country.

With that in mind Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir of the time, anticipating a change and having a desire to become a Prime Minister of the entire State of Jammu Kashmir contacted his bosses in Islamabad to allow him to visit Gilgit Baltistan. The boss concerned demanded reason for this; and the Prime Minister who thought he was becoming more important and had more influence because of the changing scenario on Kashmir said in the current situation it is important to visit Gilgit Baltistan to spread our influence.

He was bluntly told to keep away from Gilgit Baltistan, as these areas were responsibility of Islamabad. Moreover, he was the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir, and Act 74 clearly explains parameters of his power and influence; so he must not step outside those parameters, if he wanted to continue with his job. The Prime Minister apologised for his mistake and did not dare to ask permission again.

Perhaps the situation has changed, and both the Prime Minister and the President of Azad Kashmir were given permission to visit Gilgit Baltistan and give a donation of one Cror rupees. They went to express solidarity with the people of Gilgit Baltistan who have been uprooted because of Ataa Bad artificial lake. According to one estimate more than one hundred thousand people have been uprooted because of this lake, and people have suffered enormously because of lack of proper facilities.

They were received by Governor Dr Shama Khalid and Chief Minister Syed Mehdi Shah who thanked them for extending their support to the people of Gilgit Baltistan. Why did Pakistan allow Azad Kashmiri rulers to visit Gilgit Baltistan?

Is it because there is a change of policy in Islamabad, or they went there because bosses in Islamabad feel this territory is no longer part of the State of Jammu and Kashmir, and had become a province of Pakistan without calling it a province?

When there was some ambiguity regarding the legal status of these areas, Islamabad did not allow any ruler of Azad Kashmir to visit Gilgit Baltistan. In September 2009, Pakistan unilaterally and against bilateral and international covenants on Kashmir changed legal status of these areas and practically made them a province of Pakistan.

So, as far as Islamabad was concerned they have allowed the Prime Minister and the President of Azad Kashmir to visit a ‘Pakistani province’. The question is how do people of Jammu and Kashmir State think of this? What reaction, if any, people of Gilgit Baltistan have shown, now that they have experienced a ‘provincial status’ for some time?

What reaction ‘naita jees’ of All Parties Hurriyet Conference, who claim to represent all the Kashmiris have shown; or they are too frightened to speak about Gilgit Baltistan because their political masters in Islamabad could get angry, as the role assigned to them is to limit their activities within the boundary of the Valley.

In any case, naita jees of APHC have myopic view of the struggle and want to see everything with the lenses of religion. Apart from that their struggle is very heavily commercialised and negate politics of ballot and democracy, hence their influence is restricted to some sub districts of the Valley.

People of Azad Kashmir, unlike their rulers, have shown their anger against Pakistani designs on Gilgit Baltistan. But the question is, is that enough? Do they think their job is over and they can sit back and relax?

One man – Shafqat inquilabi, who challenged the Gilgit Baltistan Ordinance imposed by Islamabad on people of Gilgit Baltistan without and kind of consultation has been made example by the secret agencies of Pakistan; and sad thing is, apart from Kashmir National Party no one has come to even support him verbally.

Shafqat Inquilabi challenged this Ordinance in the Supreme Court of Pakistan, hoping to get justice from a Pakistani judiciary, which is perceived to be independent now. Despite many efforts he has not been able to get hearing date yet because the secret agencies believe that they can twist arm of Shafqat Inquilabi to withdraw the case; and this fact speaks volumes about the independence of judiciary, especially when it comes to Gilgit Baltistan.

Shafqat Inquilabi is an engineer by profession, and as a sub contractor was constructing some buildings in Pateka near Muzaffarabad. He had invested about nine lakhs rupees (nine hundred thousands) which he borrowed from some friends including me. To date, Shafqat Inquilabi has stood his ground and refused to give in to the pressure of secret agencies, but not without a big price.

Because of tremendous pressure of the secret agencies, the concerned people have expelled Shafqat Inquilabi from the project. He is out of job and has also lost all the money he had invested in the project. In order to ensure that he is alienated socially, all his friends and relatives were cautioned to keep away from him otherwise they will also suffer economically.

All this is happening in Islamic Republic of Pakistan, a country which was established in name of Islam, but most of things which occur here are against clear teachings of Islam. They claim to provide protection to non Muslims, but in this land of pure even Muslims are not safe, as every day they are killed by jet fighters and helicopter gun ships; and non Muslims are systematically targeted and killed.

What Pakistan is doing is not surprising, as all imperialist and totalitarian governments do this, they curb civil liberties and in name of nationalist interest they kill and imprison innocent people. However sad thing is the attitude of nationalists of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan. They have not supported him, even though demand of their nationalism was to unconditionally support him.

One could only think of three reasons:
·    They don’t want to support it out of jealousy because it will indirectly mean supporting KNP – a party which helped and supported Shafqat Inqquilabi and continue to do so;
·    They don’t want to face wrath of secret agencies; especially when some of the credit could go to Shafqat Inquilabi and KNP;
·    Perhaps they are fake nationalists; and in disguise of nationalism are actually promoting and protecting interests of Islamabad.

It is a test of Kashmiri nationalists to come out and support Shafqat Inquilabi’s case; and while doing so also ensure that Shafqat Inquilabi does not become a victim of the secret agencies. If he is made to surrender that will boost the confidence of the secret agencies; and it will make it extremely difficult for others to challenge the might of these agencies.

Writer is Director Diplomatic Committee of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs.Email:drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com

Strike paralysed life in Srinagar

Srinagar, Jun 12 (KMW): Normal life was paralysed in Srinagar the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir State, Srinagar today due to spontaneous strike in protest against the killing of a teenager allegedly by CRPF personnel in the downtown city yesterday. Police, however, denied that the teenager Tufail Ahmad Mattoo was killed by security forces and said the class xii student had died under mysterious circumstances. Shops and business establishments in the civil lines area , including Lal Chowk, the nerve centre of the city, remained closed though there was no strike call from any  separatist organisation. Transport service was plying on some selected routes in the civil lines and uptown. All the vehicles plying on downtown and Shehar-e- Khas (SeK) routes remained off the road because of curfew restrictions there. Work in the government offices, banks and other public sector undertakings in the city and its outskirts remained affected due to the strike and undeclared curfew restrictions. Civil Secretariat, the seat of the government, remained closed due to holiday on account of Saturday. All the educational institutions within the city limits were also closed as the management of most of these institutions declared a holiday in view of the tense situation. All the examinations, scheduled for today, have been cancelled due to the strike. Situation elsewhere in the Kashmir valley was however, normal with all shops and business establishments open and government offices and banks functioning as usual. Tufail was declared brought dead by the doctors at SMHS hospital where he was brought from the downtown city, where 'pro'-freedom demonstrators clashed with security forces after Friday prayers.

Police arrested Syed Ali Shah Geelani

Srinagar, Jun 12 (KMW): The chairman of the is faction of Hurriyat Conference Syed Ali Shah Geelani was arrested from his Hyderpora residence here today.Mr Geelani had been put under house arrest since last night. He said Mr Geelani was arrested by the police and lodged in Police Station Humhama in the central Kashmir. Mr Geelani was to attend Nimaz-e-Jinazah of a senior Jamaat-e-Islami leader at Sopore today, he said. He was later scheduled to attend repentance prayer meeting for the improvement in the weather at Hazratbal shrine, which houses the Holy Relic of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). After the death of a 14 year old youth in the down town yesterday, allegedly by security forces firing during demonstrations, authorities had apprehension of trouble today, and the administration has taken Mr. Gilani in preventive custody.

CPI (M) demands inquiry into killing of Srinagar youth

Srinagar, Jun 12 (KMW): The Communist Party of India (M) today demanded probe into the killing of Tufail Ahmad Matoo in the downtown. In a statement here, CPI (M) State Secretary Mohammad Yousuf Targami said the assurance of zero tolerance for Human Rights violations must be implemented on the ground. He demanded probe into the incident that took place in Rajouri Kadal yesterday, in which one youth was killed. While expressing deep shock over the incident, he demanded stern action against the erring officials. He said that such incidents were likely to create panic among the common masses resulting in further alienation which will prove disastrous. People alleged that Tufail, a 12th class student was killed when security forces were trying to disperse demonstrators in downtown, while police claimed that he died under mysterious circumstances.

PPP & BMT Grieved

Srinagar, June 11,2010(KMW): People’s Political Party (PPP), Chairman, Engineer Hilal Ahmad War, who also heads the Bhutto Memorial Trust, has expressed profound grief over the sad demise of Dr. Syed Nazir Gilani‘s pious mother. It is worth to mention here that Dr. Syed Nazir Gilani is a jurist of International repute and Secretary Genera of JKCHR–International (NGO) in Special Consultative Status in United Nations, Economic and Social Council. Dr. Gilani has been pleading Kashmir Case and Cause at Diplomatic level within the jurisprudence of International law and United Nations Charter.

An emergency meeting of PPP and Bhutto Memorial Trust was presided over by the Chairman, Engineer Hilal Ahmad War, at PPP Headquarters, Rajbag, Srinagar-Kashmir. The meeting of the executive Body of PPP and BMT was held today afternoon to condole the death of Dr. Syed Nazir Gilani’s mother.

Recalling her sweet memories and humanitarian contribution among family and friends of Dr. Gilani’s mother who was a very pious and caring elderly lady of the whole Syed dynasty. Her death has created a void impossible to be filled. Her pioneering role in the unifying family and spreading the message of “Haqooqul Ebaad” among the neighbors and relatives in particular.
“For PPP Chief, her demise is a personal loss,” expressing deep sympathies with the bereaved. He said the Syed family of Kashmir has lost a shadow whose affectionate disposition towards family and friends would be remembered for a long time.
May God give her eternal rest and may her soul rest in peace!
 

Kashmir Media Watch team also expressed deep sorrow and grief on the sad demise of Kashmiri veteran leader , Dr. Syed Nazir Gilani’s mother and expresses sympathy with Dr. Gilani and prayed for the departed soul. 

Youth killed by CRPF Personnel in Srinagar

Kashmir Media Watch

Srinagar, June 11,2010:A 14-year-old schoolboy was killed by CRPF trooper when the people were peacefully protesting for their birth right of self-determination in down town area of Rajouri Kadal after Friday prayers.  When the youth was shot at his head, he was immediately rushed to SMHS hospital by locals for treatment. However, the doctors there declared him brought dead.
The 14-year-old Tufail’s brutal death is an example of Dr. Manmohan Singh’s zero tolerance. It can be presumed that Dr. Singh has given a green signal to its unbridled cops to eliminate the fourth generation of freedom fighters. It seems that India is worried about passing of Movement to fourth generation. When the news of the youth’s death spread, hundreds of people, particularly youth took to streets at Rajouri Kadal, Saraf Kadal, Kawdara, Nawab Bazar and other areas of the old city, and staged pro-freedom and anti-India demonstrations. Chanting, “We want Freedom,” “Islam Zindabad,” and anti-India slogans, the youth were protesting the death of Tufail.
The protesters alleged that the youth was killed by uniformed men while dispersing the protesters. Enraged protesters engaged troops and police in pitched battles. In retaliation CRPF troops and police, deployed in strength fired numerous teargas canisters after they failed to quell demonstrations with baton charge. The clashes prompted the shopkeepers to pull down their shutters while the movement of transport was also affected. Superintendent of Police (SP) North, Abdur Rashid Paul said that the youth died of injury due to stone pelting. Police, he said, did not use force to quell the demonstrations in the old city.

Urges British Government to address alienation and disaffection of Muslims:Dr. Syed Nazir Gilani

 LONDON, June 11,2010(KMW): The UK-based Jammu and Kashmir Council for Human Rights (JKCHR) has expressed serious concerns over the alienation and disaffection found among Muslim prisoners held in various prisons of United Kingdom. JKCHR Secretary General Dr. Syed Nazir Gilani in a statement on Friday has asked MP Crispin Blunt, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Prisons and Probation, to take urgent remedial measures to ensure that the stereotype treatment with Muslim inmates by prison staff as potentially dangerous militants is stopped forthwith.  In his letter addressed to Blunt, Gilani has urged the Minister that the discriminatory

prison regime enforced by the prison staff as pointed out by Dame Anne Owers, Chief Inspector of Prisons, needs urgent attention of the government.

It is unfortunate that even though less than one percent of the 10,300 Muslim prisoners in England and Wales have been convicted of terrorism-related offences, the whole population of Muslim prisoners is being treated as potentially dangerous militants, Gilani said. 

JKCHR letter adds that the finding made in the report that resources were poured into security at the expense of understanding the religious needs of Muslim prisoners is a serious breach of duty to care.

Gilani said that it is reassuring to note that Islam has “played a positive and rehabilitative role in the lives of many prisoners, despite staff being suspicious of religious acts”.

It is urgently required that prison staff has reliable training sessions in knowing the values embedded in Muslim faith and in ably discharging their duties as citizens of a multi-faith society.

JKCHR letter adds that Muslim prisoners should be encouraged to take part in more occupational activities and various groups working for the welfare of prisoners and other experts should be facilitated to have sustained and regular contact with these prisoners. Family visits and family contacts should be accorded top priority.

Should trust in politics:Hurriyat Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq

The alliance must realizes that violence will not help the people of Kashmir, and allow New Delhi and Islamabad to resolve the situation General Ayub Khan, then at the helm of the Pakistan government, is believed to have told Soviet prime minister Alexei Kosygin that if India were to come to a settlement with Shaikh Mohammad Abdullah, head of the Jammu and Kashmir government at that time, Pakistan might accept the agreement. Kosygin was then trying his best to span the distance between India and Pakistan, despite Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's doubts over the role of Russia, which was supplying arms to Pakistan.
Soon afterwards, the Shaikh was detained for nearly 12 years in South India. He had reportedly asked New Delhi to make good on the terms of the Instrument of Accession. Maharaja Hari Singh had ceded powers of defence, communication and foreign affairs to India.
Since 1993, the All Parties Hurriyat Conference has used all means possible to secure the right of the Kashmiri people to self determination. Its agenda goes far beyond that of the Shaikh or, for that matter, the ruling National Conference. Unfortunately, the Hurriyat is split between hardliners and moderates. Whatever its verdict on the government headed by Omar Abdullah, the Shaikh's grandson, he has made the security forces accountable. The suspension by the army of a major and the removal of a colonel for their roles in contentious incidents is no small achievement. Omar has ordered an enquiry into these encounters and strict orders have been given to the security forces not to violate human rights.
Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has said: "We expected the prime minister to start a bold political initiative on Kashmir but nothing of that sort has come through". Obviously, the Hurriyat has not taken into account Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's message that the government is committed to advancing the negotiation process.

Naïve

The Indian leader wanted the Hurriyat to come on board before his representatives held a series of ministerial-level meetings with Pakistan. It is naïve of the Mirwaiz to demand a public announcement from the government regarding its intentions — dialogue is the only way to hammer out differences.
I think the failure of the Hurriyat is that they prefer bullets to ballots. They revolted when the elections were rigged in Kashmir in 1987. Crossing the border to receive training and returning with weapons was the reaction of angry, helpless people. Violence, as some Hurriyat leaders have belatedly realised, was not an option that could have yielded results. Coming into conflict with the state, which is infinitely stronger, was foolhardy. I am not underestimating the sacrifices that have been made — very few movements in the world have been so determined and so sustained.

Legitimacy

The Hurriyat should have returned to the ballot box after it became apparent that violent agitation was achieving little. Instead, the Hurriyat movement has come to be seen as a challenge to the country's integrity.
The Hurriyat should have tried to gain control of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly. Instead, they boycotted elections. Their argument was that the Indian Election Commission could not be trusted and they proposed supervision by UN observers. No sovereign country could have accepted this. Had the Hurriyat leaders demanded that Indian human-rights activists should be appointed as observers, New Delhi might have consented. But would the Hurriyat have won an election? The Hurriyat's own lack of certainty might have been the deciding factor in its decision not to participate.
The Hurriyat's leaning towards Pakistan has distanced it from India. It is true that a solution in Kashmir is not possible without Islamabad, but the alliance has only created further doubts in the minds of the majority of Indians.
This is the Hurriyat's weakness. Not having the support of the Hindu-majority Jammu and the Budhist-majority Ladakh, the Hurriyat have forfeited the right to speak for the state. It should have at least wooed the Kashmir pandits, many still in camps. Some Hurriyat leaders have realised this, but it may be too late.
The Hurriyat have oscillated between demands for Kashmiri autonomy and independence. Realising that Pakistan is equally opposed to independence, the Hurriyat wants a solution that is acceptable to the people of Kashmir. But that has not been spelled out. The fact that Jammu and Ladakh are nowhere in the picture means that the Hurriyat's demand is only for the valley. This brings the Hurriyat into conflict with Singh, who has said many a time that he has no mandate to change the borders. In any case, the Indian nation would not accept another partition on the basis of religion.
The Hurriyat would do well to wait for India and Pakistan to reach a settlement on Kashmir. As a starting point, it should ask New Delhi to restore the situation to how it was prior to 1952, when Srinagar ceded authority over foreign affairs, defence and communications to India.
 
Kuldip Nayar is a former Indian high commissioner to the United Kingdom and a former Rajya Sabha member.

14 Taliban militants killed in northwest Pakistan

Peshawar, Jun 9 (KMW): At least 14 Taliban militants were killed today in clashes with security forces in northwest Pakistan's restive Orakzai tribal region, officials said. A group of militants attacked a security check post in Mashti Mela area of Orakzai, triggering a gun battle that left eight terrorists dead and two security personnel injured, they said. Another six militants were killed in a separate clash with security forces in Orakzai tribal agency, the officials said. Over the past few days, the Taliban have stepped up their attacks in Orakzai against the security check posts. Today's clashes came a day after six soldiers and 40 militants were killed in a gun battle that followed an attack on a check post. In a separate development, police in Hangu district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province recovered a man who was abducted by unidentified persons, the officials said.

Dig at roots rather than hacking at leaves: Hurriyat to PM

Srinagar, Jun 8 (KMW): Kashmiri separatist amalgam Hurriyat Conference today remained cool to the latest offer of talks by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, saying Government should change its approach and look into the root of the problem in the border state. While making it clear that Hurriyat was committed to a meaningful dialogue with the Centre, the amalgam chairman Mirwaiz Umer Farooq said the outfit was disappointed by the "circuitous approach" adopted by the Prime Minister while inviting groups other than mainstream political parties for talks.” When solving problems, dig at the roots instead of just hacking at the leaves," Farooq said, citing a famous education quote. "We were hoping that there will be a direct offer for talks rather than taking a circuitous route. Kashmir is a political problem and we have to find a political solution.

Two CRPF jawans injured in militant firing in Srinagar

Srinagar, Jun 8 (KMW): Two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawans were injured when militants attacked a roadside bunker in the old city with automatic weapons official sources said today. The attack came at a time when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was in the town. They said militants appeared at Habba Kadal and started to firing at a roadside bunker on the bridge last night. They said two CRPF jawans were injured in the incident, first after several years in the old city. However, one of the injured jawans of 144 battalion was admitted to SMHS hospital while the other was discharged after first aid. Later, security forces conducted searches in the area but the militants had managed to escape under the cover of darkness. No militant outfit has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Mobile service restored in Kashmir when PM was still in town

Srinagar, Jun 8 (KMW): The mobile services in the Kashmir valley were restored late last night even while Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was still in town. All the mobile service providers jammed their service in the Kashmir valley when Dr Singh arrived at Srinagar airport yesterday afternoon. Thousands of customers, including those having Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) service, remained cut off from each other after the service went off the air. The officials said it was a precautionary measure for security reasons as in the past militants triggered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) through mobile phones. The worst hit due to non-functioning of mobile phones were the media persons and tourists. The journalists in the field could not contact their respective media agencies while tourists found it difficult to inform their relatives back home about their welfare. However, the service was restored late in the night.

Mission or Event Driven Politics : Dr. Syed Nazir Gilani

Kashmir Media Watch
Kashmir politics is no more mission driven. It has degenerated into an unfortunate dull reflex on the happening of an event. The disturbing feature of this event driven political luxury is that the present surge of our leaders beguiles itself by a false belief that a shutdown of Kashmiri market, loss of an academic session, a token hunger strike in Kashmir or a people’s march would in any way hurt India, move the people any closer to Azadi (if not self determination) or bring any relief to any household affected in the last 20 years. Our leaders have found it more profitable to remain divided and go solo in their desire to pressure India or Pakistan and receive ineffective members of foreign missions. These foreigners are used as second cadre intelligence gathering mechanism. Some of our leaders are free to take part in political activities as uncomfortable as those for which some are taken out of circulation and incarcerated. Kashmir politics has turned into a jigsaw puzzle. It has rewarded some beyond belief and disadvantaged the majority beyond repair.
It is a shame for any decent human being in Kashmir or abroad to note that the Machil killings (fake encounter) start at home. The heinous crime was part engineered by local Kashmiris and the desire to earn more and more drove them to sin. It is encouraging to note that PDP President has written a letter to chief minister seeking the convening of a “special session of Assembly to discuss the grave situation caused by unabated Human Rights violation”. Her statement that “Young men are being sold and purchased for outright slaughter and their own elected government seems blissfully engaged in games of survival and comforts of power”, is a formal FIR against the government elected to protect the life of all citizens.
Mehbooba Mufti prima facie has made a strong case in public interest. However, it is important to test the subterranean of this concern and find out the ratio of self serving politics in the aggregate of this public interest. One has to remain fully mindful of the fact that the present practice of “make their blood completely worthless” is a hand over of PDP government. The two political parties have their respective roles in the “staged murder of young men”. Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti accrue a criminal liability and have a case to answer.
PDP if serious in its case for public interest should look beyond petty politics and go for all possible remedies. It has financial resources and enormous public backing to seek a proper relief in regard to “unabated Human Rights violation”. Heavens would not fall if PDP attempts political honesty and summons courage in the interests of the people and generates a debate on the discipline enshrined in the bilateral agreement with India (Instrument of Accession) which has granted admission to Indian army in the State and which sets out limits on its role in Kashmir.
Indian army has been temporarily admitted into Kashmir to protect ‘life’, ‘honour’ and ‘property’ of the people. It is in Kashmir as a supplement to assist the Kashmir government and remains sub-ordinate to the State government. PDP as a party duly represented in the J & K Legislature has a right to raise the question of army acting outside the discipline of agreement in the assembly. It has a right to raise the
matter directly with the government of India or seek a review in the Supreme Court of India. Reaching out to Pakistan and UN are other extreme options as well.
Unfortunately one finds that PDP is also tempted to play to the gallery and act in reference to Pakistan or India-Pakistan dialogue. Dialogue or no dialogue should not be the aching concern of NC or PDP. The two parties should remain on the side of the best interests of their people and force India and Pakistan to discharge their respective national and international commitments for the welfare of Kashmiri people and continue to gradually assert the title of the people to self-determination.
Mehbooba Mufti has admitted, “AFSPA has unfortunately become a tool of oppression in the state. We as representatives of the people owe it to them to get this repealed. Unless we join hands to do that I am afraid it could never be off the statute books. The democratic system of the country gives that power to us and the people expect us to use that power for the safety of their life, dignity and honors.”
PDP president has got the understanding of her political arithmetic wrong in her statement. She has been elected to represent the people of Jammu and Kashmir and has taken oath under the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir and therefore her reference to the “democratic system of the country” is a misdirected wisdom. It is an extra jurisdictional and extra Constitutional lunge. She has a legislative legitimacy in reference to people and the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir. Such statements are no more than a political extravagance and a waste of time.
NC and PDP in particular and Congress, CPI-M and other political parties in general need to warn the government of India that violation of human rights shall have a serious implication for its army officers and the political hierarchy incharge of armed forces during their future travel abroad. They are likely to be arrested under an international jurisdiction for any abuse of human rights. PDP president’s letter would be a sufficient cause to initiate such proceedings in any capital of the world. Chief Minister as part of the joint command also remains exposed to such an action during his future travel abroad.
PDP president does not seem to have all her political sums correct. On the one hand she wants to act in the “best traditions of democracy”, act in the “interests of our people and the rightness of our cause” and at the same time seems unsure of the abilities of J & K Legislature and wants to earn a “sympathetic response to it from rest of the country”. It is a characteristic double thinking or double play of all Kashmiri political parties. If PDP is convinced that it has a case to take to the special session of the Assembly it could at the same time take the issue of the failure of government of India in the discharge of the terms of the bilateral agreement with the government of Jammu and Kashmir to the Supreme Court of India.
PDP could at the same time express that it reserves its right to invoke the role of the government of Pakistan as a party to the dispute (in line with article 4 of the J and K Constitution) and the duty of the UN under its UN mechanism on Kashmir. J & K government has accepted a role under the UNCIP resolutions. The choice of remedies has to be made with extreme care because priorities in Pakistan have changed and there is more interest in the waters flowing out of Kashmir and less regard for the over spill of Kashmiri blood. As local Kashmiris have part co-operated in Machil fake encounter on the Indian side, Pakistan too has recruited Kashmiris who in the process of making more and more money continue to kill the Rights Movement.
Author is London based Secretary General of JKCHR – NGO in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations.  Email dr-nazirgilani@jkchr.com