7.7 magnitude earthquake hits Afghanistan; tremors shake Kashmir, Pakistan

According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake hit at 2:30 pm (Indian time), 45 south of Jarm in Afghanisatn, shaking buildings and offices in these areas.

An earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale rocked Afghanistan’s Jarm city on Monday, shaking nearby Pakistan, Jammu and Kashmir and several Indian cities.
According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake hit at 2:30 pm (Indian time), 45 south of Jarm in Afghanisatn, shaking buildings and offices in these areas.
People rushed out of homes and offices after tremors shook the buildings.
In Kashmir valley, the tremors lasted for more than two minutes, triggering panic among people.
It was not immediately known if there were any casualties.

 

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Major earthquake jolts Kashmir, South Asia

The India Meteorological Department said the epicentre of the quake lay in the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan.

 

Screengrab of the epicentre of the quake.

 

A major earthquake measuring at least 7.5 on the Richter scale on Monday jolted large parts of India, Pakistan and Afghanistan, causing widespread panic, officials here said.

 

The India Meteorological Department said the epicentre of the quake lay in the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan.

 

The US Geological Survey said the epicentre lay 45 km south-southwest of Jarm in Afghanistan, around 240 km from capital Kabul. It put the intensity at 7.7 on the Richter scale.

 

The Pakistani met department put the intensity even higher -- at 8.1.

 

The tremors jolted the whole of northern India including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

 

Everywhere, tens of thousands of people fled out of their homes and high-rise buildings.

 

In the capital, Delhi Metro immediately suspended its services. The quake also affected telecom services in Delhi and neighbouring regions as hundreds of thousands of people began telephoning one another. 

 

The Pakistani media said the quake was felt in all major cities including Islamabad, Lahore and Rawalpindi.

 

By GK News

At least 11 killed in Pakistan after 7.7 magnitude quake

Six people were killed in Swat, while four people were killed in the Bajaur tribal region after the collapse of buildings in the area.

 

 

Representational Pic

At least 11 people have been killed in Pakistan after building collapsed due to a 7.7 magnitude earthquake that hit the neighbouring Aghanistan.
Six people were killed in Swat, while four people were killed in the Bajaur tribal region after the collapse of buildings in the area. A child was killed in Kallar Kahar, Dawn News reported.
A wall collapsed in Sargodha, injuring 10 people, while three are injured in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Ashura observed with reverence across JK

Thousands participate in Zuljanah processions to pay tributes to Imam Hussain (AS)

Photo: Habib Naqash/GK

Youm-e-Ashura was observed on Saturday with reverence and religious fervour throughout Jammu & Kashmir to pay tributes to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), and his companions for their supreme sacrifice in Karbala.
Alam and Zuljanah processions were taken out in all districts across Kashmir. Thousands of Azadars participated in a procession in downtown Srinagar which passed through Mohalla Syed Afzal, Alamgari Bazar and culminated at Zadibal Imambargah. The procession was led by Shia Association president and Minister of Information Technology, Molvi Imran Raza Ansari.
On the occasion, Molvi Ansari threw light on the life and martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions. The procession was organized under the aegis of Jammu and Kashmir Shia Association.
Ashura processions were also taken out in Baarji Harwan, Bemina, Gund Khwaja Qasim, Mirgund, Hanjiveera, Balhama, Panear, Tral, Divsar Kulgam, Sofipora Pahalgam, Chattergul, Achabal, Dangerpora, Sonawari and scores of other places.
In central Kashmir’s Budgam district Ashura processions was taken out from Gazi Manzil to Imambara Yousufabad, Magam, Iskinderpora Beerwah and Sonpah. The biggest procession was taken out from Mirgund to Imambargah Budgam.
Ashura processions were also taken out in Ladakh’s remote Turtuk, Partappora and Chushut. In Kargil, Ashura was observed under the banner of Anjuman-e-Jamiyat Ullama (Islamia School Kargil). The mourning processions were taken out from 25 villages of Kargil amid cold. The processions passed through Main Bazar, Lal Chowk, Khomeni Chowk, Islamia School Chowk and concluded at Qatilgaha-e-Hussaini (Inqillab Manzil). Thousands of mourners participated in these processions.
In Ganderbal district, Ashura processions were taken out at Bot Kullan and Dub. Minister for Education, Naeem Akhtar, accompanied by District Development Commissioner Ganderbal, Showkat Aijaz Bhat, visited Dub Ganderbal on Ashura eve to take stock of situation there.
The Minister went around Imambargah in the area to take stock of arrangements made by district administration. Expressing satisfaction over arrangements provided by the district administration, he said that Imam Hussain (AS) symbolizes firm faith in Almighty, high principals of righteousness, purity of thought and highest degree of sacrifice to uphold truth and human dignity.
He said that Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions exhibited unparalleled courage and patience, and made historic sacrifices at Karbala which would enlighten and guide the mankind forever. Among others, Superintendent of Police Ganderbal, Imtiyaz Ismail Parray, and Superintending Engineer Roads & Buildings were also present on the occasion.

JAMMU:
Thousands of mourners were part of an Ashura procession taken out on Saturday from Peer Mitha Jammu amid tight security arrangements. The procession commenced from Imam Bargah Peermitha under the banner of Anjuman-e-lmamia, Jammu.
Thousands of mourners from across the region mourned the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS). A brief Majlis (congregation) was also held before the start of the procession where scholars delivered lectures narrating the tragedy of Karbala.
After passing through the traditional route, the procession culminated at Karbala complex Wazarat road. The majlis Sham-e-Ghariban was addressed by Moulana Syed Mohammad Abbass Rizvi, an Iranian Scholar.
Similar procession was also taken out from New Plots Jammu by Anjuman-e-Haidery that culminated and merged with the main procession at Imam Bargah Sofi Shah Peermitha.
Addressing media, President Anjuman-e-Imamia, Jammu, Syed Amanat Ali Shah said that Anjuman is doing pious duty of organizing Azadari in Jammu since long.

By GK News

Muharram processions taken out inKashmir despite restrictions

20 injured in clashes with police,several detained in Srinagar

SRINAGAR, Oct 24: Authorities did not allow the Muharram procession from city centre Lal Chowk towards Dal Gate by imposing restrictions in Civil Lines areas and in few police stations of old Srinagar.

However, Muharran processions were taken out across Kashmir valley today in which thousands of mourners participated. The biggest Muharram procession was taken from Zadibal and in Mirgund Budgam in which large number of people participated.
Police foiled the Muharram processions at several places by resorting to baton charge and at least 20 mourners injured and detained scores of them.

The authorities had promulgated restrictions under 144 CrPC and also imposed strict restrictions in the areas falling under the police stations Shaheed Gunj, Ram Munshi Bagh, Dalgate, Khanyar, Rainawari, Nowhatta, M R Gunj, Safakadal, Lal Bazaar and Maisuma.
Mourners had assembled at Shaheed Guj to take out a major procession that would pass from Jehangir Chowk, Moulana Azad Road and culminate at Dalgate. The police swung in to action and resorted to lathi charge towards the mourners and did not allow them to proceed.

The mourners showed stiff resistance and were trying to lead the procession. But the heavy deployment of police and CRPF foiled their attempt and arrested scores of them and were lodged in various police stations. The mourners, in small groups, however, managed to reach Jehangir Chowk where they were intercepted by the police again leading to clashes. Police bundled many mourners into the vehicles who were later taken into preventive custody.
Police also prevented a group of mourners who were trying to take out a procession from Abi-Guzar. Police swung into action as mourners, including activists of Geelani-led Hurriyat, tried to take out a procession in defiance of prohibitory orders in Lal Chowk area of the city.

Restrictions were imposed in several areas of uptown including Maisuma and Abi Guzar areas to disallow the moving of the Muharram procession. Police had also placed barbed wires on many entry points leading to city centre to prevent any major gathering of mourners.

However, Muharam processions were taken place across Kashmir valley. A Zuljanah and Tazia procession was taken out in Batakada to Zadibal in Molvi Imran Raza Ansari also participated. Thousands of devotees from Srinagar and adjacent areas participated in the procession.
Processions were taken out in Alamgari Bazaar, Balhama, Baarji Harwan, Kral Mohalla Harwan, Gulshanbagh Lal Bazar in Srinagar.
In south Kashmir, similar processions were taken out at Wakharwan Awantipora and Panner area of Tral.
In north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, processions were taken out in Hanjiveera Pattan, Mirgund, Gund Khwaja Qasim and several other areas.
In central Kashmir’s Budgam district, Ashura processions were taken out in Gazi Manzil Imambada Yousufabad, Magam, Askinderpora Beerwah and Sonpah Beerwah. Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian Chief, Agha Syed Hassan Al Moosvi Al Safvi, took out the biggest Ashura procession from Imambara Budgam.
In Kargil, Ashura was observed under the banner of Anjuman-e-Jamiyat Ullama (Islamia School Kargil). The mourning processions were carried from nearby villages of Kargil town. The processions passed through Main Bazar, Lal Chowk, Khomeni Chowk, Islamia School Chowk, Islamia School and concluded at Qatilgaha-e-Hussaini.). Thousands of mourners participated in these processions.
Senior separatist leaders, Syed Ali Geelani, Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, Shabir Shah and Muhammad Nayeem Khan were placed under house arrest. Muhammad Yasin Malik was arrested.
Police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) contingents in full-riot gear were enforcing restrictions in the city.
In areas placed under restrictions, rolls of razor-fitted concertina wire were erected on street crossings to block passage of traffic and pedestrian movement.

By Kashmir Times

Ashura 2015: Shiite Muslims Mark Martyrdom Of Imam Hussein

      

Story contains graphic images
The martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammad’s grandson is being commemorated by some devout Shiite Muslims with rituals that include mass flagellation ceremonies, acts of giving and candlelit vigils.
Asmarked on the tenth day of the Islamic month of Muharramhura is  (the first month of the lunar calendar, which can vary depending on the sighting of the moon).

Shiite Muslim men beat themselves with knives attached to chains during a procession to mark Ashoura at Jafaria worshipping place in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Wednesday It marks the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Holy prophet in 680 AD in Karbala, near Baghdad in Iraq. He was killed fighting the armies of Ummayid Caliph Yazid, alongside 72 men of his own men.
His body was then mutilated, leading to his martyrdom.

Further acts to commemorate the date across the globe include:

• #40ActsofKindness: October 24 at 12:00 am till December 3 at 11:59 pm, Karachi, Pakistan
• Blood donations: October 24 at 9:00 am till 1:00 pm Iranian Hospital-Dubai
• Downtown Procession: October 24 at 10:00 am, Richard J. Daley Center, Chicago
• Water Distribution Drive: October 24 at 1:00 pm till 5:00 pm, Jhelum, Pakistan
• Weekly Food Donation Drive: October 24 at 6:00 pm till 8:00 pm, Charing Cross, London
• Annual Interfaith Candle light Vigil for Peace & Humanity: October 25 at 5:45 pm till 7:45 pm, Irving, Texas
• Who is Hussain: October 26 at 4:00 pm till 8:00 pm, Detroit
• Blood donations: October 31 at 10:00 am till 4:00 pm, Belgrave Road, London
• Weekly Food Donation Drive: October 31 at 6:00 pm till 8:00 pm, Charing Cross, London
• Who Is Hussain: November 2 at 5:00 pm till 9:00 pm, Southfield, Michigan

As well as marking the occasion with self-flagellation - to emulate the suffering of Hussein - some take part in processions, which involve walking on coals and carrying a 'Tazia' - a replica of his coffin.
Many travel to Karbala in Iraq, where Hussein was killed, as a pilgrimage on Ashura. Some observers wear black and march through the streets chanting and hitting themselves in the chest. Some use whips and chains - or cut themselves on the forehead - to ritually punish their bodies.

This aerial photo shows the Shiite holy shrine of Imam Hussein, bottom, and the holy shrine of Imam Abbas, top, as pilgrims gather during preparations for the Muslim holiday of Ashoura in the city of Karbala, 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Baghdad, Iraq, Friday, Oct. 23, 2015

 
Many Shiite leaders discourage the bloodletting, claiming it creates a negative image and encourage people to donate blood instead.
The campaigns were launched by Shia clerics who believe self flagellation has no place in modern Islam.
Sunni Muslims consider Ashura a fast day because Muhammad fasted then and Moses fasted in appreciation of the successful Exodus for Egypt.

Shiite Muslims distribute free food on the tenth day of the mourning period of Muharram, which marks the day of Ashura, in the Karrada neighbourhood of Baghdad on October 24, 2015 as Shiites around the world remember the slaying of the Prophet Mohammed's grandson the Imam Hussein in the seventh century, by armies of the Sunni caliph Yazid in 680

 
Iraqi police stop at a stall serving free tea on the tenth day of the mourning period of Muharram, which marks the day of Ashura, in the Karrada neighbourhood of Baghdad on October 24, 2015 Many believe the death of Hussein was a decisive event in the split in Islam between the two sects of the Shiite and the Sunnis.
Shiites, who constitute Islam’s second-largest denomination (between 10-15 per cent of the Muslim population) consider Hussein to be one of the true heirs of Muhammad’s legacy.
Flagellation is also carried out by some Catholics, although it is no longer a widespread practice.
The late Pope John Paul II would whip himself, according to a nun who used to care for him.
And in the Philippines, devotees wearing crowns of twigs are nailed to crosses in a yearly rite, despite discouragement by church leaders.

By huffingtonpost.co.uk

Police foil Muharram procession, use batons, teargas shells; dozens injured

The mourners resorted to stone-pelting on forces forcing police to fire tear smoke shells.

Photo: Habib Naqash/GK

Police Thursday foiled the Muharram procession by resorting to massive baton charge and firing of dozens of tear smoke shells leaving at least 20 policemen and dozens of mourners injured.
At least 30 mourners were detained and taken into preventive custody.
Entire city centre—Lal Chowk – got enveloped in a thick smoke cover after hundreds of mourners tried to take out a procession to mark the martyrdom anniversary of Hazrat Imam Hussain(AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The procession was organized by Anjuman-e-Itehadul Muslimeen headed by senior Hurriyat Conference (M) leader Moulana Abbass Ansari. However, the authorities had placed Ansari under house arrest. The procession was supposed to be led by Ansari’s son Masroor Abbas Ansari, who was also placed under house arrest by the authorities.
Hundreds of mourners had assembled at Shaheed Guj to take out a major procession that would pass from Jehangir chowk, Moulana Azad Road and culminate at Dalgate. However, the authorities had put section 144 in place and also imposed strict restrictions in the areas falling under the police stations Shaheed Gunj, Ram Munshi Bagh and Dalgate. Police had also placed barbed wires on many entry points leading to city centre to prevent any major gathering of mourners.
The mourners, in small groups, however, managed to reach Jehangir Chowk where they were intercepted by the police leading to clashes. Policemen who were deployed in length fired many tear smoke canisters to disperse the mourners. Police bundled many mourners into the vehicles who were later taken into preventive custody. Similarly, many mourners managed to reach Dalgate from Abi-Guzar and other adjoining areas. They, too, were prevented by the police leading to clashes. The mourners were raising pro-Islam and anti-government slogans.
Police also prevented a group of mourners who were trying to take out a procession from Abi-Guzar. The mourners resorted to stone-pelting on forces forcing police to fire tear smoke shells.  Massive clashes erupted between Shia mourners at policemen at Nowpora near Dalgate. Witnesses said that the mourners were trying to take out a procession and from Dalgate. Police sources said since section 144 was in place, they were forced to move back. The mourners, however, raised anti-government slogans and hurled brickbats at policemen. The police responded with firing of dozens of tear smoke shells. Talking to Greater Kashmir, Masroor Abbas, who is the president of Anjuman-e-Itehad-ul Muslimeen, preventing Shia mourners from taking out processions is a direct religious interference which is highly condemnable. All the processions were supposed to be taken out under the Shia-Sunni Coordination Committee. “I strongly denounce the curbs and the force used by the police on mourners at various areas of Srinagar,” Abbas said. He said at least three dozen mourners have been lodged in various police stations. “Restrictions are against the religious freedom and needs to be condemned in strong words,” he said. Abbas said that the process was supposed to start from Shaheed Gunj and pass through Lal Chowk and Moulana Azad road and would culminate at Hyderiya hall at Dalgate. “The reasons cited by the government for banning the procession are security and transport problem. I want to ask the government how they manage pilgrims of Amarnath Yatra,” he said.
Abbas also condemned the government’s decision of putting him and his father under house arrest. He claimed that many mourners got injured in the police action. “I strongly condemn the use of force on the mourners,” he said.  Pertinently, the authorities have not allowed the Muharram procession in the city centre since 1989 which was traditionally taken out on 8th of Islamic month, Muharram.
The Inspector General of Police Kashmir range, Syed Javid Mujtaba Gilani said that the mourners violated Section 144 imposed in Srinagar. “There were incidents of clashes between mourners and police. Overall the day was peaceful,” he said.

According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar Amit Kumar at least 20 policemen were injured. “There are some officers among the injured,” he said.  Police sources said that maximum restraint was maintained on ground while dealing with the mourners. “A few dozens of them were taken into preventive custody, who would be released later,” they said.

By GK News

 

Police foil UN-march of Shabir Shah’s party in Srinagar

Scores of party activists tried to march towards Lal Chowk to present a memorandum to UN Observers Group at their office in Sonwar.

GK photo

Police in Jammu and Kashmir Friday foiled a protest march by activists of Democratic Freedom Party at Sanat Nagar here.
Scores of party activists tried to march towards Lal Chowk to present a memorandum to UN Observers Group at their office in Sonwar.
However, police swung into action and detained all the protesters.
DFP chief Shabir Shah was disallowed to lead the protest as he continues to be under house arrest.
“We have mailed the memorandum to UNO chief Banki Moon,” Shah told Greater Kashmir over phone.

By GK NewsPolice foil UN-march of Shabir Shah’s party in Srinagar

Authorities disallow Friday prayers at Kashmir’s Grand Mosque

Locals told Greater Kashmir over phone that police and paramilitary personnel deployed heavily in and around Nowhatta did not allow them to move out of their homes.

 

 

Authorities Friday disallowed congregational prayers at Jamia Masjid here in Srinagar by imposing restrictions on roads leading to the mosque in downtown Srinagar.
Locals told Greater Kashmir over phone that police and paramilitary personnel deployed heavily in and around Nowhatta did not allow them to move out of their homes.
Kashmir’s head priest and Hurriyat (M) chairman Mirwaiz Umer Farooq who addresses worshippers every Friday was put under house arrest yesterday.
Mirwaiz was planning to lead a sit-in at the mosque after Friday prayers to register protest against the atmosphere of intolerance and attack on Kashmiri truckers.
However, authorities said that the restrictions were placed as they had apprehension of law and order problem.

By GK News

Police attack Muharram mourners in Kashmir

Indian police and paramilitary troops have clashed with Kashmiri mourners marking the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the third Shia imam, in the disputed Himalayan valley.
Fierce clashes erupted on Thursday when Indian forces fired tear gas canisters and began beating the Shia mourners with batons to disperse them in Srinagar, the main city and also summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.
Police also detained more than a dozen mourners in the Muslim-majority region.

By IIT News

JKLF condemns continued illegal detention of Yasin Malik

 

 

Srinagar, October 23 (KMS): In occupied Kashmir, the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) has expressed serious concern over the continued illegal detention of its ailing Chairman, Muhammad Yasin Malik.

The JKLF spokesman in a statement issued in Srinagar said that Yasin Malik was going to Soura hospital to undergo a check-up of his injured neck but Indian police arrested him. He said that for the whole night the JKLF Chief was writhing in pain but the police at the behest of callous rulers of the territory refused to provide him any medical facility. “Despite his ill heath, Yasin Malik has not been taken to any doctor or hospital for treatment,” he said.

The spokesman warned the occupation authorities of serious consequences if anything untoward happened to the party chief.

He said that JKLF Vice Chairman, Showkat Ahmad Bakhshi, continued to remain under house arrest while party activists, Muhammad Ramzam Sofi and Hafizullah Sofi, were arrested by the police from their residences in Zainakot area of Srinagar.

Meanwhile, the JKLF statement said that Yasin Malik condemned the brutal use of force against Muharram mourners in Srinagar. He termed the ban on Muharram processions, imposition of curfew and restrictions and carrying out of arrests and nocturnal raids by Indian forces as reflection of frustration of the occupation authorities.

Yasin Malik also paid rich tributes to the martyrs of Bijbehara massacre. “Massacres like that at Bijbehara, Batamaloo by-pass, Gawkadal, Sailan Poonch, Bhaderwah, Zakoora and other places are examples of Indian oppression in Kashmir,” he added.

Police Used tear gas to disperse Shiite mourners in Kashmir capital Srinagar.

Shiite mourners teargassed in Kashmir capital

Hundreds of mourners defied restrictions and managed to reach Jahangir Chowk from Shaheed Gunj area of the city in a procession today afternoon.

 

Abid Bashir

 

File Photo

Police on Thursday used tear gas to disperse Shiite mourners in Kashmir capital Srinagar.
Hundreds of mourners defied restrictions and managed to reach Jahangir Chowk from Shaheed Gunj area of the city in a procession today afternoon.
As soon as they reached Jahangir chowk police and paramilitary forces fired dozens of tear smoke shells to disperse them.
All entry points to Lal Chowk have been sealed to prevent Shiite processions and protests over the death of a Kashmiri trucker killed in Udhampur petrol bomb attack.
Muharram processions were banned in Srinagar since the start of militancy in late eighties.

By GK News

Teenage girl raped in Jammu; accused arrested

Kapoor had gone to his relatives house at Jhajar Kotli on October 19 where he found the girl alone.

 

 

Police has arrested a man for allegedly raping a teenager in outskirts of Jammu, the winter capital of the state.
Kapoor Raj, a resident of Phalain Mandaal here, was arrested yesterday after the parents of the girl had lodged a complaint against him at Police Station Jhajar Kotli that their daughter was raped by Kapoor on October 19 when she was alone at home, a police officer said today.
Kapoor had gone to his relatives house at Jhajar Kotli on October 19 where he found the girl alone.
He allegedly raped the girl and escaped from the spot after threatening her of dire consequences if she revealed the incident to any one, police said.
When the family members of the girl returned home, she narrated the incident to them and they lodged a complaint against the accused, they said.
Acting swiftly on the complaint, the accused was arrested from Jammu yesterday, he said.
Medical examination of the girl was conducted and the report is awaited, the officer said, adding, further investigation into the case is going on.

 By GK News

JKLF chief Yasin Malik detained outside SKIMS Soura

“Malik went to see the youth hit by a tear gas shell at Bijbehara today. A police party waiting outside the entrance to the hospital detained Malik along with several other leaders.”

 

 

Police Wednesday detained Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) Chief Yasin Malik outside SKIMS Soura where had visited the youth injured in clashes at Bijbehara earlier today, a spokesman of the outfit said.
“Malik went to see the youth hit by a tear gas shell at Bijbehara today. A police party waiting outside the entrance to the hospital detained Malik along with several other leaders,” he said.
It was not immediately known where Malik was taken by the police.

Pakistan wants friendly relations with all its neighbours, including India

Sharif said that Pakistan wants friendly relations with all its neighbours, including India, and had been making efforts for lasting regional peace as it was in the interest of all.

Pakistan wants friendly relations with all its neighbours, including India:Sharif

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif during his official visit in Washington said India's response to efforts for peace has not been encouraging, media reported on Wednesday.

 

Sharif said that Pakistan wants friendly relations with all its neighbours, including India, and had been making efforts for lasting regional peace as it was in the interest of all.

 

"If we sincerely want to bring peace to the region, we will have to resolve the Kashmir issue," Sharif said. "The entire world knows that Kashmir is the root cause of tension in the region," Radio Pakistan quoted Sharif as saying during his address to the Pakistani-American community in Washington.

 

During his visit, Sharif is expected to meet US President Barack Obama, Secretary of State John Kerry, Vice President Joe Biden and other officials.

Rabid-dog Israeli forces arrest dozens of Palestinians, injure teen

Istabraq Ahmad Noor, a 14-year old Palestinian girl injured by Israeli forces in the West Bank city of Nablus on October 21, 2015.
Rabid-dog Israeli forces have continued their aggression against Palestinians, abducting dozens of them and injuring a teenager in the occupied territories.
According to the latest local media reports, Israeli forces on Wednesday launched an attack against Palestinian protesters in the southern part of the West Bank city of Nablus, injuring a 14-year old Palestinian girl identified as Istabraq Ahmad Noor.
The Israeli forces reportedly arrested the injured Palestinian girl, who is from the village of Madama.
Rabid-dog Israeli forces also stormed the residential buildings belonging to the Palestinians in occupied East al-Quds (Jerusalem) and other places in the West Bank, arresting at least 34 people.
According to a report by the Palestinian Health Ministry, at least 51 Palestinians, including 12 children, have lost their lives in clashes with Israeli forces and settlers since the beginning of October.
The report also says that at least 5,561 Palestinians sustained injuries in the clashes in the same period.
Israeli forces killed two Palestinians near the city of al-Khalil (Hebron) in the southern West Bank on Tuesday. Israeli media claimed that the two Palestinians had been killed following attempted knife attacks.
The latest wave of tensions in the occupied Palestinian territories was triggered by the Israeli regime’s imposition in August of restrictions on the entry of Palestinian worshipers into the al-Aqsa Mosque.
Palestinians are also angry at increasing violence by illegal Israeli settlers, who frequently storm the al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in Islam. Palestinians say the Tel Aviv regime seeks to change the status quo of the compound.
Israel has rejected a proposal for international observers to be deployed to the al-Aqsa compound.

Rabid-dog Israeli forces arrest dozens of Palestinians, injure teen Konusuna Ait Etiketler

By Human Right

Rabid dog Israeli forces kill yet another Palestinian youth in Ramallah

 

Inhuman Israeli forces have killed another young Palestinian man in the occupied West Bank as Tel Aviv’s violence continues unabated.
Israeli authorities said on Wednesday that their forces shot dead the youth after he allegedly stabbed a female Israeli officer in the neck.

Israeli police spokeswoman, Luba Samri, said another Palestinian was arrested in the incident which happened near an Israeli settlement south of the city of Ramallah.
The killing was the latest in a series of Israeli shooting of Palestinians as part of the Tel Aviv regime’s month-long crackdown on residents of the West Bank, East al-Quds (Jerusalem) and the blockaded Gaza Strip. Israel has tried to justify the killings by branding the slain Palestinians as “stabbers.”
In another incident, a Palestinian ran over an Israeli soldier in the illegal settlement of Shilo, the al-Aqsa TV channel said. The report added that the young man escaped the scene while the Israeli officer was injured.
Further to the north of the occupied West Bank in the city of Nablus, Israeli forces shot a 15-year-old Palestinian girl who reportedly attacked a group of settlers in Yitzhar settlement south of the city. The teenager, identified as Istabraq Ahmad Noor, was shot and wounded in the incident, according to Israeli officials.
Other sources said Israeli forces opened fire on a gathering of Palestinian protesters east of Ramallah with the Palestinians throwing stones at them. No direct clashes were reported in the area.
Palestinians also attended a demonstration in the town of Bireh, north of Ramallah, with reports suggesting that clashes broke out between the two sides. Similar protests were also reported south of Bethlehem and also in al-Khalil.
The Palestinian Health Ministry has updated its fatality figure of the Israeli attacks, saying 51 Palestinians, including 12 children, have been killed and hundreds injured since the Tel Aviv regime began a harsh crackdown in early October on the Palestinians enraged by the settler violence and a plan by the Tel Aviv regime to change the status quo of the al-Aqsa Mosque.
In August, the Israeli regime imposed restrictions on the entry of Palestinian worshipers into the al-Aqsa Mosque.
International condemnations have poured in over the Israeli crackdown, with many warning that Tel Aviv’s provocations could open the door to a new full-fledged Intifida, or uprising, against the regime.

By Human Rights, Palestine
 

Youth hit by pellets during clashes in Bijbehara

The youth, who was not immediately identified, was evacuated to a hospital.

 

Khalid Gul Islamabad (Anantnag)

 

 

Representational Pic

A youth was injured during after being hit by pellets during a clash between protesters and government forces in Bijbehara area of Anantnag district in south Kashmir.
The youth, who was not immediately identified, was evacuated to a hospital.
Earlier, CRPF men allegedly thrashed a mentally challenged person in Bijbehara area.
Clashes broke out in the area today morning with youth defying curfew-like restrictions to demonstrate against the killing of Zahid Rasool Bhat.
Bhat succumbed to his injuries sustained during a petrol bomb attack by a mob on a truck he was sleeping in Udhampur on Oct 9.

By GK News

Clashes in south Kashmir after protesters defy restrictions

Witnesses said that angry youth defied curfew-like restrictions in Anchidora village of Anantnag and engaged in ding-dong battles with police and paramilitary forces.

 

 

Violent clashes erupted in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district for the third consecutive day Wednesday.
Witnesses said that angry youth defied curfew-like restrictions in Anchidora village of Anantnag and engaged in ding-dong battles with police and paramilitary forces.
Earlier, authorities had placed restrictions on the movement of pedestrians and motorists in Anantnag town.
The area has been seething with anger over the death of Zahid Rasool Bhat, one of the truckers killed in Udhampur petrol bomb attack.

Restrictions imposed in south Kashmir's Anantnag to stem protests

Police said the restrictions were imposed to maintain law and order.

 

 

Restrictions were today imposed in Anantnag town in south Kashmir which has witnessed protests over the death of Udhampur petrol bomb attack victim Zahid Rasool Bhat.

 

Police said the restrictions were imposed to maintain law and order.

 

Many areas in Anantnag had yesterday observed a spontaneous shutdown to protest against the death of Zahid.

 

Yesterday, clashes between protesting youth and government forces were reported from Batengoo, the native village of Zahid, as also Goriwan-Bijbehara and Anantnag town and Qoimoh and Khudwani in Kulgam.

 

Zahid was injured on October 9 when his truck, that was en route to Kashmir from Jammu, was attacked with petrol bombs. The driver of the truck Showkat Ahmed is also admitted in the hospital.

 

By  GK News

Separatist leaders, including Yasin Malik, thrashed by forces in south Kashmir

Eye-witnesses told Greater Kashmir that CRPF men went berserk during an anti-India demonstration in Batengoo – native village of trucker Zahid Rasool Bhat killed in Udhampur petrol bomb attack – today

 

 

 

 

File photo

Several top pro-freedom leaders, including JKLF chief Yasin Malik, were allegedly thrashed by paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) men in south Kashmir on Tuesday.
Eye-witnesses told Greater Kashmir that CRPF men went berserk during an anti-India demonstration in Batengoo – native village of trucker Zahid Rasool Bhat killed in Udhampur petrol bomb attack – today.
Several top pro-freedom leaders were injured in CRPF action, they said.
The leaders include Yasin Malik, Javid Mir, Sheikh Abdul Rashid, Yasin Bhat, Ahsan Untoo, Shabir Dar, Farooq Ahmad Khan and Mukhtar Ahmad Sofi.
Untoo, Dar and Khan were badly injured in the thrashing, said a witness.
The leaders were later detained at Sadder Police Station in Anantnag town.
The leaders were visiting the village to express solidarity with the victim’s family when the CRPF men went berserk.
Earlier, a JKLF spokesman said, Malik had announced that he would sit on a 24-hour-long hunger strike at Lal Chowk in Anantnag town to protest the killing of Bhat.

By GK News

Protests in Batengoo, Doda, Banihal, Kishtwar| Separatists caged| Curfew-like restrictions in old Srinagar| Highway remains closed| Train service suspended

Kashmir, Chenab Valley shut against Zahid’s killing

 

 

Photo: Mir Wasim/GK

Kashmir Valley and several areas of Chenab Valley including Doda, Ramban and Kishtwar Monday observed a complete shutdown against the killing of 18-year-old Zahid Rasool Bhat of south Kashmir’s Batengoo village in a murderous assault by fanatics in Shiv Nagar area of Udhampur district on October 9.
All commercial establishments and educational institutions in these places remained closed while traffic was completely off the roads. Government offices witnessed very thin attendance of employees.
The J&K government had put in place curfew-like restrictions in old Srinagar areas falling under six police stations and also in Maisuma in uptown Srinagar to prevent protests against Zahid’s killing.
Most of the separatist leaders were put under house arrest to prevent them from reaching Zahid’s native village Batengoo in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district to join his funeral prayers.
The call for shutdown was given by all separatist organizations and Kashmir Economic Alliance (KEA)—an amalgam of various trade bodies—as a mark of protest against the killing of Zahid.
In old Srinagar, police had placed barbed wire on main roads while heavy contingent of police and paramilitary forces, manned the streets.
“It was curfew in old Srinagar,” said Abdus Samad Mir, a resident of Rajouri Kadal. “The entire downtown was turned into a ghost place.”
Senior separatist leaders were either placed under house arrest or taken into “preventive custody.”
They included Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Geelani, JKLF Chief Muhammad Yasin Malik, senior separatist leaders Shabir Ahmed Shah, Nayeem Khan, Javaid Mir, Showkat Bakshi, Muhammad Ashraf Sehrai, Ayaz Akbar, Muhktar Waza and others. All separatist organisations thanked people for observing the shutdown.
A police spokesman here said there were no reports of any stone-pelting incidents from any part of Srinagar.
Meanwhile, complete shutdown was observed in other districts of Kashmir including Baramulla, Kupwara in north Kashmir, Ananatnag (Islamabad) and Pulwama in South Kashmir.
Massive protests and clashes rocked Batengoo, the native village of Zahid Rasool Bhat, after he was laid to rest at his ancestral graveyard.
Reports of complete shutdown also poured in from Central Kashmir’s Budgam and Ganderbal districts.
On the call of Anjuman Islamia Doda, thousands of people staged protests in Doda town, Kishtwar and Banihal in Chenab Valley against the killing of Zahid.
Despite rains, people from different walks of life hit the streets in Doda, Banihal and Kishtwar and strongly denounced the killing of the Kashmir youth.
Shouting anti-government slogans and carrying placards which read ‘May Allah accept martyrdom of Zahid; Hang killers of Zahid; Ban RSS; Save humanity, and stop saffron terrorism’, the protesters demanded stern action against the violent mob that attacked Zahid and his colleagues with petrol bombs in Shiv Nagar area of Udhampur. While Zahid succumbed to his injuries yesterday, his colleague Showket is undergoing treatment for grievous burn injuries at New Delhi’s Safderjung hospital. Another colleague Rameez managed to escape the assault.
Speaking during a protest rally, President Anjuman Islamia Doda, Advocate Hassan Babar strongly condemned the killing of Zahid Rasool Bhat. “The killing of this innocent youth is unfortunate and condemnable and the perpetrators of such a violent and murderous attack must be punished so that such ghastly incidents don’t take place in future,” he said.
All shops and educational institutions remained closed while traffic was off the roads in Doda, Kisthwar and Banihal, reports said.
In Banihal, angry protesters burnt tyres on Srinagar-Jammu highway to register their anger against the killing of Zahid.
Protests and bandh was also observed in Thathri, Gandoh, Kishtwar, Gool, Bhaderwah and other major parts of the Chenab Valley region.
The Jammu Srinagar Highway and Mughal Road which connects the Valley with Poonch, remained closed for traffic as a precautionary measure following Zahid’s death, an official said.
The train service from Banihal to Baramulla was also suspended due to blockade of its tracks by protesters this morning, an official said.
Meanwhile, Ulema in Rajouri slammed the PDP-BJP government for “failing to protect innocent people of the state.”
A local news agency said the Ulema met under the chairmanship of Khateeb of Jamia Masjid Rajouri, Moulana Ghulam Rasool, and condemned the brutal killing of Zahid Rasool by “goons of RSS ,VHP” in Udhampur on October 9.

By GK News 

Clashes in south Kashmir's Anantnag after Zahid’s funeral

 

Zahid Rasool Bhat succumbed to injuries sustained during a petrol bomb attack on a truck he was sleeping on along with two more Kashmiris by a mob in Udhampur on Oct 9.

                

 

 

Funeral of Zahid. GK Photo

Clashes broke out on Monday between protesters and government forces in Batengoo village of Anantnag district against the killing of a Kashmiri trucker by a mob in Udhampur area of Jammu region.

Zahid Rasool Bhat succumbed to injuries sustained during a petrol bomb attack on a truck he was sleeping on along with two more Kashmiris by a mob in Udhampur on Oct 9.

After funeral prayers of Bhat were offered at Habba Khatoon petrol pump at Batengoo, dozens of youth staged demonstrations in the village located near Srinagar-Jammu highway in Khanabal, 54 km south of Srinagar.

Witnesses said angry demonstrators hurled rocks at police and paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) who responded with tear and pepper gas canisters.

The Srinagar-Jammu highway continued to remain blocked today for the second consecutive day.

Rail services between Qazigund and Baramulla have also been suspended due to the situation at Anantnag for today, railway control room said.

Restrictions are in place in various areas of the district with police and CRPF men deployed in strength to contain anti-India protests.

 

By GK News

Protests, shutdown in Banihal, Kishtwar against Zahid’s killing

Witnesses said that youths burned tyres on Srinagar-Jammu highway at Banihal to register their protest against the killing of Zahid Rasool Bhat, a Kashmiri trucker who succumbed to injuries yesterday.

 

 

 

 

 

Demonstration in Ramban against Zahid''s killing. GK PhotoAngry youths staged a demonstration in Banihal area of Ramban while a complete shutdown was observed in twin districts of Doda and Kishtwar in Chenab valley region on Monday.
Witnesses said that youths burned tyres on Srinagar-Jammu highway at Banihal to register their protest against the killing of Zahid Rasool Bhat, a Kashmiri trucker who succumbed to injuries yesterday.
They said a complete shutdown was observed in Kishtwar region against the incident.
Imams of Jamia Masjid Kishtwar and Doda had called for a shutdown.

All shops and business establishments remained closed today, they added.

 

 

Roads were also blocked in Gandoh area of Chenab valley by youths to protest the killing.

 

B GK News

Best way to pay homage to Zahid is ‘staying away from India, its stooges’: JKLF

Earlier, authorities placed under house arrest JKLF chairman Yasin Malik and vice chairman Showkat Ahmad Bakshi to prevent him from leading a demonstration in Batengoo village, it said.

P

hoto: Greater Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir Liberation front (JKLF) Monday said that the best way to pay homage to innocent Shaheed Zahid Rasool Bhat and other martyrs like him is to “remain away from India and its stooges and refrain from participating in their two-faced politics”.
“The politicians who are shamelessly posing for getting photographed with the casket carrying the body of our innocent martyr are directly responsible for his murder and their hypocrisy is only rubbing salt on the wounds of Kashmiris," a JKLF statement issued here said.
While quoting its zonal president Noor Muhammad Kalwal who addressed a condolence meeting held on the occasion of funeral prayers of Bhat, it said: "We are today saying farewell to another victim of state sponsored terrorism and on this occasion we have to understand that who is responsible for all this.”
He said that the "lust of power of so-called rulers who shamelessly are today posing with the corpse of our martyrs, is responsible for these murders as it is the same stooges who have sold their faith and religion for attaining power that too at the hands of RSS like chauvinists.”
Earlier, authorities placed under house arrest JKLF chairman Yasin Malik and vice chairman Showkat Ahmad Bakshi to prevent him from leading a demonstration in Batengoo village, it said.

 By Great Kashmir News

Muharram Majalis held across city

 

On the occasion, JKLF chairman Muhammad Yasin Malik, Moulana Khursheed Kanoongo, Javed Ahmad Mir, Moulana Masroor Abass Ansari, and others also addressed the gathering.

            

 

              

 

 

Several Muharram related functions were held across the city on Sunday. 

 

J&K Shia Association organized Majlis Hussaini at Ashai Bagh Hazratbal thousands of mourners attended the majlis.

 

Chief patron J&K Shia Association, Moulana Imran Raza Ansari presided over the majlis which started with the recitation of verses of holy Quran, followed by Marsiya by prominent Zakirs of the Association. On the occasion, Ansari threw light on the life and teachings of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and narrated the incidents of Karbala.

 

Later Imran Ansari took out Alam Sharief procession from Ashai Bagh that culminated at Hussaini Park Hassanabad here.

 

Meanwhile, J&K Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen organized a Hussaini Mushaira at Iqbal Khomeini Hall (RA) Mohalla Syed Afazal Sheer-e-Bhat here. The Mushaira  started with recitation of holy Quran. Hundreds of devotees attend the event which was chaired by Chief Patron Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen, Moulana Abass Ansari. He threw light on the martyrs of Karbala and teachings of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS).  He also urged the Muslim brethren to remain united.

 

On the occasion, JKLF chairman Muhammad Yasin Malik, Moulana Khursheed Kanoongo, Javed Ahmad Mir, Moulana Masroor Abass Ansari, and others also addressed the gathering.

 

Apart from this, Hussaini Peoples Council held a blood donation camp in the memory of Karbala martyrs at Alamgari Bazar and Hawal Chowk in old city, scores of people donated their blood on the occasion. Peoples Council also thanked the donors for making the event successful for participating and donating their blood for needy patients.

 By GK News

Kashmir legislator Rashid attacked with ink in New Delhi

After concluding the press conference, a fringe group "Hindu Sena' threw black ink at Rashid.

File Photo

Independent legislator Er Rashid was Monday attacked with ink in New Delhi, reports said.
Rashid was attacked with ink at Press Club of India in Delhi for hosting a beef party earlier this month at his residence in Srinagar, they said.
After concluding the press conference, a fringe group "Hindu Sena' threw black ink at Rashid.
A TV channel reported that two people have been detained over the attack.
Rashid was also beaten by BJP MLAs in Jammu and Kashmir assembly earlier this month.

By GK News

Obama orders removal of Iran sanctions

      

 

US President Barack Obama has ordered his administration to take steps towards lifting sanctions on Iran in accordance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) reached between Tehran and the P5+1 group of nations in July.

"I hereby direct you to take all appropriate additional measures to ensure the prompt and effective implementation of the US commitments set forth in the JCPOA, in accordance with US law," Obama said in a memorandum on Sunday, AFP reports.

The directive comes 90 days after the UN Security Council endorsed the historic nuclear agreement with Iran.

Obama said the measures will take effect after the US secretary of state confirms that Iran has met its commitments under the JCPOA.

"This is an important day for all of us and a critical first step in the process of ensuring that Iran's nuclear program will be exclusively for peaceful purposes," Secretary of State John Kerry added in a statement.

US officials believe that the nuclear deal will take a few months to be implemented.

“For us it's important that it's done right, not that it's done quickly,” a senior Obama administration official told reporters. “We cannot imagine less than two months.”

The JCPOA won final approval in Iran on Wednesday when the Guardians Council, a top panel of jurists and clerics, gave the go-ahead for its implementation.

Iranian lawmakers have also endorsed the nuclear agreement, giving the administration the green light to voluntarily implement the Vienna accord.

In accordance with the JCPOA, Iran has agreed to reduce its uranium enrichment program in exchange for the removal of all economic sanctions.

The European Union also adopted legislative framework Sunday for lifting all of its nuclear-related economic and financial sanctions against Iran.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and EU Foreign Policy Chief Federica Mogherini are expected to make statements on the lifting of sanctions.

The Republican opponents of the nuclear deal failed in September to torpedo it in Congress.

 

By Shiite News

Kashmiri trucker’s killing widely condemned, Dy CM for punishment to attackers

Opposition National Conference president and former Chief Minister, Farooq Abdullah Sunday termed the petrol bomb attack on the trucker in Udhampur and death of ZahidRasoolBhat as a "shocking reminder

 

 

Several mainstream political parties and leaders have condemned the killing of ZahidBhat, who succumbed to his burn injuries in a Delhi hospital today, nine days after goons attacked him with a petrol bomb in Udhampur.

 

Deputy Chief Minister and senior BJP leader, Nirmal Singh Sunday condemned the attack in Udhampur on Kashmiri trucker and demanded that the perpetrators should not be spared.

 

The leader from Jammu, the region where the attack took place nine days back, said that "in future we (must) ensure that no such incident occurs".

 

He appealed for peace and communal harmony in the state in "these testing times."

 

"Everyone in the country and the state of Jammu and Kashmir is shocked and sad over Zahid’s demise," Singh said. 

 

"This type of action is condemnable and action should be taken against the people who are responsible for such attack," he said.

 

Meanwhile, Opposition National Conference president and former Chief Minister, Farooq Abdullah Sunday termed the petrol bomb attack on the trucker in Udhampur and death of ZahidRasoolBhat as a "shocking reminder of intolerance and frenzy" and said there was no room in the civilised society for those who believe in violence.

 

He expressed grief over the death of ZahidBhat and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family.

"In a civilized society there is no room for those who believe in violence," Abdullah said in a statement here Sunday.

"The culprits should be identified, arrested and given heinous punishment as per the law so that it serves deterrent for law breakers," he said.

He also made an appeal to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to maintain peace and tranquillity at all costs. Abdullah accused the BJP of "encouraging jingoism” and castigated the coalition government for failing to deal with the situation.

Leader of Opposition in RajyaSabha and ex J&K CM, GhulamNabi Azad has expressed shock over the demise of Zahid.

 “I stand in solidarity with the bereaved family in this hour of grief and pray to Almighty to give them courage to withstand this tragic loss,” Azad said. 

Calling upon the State Government to take urgent and effective steps to prevent such events in future, Azad said such painful incidents rip apart the social fabric and create fissures which are difficult to bridge.

 He further said that such heart rending acts of mob violence widen the gulf between various sections of the society and leave lasting scars of affliction and anguish.

 “Time has come to put an end to politics of hate and intolerance in order to regain the place of glory for our state - which has been abode of peace and tolerance for centuries,” said Azad.

Expressing deep shock and grief over the demise of injured truck conductor, JKPCC chief, G A Mir demanded stern action against the killers. 

“Merely booking the culprits and slapping PSA on them is not a solution to the problem as the present dispensation led by PDP has miserably failed to stop the reign of communal terror in the state, the fire of which has already engulfed the State and the result is innocent Zahid’s killing,” G A Mir said in a statement.

The PCC chief expressed his condolences to the bereaved family.

Democratic Nationalist Party chief Ghulam Hassan Mir has said that such killings of civilians by violent mobs are strongly condemnable.

“Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed should resign. Sooner, the better for him. He has no right to share power with BJP and RSS that openly promote and nourish politics of hate against Muslims in India and in Jammu and Kashmir,” Mir said.

Meanwhile, NC general secretary and MLA Khanyar, Ali Muhammad Sagar said that it was very unfortunate that a youth from Kashmir was killed by Hindutva elements in Udhampur by attacking him and his associate with petrol bombs.

“Zahid’s murder is similar to that of Dadri lynching when a violent mob martyred him in his house over beef rumour,” Sagar said.

“Hindu parties like BJP, RSS, Bajrang Dal have let their goons to kill Muslims. India, including Kashmir, is ruled by goons and it is with such goons that PDP led by Mufti Sayeed formed an alliance in Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.

Stating that Mufti Muhammad Sayeed must take moral responsibility for the killing of ZahidBhat of Batengo, Anantnag, Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) president Hakim Muhammad Yasin today asked the CM to resign soon.

While strongly condemning the barbaric act, Hakim Yasin in a statement said, “The Chief Minister has failed to protect the citizens of the state and he should take moral responsibly of Zahid’s killing and resign.”

He also asked the government to take strict action against those elements who want to spread communal hatred in the state. “Such elements should be dealt with iron hand so that such incidents are not repeated in the future,” demanded Hakim Yasin, MLA Khansahib.

Peoples Democratic Party general secretary, Rafi Ahmad Mir has expressed deep sorrow over the death of ZahidBhat.

Mir, in a statement today, said: "It's a sad day for humanity that we have lost an innocent youth to the senseless violence. PDP condoles the death of Zahid in strongest terms possible and stands with the family in this hour of grief."

 Mir said that “the people of Kashmir are genuinely outraged over this incident but there is a need to maintain harmony and mourn his death peacefully in order to defeat such communal forces.”

He urged the government to bring justice to the family by severely punishing those involved in the case on fast track basis.

MLA Langate, Sheikh Abdul Rashid Sunday asked Prime Minister NarendraModi "to open his eyes" to the "radical forces" who, he said, were proving a serious threat to the humanity in the wake of death of a truck conductor.

The Independent MLA, who had hosted a beef party here two days before the attack on Kashmir-based truck in Udhampur, appealed to civil society and "conscience loving" people to rise to the occasion and sideline the radical fascist forces who are proving a serious threat to humanity.

The MLA also sought compensation on Dadri pattern for the slain conductor’s family, saying there was complete resemblance in both the incidents.

State unit of CPI (M) expressed grief over Zahid's death and said the government should take the incident as a "wake-up call" and bring the culprits to justice.

"The incident must act as an eye opener for the present dispensation that is yet to act against the forces that are hell bent to fragment the society on communal lines," CPI (M) leader and MLA Kulgam, M Y Tarigami said in a statement.

 

  By Great Kashmir news